Historical information

Augustus (Gus) Victor Balcke (serial no. 3130) was one of the 1st men to enlist in the 1st AIF. He served in France with the 5th Battalion and was wounded at Pozieres.
Gus Balcke was Secretary of the Wangaratta Sub Branch from 1934-1945 and again in 1955 and was President in 1946 and 1947. He was Secretary of the 34th District Board a position he held for over 30 years. He was the Sub Branch's chief welfare officer and did outstanding work for many years. Awarded Life membership in 1943.

Significance

Gus Balcke was Secretary of the Wangaratta Sub Branch from 1934-1945 and again in 1955 and was President in 1946 and 1947. He was Secretary of the 34th District Board a position he held for over 30 years. He was the Sub Branch's chief welfare officer and did outstanding work for many years. Awarded Life membership in 1943.
Following more than 30 years of meetings held in Council Chambers, Hotels, rear of a grocery store and even outdoors, the Wangaratta RSL purchased in 1951 a 12 room old mansion in Victoria Parade. It was named BALCKE HOUSE and officially opened on 19 July 1952.

Physical description

Timber framed photograph of male in suit.

Inscriptions & markings

The Late AUGUSTUS VICTOR BALCKE (GUS) aged 75 yrs. (Life Member of the R.S.L.)