An example of a War Orphans Appeal button badge. These badges were a precursor to the Legacy Badge appeals that occur annually. The age of this badge is not known, possibly from the 1940s. The symbol of Legacy is the Torch and Wreath of Laurel. The Torch signifies the undying flame of service and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for their country. The Wreath of Laurel is the symbol of our remembrance of them.An example of an early Legacy badge that was sold in the 1940s to raise money for war orphans.Round metal button badge with white background and the Legacy torch and wreath in a stapled in cardboard and plastic cover.Printed in red text 'War orphans appeal. Lest We Forget. 1/-'legacy appeal, fundraising

This is an example of Sydney Legacy promotional material from 1951s for Sydney Legacy. It promoted the War Orphans Appeal which was an early means of fundraising. It suggests that a person could make a pledge of a small amount of money weekly. For instance, 3 pence per week from 40 contributors would equal £26 and provide for 1 ward. The brochure shows different stages of junior legatees life, from baby to school, and post school roles such as office girl or tradesman. Each stage is supported by Legacy.An example of promotional material from the 1950s. Promotional brochure about fundraising for Sydney Legacy in 1951.legacy promotion, war oprhans

After Operation Babylift, seven Vietnam War orphans, four boys, three girls aged from 6 months to 10 years of age arrived in Melbourne to meet their adoptive families. On arrival they were greeted by: The Official Party, led by Premier- Mr Hamer, Social Welfare Minister- Mr Houghton, Director General of Social Welfare - Mr A.G. Booth. Le Van Be - (orphan) four year boy arrived wearing calipers. Children were being taken to Berry Street Babies HomeAn article from The Age Newspaper - (Friday 11th April 1975) describing the arrival of seven Vietnamese war orphans, flown into Melbourne, completing a long journey from the horrors of war to begin new lives with in Australia. See media for more information.The article from the Age Newspaper - dated Friday 11th April 1975. Titled 'From the Horror of War to a Loving Home' written by journalist - Jennifer Byrnewar orphans, orphans, adoptive parents, berry street, berry street babies home, polio, premier, mr hamer, mr.a.g.booth, le van be, premier mr hamer, social welfare minister mr houghton, director general of social welfare mr a.g. booth, operation babylift

An article by Douglas Alton, from the Age, dated Wednesday, April 23, 1975 that reported on children being evacuated from Saigon. Dr Forbes was the medical superintendent supervising the airlift from Saigon just prior to the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975.Two newspaper articles from The Age, Wednesday 23 April, 1975. In large bold print the heading "I'm AA33, by air from Saigon" is written. Along side the article is a a photo of an infant behind cot bars in preparation for being airlifted from Vietnam. The second article is titled, "After Thieu, the danger in Saigon is a vacuum".I'm AA33, by air from Saigon/ After Thieu, the danger in Saigon is a vacuum.the age, dr john frobes, saigon, babylift, vietnam, operation babylift, post-war, post-vietnam war, refugees, adoption, orphans, war orphans

Colour photo of war orphans and escorts waiting to board RAAF Hercules at Tan Son airport. First day of Operation Babylift.operation babylift

An description of the first picnic for 260 war orphans (boys) and their mothers at Ricketts Point (Black Rock) in 1926, who were transported in two charabancs by Legatees, some of whom were in fancy dress. Pages 5-16 recounts anecdotes of Syd Birrell unrelated to the picnic. The writer is anonymous but by the hand writing it is possibly L/- Frank Doolan, a founding member of Legacy, who was part of a committee to capture the history of Legacy and create an archive of material.First hand account by a participant on the trip, which details some highly irresponsible activities which were seen as perfectly acceptable at that time. Some of the anecdotes about Syd Birrell would now be regarded as polically incorrect, but the anonymous writer expresses his amusement and admiration, and references ‘Legacy - the story of the Melbourne Legacy Club' by Claude Blatchford.13 handwritten A5 sheets, numbered 1-16 (missing 9, 10, and 15) in red print on top right hand corner, blue biro on white lined paper, probably torn from a notepad.junior legatee outing, founding legatee

The photo shows a small girl presenting a bunch of flowers to Lady Lavarack on the steps of Moorlands. The Queensland Governor Sir John Lavarack and his wife were attending the opening of the Legacy childrens' residence, Moorlands, in Brisbane on 20 February 1947. Legatee Stan Savige had travelled to Brisbane for the event, he is at the centre rear. From TROVE: Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Tuesday 18 February 1947, page 7 FOR OPENING OF LEGACY HOME Lieutenant-General Stan Savige (left) arrived in Brisbane this afternoon to attend the opening of the new Legacy home, Moorlands, at Coronation Drive. On the right is Mr. F. E. Lascelles, Brisbane president of Legacy. Moorlands will be opened by the Governor (Sir John Lavarack) on Thursday. Moorlands is a heritage-listed villa at 451 Coronation Drive, Auchenflower, Queensland, Australia. It was designed by Richard Gailey and was built c. 1892 by contractor Arthur Smith. It was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 21 August 1992. In 1947 the building was sold to the Brisbane branch of the Legacy War Widows and Orphans Fund, and accommodated war-orphaned children and widows until 1971.Some Legacy events were attended by dignitaries, such as the State governors' and their wives and the events were covered by press photographers and reported in newspapers.Black and white photo of a girl presenting flowers to the Queensland Governor's wife at Moorlands.Handwritten 'Complements from J D Coots(?)' in pencil. Stamped with copyright of 'The Telegraph Feature Service Brisbane', in purple ink.residences, moorlands

Katrina Nannestad won the 2021 ARA Historical Novel Prize in the Children and Young Adult (CYA) category for her book We Are Wolves. Nannestad, a teacher and children's author, received the prize after being shortlisted the previous month. The ARA Historical Novel Prize is a significant award, with $100,000 in total prize money; the CYA category winner receives $30,000. We Are Wolves is Nannestad's first historical novel, inspired by a tidbit she sent to her publisher. The story follows Liesl, Otto, and baby Mia Wolf as they flee East Prussia and survive as displaced war orphans. The novel explores themes of identity, family, trust, survival, and hope. The judging panel, chaired by Paul Macdonald, praised the novel for its writing, research, and appeal to both young and older readers.The book was described as simple, poetic, deeply moving, and a brilliant exploration of important issues.Bendigo Advertiser Article - Historic win for Katrina Sat Oct 23 2021 Page 2 Bendigo weekly This item contains the following documents 3486.52a Colour photo of Sedgwick author Katrina Nannestad 3486.52b The article Historic win for Katrinabendigo, author katrina nannestead novelist

A book written by Myann Burrows and published by Brisbane Legacy about the Legacy children's residence Moorlands. It was written to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the first children to arrive at Moorlands Legacy's War Orphans' Home. It operated for 23 years until 1969. The children labelled themselves Moorlands Kids and had frequent reunions and contact with each other over the years. The house was initially built in 1892 and during World War 2 it served as General Blamey's headquarters. It was purchased in March 1945 though the Army didn't vacate until January 1946. Miss M Netterfield was appointed matron and Mrs Dethridge as sub-matron. In July 1946 17 boys moved in and by end of August there were 28 children. It was officially opened by Governor of Queensland, Sir John Lavarack on 27 February 1947 which Legatee Savige spoke at, there is a photo in the collection. It was sent to Melbourne Legacy by Mrs Pip Cooper, of Brisbane Legacy.A record of the operation of Moorlands published by Brisbane Legacy.Paperback book about Moorlands by Brisbane Legacy.residences, moorlands

Red cloth bound copy of W B Russell's biography of Legatee Savige with a paper dust jacket with photosnon-fictionThe detailed biography of Lieutenant-General Sir Stanley Savage. history, w b russell, biography

Each year World War One and World War Two veteran, and Ballarat Teachers' College Principal addressed the College community for ANZAC Day. The following are excerpts of his 1947 address. "...But we should do more than remember, and instead of pausing once a year for this purpose is should be our aim to remember daily - every day should be an Anzac Day so that we shall be inspired to take stock of ourselves if we are tryig to be worthy of almidst 100,000 dead who died to keep this country free to progress nobly towards a worthy goal, What are we dong about it? As a body of teachers er should be particulalrly concerned, as in our hands largely the growth of the children lies. In the schools we can do much in our work of every day to develop right standards and a better outlook amongst the children it is our privilege to teach. We can successfully teach the three "R's" but if this is all we do then we have failed. Is should be our aim, living in the spirit of those who gace so much, to dedicate ourselfes to the work of teaching young people how to live; to train them gently in ethical standards of conduct; to take responsibility; to live through the operation with otherts; to be prepared to give service without thought of personal gain; to realise to the full all that is best in them for the good of all. What we should do and how it is to be done is difficult to descibe, but if we ourselves have taught something of the Anzac Sprit we shall not fail. In particular, we shold take care of the orphan and th child of the disabled soldier. We should explore all avenues to see what that these children get every opportunity for higher education. As far as it lies in our power we should see that these children do not suffer - thus the legacy of war is ours. In a few months you will be going out to your schools. You will have young children around you. Let you arims be high. Try to live worthily and let your little community be the better and the finer for your coming. If you achiec somethig of thise then 100,000 shall nit have died in vain." Blue soft covered, stapled booklet named 'Extra Muros', the magazine of the Ballarat Teachers College, ANZAC Day. The contents include: The Year's Sport, J. Arthur Rank; Music; Dingo Blood; Anzac Day 1947; History of Sport; J. Arthur Rank Named images include: staff and students; Sports Committee; Social Committee; Student Council; Magazine Committee' Daylesford Camp; Anglesea Camp; Grampians Camp; Exies, College staff and students;A number of authorgraps are written into the back page. ballarat teachers' college, ellwood, lord, robinson, tozer, connelly, pattenden, collins, blake, faulds, sunderland, miller, bryan, yeo, frank lord, lindsay w. harley, lindsay w. harley, anzac day

This scrapbook holds numerous newspaper clippings recording events, functions and visits to the Seamen's Mission starting in 1896 through to 1902, although a few documents date from 1895. These dates coincide with the commencement of Mr WHC Darvall's various terms of office with the Mission from the mid 1890s. Mr Darvall's involvement with the Mission possibly stems from his arrival in Victoria in 1853 part working his passage from England as a purser on the migrant ship Asia. He first encountered Captain Pascoe on arrival at Williamstown who was also on the Mission executive when Darvall returned to Melbourne from Beechworth in 1871. 1898: Death of Captain Crawford Pasco with a photographic portrait. 1899: Small ink sketch by artist Charles Georges Darvall, WHC Darvall's cousin. 1900 Foundation of Geelong mission 1901: Queen Victoria's death (22 January) Australian Federation (1st January) Boer War (189-1902) Death of chaplain Ebenezer James Nautical exhibition On the inside of the rear cover of the book a plan of Williamstown has been pasted with no date provided. This scrapbook outlines the many events, concerts, important visits and social occasions held at and by the Mission during this time frame. It includes the names and activities of many prominent Melburnians (politicians, supporters, artists) and shows the vivacity of the work at the Mission.Sticker on the front cover: "Victorian Seamen's/Mission/Scrap-book/No. 1/Commencing/ January 1896 Ending - victoria-missions-to-seamen, w h c darvall, mission to seamen, seamen's mission, maritime exhibition, queen victoria, royal merchant seaman orphanage, charles g. darvall, william henry charles darvall (1830-1906), queen victoria (1819-1901), boer war, charles georges darvall (1831-1924), sunbeam, lord brassey, crawford atchison denman pasco (1818-1898), concerts, library association, merchant seamen orphans asylum, snaresbrook, frederica mitchell, kitty grindlay, syllabus, amateur concerts, port melbourne standard, cole's book arcade, the port gazette, the port melbourne standard, hereward, maitland

ill, notes, p.234.non-fictionThe dark clouds returned and gathered about the boy. His eyes grew distant, and he began to tremble. He heard not only shells exploding, but the cries of dying men . . . He was stumbling over churned earth, looking into the face of an officer, bloodied red as the poppies, ripped apart in the Flanders mud . . . A small boy, an orphan of the First World War, wanders into the Australian airmen's mess in Germany, on Christmas Day in 1918. A strange boy, with an uncertain past and an extraordinary future, he became a mascot for the air squadron and was affectionately named 'Young Digger'. And in one of the most unusual incidents ever to emerge from the battlefields of Europe after the Great War, this solitary boy was smuggled back to Australia by air mechanic Tim Tovell, a man who cared for the boy so much that he was determined, however risky, to provide Young Digger with a new family and a new life in a new country, far from home.world war 1914-1918 - children - biography, henri tovelle

This item contributes to an understanding of those involved in the war in Vietnam ( 1962 - 1973) other than Australian servicemen.An article from The Age newspaper, dated Friday 11 April 1975 with the headline - " PM denies giving in to Hanoi" "No Protest on Refugee lift being suspended. Airlift for Orphans in Doubt.whitlam, prime minister whitlam, cambodian orphans, vietnam, the age, newspaper

Four articles that contribute to an understanding of those involved in the war in Vietnam ( 1962 - 1972) other than Australian servicemen.Four articles from The Age newspaper printed in 1975.orphan, ford us president, children, world news

the incredible story of the inspiring Australian women who rescued hundreds of orphans at the end of the Vietnam War.refugee children -- vietnam -- history -- 20th century, vietnam war, 1961-1975 -- children, volunteer workers in social service -- australia -- biography

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection.A coloured photograph of Johnny O'Keefe took time out from his concert program to vist the orphans and their caring nuns at the An Phong Orphanage which was being supported by RAAF personnel station at the Phan Rang Airbase, as a part of their Civil Affairs Program.photograph, johnny o'keefe, entertainers, an phong orphange, phan rang airbase, raaf, civil affairs program, gibbons collection catalogue, orphans, nuns, denis gibbons, australian civil affairs unit

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection.A coloured photograph of Johnny O'Keefe took time out from his concert party program to visit the orphans and their caring nuns at the An Phong Orphanage, whilst there Johnny sang and danced with the orphans much to the delight of the nuns and children alike.photograph, johnny o'keefe, an phong orphange, gibbons collection catalogue, entertainers, vietnamese children, nuns, orphans, denis gibbons

Mounted black and white photograph of Vietnamese child with injured right eye. He is wearing long-sleeved pajama top fastened with a press-stud and eating a piece of baguette, which he is holding in his right hand. Image in black wooden frame which has holes from where it was fastened to wall, but lacks a back board.VICTIM OF WAR -- IN A VUNGTAU / ORPHANAGE IN 1968 / PICTURED BY ALEX GALLphotograph, orphanage, vietnamese children, alex gall, vung tau

The photograph was taken at arrival of the champion Greek wrestler, Jim Londros at Moorabin Airport on 26 November 1946. He was welcomed by members of the Greek community in Melbourne which included Stathi Raftopoulos, B. Dervenis, Spiro Raftopoulo -President of Greek Returned Soldierss, Mr Hatzis, Dr. Haralambos Paroulakis and Ioannis Panagiotopoulos. Jim Londros visited Australia after his retirement from wrestling in 1946. In retirement he worked for various charitable organizations especially for the Greek orphans of World War II. The photograph was published in the Greek newspaper 'Fos'.Greeks have enjoyed the sport of wrestling since ancient times. So the visit to Australia of a former Greek wrestling champion, and one who also devoted his time to helping others, would have been an important event for members of Melbourne's Greek community in 1946. Mr Ioannis Panagiotopoulos was publisher of the 'Fos' newspaper, the only Greek newspaper at the time. Dr Paroulakis arrived in Australia late 1930s and practised 55 Collins Street till 1987. He was Head of Outpatients and Physician at St, Vincent's Hospital for 22 years. Born in Crete he also served as President of Melbourne's Cretan Brotherhood, A black and white photograph of six men standing outdoors. All the men are dressed in suits. One is also wearing a tweed coat and four are wearing hats. Written under the photograph in Greek: MEMBERS OF THE GREEK COMMUNITY AWAITING THE ARRIVAL OF JIM LONDROS/ WORLD WRESTLING CHAMPION/ AT MOORABIN AIRPORT IN 1946. (PH. BY THE AUTHOR)wrestling, jim londros

Else Oertel and her daughter Else-Lore were interned in Camp 3A from 1940. Her husband was not interned as he was on a business trip to Germany when war broke out. Friedel Dehnel "Tante Fiffi" made the authentic Bavarian doll and clothes. Friedel, wife of Walter Dehnel, arrived as a young woman from Austria, working in the Victorian snowfields as a chef and was a champion skier. She then became a dressmaker for Melbourne society and insisted that she be interned to be with her husband. She made costumes for the internment camp plays and took over her husband's duties as a cook for Camp A when he was locked up for "insubordination". She was deported with her husband back to Germany after the war and cared for her orphaned nephews and nieces in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.Doll dressed in authentic Bavarian costume. Black wool hat trimmed with gold lace and dried flowers. Gold coloured skirt on dress with sash. Bodice is black with traditional embroidery. White long sleeves with lace trim at cuffs. She is holding a basket with dried flowers."Merry Christmas Else-Lore" on baseelse oertel, else lore hukins, friedel dehnel, dressmaker, chef, camp 3

Else Oertel and her daughter Else-Lore were interned in Camp 3A from 1940. Her husband was not interned as he was on a business trip to Germany when war broke out. Friedel Dehnel "Tante Fiffi" made the authentic Bavarian doll and clothes. Friedel, wife of Walter Dehnel, arrived as a young woman from Austria, working in the Victorian snowfields as a chef and was a champion skier. She then became a dressmaker for Melbourne society and insisted that she be interned to be with her husband. She made costumes for the internment camp plays and took over her husband's duties as a cook for Camp A when he was locked up for "insubordination". She was deported with her husband back to Germany after the war and cared for her orphaned nephews and nieces in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.Hand made Authentic Bavarian doll. He wears a bottle green woolen hat with light green band and white feather. Bottle green jacket with red trim on front opening and pockets. Red jumper with white pointed collar. Leather lederhosen with flower embroidery on waist and braces. Arms and legs made from hessian? Leather boots with laces. White knitted socks with green band. Hand sewn and painted face.else oertel, friedel dehnel, bavarian, doll, dressmaker, else-lore hukins

Else Oertel and her daughter Else-Lore were interned in Camp 3A from 1940. Her husband was not interned as he was on a business trip to Germany when war broke out. The doll, named Karl by Else-Lore, was hand-carved by internee Alfons Koenig. Friedel Dehnel "Tante Fiffi" made the authentic Bavarian clothes. Friedel, wife of Walter Dehnel, arrived as a young woman from Austria, working in the Victorian snowfields as a chef and was a champion skier. She then became a dressmaker for Melbourne society and insisted that she be interned to be with her husband. She made costumes for the internment camp plays and took over her husband's duties as a cook for Camp A when he was locked up for "insubordination". She was deported with her husband back to Germany after the war and cared for her orphaned nephews and nieces in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Body, head, arms and legs carved from wood. Blue eyes, yellow hair, pink lips and skin all hand painted. Wearing a grey crochet hat with orange feather and grey crochet jacket with two metal buttons. Jacket and hat have green trim. Grey felt shorts with leather braces and green trim. White shirt and tan color tie. White socks and brown leather sandals.doll, alfons koenig, camp 3, internee, oertel family, else oertel, friedel dehnel, else-lore hukins, dressmaker, costumes, plays, chef

00343.1 Application to the Department of War Organisation of Industry for approval to make renovations to the Hostel, including a copy of the approval from Kew Council. It outlines change need to number of toilets and shower facilities as per regulations for Boarding and Lodging Houses 00343.2 Reply granting authority to commence building operations to the value of £290. Holmbush was the first hostel for children that Legacy started and operated from April 1943. It was later renamed Blamey House after another hostel called Blamey House was closed. Melbourne Legacy ran three residences: Blamey House (purchased 1947) , Stanhope (purchased 1945) and Harelands (purchased 1950), to take care of children whose fathers were servicemen, and who may have been left orphans, or whose mother may have been unable to care for them herself. Harelands accommodated boys and girls under the age of 14, Blamey House looked after boys over 14, and Stanhope looked after girls over 14. The children were cared for until they were old enough to become independent.Illustrates that approval was required from the Government to renovate in 1943.00343.1 Yellow quarto copy paper, black type, two hole punched. 00343.2 Quarto paper Department of War Organisation of Industry letterhead two hole punched.00343.1 Initialled in ink CRC of Carleton and Carleton Architects. 00343.2 Signed in ink by L.L. Burch Deputy Directorresidences, holmbush, renovations

A 4 page job application from Thomas Mullins for the position of Hostel Manager. Lists his war service and loss of his left arm in France 1916. Also the family casualties suffered; mother in an air raid, father and brother through war service, brother living with the after effects of gas, plus his wife's father was a Kandahar veteran. It continues with his civilian experience and how his attributes would suit the position, then provides references. Holmbush was the first children's home established by Melbourne Legacy. It was later renamed Blamey House when the first Blamey House was sold. Melbourne Legacy ran three residences: Blamey House (purchased 1947) , Stanhope (purchased 1945) and Harelands (purchased 1950), to take care of children whose fathers were servicemen, and who may have been left orphans, or whose mother may have been unable to care for them herself. Harelands accommodated boys and girls under the age of 14, Blamey House looked after boys over 14, and Stanhope looked after girls over 14. The children were cared for until they were old enough to become independent.A record of written correspondence regarding job applications in 1943.Letter from Mr Mullins applying for a position at Holmbush handwritten on white foolscap paper and two hole punched.Handwritten "Withdrawn" in pencil at the top.residences, holmbush, holmbush administration

A letter from Legatee Savige to Legatee Bill Perrin dated 16 July 1945. Stan Savige was serving in World War 2 at the time. Bill Perrin was Legacy President that year. It discusses the importance of allowing admission of new legatees from the ranks of the servicemen from World War 2. He is concerned there might be conflict with other organisations if they are created to perform a similar role as Legacy. Part of the letter says: "When the opportunity presents itself I speak to men, who are the right type for membership, of the necessity to consider the Club as an avenue of service after the war. Quite recently I have met men who know about Legacy, but are more concerned about their own Unit Associations taking up our type of work in its application to the widows and orphans of the men killed within their units."A record of Stan Savige's concerns about the future of Legacy and including new members from World War 2.White letter with blue type x 4 pages dated 16 July 1945 from Stan Savige to Bill Perrin.stan savige, aaron beattie

A rare portrait of Henri Heremene. A french orphan, probably stunted by malnutrition, he was unofficially adopted by the Number 4 squadron, Australian flying corps when he wandered into their Christmas dinner at an airfield near cologne, Germany in 1918. Nickname "Digger," Henri came under the care of Private Timothy Tovell. With a tailored AIF uniform made for him, he was smuggled to Australia in1919, where he was adopted by the Tovell family. He remained traumatised by the war and died in 1928 from injuries received in a motorcycle accident in Melbourne. Black and white print of a young Henri Heremene.At the top of the photography it says "Aust flying corps (mascot)"henri heremene, a.f.c, afc, australian flying corps, aif, a.i.f, ww1, world war 1

During World War One Tim Tovell of the No. 4 Squadron RAAF befriended a French orphan known as Henri or Digger. The child became an unofficial mascot, was given a custom made AIF uniform, and at the end of the war was smuggled back to Australia. As an adult Henri was killed in a car accident and is buried at Fawkner Cemetery, Victoria. Members of the No 4 Squadron subscribed for a memorial stone.Five black and white image. Top Left, Digger and his adopted father Tim Tovell, and the oats bagged he was smuggled in. Top right: Defence training at Hurdcott. Centre: Henri as an unofficial member of the AIF. Bottom left: Henri as a member of the RAAF. Bottom right: The last resting place of Henri/Digger at Fawkner Cemetery. The statue depicts Henri as he was when he first came to the 4th squadron. henri, digger, aif, raaf, tim tovell, no 4 squadron, fawkner cemetery, world war one, flight, aeroplane, hurdcott

After the death of Stan Savige this address was given at the Canberra Conference in October 1954. It is tribute to his life. Sir Stanley Savige KBE : Commemorative Address Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra : October 1954. On the 15th of May this year Legacy learned to its enduring sorrow of the death of its Founder, Lieut. General Stanley George Savige KBE, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, ED, for more than 30 years affectionately known to us all as Legatee Stan Savige. He was the embodiment of all those things for which Legacy stands, and each one of us who knew him and worked with him feels a great and abiding sense of personal loss. It is proper, therefore, that those of us at this Conference, the first after his passing, representative of Legacy throughout the Commonwealth, and comprising so many who were his friends, so many who knew the depth of his love for Legacy, should acknowledge our debt to our Founder and ensure, so far as we may, that the inspiration of his life and work in this Cause shall not be lost to those who follow after. It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige - should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service. Born at Morwell in Victoria some 63 years ago, he received with his brothers and sisters such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district. He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge. Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot, he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys. Even in those early days he attracted youth and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous. Opportunity came with the first World War, and he took his place as a private soldier in the original 24th Battalion AIF. Followed Gallipoli and Anzac where his marksmanship and bush craft stood him in good stead. Conscious that his early training was not sufficient to secure the promotion he desired, he set himself to enlarge it. Only a man of fine fibre and rare determination could apply himself to study on that war torn Peninsula, where our men, hitherto untested, suffered every known hardship and no man knew, from hour to hour, whether he would survive. But Savige achieved it. Himself then a Corporal he found another Corporal who was a former Schoolmaster and learned from him all that he had to teach. Savige was on his way. He was commissioned on the Field and allotted the heroic task of leading the last party off that desperate coast during the famous evacuation. In France he became the Adjutant of his Battalion and one of the best known officers in the 6th Brigade. He won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches. Early in 1918 he received a signal distinction, He was included in a small but distinguished band of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers from the British and Dominion Forces most carefully selected for individual courage and proved qualities of leadership, and was sent to Persia, under the command of Major-General Dunsterville, Kipling’s famous Stalky, to assist and mobilise the friendly tribes with a view to protecting the road to India, left wide open by the withdrawal of Russia. The story of the Dunsterforce, its suffering and achievements in the face of incredible hardships and difficulties, was later to be told by Savige in his book “Stalky’s Forlorn Hope”. He emerged, finally, unscathed, despite his active participation in several of the bloodiest battles of all time, with the rank of Captain and a DSO and MC to his credit, to say nothing of three mentions in despatches. In later years, further decorations were to be conferred upon him, but I believe he valued none of these so highly as his awards for outstanding personal bravery won in the Field when he was an Officer of comparatively junior rank. Such was the man who in August 1923, at the instance of his former Commander, Major-General Sir John Gellibrand, gathered around him a handful of men who had fought and laughed with him over four well remembered years. This small band adopted the name of “Legacy”, but its purpose then was, in the main, to assist in safeguarding the interests of ex-servicemen in this country. Worthy although the case undoubtedly was, the conception and ideal which was to distinguish Legacy from all kindred post-war movements did not emerge until two years later. The torch had not been lit. Legacy had not yet found its soul. What has been achieved since then is known to you all. The Legacy ideal, unique in its conception, with no known counterpart elsewhere, is now accepted, welcomed and honoured throughout the Commonwealth and abroad. But in those early days the achievements of our Founder in the face of all manner of difficulties and frustrations are worthy of our lasting memory and thankfulness. As the source of every river lies in the hills, so must the inspiration from which stems a great conceptions of service to one’s fellow men be lofty and above reproach. Savige was the embodiment of this new expression of comradeship, as he was the central figure and driving force of the little group that sponsored it. But for his zeal, his faith and determination, it is likely that the flame, newly kindled, might have flickered and died. The idea of men returned from active service pledging for the sake of their former comradeship, their personal assistance to the widows, and above all, to the children of those who had fought beside them and paid the full price of War, was so completely new and unexpected that it was by no means readily accepted. There were no funds, no precedents to guide the new adventurers, only the clear bright flame of an ideal just envisaged, and the conviction that the Cause was unassailable. Nor were there lacking many who said that the community held no place for Legacy, that it was born of sentiment only, and would quickly pass. The scoffers are gone and one since forgotten, but the torch remains and burns brighter than ever. Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of our Founder. By his works you shall know him. He was, in truth, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team. Six years went by before he accepted the Presidency of Melbourne Club, and then only because his fellows would book no further delay. “The Spirit of Legacy is Service” - so runs the Charter, and that was Savige’s Creed. By virtue of his attainments he was called upon to take a leading part in the administration of Legacy, first within his own club and later, as Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council of Legacy in Australia. But always it was the essentially human character of the work which enthralled and upheld him, and the tasks which gave him most joy were those which brought him into close personal contact with the youngsters and their home life. Like their elders they recognised his goodwill and his leadership and responded to it. It was Savige who made possible the first camps held for the boys and girls by Melbourne Club. These were erected on his own seaside property, and were originally conducted under his personal direction and largely with the aid of funds he had collected. There was hardly an important post in his own Club that Savige did not at some time occupy and adorn. He was happiest in the company of those men with whom he had served in the field, and cherished always the comradeship born of active service which is of the essence of Legacy. He was a man of strong convictions but attentive always to another’s point of view. As a Legatee he played a leading part in bringing hope and encouragement to many a mother on whom the whole responsibility of a young family had been suddenly and tragically laid; in the attainment of the ambitions of many an orphan child, which not so long since had seemed to him or her to be mere dreams, impossible of realisation. Comfort for the bereaved, new hope for the children’s physical and educational welfare, assistance with the home, aid for the sick, money for the needy and a new courage to face a future that hitherto had held no promise, all these facets of Legacy endeavour combine to present a living and enduring memorial to the man we honour as our Founder today. Between the two World Wars in addition to establishing himself successfully in civilian life and answering the constant calls of Legacy on his energy and time, Savige maintained an active association with the Army. He was convinced that a Second AIF would one day be urgently called upon, and as a Battalion Commander he spared no effort to train the Officers under his charge during the uneasy years of peace for the trial that he felt must come. These men have all subsequently had distinguished military careers, their names are well known and many of the serve in Legacy today. When the second crisis came, Savige himself was one of the first to offer, and although his youth was spent, he proudly carried the number VX13 throughout the terrible years that followed. This time he was to command, first the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade in the first action of the Second AIF against the enemy at Barida, and subsequently at Tobruk and Derna - all famous names now. It was his patrols which gave the warning - unheeded at the time - that Rommel’s reinforcements were reaching North Africa far earlier than was expected. Then followed the grim days of Greece and Crete when the fine qualities of his leadership were put to the utmost test. I have been told by those who were closest to him it was typical of Savige that when his convoys were on the move back and were being blasted from the air by the unopposed Luftwaffe, he should sit by the side of the open road, wearing his red banded cap, to steady the morale of men who had then no chance of hitting back at the enemy. Unorthodox no doubt, but here was a man indeed. Throughout the whole campaign and later when he commended the 3rd division in New Guinea and later still when with the rank of Lieutenant-General he became a Corps Commander in New Guinea and Bouganville, it was at all times characteristic of him that he should see for himself the situation in the forward areas. He dealt personally with his subordinate commanders whenever it was possible to do so. No one says his G.S.O. 1. understood better than he did the importance of front line troops seeing their G.O.C. frequently, and knowing that he was aware of and prepared to share their hardships and dangers. He took many risks that he should not have taken, exhausted himself physically and mentally times without number, and considered himself not at all in order to secure the success of his operations. Finally, in Bouganville, he brought his campaign to a victorious conclusion and accepted the personal surrender of the Japanese Commander. Savige is known as one of Australia’s most human military leaders, but let no one believe that he did not ask and receive the utmost of his men. He trained them in a hard school but he was ever conscious of their needs and observant and thoughtful of their welfare. Fearless and untiring under conditions which brought younger men down, he asked nothing that he was not himself prepared to give and do. The close of the Second World War left him with the same brave heart; but a vitality greatly impaired. He was called up again and again to perform important national tasks, notably that of Co-ordinator of Demobilisation and Dispersal. But his interest in Legacy never flagged it was in fact more personal than ever, for under his command many junior legatees, sons of former comrades had proved themselves worthy of their Fathers in war and in peace. In the bearing and achievements of the young men of the Second A.I.F. he took a particular and justifiable pride. He applied himself to the Extension of Legacy to areas where it had not previously been practicable to operate. His record of service and close personal contact with the men of both wars made him a most welcome pioneer and many new Clubs and Groups resulted from his efforts. He founded, and I doubt whether any one else could have done so, the Club in the great Capital of our Empire. His reputation and obvious sincerity surmounted obstacles that might well have daunted lesser man. Legacy’s debt to him visibly increased. But he was ever a simple man, with a great love and understanding of his fellow men and a true Legatee at heart. Much that he did will never be known or recognised, save by those who benefitted. His service in Legacy ranged from the humble kitchen of cottage and farm to our representation in Westminster Abbey itself. A knighthood set the seal upon an outstanding career. None the less when upon the death of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley Savige became the Patron of the Melbourne Club, he retained at his own express desire, the title of Legatee Savige, and when on that final day we bade him farewell, when the Flags he had served so well were lowered and the guns which had formed a grim final salute, it was apparent to all who had eyes to see that this great and simple man had won such a place in the hearts and affection of his fellow country men as is given to few men indeed. From the packed Cathedral, escorted by his fellow Generals, followed by men of his own Units, by Legatees and a great company of others who had cause to honour and esteem him, he made his last journey. But that is not the end. His voice and presence are lost to us but his memory and inspiration must ever remain. As he has bequeathed to the National War Memorial yonder his diaries, records and battle plans, so he has bequeathed to us his fellow Legatees his greatest achievement and his trust, Legacy itself. Never was the Torch passed by worthier hands. Now it is ours to hold it high. Whatever material memorial the future many hold for him, Legacy owes its Founder a livelier recompense. It is within our power to implement what I believe to be his greatest wish, that Legacy and its ideal of comradeship and service shall flourish and endure. Let each one of us then resolve that we shall, within our Clubs, in all tasks to which we are assigned, both great and small, keep in our minds the life and spirit of Stanley George Savige, so that we may be proud at all times to say of Legacy to those who follow after - “If you would see his memorial - Look around you”.The tribute to Stanley Savige shows how greatly he was regarded by the Legatees.Off white quarto paper with black type, address given about Stan Savige to the Canberra Conference, x 12 pages.savige, speech, obituary