Iona Brass Band

This is a chronological history of the Iona Brass Band, taken from reports in the newspapers, mainly the Bunyip and Garfield Express, which is not on-line. The Band was established in 1908. Denise Nest in her book, Call of the Bunyip (1), has this information about the band  - that it was formed on the initiative of Mr Tom Baillie, Snr; some of the other members were Bill Legg, Percy  Bennett, Bill Browne, Sandy Robinson,  Wally Dawes and Tom Sommerville, Harold 'Bumper' Gee, Tim Sheehan and Wally Curtain. There are other names mentioned in the articles and a list of everyone associated with the band is at the end of this post. 

It appears that the Iona Brass Band fell into abeyance in 1911/1912, as I can find no mention in of them in any newspaper. They reformed at the end of 1913, but, as Mrs Nest notes, it seems the group disbanded in 1916, when about half the members joined the services during the First World War. (2)   As we will see, towards the end of 1915, this lack of musicians impacted other local Bands as well as Iona. 

Iona Brass band, 1916

Image: Call of the Bunyip: a history of Bunyip, Iona and Tonimbuk, 1847 - 1990 by Denise Nest 

(Bunyip History Committee, 1990), p. 62

1908

November 26, 1908 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p.2.
A public meeting will be held in the Colomba Hall on Wednesday night next, for the purpose of deciding what steps will be taken towards the establishment of a Brass band. Residents of Iona have promised strong support, and it is hoped the surrounding towns will do likewise.

December 10, 1908 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.
Iona - A preliminary meeting in connection with the establishment of a district Brass Band was held in the Columba Hall on Wednesday night last. There was fine attendance and much enthusiasm. Mr J. Donald occupied the chair, and in opening said the Rev. Father Byrne has guaranteed the sum of £25, and he thought the district and surrounding towns would accord the movement a strong support. Mr T. Baillie volunteered to undertake the tutorship and should prove a capable instructor. It was decided to open a district subscription list. Another meeting will be held on Monday at the same hall, and will probably be followed by a meeting at Bunyip on a later date.

December 24, 1908 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass Band held a meeting at the Columba Hall on Wednesday night, where there was a good attendance. The instruments are to hand and the band will make its first public appearance on New Years Eve with collection boxes. 

1909

January 7,  1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

Iona and District Brass Band mustered for practice at the Columba Hall on Wednesday night. The members number 29 in all, and as the majority have had past experience it is expected that the band will make rapid progress. In fact it is mooted that they intend to appear in public at the annual sports gathering on March 17th.

January 13, 1909  South Bourke & Mornington Journal (see here)

The Iona Brass Band is making satisfactory progress towards efficiency, the result of assiduous practice on Tuesdays and Fridays, and it will not now be long before the Band will parade in all its glory.

May 7, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

Members of the Iona and District Brass Band have found a strong supporter in Mr Rocksborough [sic -  Roxburgh]. That gentleman has donated £5 for the purchase of a drum; an example which will shortly be followed by a number of other residents of Iona. Mr Rocksborough (3) also entertained the members of  the band at his residence one evening of this weekend  and has given them to understand that it is the fore-runner of many others.

May 21,  1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

Mr T. Baillie, sectary of the Iona and District Brass Band, is in receipt of  a communication from Mr Roxburgh, disclaiming the sole credit of the £5 donation to the Band for the purchase of bass and side drums. In this letter Mr Roxburgh states that the £5 forwarded was the joint contributions of Mr W.S. Keast (our district member), the Hon. Wm Pitt, M.P., and himself. 

A dance in aid of the funds of the District Brass Band took place at Columba Hall on Friday night last. Despite the adverse weather conditions there was a good  attendance, and a very enjoyable evening was spent.... There was some discussion amongst  members of the band  on the advisability  of holding weekly or fortnightly quadrilles in aid of the funds, and it was decided to hold them fortnightly, the first to be held on Saturday, May 29th.

May 28, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

Iona and district Brass band made their first public appearance at the Empire celebrations in connection with the local State School and acquitted themselves creditably. Although this band is scarcely three months old they are well advanced, and their rapid progress speaks well for their earnestness. We hope out townspeople will interest themselves in the establishment of the band and assist the lads, who thus far have had a very hard fight. 

June 4, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.
The fortnightly quadrille in connection with the funds of the Iona and District Brass Band took place on Saturday night at the Iona Hall. There was a good attendance and the floor was in capital order and the arrangements were well carried out. Mr T. Baillie supplied the music and the band rendered several selections during the proceedings. Altogether the evening was a very enjoyable one.

June 18, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona State School shelter shed now in the course of erection will be opened on Friday July 2nd, when an excellent programme has been arranged for. The proceedings will take the form of a basket picnic and the services of  the Iona Brass Band have been engaged. 

July 9, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Shelter shed was opened on Arbor Day, with 200 children and 300 adults in attendance and the event was enlivened with selections from the Iona Brass Band, under Mr T. Baillie during the afternoon.

October 29, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass Band will give an open air performance in Bunyip on Saturday evening, November 6th and it is hoped that it will be well patronised. The band is now capable of a good programme, and should give a good account of themselves; also they are deserving of every encouragement for their perseverance and energy in their struggles to establish themselves. 

November 12, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass Band gave an open air performance in the Main street on Saturday night last and attracted a large crowd who thoroughly enjoyed the music. The Band has improved out of recognition since we last had the pleasure of hearing it, and with  a little more encouragement from the town and district would soon become  a splendid acquisition to both. However, now the ice is once broken, we hope to see more of the band in public. 

November 19, 1909 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Band made its appearance at Garfield in an open air performance on Saturday night last, which proved a very financial success, and was greatly appreciated by a large audience. A very handsome donation was awarded by Mr O'Donohue for which the members of the Band wish to thank him and hope many more will follow his example. The Band is to play in front of Mr Kavanagh's store, Iona on Saturday night next. 

1910

February 8, 1910 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The first annual ball of the Iona Brass Band is scheduled to take place on the 18th inst., at the Columba Hall, and promises to be something out of the ordinary. The committee have arranged a series of  waltzing competitions which are to be supplemented  by jigs and reels and prizes will be donated to the winners in each class.  No expense is being spared to make make the function a success, and it should be well patronised for this reason, apart from the fact that it is in aid of a deserving object. A band is a splendid acquisition to any district, and Iona with its surroundings towns should turn out en-masse with two objects in view, viz, to enjoy a good night's entertainment, and place the band on a sound financial footing. Tickets may now be obtained at 3/ from the Secretary, Mr O. Kavanagh.

February 22, 1910 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

A very successful ball was held in the Columba Hall in aid of the Iona Brass Band, on Friday night, when fully 40 couples took the floor to the excellent music provided by Messrs McNamara and H. Gee. During the evening the band played several waltzes which were much enjoyed by the dancers. About midnight a tempting supper was provided and the arrangements were altogether to the satisfaction of those present. Mr D. Dansen, with the assistance of the other gentlemen officiated as M.C., in a satisfactory manner. It is understood that the band will net a handsome profit, which will be very acceptable.

March and April - The Band played at the Iona Hibernian Carnival and in April at open air concert in Bunyip, where they enlivened the town with their spirited selections. (4)

April 6, 1910 - South Bourke and Mornington Journal, see here.

The Bunyip and District Caledonian Society held a function at Ronald McAllister's property on Pitt Road, Iona - Shortly before 8 o'clock the guests met at the Parish boundary bridge and fell in line; headed by the Iona Brass Band and pipers of Bunyip & District Caledonian Society, the procession marched to Mr. McAllister's residence....[where] the Iona Band played lively selections....Mr. T. Baillie took the opportunity of thanking the society on behalf of the Iona Brass Band for their donations towards the funds, he could assure them it had been very acceptable, and he hoped the band, by such aid, would shortly be in a strong financial position.

October 18, 1910 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass Band Committee members, as elected at a public meeting were - Messrs Doherty, Fraser, D. Feild, junr., Wilson, Baillie, Maybury, junr., and Strafford. 

1913

September 30, 1913 -  The Age, see here. 

At a meeting at Iona on Monday it was decided to reorganise the Iona Brass Band.

December 16, 1913 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

Played at the Church of England Flower Shower in Bunyip where they played selections throughout the evening, which lent gaiety to the proceedings. 

1914

February 24, 1914 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass Band is becoming quite proficient and the performance at the Columba Hall on Friday night of last week was a pleasant surprise to many of the audience. There is unanimity amongst the players which is pleasing to note and their practices are  always well attended. There will be another appearance in Bunyip shortly by invitation, and the bandsmen should be well received.

March 3, 1914 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 6 

Hospital Sunday at Bunyip - A pleasant Sunday was held at the Bunyip showground on the 1st last, in aid of the building fund of the Warragul Hospital infectious diseases ward which is to be built at a cost of  £1500. The Iona Brass band kindly gave their services free and played sacred music during the  afternoon under the able  conductorship of  Mr W. Legge. 

Iona Dramatic Club production in aid of the Brass  Band

Bunyip and Garfield Express,  March 10, 1914 p. 2.

March 10, 1914 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Dramatic Club, under the management of  Mr J. Gleeson, will appear at the Bunyip Mechanics' hall in "Our Domestics" on Wednesday 25th inst. The proceeds will be handed to the Iona brass band.

March 17, 1914 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 5.

The fifteenth annual show of the Bunyip Agricultural Society was held on the local ground on  Wednesday last and was one of the finest held to date under the auspices of that body. The day was very hot, but notwithstanding the unpleasant conditions a record crowd turned out, and all appeared to enjoy themselves. The Iona Brass band played  spirited selections during the afternoon and thereby enlivened the proceedings considerably and their performance under bandmaster Legg established them in the favour of the public.

March 26, 1914 - Bunyip Free Press, see here.

The Iona Brass Band, which shows improvement as time goes on, played a number of selections in the main street at Bunyip last Saturday night. The new drum recently purchased by the band renders the music more acceptable, and the band now has an expert " drummer-boy" in Mr. W. Browne, our local blacksmith.

April 30, 1914, Bunyip Free Press, see here.

The new building at the Iona State School was opened, with 500 people being present and the Iona Brass band played some lively tunes during the intervals.

Grand Ball in aid of the Iona Brass Band

Bunyip and Garfield Express, July 14, 1914, p.2

July 28, 1914 -  Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 5.

The local Brass band will hold a grand ball on Friday next at Keast hall, Cora Lynn, in aid of the funds. The arrangements are well in hand and given a fine evening, the ball will be one of the finest held in the district. The music will be supplied by chosen players from the band, while refreshments will be provided. 

September 22, 1914 -  Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.  
The local brass band are celebrating their first anniversary at Columba Hall on 30th inst., with a grand ball, and everyone should support this organisation. It is now 12 months since this band was reformed and it had made wonderful progress since then. The secretary has received a communication from Warragul engaging the services of the band, therefore it may be assumed that the band has already made an impression outside our own district.

Iona Brass Band - first annual ball

Bunyip and Garfield Express, September 29, 1914, p.2

October  6,  1914 -  Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 5.

A grand ball was held in the Columba Hall on Wednesday night last and was  a great success, about 30 couples dancing to splendid music supplied by the Iona Brass Band of 20 performers. The music was pronounced by those present to be the best ever danced to. Mr E. Berry made a capable master of ceremonies. After the supper Mr C.J. Donald (president of the trustees of the band) on behalf of the members presented Bandmaster W. Legg with a silver mounted baton, suitably inscribed. In a very nice speech Mr Donald eulogised  the many good qualities of the bandmaster, and said it was a pity the public would not take more interest in the band, and show their appreciation by responding more  freely, and as the members are all working lads it was hard on them  to have to supply the money to run the band as well as the time and trouble they took in learning to play.  He pointed out what a splendid thing a band is in a district, and said for everything in the line of charity it was expected to play free; but when it came to taking up a collection on their own behalf people seemed to think because they were "going strong" that they could do it without money. He hoped that donations would come along more freely. The gathering, which was to celebrate the first anniversary of  the band, was a creditable one. As they had £100 worth of instruments to pay for he trusted the people would give the band whole-hearted support. Mr Legg suitably responded and dancing was kept up till the early hours of the morning. The band desires to thank the following for donations :- J. Curtain £1,D. Fraser £1, J. Slattery 10/. The refreshments supplied by the ladies were of the choicest.

October 20, 1914 -  Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 5.

The local brass band is securing a number of engagements about the district. Sport and other committee are recognising the necessity of securing its services, and it appears to have a full list of  engagements through the holidays. The Longwarry Axeman's Carnival Committee has engaged the band to play on Boxing Day on the Recreation Reserve. [The Axeman's Carnival raised £50 for the Patriotic Fund (5)]

December 1, 1914 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2. 

Iona Brass Band. The band visited Garfield on Saturday night and gave a fine program of music which was much appreciated by the residents.  Mr T.J. Cryan of the Iona Hotel treated the members to a splendid supper which was much enjoyed.  He also thanked them heartily for their visit by donating 

£1 1- towards the funds. The Secretary, Mr Gee, on behalf of the members, thanked Mr Cryan for his donation and hospitality and also wished to apologise to the rest of the townspeople for not playing in front if their premises as the police had instructed them not to encroach on the footpath and the torches which they were getting have not arrive yet so they could not play in the streets without lights.

1915

January 7, 1915 - Bunyip Free Press, see here.

From a report of the Yannathan Annual Picnic Sports Day - During the day the Iona Brass Band played a number of selections on the ground, and these were greatly appreciated by the public. Band master W. Legge wielded the baton which was presented to him some time ago by members of the band.

March 9, 1915 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 3.

The Iona Brass Band visited Bunyip on Friday night last and played selections. The band is making great progress, and now may be said  to be an established organisation and should be liberally supported throughout the district.

June 8, 1915 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass Band will hold a dance and supper on Wednesday night, June 30, in the Bunyip Mechanics' hall. As the Band has recently purchased a 50 candle power gas lamp and new instruments this effort will help pay for the aforementioned articles should be met with a good response. The music will be made up by the band, also the piano and violin.

Dance and Supper in aid of the Iona Brass Band

Bunyip and Garfield Express, June 8, 1915, p. 2

October 12, 1915 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 3.

A number of members of the Iona Brass Band recently journeyed to Dandenong to supplement the local band. Both organisations have lost a number of their best players owing to enlistment and this scheme was hit upon to fill the vacancies.

November 2, 1915 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

Iona and Drouin brass bands in conjunction will give  a concert on Sunday next on the Longwarry recreation reserve. The ladies of the town are contemplating a collection for the Warragul Hospital.

[£3 was raised for the Hospital. (6)]

November 16, 1915 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 2.

The Iona Brass band will take part, in conjunction with the Drouin and Trafalgar bands, in the procession at Warragul on Saturday in connection with the Hospital carnival.

Some of the other events that Band played at in 1915 included -  in April they played at a social in aid of the Belgium Relief fund at Iona and at the Pakenham Show; a Recruitment meeting at Iona in August under Bandmaster  Legg and in September they played at the opening of E. Harcourt & Co, new store in Garfield and the Nar Nar Goon Picnic Races held on Boxing Day, under Bandmaster Lee. (7)

1916

January 12, 1916 - Bunyip and Garfield Express, p. 3.

Two of the Iona band boys enrolled at Warragul on Christmas day and left for Melbourne yesterday. This will leave a gap in the band which will be hard to fill. 

January 14, 1916 - The Argus, January 14, 1916, see here.

Nine members of the Iona Brass Band are now at the front. Walter Davies and Charles Daw, also band members have enlisted.

List of Iona Brass Band members. 

This list is more than likely incomplete. The occupational information comes from the Electoral Roll on Ancestry.com - if there is no other information it means I cannot identify the men with any accuracy.

Baillie, Tom - operated a blacksmith, wheelwright and carriage building business at Iona
Bennett, Percy
Browne, William - a blacksmith from Bunyip
Curtain, Wally - presumably William Curtain, a farmer from Iona
Davies, Walter
Daw, Charles - a labourer from Iona
Dawes, Wally - a carpenter from Iona
Doherty - there were a few families of Dohertys in Iona and Bunyip. 
Donald, Charles Joseph - a farmer from Iona.
Feild, D  junr - presumably Daniel Field, a farmer, from Iona.
Fraser
Gee, Harold 'Bumper' - a farmer from Iona
Lee - listed as the Bandmaster in a 1915 report, may be a typo for Legg.
Legg, William - the Bandmaster and a farmer from Iona
Maybury, William junr - a farmer from Iona
Robinson, Sandy
Sheehan, Tim - surname Sheahan, a farmer from Iona.
Sommerville, Tom 
Strafford, Thomas - a farmer from Iona.
Wilson
 

Trove list - I have created a list of articles on the Iona Brass Band on Trove, access it here.

Footnotes

(1) Nest, Denise Call of the Bunyip: a history of Bunyip, Iona and Tonimbuk, 1847 - 1990  (Bunyip History Committee, 1990)

(2) Nest, op. cit pp 62-64.

(3) Thomas Roxburgh - https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2019/04/thomas-roxburgh-asparagus-pioneer.html

(4) Bunyip and Garfield Express, March 8, 1910, p. 2;  Bunyip and Garfield Express , April 12, 1910, p. 2

(5) Bunyip and Garfield Express, January 5, 1915. p. 2.

(6) Bunyip and Garfield Express, November 9, 1915. p. 3.

(7) Bunyip and Garfield Express, April 20, 1915, p. 2 ; South Bourke and Mornington Journal, April 1, 1915, see here;   Bunyip Free Press, August 19, 1915, see here; Bunyip and Garfield Express, September 7, 1915, p.3;  Dandenong Advertiser, December 30, 1915, see here.

Anderson and Gardiner - The Corner Store, Koo Wee Rup

In August 1946 the Koo Wee Rup Sun reported that
Mr L. Anderson and Mr T. Gardiner wish to notify the people of Kooweerup and district that they have purchased The Corner Store business of Mr E.R. Williams, Kooweerup. The public is assured that they will maintain the popularity of the store by giving only the best value, quality and friendly service. From Monday, August 12, a full delivery will be commenced, when orders will be called for and delivered throughout the district. (1)  The store was on the corner of  Station Street and Rossiter Road. 

Report of Anderson and Gardiner taking over the business

Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 7, 1946, p. 1.

The first advertisement of Anderson and Gardiner in the Koo Wee Rup Sun

Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 7, 1946, p. 4.

1953 - you can see Anderson and Gardiner's store on the left.

Weekly Times, March 18, 1953 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224028894

Weddings

Leigh Edgar Anderson and Thomas George Gardiner had come from Sunshine where they were both employed with the McKay Massey-Harris works. They both married after their arrival in Koo Wee Rup. Thomas married on March 12, 1947 to Miss Loris Lilian Naylor of Sunshine.  The Sunshine Advocate reported on the wedding -

St. Andrew's Church, Footscray, was the setting, on March 12th, for the marriage of Loris Lilian, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ern Naylor 24 Sydney St., Sunshine, to Thomas George, only son of Mrs. Gardiner, and the late Mr. Gardiner of Caulfield. Rev. Stevens officiated. A gown of lace and net over satin was worn by the bride with a finger tip length veil held with a coronet of orchids. A bouquet of orchids, frangipanni and gladioli completed a charming ensemble.

Mrs. J. Davies attended as Matron-of-Honor, in a frock of hand painted white taffeta. She carried a bouquet of pink dahlias and gladioli. Mr. Alan Polson supported the groom as best man. The bride's mother chose a black crepe frock and black hat, both trimmed with blue. A black tailored coat over a floral frock with small black hat was worn by the bridegroom's mother.

A reception was held at the Hotel Federal, Melbourne where 20 guests were entertained. When leaving for the honeymoon, spent at Lakes' Entrance, the bride travelled in a blue suit with black accessories. The happy couple will reside at Kooweerup, where the bridegroom has recently entered into business. (2)

 

Leigh married on November 12 the same year to Miss Doreen Rosetta Walpole of Footscray, at St John's Church of England, in Footscray. I can't find a full report of their wedding, however the Sunshine Advocate reported on their engagement function at the Sunshine Golf Club - Last Saturday evening a most pleasant Social Evening was held and a presentation made to those very popular players, Miss D. Walpole and Lee [sic] Anderson on the occasion of their engagement. (3)

Engagement report of Leigh Anderson and Doreen Walpole

Sunshine Advocate, October 24, 1947 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74776370

The Koo Wee Rup Sun published a short report on their wedding -
A wedding of local interest is this afternoon (Wednesday) to take place at St. John's Church of England, Footscray, the contracting parties being Miss D. Walpole, of Footscray, and Mr E.L. Anderson of the Corner Store, Kooweerup. The Rev. Brand will be the officiating clergyman and the reception will be held at the Federal Hotel, Melbourne. Following a honeymoon of two weeks the newly married couple will reside in Kooweerup. (4)

Marriage report of Leigh Anderson and Doreen Walpole

Koo Wee Rup Sun,  November 12 1947 p. 1

The Store

Anderson and Gardiner were fairly regular advertisers in the Koo Wee Rup Sun and in 1958 they re-modelled and modernised the store and introduced self-service.  It was also around this time that the store became a Foodland. (5)

1958 - the new-look store

Koo Wee Rup Sun, December 10, 1958, p. 7

Anderson and Gardiner advertisement 

Koo Wee Rup Sun, December 9, 1959, p. 4

Thomas Gardiner obituary

Thomas Gardiner died on February 25, 1961 aged only 56 years old. The Koo Wee Rup Sun published an obituary - 

Mr. T. Gardiner dies suddenly. The death occurred on Saturday night of Mr. Thomas George Gardiner of Kooweerup. The late Mr. Gardiner and his wife were on holidays at Rye, when he was suddenly taken ill and died a short time later. Mr. Gardiner appeared to be in excellent health and his sudden death came as a great shock to his many friends throughout the district and beyond. Sympathy of the district is extended to his widow in her sad loss. 

Residents will remember Tom Gardiner first and foremost as a gentleman. He carried this quality into his business and social life and it was indeed a feature of his everyday living.

Born in the Shepparton district fifty-six years ago, the late Mr Gardiner learnt the grocery trade in his father's business. Later he went to Melbourne and worked at the McKay-Massey Harris plant at Sunshine. At the age of eighteen he became friendly with another employee at the plant, Mr Leigh Anderson, and that friendship has existed closely ever since. 

In 1946 the partnership of Anderson and Gardiner took over the management of the Corner Store at Kooweerup, and in that same year Mr. Tom Gardiner married Miss Loris Naylor and the couple made their home in Kooweerup.

The partnership of Anderson and Gardiner built the typical country general store into a flourishing business and some three years ago they opened their modern self-service and hardware store on the site of the old "corner store."

Many arm-chair critics said that Tom and Leigh were a little too far-seeing in their plans. However, the policy put into practice by the two partners had proved successful, not only to themselves, but has been of great benefit to Kooweerup as a town. The present building stands as a tribute to the late Tom Gardiner and to the remaining partner, Mr. Leigh Anderson.

The link of friendship which had existed between Tom and Leigh over a  period of nearly 40 years could not be broken by the frailities of human misunderstanding, nor by the worries and differences of business life.  It remained to the bitter hand of fate to strike  the blow which severed the seemingly undissoluble partnership. It was a sad stroke of luck that Mr. Tom Gardiner, having helped to lay the foundations of a successful business, was not spared to enjoy the fruits of his labours for  a least a few additional years. 

Many Kooweerup and district friends attended the funeral which took place on Tuesday at the Fawkner Crematorium. (6)

Obituary of Thomas Gardiner

Koo Wee Rup Sun, March 1, 1961 page 1

Thomas was born in 1905 to Samuel and Ellen (nee Cooper) Gardiner. He and his wife Loris did not have any children.  Loris was listed in the Electorate rolls at Koo Wee Rup until 1967 and she was then listed at 5 Holland Grove, Caulfield. This is the last I can trace of her. (7)

Leigh Anderson obituary

Leigh Anderson died on June 25, 1966. This is his obituary from the Koo Wee Rup Sun - 

Sudden Death of Well Known Kooweerup Businessman. It is with the deepest regret that we record the death of one of Kooweerup's leading citizens and businessmen, Mr Edgar Leigh Anderson at his home in Charles Street, Kooweerup on June 25th.

His death came as a great shock to his large number of friends in this area. Although he had been away from his self-service store for a number of days his sudden death was totally unsuspected by his family and close friends. 

The late Leigh Anderson was born in the country at Mt. Clare near Ballarat and attended Ballarat High School. A great part of his early life was spent in the Sunshine area, where he was on the staff of McKay-Massey Harris. Here by his meticulous attention to detail and quiet efficiency he became one of the firm's leading moulders, a position he held for many years.

It was during this time at the Sunshine plant that he met Tom Gardiner and a friendship developed which brought both men to Kooweerup and into the life of business and close friendship, which lasted until death severed the link. Anderson and Gardiner became a well known business in this area when the partners took over the Corner Store in 1946.The store was formerly occupied by the late E.R. Williams.

Shortly after coming to Kooweerup Leigh Anderson married his wife Doreen and the couple settled in the town.

The advent of the partners to Kooweerup was the forerunner of big things for Kooweerup. In 1958 the flourishing business was expanded into a modern self-service grocery and hardware store. It was the greatest single lift the town had ever had, at a time when its trade seemed certain to go to bigger centres. 

The late Leigh Anderson was an excellent sportsman and showed the same application and determination he had in his commercial life. He played cricket at Sunshine in his younger days and for a short time with Kooweerup. He was also a very good golfer playing on a handicap of 11, but he gave up the game for as he said, "I could just not master the darn game." He was president of the Lang Lang  Club when the course was located on the site nearer Lang Lang. 

Leigh then took on bowling, again with the same determination and developed into the best bowler the club has produced. He won many of the club events and his knowledge put many a bowler on the way to success. The illness which caused his sudden death also forced him to give up competition bowls some time ago.

The extremely large and representative crowd which attended his funeral today was a tribute to a man who was respected for his ability and sincerity of manner who will be a great loss to the community. The service was held at St. George's Church, Kooweerup and the funeral then proceeded to the Springvale Crematorium. The officiating minister at both places was Rev. Fuhrmeister.  The sympathy of the district is offered to his wife and two sons, Ron and David. (8)

Obituary of Leigh Anderson

Koo Wee Rup Sun,  June 29, 1966 page 1

Leigh was born in 1904 to James and Lillian (nee Cooke) Anderson. Doreen, born in 1918, was still listed in the 1972 Electoral Roll at Koo Wee Rup; she then moved to Cranbourne. Doreen died in August 1998. (9)

After the death of Leigh Anderson, I assume the business was sold. The last advertisement for the store, under their name was in the Koo Wee Rup Sun of September 6, 1967

Last advertisement for Anderson and Gardiner in the Koo Wee Rup Sun

Koo Wee Rup Sun, September 6, 1967, p.4

The advertisement the next week was this one, now just known as the Corner Store.

Corner Store advertisement

 Koo Wee Rup Sun, September 13, 1967, p. 3

Footnotes

(1) Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 7, 1946, p. 1.

(2) Sunshine Advocate, March 28, 1947, see here.

(3) Sunshine Advocate, October 24, 1947, see here.  

(4) Koo Wee Rup Sun,  November 12 1947 p. 1.

(5) Self service - Leigh Anderson's obituary - Koo Wee Rup Sun,  June 29, 1966 p.1; Foodland - advertisements in the Koo Wee Rup Sun

(6) Koo Wee Rup Sun, March 1, 1961, p. 1.

(7) Indexes to Victorian Births; Electoral Rolls on Ancestry.com

(8) Koo Wee Rup Sun,  June 29, 1966 p. 1.

(9) Indexes to Victorian Births; Electoral Rolls on Ancestry.com; Cremated at Springvale https://www.smct.org.au/deceased-search/detail?id=49cd4053-529a-ef11-8a69-00224811c475

The Police at Koo Wee Rup - the early days

Koo Wee Rup's first policeman arrived in 1919; previous to this the town relied on police from either Tooradin or Lang Lang. David Mickle, local historian, wrote about these early police - 
From the sparse information we have of our Police in these early days it would appear that Constable McCormick was in charge at Tooradin in 1888 and Constable William Cole took over (from Constable McCormick) in 1890, and remained in Tooradin for 19 years until the closure of the station. He was transferred to Lang Lang in 1909 where he was in charge until his retirement  on 25th January, 1923. He joined the force at the age of twenty-seven and Tooradin was his first appointment.... William Cole died at Lang Lang on the 1st of July, 1946, aged 86 years. Tooradin was in the Lang Lang Police district until it was transferred to the new Koo Wee Rup district under Constable Whiteside in 1922. (1)

Constable Alexander Orgill (1877-1939) took over at Lang Lang after Coles' retirement; Constable Orgill retired in 1936 (2).

The first policeman stationed at Koo Wee Rup was Constable O’Connell, who arrived in March 1919 (3).  The only reference I can find to his activities is this arrest in the April-

On Saturday evening, it was reported to Constable O'Connell that a man had been assaulted and robbed of £9. Shortly afterwards the constable saw a man near the Royal hotel, answering the description of one of the offenders, and he arrested him. (4) 

Constable O'Connell was transferred only four months later in the  July.  The Koo Wee Rup Sun reported -

Constable O'Connell left Kooweerup on Tuesday, being recalled to the depot. Thus Kooweerup is once more without a resident policeman, but the effort to establish a permanent station here is not being relaxed. A petition for presentation to the Chief Secretary had been forwarded to the President of Cranbourne Shire (Councillor M'Gregor), who was to call on the Chief Secretary or the Superintendent of Police and urge claims of the residents. On account of the maritime strike many police are being taken away from the country (5).   

Constable Robert Whiteside

Image: More Mickle memories of Koo Wee Rup: chronicles of a prosperous district once known as the Great Swamp, 1928-1940  by David Mickle.

He wasn’t replaced until February 1921 when Constable Robert Whiteside arrived to take charge of the newly created Koo Wee Rup Police district. Constable Whiteside, born in 1890 in Melton (6), had previously been in the Bunyip Police district. He remained at Koo Wee Rup until his retirement in July 1945 (7).  In 1923, whilst he was at Koo Wee Rup he married Ruby Crespin and they had two children, Bill and Beryl. (8) The family lived in the seven-roomed police residence in Sybella Avenue. The police office, a single room, was part of the house. A new station was built in 1956 at 260 Rossiter Road, corner of Icke Road and replaced by the current building around 2012 (9)

Koo Wee Rup Police Station, in Sybella Avenue

Public Records Office of Victoria VPRS 10516/P0001

It was during Constable Whiteside's time at Koo Wee Rup that the lock-up, which is now on display at the Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society, was installed in the town. The lockup is listed on the Cardinia Shire Heritage Study as being of local significance for its connection to the early policing in the area. It is the only structure remaining from the establishment of the force at Koo Wee Rup in 1919. (10)

The Koo Wee Rup Sun reported on the arrival of the lock-up -

While building operations are a sign of the progress of a township, it must be queried whether the erection of a lock-up comes within that category. Nevertheless it a necessary adjunct to meet the social conditions of society. Our civilisation is such that there are numbers who refuse to conform with the laws society says are needed for its protection and safety, and there must exist an abode where delinquents should be retained with the object of paying the penalty for their misbehaviour. This week a lock-up was erected at the Kooweerup Police Station. Perhaps to some this will be unwelcome news. In the past offenders have had to be taken to the Lang Lang lock-up, which meant a strain on their financial position, for the usual custom had been to not only inflict a fine, but the costs of an exhilarating "joy ride" by car had to be met. There is also another side with regard to the elimination of the use of the car, in that the individual who "looks upon the wine when it is red" will have more money to satisfy his craving. Others, again, may act more discretely, as no doubt owing to the cost and trouble of getting to Lang Lang, only worse and most abusive cases were apprehended, but now with better facilities, the police will not be handicapped in discharging their duties. So far we have not heard when the opening ceremony of this new residence is to take place. (11)

The Koo Wee Rup Lock-up at the Historical Society

Image: Heather Arnold, 2010

The duties of  a country policeman were many and varied and as well as his police duties Constable Whiteside accepted these appointments - Wharf Manager at Tooradin in March 1923; Honorary Assistant Inspector of Fisheries in April 1925; Nuisance Inspector and Prosecuting Officer on behalf of the Cranbourne Shire in January 1926 and Electoral Register for the Koo Wee Rup sub-division of  the Gippsland West electorate in June 1927. (12)

Here are some of the cases Constable Whiteside was  involved with. In March 1923 the Dandenong Journal reported on this unusual case -

Mysterious fleshy remains found tied in a bag in the Yallock Creek at Bayles, near Koo-wee-rup, were examined to-day by Constable Whiteside and a veterinary surgeon. Their discovery caused a stir in the district. John Gardiner, a Scotsman employed by the State Rivers and Water Commission clearing a track through the dense scrub fringing the creek for the big bucket dredge now at work widening the watercourse, came on the remains on the surface of a stagnant pool.

When he tried to lift the bag out of the water the rotten sacking gave way, and half the contents fell back with a splash into the pool. He recovered a thickly wedged mass of fleshy substance, which appeared to be heavily coated with lime. It burnt and gave off a fatty smell when a match was applied to it.

[The police were informed] Constable Whiteside, with Mr. H. J. Rush, a Korumburra veterinary surgeon, drove out to the camp, five miles away, this afternoon. After a careful scrutiny, in which he used a magnifying glass, Mr. Rush concluded that, far from being human, the mystery package was part of the body of a calcified sheep. How it got there, carefully tied in a bag, in a deep pool in the middle of a thicket of densely matted wattle and scrub is still a mystery. (13)

Both Constables Whiteside and Orgill attended at the railway accident of December 24, 1928 when 52 people, where injured after the Melbourne to Yarram train collided with a shunting engine at Koo Wee Rup Station, in an awe inspiring shower of flying glass and splintered wood work. 350 passengers were on board, so you can understand how chaotic the scene must have been.  The police took the injured to the Koo Wee Rup Hospital and organised local residents to look after the less injured. Local doctors - Dr Alan Hewitt of Koo Wee Rup and Dr Sydney Appleford of Lang Lang - were involved in treating the wounded. (14)

Whiteside and Orgill were involved in the rescue work after the December 1934 flood, when water was two metres deep in some parts of Koo Wee Rup. The Argus reported on his role -

Senior-constable Whiteside, who, assisted by recruits from the police depot and scores of volunteers from Tooradin and elsewhere, led the rescue work, said that had the flood arrived in the middle of the night the death roll would have amounted to hundreds. Of the 600 inhabitants of the town of Koo-wee-rup and about 3,500 settled on farms on the reclaimed swamp, Senior-constable Whiteside said that all had been accounted for except an unknown elderly man who had been camped near the main canal. It was believed that he was washed away after having refused to heed the warning that the flood was coming. (15) It's worth remembering that whilst carrying out these recovery operations that Constable Whiteside's own house would have been inundated like the rest of Koo Wee Rup.

The prison farm on French Island which operated from 1916 until 1975, gave Constables Whiteside and Orgill extra work. Up to 1939, thirty five men attempted to escape from the Island, of which two drowned and the others were recaptured. (16). A few months after he started at Koo Wee Rup in August 1921, Whiteside was involved in this arrest of escaped prisoners -

William Smith, Sydney Turnbull and Reginald Alison were charged at the City Court yesterday with having escaped from legal custody at the M'Leod Settlement Reformatory Prison, French Island, on 13th August. It was stated in evidence that Turnbull and Allison had been declared habitual criminals. Constable J. Cole said he and Constable Whiteside made the arrests a few miles out of Lang Lang. (17)

Constable Whiteside (left) and Constable Orgill searching the scrub near Lang Lang for escaped prisoners from French Island.

Sun News-Pictorial, September 19 1934 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article278926487

This report comes from 13 years later in September 1934 when two prisoners escaped in a dingy -

A very likely spot was searched yesterday by well-organised official parties. A launch cruised in the stretch between French and Phillip Islands, and searched the coast of Phillip Island from Cowes to Rhyll, also the southern coast of French Island. First Constables Baker (Loch), Orgill (Lang Lang) and Whiteside (Koo-wee-rup) travelled down the shore from Corinella to Stony Point. They used a car where possible, but most of the trip was on foot, and every hiding place among mangroves from 3ft. to 12ft. high was examined. This party found the footprint. Constable Bilson, on horseback, searched south from Bass Landing to San Remo. (18) The escapees, Thomas Fullerton and Eric Pike, were arrested four days later in Melbourne. (19)

Robert Whiteside died in May 1969. The Koo Wee Rup Sun had the following obituary - 

Death of former Kooweerup policeman. The death occurred on 12th. May, 1969 at the Westernport Memorial Hospital, Kooweerup of Mr Bob Whiteside after a long illness. The late Mr. Bob Whiteside retired policeman, spent 25 years of his service at Kooweerup and another 25 years in retirement and was widely known and respected in the area.

Bob spent his youth at Melton and after joining the Police Force served at various times in Melbourne, Sale, Garfield and Bunyip, until his transfer to Kooweerup. 

A true "country policeman," he was a firm favourite in Kooweerup and district. He was readily available for duty at all times and was often called upon for assistance and advice over and above his duties. His direct approach to his work often changed the wrongdoer to the correct path. He was ready to lend a helping hand to those in need or distress. He supported all causes for the betterment of this district, which he came to affectionately regard as his home town. 

The late Bob Whiteside was a keen sportsman - he often reminisced over his marksmanship with the gun, both clay and wild game. However his real sport was fishing and his thoughts were often directed to the lazy days spent on the Bemm.

He met his wife, former Miss Ruby Crespin of Briagolong, a trained nurse from Prince Henry's Hospital, when she was nursing at Kooweerup and the couple soon carved a deep niche for themselves in the hearts of the townspeople. Mr Whiteside is survived by his wife, son Bill, daughter Beryl and three grandchildren, Susan, Jennifer and Judith. (20)

Ruby Whiteside died on August 20, 1970 and the Koo Wee Rup Sun published an obituary which included some of her interests - 

She was a member of the Red Cross, the Blind Auxiliary and actively associated with the Westernport Memorial Hospital Ladies' Committee and St George's Church of England Guild. (21). Bob and Ruby are buried at the Springvale Cemetery.

Footnotes

(1) Tooradin: a history of a sportsman's paradise and the first 100 years of State School No. 1503 compiled by D.J. Mickle and the Tooradin "Back to" Committee (Tooradin 'Back to' Committee, 1975), p. 36.

(2) Protector's Plains: history of Lang Lang Primary School No.2899, 1888-1988 and district compiled by Barbara Coghlan (CBC Publishing, 1988), pp. 20-21.

(3) South Bourke and Mornington Journal, March 13, 1919, see here.

(4) South Bourke and Mornington Journal, April 17. 1919, see here. 

(5) Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 2 1919, p. 1.

(6) Robert Whiteside was born in Melton in 1890 to Edward and Jeanie (nee Singleton) Whiteside. He was the second of five brothers, all born in Melton - John (born 1889), Edward (1892), William (1895) and Thomas (1899). Two brothers died in World War One -  John enlisted in the A.I.F in October 1916 (SN 2182) and died in Egypt in September 1918 of acute nephritis; William (SN 3995) enlisted on February 1915 and Died of Wounds in July 1916. Jeanie, also known as Janet, died in 1904 aged 40 and Edward  in 1933, aged 73. They are buried at the Melton Cemetery. 

(7) Mickle, David,  Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup: for young and old - to 1927 (The Author, 1983), p. 77; Mickle, David More Mickle memories of Koo Wee Rup: chronicles of a prosperous district once known as the Great Swamp, 1928-1940  (The Author, 1987), p. 24; Dandenong Journal, July 11, 1945, see here.  

(8) Index to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages; Obituary - Koo Wee Rup Sun, May 21, 1969, p. 3. Beryl married Donald Jeffrey Johnson in 1950 and they were the parents of Susan, Jennifer and Judith; Beryl died in 2007. I don't have any information about Bill, Beryl's brother. 

(9) Cardinia Shire Heritage Study; a Heritage Study of parts of the Shire previously in the Cranbourne and Sherbrooke Shires - Volume 2: Heritage Places - by Graeme Butler & Associates (Cardinia Shire, 1999), pp. 106-107.

Police house at 260 Rossiter Road and the police station was behind it, off Icke Road, March 2010.

Image: Google Street View.

Another view - Police house at 260 Rossiter Road and the police station was behind it, off Icke Road, March 2010.

Image: Google Street View.

(10) Ibid.

(11) Koo Wee Rup Sun, April 9, 1925, p. 4.

(12) Victoria Government Gazette https://gazette.slv.vic.gov.au/ 

(13) The Sun News-Pictorial, March 20, 1923, see here.

(14) Reports of the accident - The Herald, December 24, 1928, see here; The Argus, December 26, 1928, see here; The Age, December 26, 1928,  see here; The Age, December 28, 1928, see here. See photographs here https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2020/02/railway-accident-at-koo-wee-rup.html 

(15) The Argus, December 4, 1934, see here. I have written about the 1934 flood quite a bit, for instance -  https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-great-flood-of-december-1934.html and here https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2018/10/1934-flood-at-koo-wee-rup-photos-from.html 

(16) Koo Wee Rup Sun, November 9, 1939, p. 1.

(17) The Age, August 27, 1921, see here.

(18) Sun News-Pictorial, September 19 1934, see here.

(19) The Age, September 21, 1934, see here.

(20) Koo Wee Rup Sun, May 21, 1969, p. 3.

(21) Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 26, 1970, p. 6.

Obituaries in the Bunyip and Garfield Express, 1938 to 1948

In 2020-2021 the Bunyip Historical Society (https://bunyiphistory.org.au/) received a Local History Grant from the Public Records Office of Victoria to digitise the Bunyip and Garfield Express from 1938 to 1948. It is now available on Trove https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper and provides much interesting information about the activities of the local community during World War Two and the few years either side. In this post we look at some of the obituaries published during this time, with a focus on women, which are a great source of local and family history.

Mrs Mary Ann Brownbill

The death occurred at Garfield on the 30th ult, of Mrs Mary Ann Brownbill, an old and highly esteemed resident of Garfield, at the age of 80 years. A family of two sons (Stanley, Gordon) and three daughters Blanche (Mrs Ashworth), Maude (Mrs Younger) and Myrtle (Mrs Neill) are left to mourn their loss. The funeral took place to the Bunyip cemetery and was largely attended by sorrowing friends and relatives.
( Bunyip and Garfield Express, May 14, 1943, see here)

Mrs Catherine Kavanagh
It is with regret that we record the passing of another pioneer of the district, in the person of Mrs Catherine Kavanagh, of Iona, relict of the late Mr Owen Kavanagh (who died about ten years ago), the sad event taking place on Dec. 23. The deceased lady was born in the County of Roscommon, Ireland, and was 87 years of age. With her husband (who worked in the drain as one of the early settlers and afterwards successfully carried on farming pursuits) she came to Iona upwards of 50 years ago, where she has resided ever since, highly esteemed and loved by all who had the pleasure of her acquaintance.

A family of three sons - Bartholomew, James Joseph and Owen Patrick - are left to mourn their loss. After Requiem Mass at St. Joseph's Church, Iona, the funeral took place to the Bunyip cemetery, being largely attended by sympathizing relatives and friends. Messrs Thos. Giblin, Jas McGrath, J. W. Doyle, Jas. Kavanagh, sen., O. A. Phayer and T. D. Drake, J.P., acted as pallbearers. The service at the graveside was conducted by the Rev. Father Cremin, and the funeral arrangements were carried out by J. D. Grubb Pty. Ltd.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, January 7, 1944, see here)

Mrs Louisa O’Brien
On 22nd December her many friends were deeply shocked to learn that Mrs Louisa O'Brien, highly respected wife of Mr George O'Brien, had died suddenly that day at Warragul. The deceased lady was a native of South Melbourne, her parents coming from England, her father being the late Mr Joseph Berry, whilst her mother, Mrs Emily Berry, is still living in Bunyip. When only three years of age, Mrs O Brien's parents went to Tonimbuk, but on the development of the Kooweerup Swamp the family moved to the latter locality, with the result that Mrs O'Brien had spent 51 out of her 54 years of life in the close neighbourhood of Bunyip, and thus ranks amongst the pioneering families who made the way easier for those that followed.

She was noted for her energetic and most progressive spirit, always out to help any movement worthy the name. Prior to the present war she took a big interest in sporting bodies, but when more serious matters claimed the attention of the populace, as a result of the outbreak of hostilities, she was always to the fore in all patriotic efforts. Mrs O'Brien was best known as a most active member of the Bunyip Branch of the Country Women's Association, and had only recently completed her term as president. When the Association sponsored a sale of gifts on 30th September last, most of its success was due to this lady, as it took the auctioneer over two hours to sell the goods she had collected, and had the satisfaction of seeing £88 7s 8d divided equally between the Bunyip branches of the Red Cross and Australian Comforts Fund. Mrs O’Brien was clever at basket making, and freely imparted her knowledge to others, with the result that these articles brought many pounds to aid the Red Cross and A.C.F.

The deceased, who was the oldest member of her family, is survived by two daughters, Emily (Mrs Cyril Bramley) and Madge (Mrs Ford Niquett). Both these ladies live together at Carnegie, their husbands being on active service, one now engaged in operations at the Phillipine Islands. There are three granddaughters. Mrs O’Brien also leaves a brother (Mr Edward Berry, of Bunyip), and three sisters - Annie (Mrs R. Long, Maffra), Elizabeth (Mrs E. Dawes, Bunyip), and Ivy (Mrs T. Maddigan, Bunyip). The husband is an old established and successful farmer in the Bunyip district, and great sympathy is expressed for him and the sorrowing relatives in their sudden bereavement. The day following the death, the funeral took place to the Spring Vale Crematorium. The Rev. W. Leathbridge (Church of England, Bunyip,) conducted the funeral service, and Messrs J. D. Grubb & Co., Drouin, were the undertakers
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, January 12, 1945, see here)

Miss Rosa Armao
After an illness of only a few days, a sad death occurred at Bunyip on 24th March, when there passed away Rosa, the youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs B. Armao. Her parents have been living in Australia for twenty years, the last five at lona. Of a bright and happy disposition, the deceased had a large circle of friends and was especially fond of children. A sad feature is that the young woman only reached her 21st birthday the day before she died, and a coincidence is that 21 motor cars followed the hearse. On Monday subsequent to the death, the funeral left St Joseph's Church, Iona, for the Bunyip cemetery, where Rev Father McLaren officiated at the graveside. There was a wonderful array of wreaths, and as each of Rosa's school mates deposited their floral tributes they were most visibly affected. The coffin bearers were Messrs W. Fallon, S. Armao, S. Nanfaro, R. Altamore, L. lannello and G. Gandalfo. Pallbearers were Messrs Lombardo, S. Interigi, S. Accardi, G. Ficarra, C. Pantorno and G. Liccardi.

The oldest sister Vincenzina (Mrs Caruso) lives in Italy, and other members of the family are Angelo and Sylvester, who reside at Iona. To them and the bereaved parents we feel sure that their sorrow is shared by all sections of the community, especially by those who were privileged to know this fine young woman.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, April 6, 1945, see here)

Mrs Lily Pitt
Another link with the early pioneering days of Garfield and district has been severed with the passing of Mrs Lily Pitt, whose death occurred on Friday week. The deceased lady was the widow of the late Charles Pavey Pitt, who predeceased his wife in November last year. The late Mrs Pitt, who was a native of Cornwall (England), came to Garfield just fifty years ago. There she married her late husband and went to reside at Mikado Park, on the Prince's Highway. After living there some years the family moved to Vervale and set about reclaiming some of the virgin swamp land, where they established a prosperous farm on which they lived for the remainder of their lives.

In the early days of Garfield, Mrs Pitt took a keen and kindly interest in the welfare of the district and was of great assistance to her late husband in the many great activities and sporting bodies with he was connected. She leaves a family of four sons and two daughters. They are Leslie, Clarence, Leonard, Dorothy (Mrs Carr McDonald), Richard and Hazel (Mrs F. T. Martin). It is pleasing to note that all the members of this family still reside in the district for which their late parents did so much.

The funeral took place to the Bunyip cemetery on Monday week, the cortege being a very large and representative one. The casket was borne to the grave by Messrs Les, Clarence, Len and Richard (sons), and William and Clem (grandsons). The pall bearers were Messrs L. M. Stewart, S. L. Goodman, William Pitt (nephew), T. D. Drake, J.P., Carr McDonald and F.T. Martin, the latter being sons-in law of the deceased. Prior to the funeral leaving her late residence, the Rev Mr Ackland, Church of England Minister of the Drouin-Bunyip Parish, conducted a service and he also officiated at the graveside. Messrs J. D. Grubb Pty. Ltd., of Drouin, had charge of the mortuary arrangements.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, July 20, 1945, see here)

Mrs Elizabeth Rogers

A most highly respected and familiar figure in the every-day life of Iona and Bunyip for many years past, in the person of Mrs. Elizabeth Rogers, has gone to her long rest. Despite her advanced age of 92 years, she was in her usual state of good health up to about three weeks ago, when it was noticed she was failing rapidly, and on medical advice was admitted to the West Gippsland Hospital, where she died on Monday evening, 3rd September. A native of Wooler, Berwick-on-Tweed, Great Britain, Mrs. Rogers arrived with her parents (Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lillie) in Port Phillip Bay, when only four years of age, the voyage, lasting months, being made on a sailing ship known as the "White Star." Attracted to the goldfields the family moved to Maryborough, thence to Sandy Creek (Maldon), and later to Baringhup. Those were the days when "Cobb and Co. were Kings." 

After only a few years of married life Mrs. Rogers lost her husband. Answering the call to Gippsland, the deceased, who was a very strong woman and blessed with a great love for life on the land, with her family in 1894 moved to Longwarry South, where they carried out dairying pursuits. In those days milk separators and district butter factories, as we know them, hardly existed. Thus it was that the art of butter-making was mostly done at home, and in this branch Mrs. Rogers excelled. During the period between 1897 and 1907, she ad to her credit no less than 100 prize tickets for home-made butter and cheese won at various agricultural shows, including no less than five secured at the Royal Melbourne Show in 1898 for butter in its various grades. 

In 1903 Mrs. Rogers and family moved to the Kooweerup Swamp area on land she had selected in 1900, and then known as the Little Yannathan Drain, ranking among the first settlers. Resting on her laurels as an expert butter and cheese maker, Mrs. Rogers specialized in needlework, and was again at home at country shows by annexing many more prize tickets. Her last notable success was at the 1945 Bunyip Show, where she won a special prize with hand-knitted gloves. These attracted much attention and admiration in view of the exhibitor's great age, combined with her wonderful eye sight, which enabled her to do such fine work. Whilst living at Bunyip, Mrs. Rogers was the guest of Sister Darnley, and in fine weather took a delight in meeting friends in the streets, relating reminiscences of her long and most active life. A special pleasure for her was to distribute amongst her friends a piece of her birthday cake as each year went by, and never forgot the Hodge family whom she had known Maldon.

Mrs. Rogers leaves two sons, Thomas and Llellwyn, both of Iona, and two brothers and one sister (Adam, of Baringhup; Joseph, St. Mary's, New South Wales; and Miss Isobel, Baringhup). The funeral took place at the Drouin cemetery, where an uncle was buried - on Thursday of last week, Rev. Mr. Baird officiating at the grave side. Bearers of the casket were Messrs. T. M. and John Lillie (nephews), Athol Camp and Frank Toy. Pall-bearers were Messrs. W. Temby, J. Fallon, E. Morton, W. D. Russell, J. Preston. L. Stewart and J. C. Anderson. Messrs J D Grubb & Co, of Drouin, were the undertakers.

(Bunyip and Garfield Express, September 14, 1945, see here.)  

Mrs Daisy Cooper
News of the passing of Mrs. J. A. Cooper, of Fogarty's Lane, Nth. Tynong, at the Alfred Hospital on February 18th, came as a distinct shock to her friends throughout the district, as well as those near and dear to her. She was only 43 and is mourned by her husband, 8 sons and 2 daughters. The large attendance at the funeral which took place at the Bunyip Cemetery on Tuesday, reflected the high esteem in which deceased was held right throughout the district. Rev. C. C. Macmichael conducted the service at the graveside and the casket was carried by Messrs. A., M., and G. Cooper and L. Smith. The pall-bearers were Messrs. W. Kenny, W. Smith, J. Scala, T. Hendry, R. Sheidy, W. Stewart, T. McGrath, B. Carmen, C. Edwards and R. Perry.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, March 1, 1946, see here)

Mrs Martha Doris Kelly 

Widespread sympathy was expressed throughout the district when the sad news of the death of Mrs. Doris Martha Kelly, on Saturday night, September 14th, became known. The deceased, who was only 30 years of age, had been in indifferent health for some time and was an inmate of "Warrawoona" Private Hospital in Bunyip, when the end came suddenly from heart failure. Widow of the late Edward Kelly, who died at Christmas last, deceased was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Gray, highly-esteemed residents of Catani. The family resided for many years at Modella, where Mrs. Kelly's schooldays were spent. For a time her home was at Yallock and of recent years at Catani. She was a general favorite winning the affection and esteem of all who knew her. Sincere sympathy has been extended to her bereaved parents and brothers, Jack, George and Willie, and 10-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, who mourns the loss of a devoted mother. 

A service at St. Thomas' Church, Bunyip, conducted by the Rev. N. A. McLean, preceded the funeral in the Bunyip Cemetery on Monday. Floral tributes of great beauty covered the coffin when it was borne to its last resting place by her brothers, Messrs. W. and J. Gray and L. Dawson, E. Lineham, J. Kelly and A. Camp. The service at the graveside was conducted by Rev. N. McLean in the presence of mourners from all the surrounding districts. The mortuary arrangements were carried out by Messrs. J. D. Grubb Pty. Ltd., of Drouin.

(Bunyip and Garfield Express, September 20, 1946, see here)  

Mrs Martha Gray

The sadly sudden death of Mrs. Martha Gray, which occurred at her home in Catani on Saturday, September 21st, at the age of 65 years, came as a great shock to the whole community. Only a week previously, her, only daughter, Mrs. Doris Kelly, had been buried. Mrs. Gray, who leaves a sorrowing husband, and three sons, Jack, George, and Bill to mourn her passing, was one of the pioneers of the district, and as highly esteemed as she was widely known and loved. Keenly interested in all district  activities, Mrs. Gray was particularly popular with the young people.

Born at Natte Yalloek, near Maryborough, the deceased was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Jagoe, of Ripplebrook, and the sister of Mrs. Tolley (Ripplebrook), Mrs. S.J. Rogers (Modella), Mrs. Aurisch (Boolarra), Mrs. Ralph (Neerim), Mrs. Damm (Tawonga), Mr. E. Jagoe (Drouin) and Mr. W. Jagoe. Before the funeral on Monday, a service was held at St. Thomas' Church of England in Bunyip. The Rev. N. A. McLean, vicar, officiating at the church and graveside. The funeral, followed by mourners from all parts of the district, took place at the Bunyip Cemetery. The coffin, covered with floral tributes, was borne by Messrs. E. Purvis, A. Camp, E. Dawson, E. Aurisch, J. Tolley and G. Lineham. Messrs. J. D. Grubb Ltd. attended to the mortuary arrangements.

(Bunyip and Garfield Express, September 27, 1946, see here)  

Mrs Catherine Sarah Julia Green

On Thursday, September 26th, the district lost yet another of its old and valued members in the person of Mrs. Catherine Sarah Julia Green. She passed away at the Warragul Hospital after only a short illness. Aged 84, Mrs. Green came to Iona in 1911 from the Hamilton district. Her husband, William Cole Green, pre-deceased her, his death occurring only five months after their arrival at Iona. Well-known and respected through out the whole district, she devoted her whole life to the welfare of her family, and was a sincere worker for St. Joseph's Church, Iona. The heartfelt sympathy of the whole district is extended to the sorrowing family. She is survived by Sister Catherine, Edith, Thomas, Gordon, William, Teresa (Mrs. J. Tormey) and Ursula. One son Francis was killed in action in the 1914-18 War.

Requiem Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Cremin at St. Joseph's Church, Iona, on Friday morning. The funeral left the church for the Bunyip Cemetery in the afternoon, and was attended by a large gathering of relatives and friends. Many beautiful floral tributes were received. The coffin was carried by her three sons, Gordon, Thomas, and William, and a nephew, Mr. J. Bradstreet. The pall bearers were Cr. John Fallon, Messrs. J. J. O'Leary, T. D. Drake, Jim Pitt, J. Tormey, J. O'Connor, L. Stewart and C. M. Davine. Rev. Fr. Cremin was assisted at the graveside by Rev. Fr. McLaren. Messrs. A. J. McGilton were in charge of the mortuary arrangements.

(Bunyip and Garfield Express, October 4, 1946, see here)  

Mrs Bridget O'Leary

Vervale was deprived of one of its oldest inhabitants when death claimed Mrs. Bridget O'Leary, wife of the late Michael O'Leary at the grand age of 83 years. Falling at her home recently she sustained a broken hip, was admitted to Warragul Hospital, and passed away on March 21st. Mrs. O'Leary, who was born at Galway Ireland, arrived in Australia at the age of 18, and in 1914 came to Iona from the Bungaree district. Devoted to her family, deceased took a keen interest in all rural affairs and was highly regarded in the district where she was eminent for her charitable and kindly deeds. She was also an ardent worker for St. Joseph's Church. The sympathy of the entire district is extended to her sorrowing family, who are left to mourn their loss. 

Mrs. O'Leary, who lost her husband 18 years ago, is survived by five daughters - Mary (Mrs. W. Murray, Ballarat).  Elizabeth (Mrs. A. O'Donohue, Melbourne), Nora (Mrs, J. Kehoue, Sydney), Annie (Mrs J. Pitt, Vervale) and Rosie (Mrs. J. Kelly, Vervale). One son John, pre-deceased her. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Cremin at St. Joseph's Church on Saturday morning. The funeral, which was large, left the church for the Bunyip Cemetery at 2.30 p.m. The casket was carried by Messrs. A. O'Donohue, J. Kelly, F. Murray. The pall-bearers were: C. S. Davine, J. J. Kavanagh, F. Crudden, J. J. O'Leary, T. Giblin, G. Green, N. Schmutter, L. Stewart. Rev. Fr.Cremin conducted the solemn obsequies. Messrs. J. H. McGilton Pty. Ltd. were in charge of the funeral arrangements.

(Bunyip and Garfield Express, March 28, 1947 see here) 

Mrs Julia McLean
With the death of Mrs Julia McLean, of Garfield, on July 16th, at 83 years of age, passes yet another of that small band of valiant pioneers who were amongst the original settlers of our Swamp lands. It is almost 50 years since she and her late husband settled on the land near Garfield, and developed the farm under severe handicaps. Of a quiet retiring nature she gave her full attention to the home, and was content to let the world go by. She is survived by three sons, Theo, Talbot and Vincent. One son pre-deceased her.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, July 25, 1947, see here)

Mrs Kate Hourigan
The news of the death of Mrs. Kate Hourigan, at her home in Garfield, on Thursday, September 11th was received with deep and sincere regret by Garfield and district residents. Mrs. Hourigan came to the district with her husband in 1902, and during her early days won a name for herself by her work on behalf of St. Mary's Church of England at Garfield, and for her interest in local affairs. With the failure of her health, she was confined to her home, but her bright and happy nature kept alive the interest
she had always maintained in district happenings.

A large gathering of friends attended to pay their last respects at St. Mary's on Friday afternoon. Rev. N. A. McLean conducted the service. Many beautiful wreaths from friends and local organisations were placed on the casket before it left for Spring Vale General Cemetery for interment. Our sincere sympathy is extended to the sorrowing husband Henry, and daughter Eileen (Mrs. Sturzaker) in their sad loss.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, September 19, 1947, see here)

Mrs Agnes May Towt
Although she had not enjoyed good health for some time past, the death of Agnes May Towt, on Sunday, May 23rd came as a great shock to her nearest and dearest, and her wide circle of friends. On Friday she was not so well, add on Saturday, the doctor was summoned, and was in close attendance all day Sunday. In spite of every care and attention however life could not be prolonged, and the end came at 5 o'clock on Sunday afternoon.

An active worker all her life for public causes, the late Mrs. Towt was identified with practically all movements for the advancement of the town and district. With her husband, she was a prominent and practical supporter of the Progress Association, the Public Hall, the original hospital movement, and the Country Women's Association. She was closely identified with the latter right up to the May meeting, which she attended. Genuine sympathy is felt for the bereaved husband, and family of one son, Ronald, and two daughters, Elva and Dot, to their grievous loss. Rev. Sims conducted a service at her late home, before the largely attended funeral left for the Bunyip cemetery on Tuesday afternoon.
(Bunyip and Garfield Express, May 21, 1948, see here)

Mrs Emma Frances Russell

It is with regret that we announce the death of one of Iona's pioneer residents, in the person of the late Emma Frances Russell, widow of the late John Russell, who pre-deceased her six years ago. Mrs. Russell was well known and highly respected by a wide circle of friends. Her health failed a few weeks ago, and she was admitted to the Warragul Hospital. It was soon seen that her condition was serious, and, she passed away peacefully on July 28th.

Born at Beaufort just on eighty-eight years ago, Mrs. Russell spent her youthful days there, where she eventually married. Mr. and Mrs. Russell shortly after moved to Melbourne for a few years, but the call of the land was too much for them, and they decided to take up land at Iona. There they arrived just forty-two years ago, with their sons Frank, and Fred (deceased). Their means of conveyance from Melbourne was a horse and dray - quite a popular way of travelling in those days. The funeral, which took place at the Bunyip cemetery on Friday of last week, was largely attended. The service at the graveside was conducted by the Rev. J. F. Sims. The casket was borne to the grave by Messrs. H. Schmutter, V. Tooth, A Birkin, and R. Bassett. The pall bearers were Cr. J. Fallon, and Messrs. W. Temby, A. Camp, L. Stewart, F. Rogers, M. Giblin, M. Howie, and C. Costain. Messrs. J. A. McGilton and Co. of Warragul, carried out the funeral arrangements.

(Bunyip and Garfield Express, August 6, 1948, see here)