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)

Koo Wee Rup Great War Honour Board

The Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society houses the Koo Wee Rup Honour Board, which was originally installed in the Memorial Hall. It was unveiled on February 6, 1917, by the Cranbourne Shire President, Cr O'Brien. There were initially 41 names, with eight added soon after. There are now 64 names on the memorial, so another 15 were also added. 

The Koo Wee Rup Honour Board

The Honour Board unveiling

Lang Lang Guardian, February 14 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119514233

What follows is the list of the 64 soldiers and their Service Number (SN) so you can look up their full record on the National Archives of Australia website www.naa.gov.au   Additional information comes from the Victorian Indexes to the Births, Deaths and marriages; Electoral Rolls on Ancestry; and family notices in the newspapers, Nominal and Embarkation Rolls at the Australian War Memorial,   https://www.awm.gov.au/

Backhouse, Geoffrey de Talworth (SN 31615)
Backhouse, Herbert Arthur Burder (SN 612)

Geoffrey enlisted on June 30, 1916 at the age of 26. he was a farmer. He was Killed in Action in Belgium on October 4, 1917.

Herbert enlisted on August 20 1914. He was a 23 year old farmer. He Returned to Australia, May 4, 1917 and discharged on medical grounds - myocarditis -  in the August. Herbert married Edith Varley in in 1926 and he died in Mornington in 1961, aged 69. 

The boys were the sons of Talworth Burder Backhouse and his well connected wife, Emily A'Beckett, the daughter of William Arthur Callendar A'Beckett, of The Grange, Berwick, whose father William was the Chief Justice of Victoria. Emily's sister, Emma Minnie, married  the artist Arthur Boyd. Talworth and Emily had their address as Wahroonga, Murrumbeena on Geoffrey's enlistment paper and c/o the Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works on Herbert's enlistment paper. Talworth's occupation in the Electoral Roll is an Architect.  Backhouses Road is named for the family.

Death of Geoffrey Backhouse

The Argus, October 29, 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1659422

Banbury - surname is actually Bambury

Bambury, Jacob (SN 762) Jacob was a 28 year old labourer when he enlisted on March 15, 1915. His next of kin was his brother Charles of Bayswater. Jacob was Killed in Action in France on July 19, 1916. What was his connection to Koo Wee Rup? That's  a good question and I have no idea. He is the only Bambury to have  died in the War and there are no Banburys that died in the War, and that is why I believe that Jacob is the man on the Honour Board. Jacob was the son of George Bambury and Harriet Simmonds or Simmons and their eight children were all born around Scoresby or Bayswater.  If you have any information on J. Banbury or J. Bambury, then please let me know. Jacob is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Bethune, Alexander John (SN 2833a) Alexander was a 24 year old farmer when he enlisted on July 6, 1916. He Returned to Australia June 12, 1919. Alexander married Beatrice Hodgson in 1922 and he died in Leongatha in 1981, aged 90.
Bethune, David Gordon   (SN 1504)  David enlisted on March 22, 1916 at the age of 25. He was a blacksmith.   David was Killed in Action in France on August 22, 1918. David is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

The boys were the sons of  John and Janet (nee Duncan) Bethune of Koo Wee Rup.

Death notice of David Bethune

Koo Wee Rup Sun September 11, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127198299

Bicket, William Vaughan (SN 1441) William was a 24 year old farm hand from Koo Wee Rup, when he enlisted on July 13, 1915. His sister, Mrs Richard Ryan, of Essendon was his next of kin. Born in Tungamah, he was the son of William and Bridget (nee Vaughan) Bicket.  William Returned to Australia May 15, 1919.  William died in 1965, aged 74. Surname listed as Bickit on the Embarkation Roll. 

Binder, Arthur Harold Lancelot (SN 3259 / Lieutenant) Arthur enlisted on July 8, 1915 at the age of 21. He was a farmer and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs G. S. Binder of Koo Wee Rup, later of Toorak. He was the son of Elijah and Grace Susan (nee Hawkins) Binder.  Arthur was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.  Arthur Returned to Australia April 10, 1919. He married Amy Louise Pink in 1920 and died in 1970, aged 78. 

Lieutenant Binder awarded the Military Cross

Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 17, 1918  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127198034

Blake, Sydney (SN 6958) Sydney was a 21 year old farmhand when he enlisted on October 18, 1916. His address was care of Mrs H. Davies of Koo Wee Rup. He was an orphan and his next of kin, his sister Kathleen, was was a nurse at the Mental Hospital in Kew. Sydney Died of Wounds on October 4, 1917 - he had received multiple gun shot wounds. Sydney is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here.  Mrs H. Davies is Helen Davies - sometimes called Ellen - Davies (nee Mathison).  She is listed in the Electoral Rolls at Koo Wee Rup along with her daughter Elizabeth Myra Davies (born 1891 in Campbellfield). Helen's son, Douglas, also enlisted, see below. 

Bryant, J and Bryant, T - surname is actually Bryan. 

Bryan, Edward John (SN 1128) Listed as J. Bryant, so presumably known as John. John was 21 when he enlisted in January 23, 1915. He was a farmer. John died of disease on August 26 1918 - malignant malaria and acute atrophy of the liver.

Bryan, Thomas (SN 1709) Thomas enlisted at the age of 19 on November 6, 1914. His occupation was farm hand. He was Killed in Action at Gallipoli on June 24, 1915.

John and Edward were brothers, the sons of Edmund and Margaret Bryan of Pakenham South. John had his mother listed as his next of kin and Thomas had his father as next of kin. Margaret (nee English) died 1918 aged 56 at Pakenham and Edmund was living at Longwarry when he died in 1937. There is a fair bit of confusion at to whether the surname is Bryan or Bryant - the boys enlisted as Bryan, Margaret and Edmund are in the Electoral Roll as Bryan - although they are listed as Pakenham East not Pakenham South and Thomas had Pakenham East on his enlistment paper - in spite of all this I still believe that John and Thomas Bryan are actually the men listed on the Honour Roll and also the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Callanan, Michael Joseph (SN 2583) Michael enlisted on June 24 1915, he was 24 and the son of John and Lizzie Callanan of Koo Wee Rup and he attended Five Mile (Koo Wee Rup North) State School.  Michael Died of Wounds received in France, on December 3, 1917. Michael is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

In Memoriam notice inserted for Michael Callanan

Koo Wee Rup Sun, December 4, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127198640

Carter, A  Not really sure who this is  - the closest I can find, geographically, is Alfred Nathaniel Carter (SN 2467), of Bunyip, but there just doesn't seem to be any Koo Wee Rup connection and I don't really feel he is the man on the Honour Board. Alfred was born in Kent, England and enlisted on July 20, 1915 at the age of 26; his next of kin was his mother Anne, of  Maidstone House, Bunyip.  Alfred attained the rank of Corporal, but he suffered a Shell wound to the right forearm and a Gun shot wound to the right arm, and Returned to Australia December 20, 1917. He was discharged on medical grounds on July 25, 1918. Alfred died on May 14, 1921 at the age of 32 and is buried in the Bunyip Cemetery. His two brothers, William and Frederick also enlisted and I have written about them on the Bunyip War Memorial, post, see here.  There was a Harry and Emma Carter in the 1909 Electoral Roll at Yallock, so maybe A. Carter is connected to them.   

Coates, Lawrence (SN 2623) Lawrence was born in Koo Wee Rup, the son of Lawrence and Mary (nee Wilson) Coates. He enlisted at the age of 21 on July 28, 1915 and his occupation was a farm labourer. Lawrence was Killed in Action in France on August 18, 1916. Lawrence  is also listed on the Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here; the Yallock Honour Board, see here and the Yannathan Honour Board, see here.

Lawrence Coates, with his sister Susie.

Australian War Memorial. Photograph DASEY2403

Cochrane, Leslie James  (SN 2162) Les was born in Bentleigh in 1894 to David and Lucy (nee Burgess) Cochrane. The family moved to Caldermeade when he was eight. Les, a farmer, enlisted on May 2, 1916 at the age of 21 and his next of kin was his father.  He served in France and was twice wounded in action. Les Returned to Australia February 15, 1918 and in the December of the same year he married Ivy, the daughter of Harry and Sarah Wildes of Yannathan. Mr Cochrane later became a Cranbourne Shire Councillor and a Member of the Legislative Assembly - you can read more about him here. 

Les Cochrane with Bill Gilchrist and Billy McGree at their Welcome Home in April 1918. 

Read more here https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/04/welcome-home-at-koo-wee-rup.html

Davies, Douglas James (SN 1524) Douglas enlisted on March 22, 1916, at the age of 20, and was a farmer and his next of kin was his mother Ellen, of Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup, and later of George Street, Fitzroy.  Douglas Returned to Australia June 12, 1919.  Douglas was the son of James and Ellen (nee Mathieson) Davies and had been born in Glenroy (birth registered at Campbellfield). Ellen is at times called Helen on official documents. Sydney Blake (see above)  was living with Ellen/Helen when he enlisted.  Douglas died in 1982, aged 87.

Davis, Percy (SN 96)  Percy enlisted on February 28, 1916 at the age of 21. His occupation on enlistment was a  motor mechanic, working at McLeod Brothers in Sale, where he did his apprenticeship. Percy had been born in Koo Wee Rup to Charles and Mary (nee Dimmick) Davis in 1895; Charles was a farmer.   Percy was Killed Action in France on August 31, 1918. Percy  is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Short obituary of Percy Davis

Koo Wee Rup Sun, September 18, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127198741

The death of Percy Davis

The Age, September 24, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article155139829

Davy, John Edward  (SN 770)  Jack, as he was known as, enlisted on August 25, 1914. He was a 21 year old farmer, living at Koo Wee Rup. He was the son of Arthur and Julia Davy, of North Melbourne  who later moved to  Marshall Avenue, Kew.  Jack was Killed in Action on the Gallipoli Peninsula on May 4, 1915. Jack is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Death notice of John Davy

The Argus, September 29 1915 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1565397

Denham, Robert Alexander  (SN 392) Robert was born in Koo Wee Rup and was living in Carlton and he was a fireman when he enlisted at the age of 28 on February 17, 1915 (that's the date according to the Embarkation roll and July 17, 1915 is the date according to the Enlistment papers). His next of kin was his friend Annie Ritchie. Robert Returned to Australia July 10 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds due to a form of rheumatism. Robert was the son of John and Janet (nee Dunlop) Denham. John Denham was the Cranbourne Shire Secretary from 1909 to 1911 and the Rate collector for nine years, he also had a store at Yallock and a dairy farm at Koo Wee Rup. Janet's father, Alexander Dunlop, had the Harewood Mains property at Tooradin and had a successful cheese making business.  Robert died in 1955, aged 68. Robert is also listed on the Tooradin State School Honour Roll, see here.

Dunlop, Alexander (SN  2811) Alexander, born in Hawthorn, was a 18 year old farmer, when he enlisted on May 8, 1915. He was the son of Alexander and Florence Mary (nee Hooker) Dunlop, and their address when he enlisted was Hawthorne Lodge, Koo Wee Rup. Alexander Returned to Australia March 31, 1919. Alexander married Janet Muir Forrest in 1933 and he died in 1980, aged 83.  Alexander was the first cousin of Robert Denham, above.

Ellett, Alfred (SN 439) Alfred enlisted on January 21, 1916 at the age of 18. His occupation was farmer.  Alf  Returned to Australia January 8, 1919 and he married Grace Forscutt in 1922. He died in 1958, aged 60. 

Ellett, John Alfred 'Jack'  (SN 2773) Jack enlisted on December 14, 1914 at the age of 20. He was also a farmer. Jack had been wounded whilst serving - gun shot wound to the right thigh - and had also suffered from Enteric Fever (typhoid).   Jack Returned to Australia December 3, 1918 and he married Ellen Sayers in 1919. He died in 1965 aged 70. 

Ellett, Robert Henry. (SN 2772 and 2407)  Robert, or Bert as he was called, enlisted twice firstly on October 20, 1914 at the age of 26 and secondly on April 18, 1916. The first time he enlisted he was sent overseas but Returned to Australia December 4, 1915 and was discharged on medical grounds in March 1916 - amongst the conditions mentioned were deafness, rheumatism and asthma. Bert then re-enlisted on April 18, 1916 and was wounded in action - gun shot wound to the right arm - and was  discharged again on medical grounds on December 12, 1917. Robert married Ada Perrin in 1919 and sadly died in 1925, aged only 37.

Alfred, Jack and Robert were the sons of John and Jane (nee Margaret Jane Webster) Ellett of 'Wattle Vale' Pakenham South. John and Jane had moved to McDonalds Drain Road in 1901 and they had fifteen children, of whom all except one survived to adulthood - Rosanna Jane (b. 1887), Robert Henry (1888), Jane (1889), William Edward (1890), John (1891-1892), Dora Mary (1892), John Alfred (1894), Maggie May (1895), Alfred (1897), Alice (1899), Edward (1900), Walter (1902), Harry (1904), Maude (1906) and Minnie (1907). The family had been market gardeners in Springvale, before they came to Pakenham South where they operated the Post Office and store and were involved in many community groups and activities.

A report on Alf's enlistment 

South Bourke and Mornington Journal June 1, 1916 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article66189972

Franks, Ernest Victor William (SN 5598) Ernest, born in Barkstead, was a 36 year old farmer when he enlisted on August 1, 1916. His next of kin was his wife, Elizabeth, of Koo Wee Rup. Ernest was blinded by a gun shot wound in the right eye and Returned to Australia October 31, 1917. After the War, Ernest and Elizabeth lived in Ringwood.  Ernest died in 1956, aged 74.

Garbellini, George  (SN 378)  George enlisted on February 3, 1915 aged 23. He was the second child  of Peter and Jane (nee Crombie) Garbellini of 'Five Mile Drain', Koo Wee Rup. He had eleven siblings - Mina, Joseph, Peter, Mary, Annie, Tony, Kitty, Celia, Andrew, Will and Mathew. George was Killed in Action in France on May 3 1917. George is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here and the Five Mile (Koo Wee Rup North) School Honour Roll, see here.

Death notice for George Garbellini

The Age, June 6 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article154974001

Lovely notice from George's friends

The Age, June 9, 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article154981436

Gilchrist, William John (SN 1648) Known as Bill, he was  born in Collingwood in 1889 to Robert and Florence (nee Hiam) Gilchrist. He was 26 year old farmer when he enlisted on January 13, 1916.  His brother, Albert, of Koo Wee Rup was listed as his next of kin, as his parents were deceased. After serving overseas, Corporal Gilchrist Returned to Australia January 31, 1918. Bill was discharged on medical grounds on May 25, 1918 - his disability was listed as Myocarditis. Bill applied for a Soldier Settler block and was granted 40 acres (Allotments 106 and 119, Section 0, Parish of Koo Wee Rup East, off Little Road in Iona) in May 1921 but had to give up the land due to his on-going ill health two years later. His application form said that he was receiving a pension of 14 shillings per week due to shell shock. There is a photograph of Bill with Les Cochrane and Billy McGree at their Welcome Home in 1918, above. 

Gray, William Albert (SN 218) William enlisted at the age of 22 on January 22, 1918. He was a farm hand and his next of kin was his mother, Margaret, of Koo Wee Rup; he was born in Box Hill to John and Margaret (nee McGown) Gray.  William Returned to Australia April 27, 1919.  In 1919 he married Barbara Mary Dixon and they lived in the Bombala area in New South Wales, where he died in 1963. William is also listed on the Five Mile (Koo Wee Rup North) School Honour Roll, see here.

Gunson, John Livingstone (SN 52823) John enlisted on December 19, 1917 at the age of 20. He was a farmer of Bunyip and his next of kin was his mother Sarah, of Koo Wee Rup. John was born in Maryborough to Daniel and Sarah (nee Nelson) Gunson. Sarah had grown up at Bay View, Jetty Road, Lang Lang and Daniel was a Wesleyan Methodist Minister, whose parish covered Yannathan to the Powlett River.  John Returned to Australia July 3, 1919; he married Flora May Wright in 1930. John died in 1979, aged 81.

Hamilton, Henry Campbell (SN 4719) When Henry enlisted on January 14, 1916 at the age of 39 his occupation was 'Manager, General Store' and his next of kin was his 'friend', Miss O'Riordan of Koo Wee Rup. Miss Margaret O'Riordan soon became his wife as they were married on January 29, 1916 at the Catholic Church in Koo Wee Rup and they had one child together, a little girl called Mary. Henry was listed in the 1914 and 1916 Electoral as a 'horse trainer'  and I assume that he managed O'Riordans store; so did he get that job when he became sweet on Miss O'Riordan or did he get into the family business after they started going out? Perhaps being the manager of a general store provided a more consistent income than being a horse trainer. Henry Died of Wounds on October 8, 1917. Margaret Hamilton took part in the official opening ceremony of the hospital in 1923, opening a ward in honor of her friend, the late Mrs Kitty Townson. Read about Margaret Hamilton, here. Henry is also listed on the Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Hannaker, John (SN 5363) John was born in 1871 in St Kilda to Edward and Maggie (nee Hunter) Hannaker; he married Clara Usher in 1893. The couple are listed in the Electoral Rolls at Woodhead Street, North Fitzroy and they were living there when he enlisted at the age of 43 on February 19, 1916.  John was Killed in Action in Belgium on October 4, 1917. What is the Koo Wee Rup connection? On John's Attestation papers Clara was listed as the next of kin, her address initially being Woodhead Street, but it was later changed to Koo Wee Rup. In April 1921 she was living in Keith Avenue, Edithvale, and in 1928 with her sons Marcus and Norman in Mentone. However in the 1931 and 1936 Electoral Rolls, Clara is back in Koo Wee Rup, in Boundary Road. It doesn't seem like a very long term connection to Koo Wee Rup, so I feel I must be missing something as John was memorialised not only on the Honour Board, but also the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Jenkins, Thomas  Edward (SN 188) Thomas, born in Koo Wee Rup, was a nineteen year old bricklayer when he enlisted on January 11, 1915. His next of kin was his mother, Bella Jenkins, of Boundary Road, Koo Wee Rup.  Annabella Jenkins (nee Thompson), was listed in the Electoral Rolls at Koo Wee Rup at this time, along with husband Thomas, who was a farmer and their daughter, Florence. Thomas was wounded in August 1916 - gun shot wound to face, left hand and right leg - recovered; returned to the battle field - wounded again October 1917 - gun shot wound right hand. Thomas Returned to Australia April 5, 1918 for 'change' and was discharged in the July on medical grounds. Thomas died in 1963 aged 67 at Katunga. Thomas is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup North State School Honour Roll, see here. Thomas is the first cousin of George Smith, see below. 

Welcome home to Tom Jenkins

Lang Lang Guardian June 14, 1918 

read the rest of the article here - http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119515575 

Johnson, A  I cannot work out who this is. I believe it is the A. Johnson, mentioned  in the Lang Lang Guardian in July 1915 in a cricket match report of having joined the team at Seymour, that is having enlisted and now at the Seymour military training camp. Then in September 1918, the Koo Wee Rup Sun could report that Gunner A. Johnston, visited his home at Koo Wee Rup, after three months in hospital. I have been through the Nominal Rolls, Embarkation Rolls and the National Archives Attestation files for a soldier with a local connection, but cannot find one. Of course his name may actually have been Johnstone or Johnston. He remains a mystery to me at the moment.

'

A. Johnson, absent from cricket match, as at the Seymour Military Camp.

Lang Lang Guardian, July 14, 1915 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119512630

Gunner A.  Johnston - returns to Koo Wee Rup for a visit

Koo Wee Rup Sun, September 4, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127198255

Johnson, John Gull Bickford (SN DEPOT)  John was born in Birchip on  July 11, 1893 to Henry George and Fanny (nee Bickford) Johnson.  On his enlistment papers and in a statuary declaration his birthplace is listed at Northgate, even though I cannot find any trace of such a place in Victoria, but I believe this is Northcote, as that's where his sister was born in 1891. The family later moved to Cora Lynn, and their other son, Tudor, is listed on the Cora Lynn War Memorial, see here. John is listed in the Electoral Rolls from 1914 as a farmer at Koo Wee Rup, however he enlisted in Brisbane under name John Beckford on September 11, 1916. His next of kin was Miss Alice Wilson of Malvern. On February 5, 1917 he signed the statuary declaration that he had enlisted under a false name and his real name was indeed John Gull Bickford Johnson. At some stage he fell from  a train on way from Toowoomba and suffered a fractured skull and an injury to the right knee. The knee injury led to John being discharged from the Army as unfit and he was discharged on medical grounds on May 4, 1917. However, before he was discharged he was granted ten days home leave in January 1917 to be married and other business; he wasn't married during this time - he married 18 year old Elizabeth Annie Dixon in August 1918 at St George's Anglican Church in Koo Wee Rup.  There is also an interesting letter in his file from Molly Squire, of  Charles Street, Seddon, dated September 1918 (over a year after he had been discharged) asking for John's current address, as last she knew was that after training in Queensland, he had come back to to Seymour and got his commission - Lieutenant. So a few mysteries there - why did he enlist under a false name?, who was Alice Wilson?, who was Molly Squire?, who was he planning to marry in January 1917 during his the days of leave and why did the marriage not go ahead?  After the War John and Elizabeth farmed in Koo Wee Rup on Main Drain Road; he died March 25, 1947.

John Gull Bickford Johnson's obituary

Bunyip and Garfield Express, April 4, 1947 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article282210017

Johnson, M.  Another mysterious Johnson (or maybe Johnston or Johnstone). M. Johnson, returned soldier, attended the Patriotic Carnival in Koo Wee Rup in June 1918, but as with A. Johnson, above, I cannot identify who is is.

Returned Soldier, M. Johnson,  attends the Patriotic Carnival

Lang Lang Guardian June 7, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119515552

Keely, Patrick (SN 388) There is a Patrick Keely in the 1916 and 1917 Electoral Rolls at Caldermeade; occupation -  labourer. The only Patrick  Keely (or Keeley) I can find who enlisted is this Patrick, SN 388. Patrick enlisted September 18, 1915 and Returned to Australia July 26, 1919, which doesn't explain why he was listed in the Electoral Rolls when he was overseas. On enlistment, Patrick was aged 25, he was a stableman; his next of kin was his sister Annie Keely of Kildare Ireland, Patrick's birthplace. After the war, various letters in his file gives his location in 1939 at Cairns in Queensland and 1962 at  Frankston. There is a Peter Keeley, born in South Australia, who enlisted; he was a tinsmith, but I feel as there is a Patrick Keely in the Electoral Roll that  he is the most likely one to be on the Honour Board.

Keighery, Christopher (SN 340)  Christopher was born in Dandenong and enlisted on May 13, 1916,  he was 26 years old and a saddler. He Returned to Australia July 5, 1919. Christopher's brother, Frank, was killed at Gallipoli on September 11, 1915. Chris and Frank were the sons of Edward and Annie (nee Elliott) Keighery. Edward and Annie moved to Lang Lang in 1903 where Edward had a Bootmakers shop. In 1920, Chris married Eva Emily Misson and they lived in Koo Wee Rup where he operated a saddlers and bicycle shop. He died in 1958, aged 68.

Chris and Frank Keighery

Lang Lang Guardian May 11, 1918  https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/119515432

Killeen, Patrick (SN 772)  Patrick was 24, a farmer and he enlisted on October 1, 1914. Patrick, born in Queensland, was the son of Thomas and Maria (nee Moore) Killeen and his next of kin was listed as his father, who lived in Koo Wee Rup. Patrick Returned to Australia on July 3, 1919. He died in 1970, aged 80. Patrick was also listed on the Koo Wee Rup North State School Honour Roll, see here.

Leversha, Percy Daniel (SN 417) Percy was born in Woodbrook, near Castlemaine and enlisted on August 12, 1916 at the age of 27. He was a farmer. His father, Robert, also of Woodbrook was his next of kin; his mother was Maria Albina (nee Waters or Walters). Percy Returned to Australia December 24, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds - Acute Rheumatism. After the War he married Alice Hilda Pellas in 1921 and they lived in various Melbourne suburbs;  and  he was employed by the Victorian Railways.  Percy died in 1977, aged 88. What was the Koo Wee Rup connection? Percy was listed in the 1916 and the 1921 Electoral Roll at Koo Wee Rup, with his occupation as a farmer. His brother Herbert and his wife Lily, were also at Koo Wee Rup from 1916 until at least 1920. 

Loveday, Cyril William (SN 7532) Cyril was 21 when he enlisted on July 3, 1917. He had been born in Batesford and was an engine driver. He Returned to Australia December 12, 1918, His next of kin was his father William Bolden Loveday of Koo Wee Rup; his mother was Elizabeth (nee Founds). They were listed in the Electoral Rolls in 1909 at Tooradin; 1914 in Cardinia and 1918 at Pakenham South. Cyril married Elvine Mary Mortensen in 1925; they lived in Koo Wee Rup and then Moonee Ponds.  Cyril died in 1966 aged 70.

Lyall, Cecil Theodore (SN 39203) Cecil was the son of Theodore Lyall (who was the son of William Lyall of Harewood) and his wife Mabel Barbara Norquay; he was born in Lang Lang in July 1898.Cecil enlisted at the age of 18 on September 27, 1916. His mother was his next of kin, his father having died in August 1915. Even though Mrs Lyall gave permission for Cecil to enlist, she sent a letter on October 4, 1916 to the Officer in Command at Seymour, stating that I shall not give my permission for my son to leave Australia until he attains his nineteenth birthday 13th July 1917. I believe parents have that privilege. However, she relented and on March 18, 1917 Mrs Lyall wrote again giving Cecil permission to go abroad with the A.I.F. Cecil finally embarked at the end of 1917. He Returned to Australia July 7, 1919. Cecil married Gladys Eva Sutherland in 1925; they lived in New South Wales where they farmed at Goolgowi, north of Griffith. He died in 1941 and is buried at the Griffth Cemetery.

Mallcott, Claude Gibson (SN 3824) Claude enlisted on February 10, 1916. He was 21 years old, a labourer, and had been born at Koo Wee Rup. His next of kin was his father, William James Mallcott, of Mount View, Koo Wee Rup; his mother was Mary Ann (nee Girvan).  Claude Returned to Australia June 23, 1919. After the War Claude lived in Koo Wee Rup; he married Elsie Mary Williams in 1925 and in 1931 they were living in Dandenong and Claude was employed by the Victorian Railways. Claude died in 1973, aged 79.

McGree, William Francis  (SN 3110). Known as Billy, he  was born in Launceston, in December 1893 to Michael and Mary (nee Walsh) McGree. He was a 23 year old farm labourer, when he enlisted at Dandenong on February 2, 1917 and his next of kin listed was his father, who lived at Karoola in Tasmania.  Billy served overseas and was wounded in action (gun shot wound to left leg) in France. He Returned to Australia February 15, 1918. Billy was given a Soldier Settlement Farm in 1918 and like William Gilchrist, had to give up his land in July 1921 due to ill health. His land was of 84 acres, Allotment 23a, Section J, Parish of Koo Wee Rup - off the Pakenham-Koo Wee Rup Road. Billy married Elizabeth Margaret (Maggie) Neal in 1919 and he died in Ararat in 1957 aged 63. There is a photograph of Billy with Les Cochrane and Bill Gilchrist at their Welcome Home in 1918, above.

Marshall, Frank (SN 2458) Frank was born in Malvern and enlisted at Tumbarumba, NSW on May 5, 1916, but his address was Cora Lynn. He was a 26 year old labourer, and his father, Samuel, was his next of kin whose address was railway Camp, Tumbarumba, so we can assume that both men were working for the Railways up there. The line from Forest Hill, near Wagga Wagga opened in stages from 1917 to 1921, Tumbarumba being the last station on line (see here).  Frank Returned to Australia June 23, 1919 and lived at Cora Lynn with his brother George.  He died in 1950, aged 62. 

Marshall, George (SN 1780) George was born in Rhynie in South Australia in December 1883, and enlisted at the age of 31 on January 11, 1915. His next of kin was his father, Samuel of Koo Wee Rup, but George lived at Cora Lynn. He was wounded in 1915 - a gun shot wound, left side under his arm and another in his left arm. On September 9, 1915 he was sent home to Australia for change  and discharged on medical grounds on January 5, 1916 - due to the bullet wounds and debility. After the War George returned to Cora Lynn and was there in 1934 as there is a statuary declaration in his file that he lost his discharge and other papers in the 1934 flood at Cora Lynn. He later moved to Bullumwaal in East Gippsland. George died in 1967, aged 83.

Frank and George were the sons of  Samuel and Mary Jane (nee Black) Marshall. They were listed in the Electoral Rolls at Koo Wee Rup from around 1909.

From Frank Marshall's Attestation file, proving the Cora Lynn connection.

Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au

First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920

Martin, Charles Richard  (SN 3197) Richard enlisted on October 18, 1916, aged 32. He was a farmer from Koo Wee Rup and his next of kin was his brother, Isaac, of Harford in Tasmania, which was also where Richard was born. Richard was Killed in Action in France on April 4, 1918. Richard is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Short obituary for Charles Martin

North Western Advocate (Tasmania), April 19, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article65104987

Moore, James Campbell (SN 7100) James was a 31 year old labourer when he enlisted on October 13, 1916 at Maryborough in Queensland. He had been born in Collingwood in 1885 to Alexander and Mary (nee Brown) Moore. James suffered a gun shot wound to his spine and as a result was sent home to Australia and discharged on medical grounds on November 24, 1918, the injury having caused  what was listed as Spasts Paraplegra. His parents and some other siblings are in the Electoral Roll at Koo Wee Rup from around 1913 and during the War years;  Alexander's occupation was a farmer. Alexander died in 1920, but two of his sons, Joseph and Alexander junior, remained farming in the area. The family had previously lived in Kensington where Alexander was stationed as a Police Sergeant. However there was an earlier connection to the town of Koo Wee Rup as Alexander's daughter (and James' sister) Margaret had married Joseph Morrison, the blacksmith at Koo Wee Rup in 1907, and she had thus been living in the town since then. Sadly she died in 1926, aged 47. James himself died on August 30,1934 at his home in Coolangatta, and his informative obituary, below, tells us something of his life after the War, and the effects of his injuries.

James Campbell Moore obituary and his sad death

Tweed Daily, September 1, 1934 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article192458990

Morden, John Patrick (SN 5138) John enlisted on February 7, 1916 at the age of 24. He had been born at St James and his occupation was a plate layer (someone who lays and maintains railway lines). He was medically discharged on December 12, 1917, having served in France and been wounded in the right knee by shrapnel; but the cause of his discharge was diabetes, a report said that on enlistment he weighed 10 stone 7 pounds but now weighted 8 stone 11 pounds and was under nourished and always thirsty. Sadly, John died in Koo Wee Rup on October 16, 1919 at the age of 28, from his diabetes and was buried at the Pakenham Cemetery.

Morden, William Henry (SN 22951) William, born in Millbrook, also worked for the Victorian Railways where he was a porter. He enlisted at the age of 20 on December 9, 1915. He Returned to Australia May 12, 1919. William died in 1957, aged 62.

John and William were the sons of John and Norah (nee O'Brien) Morden. John senior was a ganger with the Victorian Railways and was stationed at Koo wee Rup during the War years. Along with John and William there were also nine other children - James, Clement, Mary, Daisy, Kitty, Nellie, Beryl, Statsia and Maggie. 

John Morden's obituary

Koo Wee Rup Sun, October 22, 1919, p. 1

Osborn, George Sydney (SN 2933) Listed as Osborne on the Honour Board.  George, born in Koo Wee Rup, enlisted at the age of 21 on October 3, 1916. George Died of Wounds on November 6, 1917. His parents were George and Mary (nee Swanston) Osborn.  Osborn Road between Koo Wee Rup and Bayles is named after the family. George's brother Percy was a cyclist of some note and competed in the 1928 Tour de France with  Hubert Opperman, Ern Bainbridge, and Harry Watson. George is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Touching death notices for George Osborn

The Argus, November 27 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1665589

O'Shea, John (SN 3350)  John was born in May 1896 in  Koo Wee Rup to Ellen and Michael O'Shea. His next of kin was his father, Michael, also of Koo Wee Rup, however when he enlisted at the age of 21 on October 25, 1917 he (John) was living at Balldale (north of Corowa) in New South Wales. Ellen was also living in Balldale in 1917 (not sure if Michael was also, or if they had separated).  John Died of Wounds August 7, 1918. John is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

O’Toole, Michael Thomas (SN 6920 or 6920A) Michael was born in Koo Wee Rup and enlisted firstly on January 21, 1917 when he was 20. He was discharged on June 15, 1917 as he was underage and his widowed mother, Mary, had not given consent.  In fact she wrote three letters to the Officer in Charge at the Seymour Camp, asking him to be discharged as he was her main support, she had younger children to look after and a farm which was at a standstill as there was no one to work it. She also noted that she had another son at the Front and her other son was at the point of sailing when he went off his mind a bit and is now in a receiving home. Mrs O'Toole ended the letter by stating that -  I think I have done a fair thing for the War. In spite of all this Michael re-enlisted on September 10, 1917, 2 days before he was 21, with his mother's consent, and served overseas and Returned to Australia July 22, 1919.
O’Toole, Patrick (SN 165) Patrick was born in Williamstown, but was living in Junee in New South Wales when he enlisted on January 1, 1917 at the age of 23. His occupation was a fireman and he served in the 6th Broad Gauge Railway Operating Company, so presumably worked for the Railways. Patrick Returned to Australia July 1, 1919.

Michael and Patrick were brothers, the sons of  Patrick and Mary (nee Tracy) O'Toole. I really feel for Mary and the awful predicament she was in - trying to keep the farm and look after her children. I can also see why Michael wanted to enlist - whether it was patriotism or just a sense of adventure. When Patrick enlisted in January 1917, Mary was his next of kin and her address was Koo Wee Rup, however  by the September of that year she had moved to 73 Carter Street, Albert Park. I don't know what happened  to her but I hope she had some happiness in her life.

Preston, Henry (SN 3209). Henry enlisted on October 21, 1916. He was a 36 year old labourer, born in Scotland, and his next of kin was his wife Eva (nee Towsey); he was living in Young Street, Fitzroy at the time. Henry Returned to Australia September 5, 1919 and he died in 1962, aged 82.
Preston, Robert Walter (SN 2635) Robert, born in Maryborough, Victoria, was a 25 year old farmer when he enlisted on June 14, 1916. His next of kin was initially his father, Robert, also of Koo Wee Rup and later his wife, Grace (nee Wilson) whom he married in 1916. Robert Returned to Australia May 12, 1919. Robert died in 1958, aged 68. 

Henry and Robert were the sons of  Robert and Martha (nee Dick) Preston. The Prestons had arrived in Koo Wee Rup in 1905 and had a farm on the South Gippsland Highway, in the vicinity of Preston Road which is named for the family. They had migrated from Scotland and had lived in Queensland, before moving to Victoria.  The family consisted of Robert and Martha  and their children - Jim, Jack, Henry, Jessie, Maggie and Bob. I have written about the family here.

Rundle, James  (SN 4758) James, born in Daylesford,  was a 31 year old Theatrical Agent when he enlisted on September 24, 1915 - not an occupation you see listed very often. His next of kin was initially his mother, Jessie McDonald Rundle, of Koo Wee Rup and later his wife, Margaret. Margaret lived in Queensland, which is where James enlisted. James Died of Wounds on November 14, 1916. Jessie (nee Campbell) and her husband James Charles Rundle, who was a farmer, are listed in the Electoral  Roll at Koo Wee Rup from 1912 to 1918. When Jessie died in 1922, they were living in Traralgon. James is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here.  There was a touching short obituary to James in the Dandenong Advertiser, below.

Obituary of James Rundle of Five Mile (Koo Wee Rup North)

Dandenong Advertiser, March 1, 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article88664576

Scanlon, Joseph Bernard (SN 3452) Joseph enlisted on May 9, 1916. He was 21 years old and a labourer. He Returned to Australia on July 5, 1919. Joseph also served in the Second World War from June 1940 to May 1944. The World War Two Nominal roll states that he was born July 2, 1900, which only makes him 16 when he enlisted in the Great War, however the Index to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages have him listed as being born 1895, so it seems he knocked 5 years off his age in 1940!

Scanlon, Thomas (SN 505) Thomas was 21 when he enlisted on January 12, 1915. He was a farmer. Thomas was awarded the Military Medal. He Returned to Australia on April 5, 1919. They are also listed in some official records with the surname Scanlan. They were the sons of William and Ellen Scanlon of Cora Lynn, one newspaper report in a local paper says they were from Scanlon's Drain, Cora Lynn. Joseph and Thomas are also listed on the Cora Lynn War Memorial, see here. 

Slocombe, Bernard Griffiths (SN 6592) Listed as J. Slocombe but I believe that this is Bernard Slocombe who was a 22 year old farm hand when he enlisted on March 6, 1916.  His next of kin was his wife, Margaret, from Koo Wee Rup, although she had various addresses listed at various times many up in the Buchan area, which is where Bernard was born.  Bernard was Killed in Action in France on October 4, 1917.  Margaret (nee Hopkins) then married Arthur Edwin Charman  in 1920, at one stage before her marriage to Arthur her address was c/o Mr S Charman of Koo Wee Rup. This was Stephen Charman, the father of Arthur and Margaret's uncle and thus her second husband was her first cousin (not so unusual for those times). Bernard is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Smith, George (SN 15590) George was born in 1898 to George and Mary (nee Thompson) Smith. He enlisted when he was 18 years of age on June 18, 1917. His occupation was a labourer. His next of kin was his widowed mother Mrs Mary Smith of Westgarth, later changed (due to her death) to Mrs Bella Jenkins, his aunt, of  Koo Wee Rup. George Returned to Australia August 1, 1919. After the War he lived in Perth, Western Australia and he died in Subiaco, a Perth suburb in 1946, aged 48. There is one discrepancy, his Attestation papers note his birth place as Koo Wee Rup, but the Victorian Index to Births, Deaths and Marriages say that he was born in Carlton at the Women's Hospital.  Bella Jenkins - this was Annabella Jenkins (nee Thompson), listed in the Electoral Rolls at Koo Wee Rup at this time, along with husband Thomas, who was a farmer and their daughter, Florence; their son Thomas Jenkins, also enlisted, see above.

Funeral notice of Mary Smith, George's mother.

The Argus, October 3 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1653503

Turner, Benjamin (SN 1188) Benjamin was born in Yorkshire, England. He enlisted on July 13, 1915 when he was 31 years old. He was a farmer and his next of kin listed was his friend, Miss V. Stephenson, Five Mile, Koo Wee Rup. Benjamin Returned to Australia May 15, 1919. Benjamin and Violet married on October 12, 1920, at her parents home in Ballarto Road.  Benjamin presented his new bride with an organ, an unusual gift for a wedding present. They settled on their 63 acre farm at Koo Wee Rup North; this was a Soldier Settler Farm and you can read his file at the Public Records Office of Victoria, here. Benjamin enlisted in the Australian Army to serve in World War Two, from March 1942 to June 1943. He died in 1971, aged 86.

Benjamin Turner and Violet Stephenson's wedding.

Koo Wee Rup Sun, November 11, 1920, p.2

Verinder, Charles Henry (SN 6758) Charles, a blacksmith, was born in Brunswick in 1893 to Francis and Eliza (nee Fleming) Verinder.  Charles, known as Harry, was 21 years old when he enlisted on July 3, 1915. His next of kin was his widowed mother, Eliza, of McFarlane Street, West Brunswick; his father Francis having died in 1894. Harry Returned to Australia May 15, 1919. He married Elizabeth Raines in 1925 and she sadly died on May 11, 1936, leaving behind Dulcie and baby Francis. Harry remarried in 1941 to Reta Myrtle Evans (nee Bayfield). Charles died in 1974, aged 80. The only mystery which remains is what is Harry's connection to Koo Wee Rup. I can only presume he was employed as a blacksmith in the town. He was an inaugural member of the Koo Wee Rup Caledonian Society formed in April 1914  (Bunyip Free Press, April 23, 1914, see here)  

Death notice of Elizabeth Verinder, Charles' wife.

The Argus, May 12, 1936 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article11033937

Ward, Albert Edmund (SN 2899 or 2899A) Albert was a 22 year old farm hand when he enlisted on October 3, 1916. He was born in Neerim South to Robert and Ellen (nee Cotchin) Ward.  His of kin on his enlistment papers was his father Robert, living in Neerim South. Albert Returned to Australia July 22, 1919. Albert was listed in the 1916 Electoral Roll as farm hand at Koo Wee Rup. The only way I know for sure that the Albert listed in the Electoral Roll and the Albert who enlisted were the same man is from a notation on his Attestation paper (see below) -in answer to Question 10 - Do you now belong to, or have you served in His Majesty's Army  the answer was No. Reg V.T. Koo Wee Rup exempt area. Not  actually sure what that means, but it does link him to Koo Wee Rup.  Albert died in 1966, aged 72. Albert's father, Robert, was a pioneer of the Neerim South district, and the Gippsland Independent of July 25, 1918, had a report of his farewell function when he was leaving the district (read it here)

Albert Ward's Attestation papers. 

National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au

First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920

Whelan, Herbert Allan (SN 341)  Allan (as he was known) enlisted on May 18, 1916. He was 23 years old, born in Lang Lang and his next of kin was his father, Thomas, of Rutherglen. His mother, Sarah (nee Pell) had died in 1906.  Allan's occupation on his Enlistment papers was a Hairdresser, although he was listed in the Electoral Rolls at Lang Lang at this time as a Teamster. Allan was taken Prisoner of War on April 15, 1917 and repatriated back to England on Christmas Day, 1918. He Returned to Australia February 7, 1919.  After the War, Allan moved to Maryborough, and his occupation was a Motor Proprietor.  He married Margaret Elizabeth Nicholls in 1927, who sadly died September 7, 1928. In 1930 he married Helena Sarah Neyland. Allan and Helena lived in Carisbrook, where he was a Motor Mechanic. Allan died in 1965, aged 72. 

Williams, Arthur Carter (SN 147) Arthur enlisted on October 1, 1914,  he was a 26 year old farmer and his next of kin was his step father, William George Williams.  There is another enlistment paper dated June 10, 1915 and his next of kin was his mother, Jessie Charlotte Williams.  Arthur was Killed in Action in France  on July 8, 1918.   What was Arthur William's Koo Wee Rup connection? His Roll of Honour circular that the family filled out has Koo Wee Rup listed as the answer to the question 'With what town or district in Australia was his name chiefly connected?' so clearly the family had some connection to the town. The same form says his step father 'but regarded as his real father' was a retired State School teacher, so he was possibly a teacher at Koo Wee Rup. Arthur was born in Stawell, his real father was Joshua Whitby Carter and his mother had married his step father in 1894 - so I don't feel that Joshua was the Koo Wee Rup connection.  In Arthur's enlistment papers it says that his Will was with Miss Alice Thewlis of Pakenham.  Was Alice his girl friend or financee?  Alice (born 1893) was the daughter of James and Susannah (nee Young) Thewlis who had arrived in Pakenham from Euroa around 1912.  Her brother Syd Thewlis was later a Shire of Berwick Councillor. So I am assuming that Arthur farmed in the Pakenham/Koo Wee Rup area and that Alice was his girlfriend. Arthur is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here. 

Woods, Charles Gordon (SN 2252) Charles was a 20 year grocer when he enlisted on April 14, 1915 - four months later he was Killed in Action at Lone Pine on the Gallipoli Peninsula - the date was listed as August the 8th or 9th, 1915. His next of kin was his father, Charles, of Essendon. Charles' connection to Koo Wee Rup is explained in this article which appeared in the Lang Lang Guardian of September 22, 1915 (see here) -
Amongst the Fallen - Private Woods
We deeply regret to record the death in action at the Dardanelles of one of our Koo Wee Rup boys, Pte Charles Gordon Woods, son of Mr & Mrs C. Woods of Essendon and nephew of Mr and Mrs Stephens of Koo Wee Rup and Mr and Mrs Christin of Dalmore. He offered his services about six months ago and was not then accepted, but shortly afterwards, again offered himself and was passed. He was in camp at Broadmeadows and was afterwards transferred to Seymour, in the 7th Battalion, 6th Reinforcements. He left for Egypt in June and in a letter received from him, dated July 14, he gave a very interesting description of his travels in that land. Again in a letter dated 30th August he mentioned he was sailing for the Front on September 1st so that he could not have been at the Front more than two or three days when he fell for his Country. After leaving School he went to work in The Age office but this did not agree with his health and about four years ago he came to his uncle, Mr Stephens at Koo Wee Rup for whom he worked up to the time he enlisted. He is the first local soldier who has fallen in his country's cause and deep feelings of regret have been expressed by his large circle of friends.

Charles is also listed on the Koo Wee Rup Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital plaque, see here.