At the end of World War 1 (the Great War), many schools, town councils, communities, churches, sporting clubs, government agencies such as Post Offices and Railways, etc decided to undertake the preparation and public display of Honor Books and erect Honor Boards to place on record and pay a tribute to the memory of the soldiers of their districts who had who had served in the Great War, including those who had made the supreme sacrifice through loss of their life in the war.
The Victorian Education Department encouraged schools to participate in this undertaking and in many of monthly editions of the “Victoria Education Gazette and Teachers’ Aid” magazine for the war and following years, teachers were provided with information on what should be sought and included, and the type of book that should be produced. The magazines also reported on progress of the undertaking and problems various schools had in obtaining information.
Doncaster East State School (No. 2096) was one of the schools which participated in this important undertaking. A letter dated 21 October 1919 signed by the school’s head teacher R.R. Hobbs on behalf of the school committee was sent to past scholars, relations, friends etc, outlining a wish to honor the men who enlisted to fight be carried out by placing in the school an Honor Board and an Honor Book. The letter asked them for them to provide details of the men for the book. The letter read:
State School No. 2096,
Doncaster East,
October 21st, 1919.
Dear Sir or Madam,-
As the work of remodelling our school building is proceeding satisfactorily, our thoughts sometimes turn, in anticipation, and to the ceremonial and festive opening of the new building early next year.
All being well, it should be a time of happy re-union of old scholars, parents and well-wishers of our local school.
So that the secretary of the Re-union may get into touch with as many of the past scholars as possible, would you supply what names and addresses you can to the Head Teacher or any members of the School Committee?
It appears that it has all along been the wish of the residents of Doncaster East, together with the names of those volunteers from here who had attended schools elsewhere. Now it is proposed that this wish to do honor to the gallant men who enlisted to fight for us be carried out by placing in our school an Honor Board and an Honor Book.
To do this in a way indicative of our appreciation of the gallant conduct and efforts of our brave men we appeal for your financial sympathy and support. The senior scholars will be around the district with subscription lists to give you an opportunity of contributing| or, if you prefer it, you could send your donations direct to any member of the Committee or to the Head Teacher. Prompt action should enable us to have the honor roll ready for unveiling at the opening of the school .
It is not necessary to point out the educational and moral value of such a memorial on the rising generation, for the scholars for many a year to come will feel proud that previous scholars of their school had heroically gone forth to help Australia do her part in the struggle of Right against Wrong. The future of our fair land depends upon that spirit of self-sacrifice so well exemplified by our heroes.
We and the children in our care, must recognise it as part of our duty to try and build up a nation and a national life which would have written over it the ideals for which our men so nobly fought, and for which so many laid down their lives. The Honor Board and Book should be a great help in this training.
The idea of having an Honor Book is to keep in our school a genuine record, a human document, which will be of interest for all time, which will, in fact grow in interest as the years pass. This will help to build up a fine tradition in our school. The mighty spirit of self-sacrifice called forth by the war gives us a fine starting point and a great impulse. It Is well to keep within the school the story of every fine thing achieved by past scholars who have gone out into the wider world and there played their part, so that it may be a stimulus to the lads and lasses who now fill their old places in the schoolroom. When completed the parchment-leaved book, artistically bound in leather, and written in permanent ink by an expert penman should indeed be a record of Honor. For the compilation of the Book the following particulars are sought:- Soldier’s name, parents' names, soldier’s birthplace, date of birth, school attended, educational qualifications, pre-war occupation, date of enlistment, training camp, unit in A.I.F., date of embarkation, and name of vessel, battles engaged in, other war service, honors and promotions, wounds, date of return, vessel, date of disembarking, date of discharge, subsequent career, remarks.
Would our past scholars and district volunteers, their relations, comrades or friends, do what they can to supply the above particulars, and thus help to make the Honor Book what it should be?” Photographs of our soldiers would add still more value and interest to the record.
I trust that this matter will receive your early, earnest and valuable support.
On behalf of the school committee and scholars,
I remain, yours faithfully,
R.R. Hobbs
Head Teacher
Many responses were received to the call and the school committee proceeded with the preparation and completion of both the Honor Book and the Honor Board.
The Honor Book
A book containing the details of 24 men was subsequently produced. The book was a leather bound hardcover book around 8’ x 10” (200 x 300mm) in size with heavier cartridge paper type pages and with typed text directly on the pages. The book contains the details of their service and includes photographs of many of the men, and some include the colour cloth patches that were worn on Australian uniforms to indicate the Division, Battalion and Brigade of the solider. The book has many blank pages after the last entry.
The original book is now located on display in the Doncaster RSL memorabilia collection at their their premises Cnr Leed St & Doncaster Road. See scan of the original pages.
The names of the men listed in the book are: Albert Joseph Clegg | Ethelbert Clegg | Stanley Crouch | John William Dowling | Thomas W. Elder | Herbert George Edgar Finger | Harry A. Fromhold | Herbert Bowen Johnston | Leslie Philip Frost | Kenneth P. T. King | Henry White Mackinlay | James Sydney Mackinlay | Alfred Samuel Reeve | Walter Gottlieb Rieschieck | Oliver White | Frederick Carl Zerbe | Eric Hillman | Harold Downing | Ashby Burton Hardidge | Captain William John Stutt | Arthur Ernest Ireland | Edgar Harold Peter-Budge | Edward Herman Zerbe | Richard Harold Clay.
Of the 24 men, eleven tragically lost their lives in the war. Many of the men who survived the war returned back to Doncaster to work in the orchard industry.
The details of the men in the book read as follows:
Of the 24 men, eleven tragically lost their lives in the war. Many of the men who survived the war returned back to Doncaster to work in the orchard industry.
The details of the men in the book read as follows:
ALBERT JOSEPH CLEGG
Son of Edward and Susannah Clegg, was born at Doncaster East, on April 12th, 1880. As a boy he attended the Doncaster East School. On leaving School, he worked as an Orchardist.
He saw active service also in the Boer War, and enlisted for active service in the Great War, in November 1915.
At Broadmeadows, he received his training. With the 24th Battalion, on March 13th, 1916, he embarked on the S.S. “Whiltshire” for Egypt and subsequently France, where his valuable services were recognised by his being promoted to sergeant. In the Somme area he saw much active service and later on, paid the Supreme Sacrifice at Grevilliers.
He was brave and self-sacrificing and thus he died as he lived “A soldier and a man”.
At Broadmeadows, he received his training. With the 24th Battalion, on March 13th, 1916, he embarked on the S.S. “Whiltshire” for Egypt and subsequently France, where his valuable services were recognised by his being promoted to sergeant. In the Somme area he saw much active service and later on, paid the Supreme Sacrifice at Grevilliers.
He was brave and self-sacrificing and thus he died as he lived “A soldier and a man”.
ETHELBERT CROUCH
Son of Henry William and Harriet Amelia Crouch, was born at Doncaster on 22nd March, 1886, and was educated at Doncaster.
On leaving school, he became an orchardist, and successfully carried on with this work until the 22nd July 1915, on which day in listed for active service.
After enlisting, he was trained for a short time at Ascot Vale and then left his homeland by S.S. “Demosthenes” for further training in Egypt.
As a scout in the 6th battalion, he served in France for about 15 months till he was wounded in the left eye on 4th of October, 1917. Hospital treatment in France and England, failed to save his damaged eye which at last had to be removed. Being now unfit for further active service, he started on his return journey to his native land on 18th March, 1918, on board the S.S. “Osterley” and disembarked on 13th April, 1918. On June 18th he received his discharge.
He then settled down to orchard work on his land at Doncaster East.
On leaving school, he became an orchardist, and successfully carried on with this work until the 22nd July 1915, on which day in listed for active service.
After enlisting, he was trained for a short time at Ascot Vale and then left his homeland by S.S. “Demosthenes” for further training in Egypt.
As a scout in the 6th battalion, he served in France for about 15 months till he was wounded in the left eye on 4th of October, 1917. Hospital treatment in France and England, failed to save his damaged eye which at last had to be removed. Being now unfit for further active service, he started on his return journey to his native land on 18th March, 1918, on board the S.S. “Osterley” and disembarked on 13th April, 1918. On June 18th he received his discharge.
He then settled down to orchard work on his land at Doncaster East.
STANLEY CROUCH
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Crouch was born at “Dingley Dell”, Doncaster. At Doncaster and Doncaster East schools he received his education and was engaged later in the fruit growing industry.
On July 7th, 1915, he enlisted and was trained at Seymour and Broadmeadows camps. He was in C. Coy. 29th Battalion 8th Inf. Bde. 5th Div, A.I.F..
Leaving Australia on 10th November, 1915, on board the S.S. “Ascanius” he landed in Egypt and was for some time on garrison duty, but later, with his division, sailed for France where he took part in the Battle of Fromelles. On August 14th he was wounded in the right shoulder by shrapnel. On September 30th he received gunshot wounds in the chest and left shoulder.
In July 1917, he returned by the S.S. “Miltiades” to his native land. Receiving his discharge on July 14th, 1917, he then went back again to the fruit growing industry at Doncaster.
On July 7th, 1915, he enlisted and was trained at Seymour and Broadmeadows camps. He was in C. Coy. 29th Battalion 8th Inf. Bde. 5th Div, A.I.F..
Leaving Australia on 10th November, 1915, on board the S.S. “Ascanius” he landed in Egypt and was for some time on garrison duty, but later, with his division, sailed for France where he took part in the Battle of Fromelles. On August 14th he was wounded in the right shoulder by shrapnel. On September 30th he received gunshot wounds in the chest and left shoulder.
In July 1917, he returned by the S.S. “Miltiades” to his native land. Receiving his discharge on July 14th, 1917, he then went back again to the fruit growing industry at Doncaster.
JOHN WILLIAM DOWNING
Son of William and Mary Downing, was born at Elsternwick, on July 17th, 1894. He attended state schools at Broadmeadows and Central Brunswick, and was successful in obtaining his merit certificate.
Prior to his enlistment he was a motor mechanic and engineer.
On 5th February, 1917, he enlisted for active service and was trained at Broadmeadows and Laverton. He was attached to the 30th Squad. R.F.C. A.F.C.
On 10th May, 1917, he embarked on S.S. “Marathon”. He became first mechanic in 34th Engineers and was detained in Europe on mechanical work connected with aeroplane. He became 1st Mechanic in 34th Engineers and was detained in Europe on mechanical work connected with aeroplanes.
On 6th May, 1919, he embarked for his native land and arrived here on “Kaiser-i-hind” in June 1919.
He received his discharge in July, 1919.
Prior to his enlistment he was a motor mechanic and engineer.
On 5th February, 1917, he enlisted for active service and was trained at Broadmeadows and Laverton. He was attached to the 30th Squad. R.F.C. A.F.C.
On 10th May, 1917, he embarked on S.S. “Marathon”. He became first mechanic in 34th Engineers and was detained in Europe on mechanical work connected with aeroplane. He became 1st Mechanic in 34th Engineers and was detained in Europe on mechanical work connected with aeroplanes.
On 6th May, 1919, he embarked for his native land and arrived here on “Kaiser-i-hind” in June 1919.
He received his discharge in July, 1919.
THOMAS W ELDER
Son of Mr. and Mrs. William Elder, attended school at Doncaster East. Prior to his enlistment, he was engaged as an orchardist.
On March 18th, 1915, he enlisted for active service and received his training with the 23rd Inf. Battalion at Broadmeadows. On May 8th, 1915, he left for the front on board the S.S. “Euripides”. At Gallipoli he was for months in action fighting gallantly against the Turks. Later on, he again saw much fighting in France at Pozieres, Ypes, Passchendale, Broodseinde, Bullecourtand Villers-Bretonneaux. On 29th July, 1916, he was wounded at Poziers.
Returning to Australia on 30th April, 1919, on board the S.S. “Kashmir” he received his discharge on June 30th 1919.
He is one of our brave “Anzacs” who will never be forgotten.
On March 18th, 1915, he enlisted for active service and received his training with the 23rd Inf. Battalion at Broadmeadows. On May 8th, 1915, he left for the front on board the S.S. “Euripides”. At Gallipoli he was for months in action fighting gallantly against the Turks. Later on, he again saw much fighting in France at Pozieres, Ypes, Passchendale, Broodseinde, Bullecourtand Villers-Bretonneaux. On 29th July, 1916, he was wounded at Poziers.
Returning to Australia on 30th April, 1919, on board the S.S. “Kashmir” he received his discharge on June 30th 1919.
He is one of our brave “Anzacs” who will never be forgotten.
HERBERT GEORGE EDGAR FINGER
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Finger, was born at Doncaster East, on January 17th, 1896. He attended schools at Doncaster East, Vermont and Bayswater.
Leaving his work as an Orchardist, he enlisted for active service on May 10th, 1915, and was trained at Broadmeadows and Seymour. He was attached to the 14th Battalion and sailed for Egypt on the “Persia” on August 10th, 1915.
He is one of our gallant Anzacs and saw much fighting in Gallipoli. Later, in France, he was again engaged in active service at Pozieres, Fleurs and Bullecourt.
Twice he was wounded, once in the back and once in the left leg.
Returning to his native land on S.S. “Borda” in November 1917, he received his discharge on February 8th, 1918, and is now still “carrying on” as an orchardist.
Leaving his work as an Orchardist, he enlisted for active service on May 10th, 1915, and was trained at Broadmeadows and Seymour. He was attached to the 14th Battalion and sailed for Egypt on the “Persia” on August 10th, 1915.
He is one of our gallant Anzacs and saw much fighting in Gallipoli. Later, in France, he was again engaged in active service at Pozieres, Fleurs and Bullecourt.
Twice he was wounded, once in the back and once in the left leg.
Returning to his native land on S.S. “Borda” in November 1917, he received his discharge on February 8th, 1918, and is now still “carrying on” as an orchardist.
HARRY A. FROMHOLD, No. 1470
Son of Mrs. Mary Fromhold, was born at Doncaster on September 15th, 1891, and attended school at Doncaster East. He was successful in obtaining his qualifying certificate.
Leaving his occupation as an Orchardist, he enlisted on July 3rd, 1915, and was trained at the Show Grounds and Broadmeadows camps. On October 29th, 1915, he embarked with the 4th Australian Light Horse regiment on S.S. “Palermo” and was engaged in Active Service in Egypt and Palestine.
Returning to his native land on February 17th, 1919, by S.S. “Berrima”, he received his discharge on June 21st, 1919.
Since his return to Australia, he has been for a long time in the hospital suffering from nervous debility. He has now settled down to fruit growing again at Doncaster East.
Leaving his occupation as an Orchardist, he enlisted on July 3rd, 1915, and was trained at the Show Grounds and Broadmeadows camps. On October 29th, 1915, he embarked with the 4th Australian Light Horse regiment on S.S. “Palermo” and was engaged in Active Service in Egypt and Palestine.
Returning to his native land on February 17th, 1919, by S.S. “Berrima”, he received his discharge on June 21st, 1919.
Since his return to Australia, he has been for a long time in the hospital suffering from nervous debility. He has now settled down to fruit growing again at Doncaster East.
HERBERT BOWEN JOHNSTON, No. 3877
Son of Waldron John and Elizabeth Johnston, was born at Albury, New South Wales, on October 4th 1870. Having been educated at State Schools Richmond and Kew, he started his career as a carpenter.
On July 12th, 1915, he enlisted and was trained at Bendigo and Broadmeadows camps. He belonged to the 1st Division 5th Battalion.
On 23rd of November, 1915, he embarked on “Ceramic”. He saw active service at Fleurbaix, Mouquet Farm, Bullecourt and Lagnicourt. Later, he was engaged on the Somme and also in Flanders.
Although wounded he still carried on. He suffered greatly from trench feet and was treated in hospitals in France and England.
On October 24th, 1917, he returned to his native land and since then has been unfit for work on account of his nervous condition. His digger friends say of him: - “He was a real comrade to all who knew him”.
On July 12th, 1915, he enlisted and was trained at Bendigo and Broadmeadows camps. He belonged to the 1st Division 5th Battalion.
On 23rd of November, 1915, he embarked on “Ceramic”. He saw active service at Fleurbaix, Mouquet Farm, Bullecourt and Lagnicourt. Later, he was engaged on the Somme and also in Flanders.
Although wounded he still carried on. He suffered greatly from trench feet and was treated in hospitals in France and England.
On October 24th, 1917, he returned to his native land and since then has been unfit for work on account of his nervous condition. His digger friends say of him: - “He was a real comrade to all who knew him”.
LESLIE PHILIP FROST
Son of Mrs. Annie Frost of Mitcham, was born at South Melbourne and educated at Burnley State School. In 1906 he received a certificate for school work at Melbourne Exhibition. In 1909 he obtained a certificate for Sloyd, receiving 99 marks out of 100.
He was engaged as a Piano Maker at Wertheim’s factory in Burnley, but came home to his parents at Doncaster and resided there for 9 months before he enlisted for active service. At Doncaster he attended the Methodist Church.
On September 29th, 1916, he enlisted and was sent to Seymour camp to be trained, and was attached to 10th Company. On December 16th, 1916, he embarked on S.S. “Medic”.
After training camps in England, he was sent to France where on October 4th, 1917, he was wounded in left shoulder whilst going over “The Top” at Ypres. Early in the New Year he rejoined his company and on September 29th, 1918, he was killed in action near a trench system called “Doleful Post” which lies between Ronssoy and Le Catelet in France.
He is one of our Australian heroes who made the supreme sacrifice and whose name will never be forgotten. His remains lie in a British Cemetery 10 mile N.E. of St. Quentin.
He was engaged as a Piano Maker at Wertheim’s factory in Burnley, but came home to his parents at Doncaster and resided there for 9 months before he enlisted for active service. At Doncaster he attended the Methodist Church.
On September 29th, 1916, he enlisted and was sent to Seymour camp to be trained, and was attached to 10th Company. On December 16th, 1916, he embarked on S.S. “Medic”.
After training camps in England, he was sent to France where on October 4th, 1917, he was wounded in left shoulder whilst going over “The Top” at Ypres. Early in the New Year he rejoined his company and on September 29th, 1918, he was killed in action near a trench system called “Doleful Post” which lies between Ronssoy and Le Catelet in France.
He is one of our Australian heroes who made the supreme sacrifice and whose name will never be forgotten. His remains lie in a British Cemetery 10 mile N.E. of St. Quentin.
KENNETH P.T. KING
Only son of Mr. and Mrs. S.T. King was born at South Melbourne on November 5th, 1896. At Doncaster East, he received his primary education then afterwards, he was enrolled in the International Correspondence School, qualifying as an engineering draughtsman.
When war broke out he was in the Citizen Forces and was called up to do guard duty at “The Heads” in August 1914. From there he was drafted on to internment camp at Police Barracks, St Kilda Road, Melbourne under Major Lloyd. Whilst there, he was attacked by an Austrian prisoner, and had his mouth badly cut from lip to chin. In charge of interned prisoners he was then sent to Langwarrin camp.
On March 25th, 1915, he enlisted for active service, and was sent to Broadmeadows to be trained, and was attached to the 24th Battalion 6th Inf. Bde..
He embarked on 8th May, 1915. on the S.S. “Euripides” and saw active service at Gallipoli. Whilst in Egypt, he won the Battalion Shooting Competition. This was a great honour as he was the second youngest soldier in the battalion, being only 18 years and 9 months at the time.
Later on he took part in engagements and saw much fighting at Fleurbaix, Armentieres, Poziers, Poziers Ridge, and Moquet Farm.
This brave Anzac made the Supreme Sacrifice on August 26th, 1916 at Moquet Farm. After his death, his Captain wrote to his sorrowing mother — “Conjure up your highest ideals of all a brave soldier and a man should be — your son was the embodiment of all these, always willing, cheerful and bright, brave and persevering, he lived and died a soldier and a man”.
He is buried in Courciletti British Cemetery near Albert in, France.
When war broke out he was in the Citizen Forces and was called up to do guard duty at “The Heads” in August 1914. From there he was drafted on to internment camp at Police Barracks, St Kilda Road, Melbourne under Major Lloyd. Whilst there, he was attacked by an Austrian prisoner, and had his mouth badly cut from lip to chin. In charge of interned prisoners he was then sent to Langwarrin camp.
On March 25th, 1915, he enlisted for active service, and was sent to Broadmeadows to be trained, and was attached to the 24th Battalion 6th Inf. Bde..
He embarked on 8th May, 1915. on the S.S. “Euripides” and saw active service at Gallipoli. Whilst in Egypt, he won the Battalion Shooting Competition. This was a great honour as he was the second youngest soldier in the battalion, being only 18 years and 9 months at the time.
Later on he took part in engagements and saw much fighting at Fleurbaix, Armentieres, Poziers, Poziers Ridge, and Moquet Farm.
This brave Anzac made the Supreme Sacrifice on August 26th, 1916 at Moquet Farm. After his death, his Captain wrote to his sorrowing mother — “Conjure up your highest ideals of all a brave soldier and a man should be — your son was the embodiment of all these, always willing, cheerful and bright, brave and persevering, he lived and died a soldier and a man”.
He is buried in Courciletti British Cemetery near Albert in, France.
HENRY WHITE MACKINLAY, No. 135
Son of William and Elizabeth Mackinlay, was born at Evelyn, New South Wales. At Doncaster East and Ringwood, he attended the State Schools and was successful In gaining his merit certificate.
Prior to enlisting, he was an orchardist.
On 4th March, 1915 he enlisted for active service and was sent to Broadmeadows to be trained.
On May 6th 1915, in barked on S.S. “Euripides” with A. Coy. 24th Battalion, 6th Brigade. He is one of our brave Anzacs who fought gallantly in Gallipoli, and was there till the evacuation.
Later on he was engaged again in fighting in the north of France. On 6th August, 1916, at Poziers, he was reported missing. Since then, in spite of most diligent inquiry, no trace of him has ever been found. As he was engaged as a dispatch runner, he is supposed to have been caught by shell on 4th August 1916.
For his gallantry, he had been recommended for a D.C. medal. Before he was posted as missing, he was promoted to Corporal.
Prior to enlisting, he was an orchardist.
On 4th March, 1915 he enlisted for active service and was sent to Broadmeadows to be trained.
On May 6th 1915, in barked on S.S. “Euripides” with A. Coy. 24th Battalion, 6th Brigade. He is one of our brave Anzacs who fought gallantly in Gallipoli, and was there till the evacuation.
Later on he was engaged again in fighting in the north of France. On 6th August, 1916, at Poziers, he was reported missing. Since then, in spite of most diligent inquiry, no trace of him has ever been found. As he was engaged as a dispatch runner, he is supposed to have been caught by shell on 4th August 1916.
For his gallantry, he had been recommended for a D.C. medal. Before he was posted as missing, he was promoted to Corporal.
JAMES SYDNEY MACKINLAY
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Mackinlay, was born at Semora, New South Wales on 1st April 1889. He was educated at Doncaster East and Kew State Schools.
Prior to his enlistment he was occupied as a labourer.
On March 31st, 1916, he enlisted for active service and received his training at Bathurst and Liverpool camps, New South Wales. On October 25th, 1916, he embarked with the 53rd Battalion on board the transport S.S. “Ascanius”. For 2½ years he saw active service abroad and fought well for his country and Empire.
Returning by this “Ceramic” on 16th of March 1919, he received his discharge on May 15th, 1919.
Prior to his enlistment he was occupied as a labourer.
On March 31st, 1916, he enlisted for active service and received his training at Bathurst and Liverpool camps, New South Wales. On October 25th, 1916, he embarked with the 53rd Battalion on board the transport S.S. “Ascanius”. For 2½ years he saw active service abroad and fought well for his country and Empire.
Returning by this “Ceramic” on 16th of March 1919, he received his discharge on May 15th, 1919.
ALFRED SAMUEL REEVE
Son of Frederick Reeve of London, was born 10th November, 1893. He attended Lower Park Road L.L.C. school at Pekham.
Leaving England for Victoria at the age of 20 years, he gained colonial experience in the Western District and then in orchard work around Doncaster.
Enlisting in October, 1916, he went into camp at Royal Park for training and then on to Broadmeadows.
He embarked on the “Ballarat” February 19th, 1917. When that transport was torpedoed in the English channel, on Anzac Day, Mr. Reeve was taken off by or torpedo boat destroyer and landed at Devonport.
For three months he was in training at Lark Hill, Salisbury Plains as a Lewis Machine Gunner then attached to the 37th Battalion, with which body of troops he saw service in Flanders — Ploeg Steert and on the Somme, Heilly and Proyart in the big push.
He left for France for England in April, 1919, and embarked for Australia on the “Wiltshire” on 16th July, arriving in Melbourne 19th August, 1919.
After his discharge in October, here again settled down to fruit growing at Doncaster East.
Leaving England for Victoria at the age of 20 years, he gained colonial experience in the Western District and then in orchard work around Doncaster.
Enlisting in October, 1916, he went into camp at Royal Park for training and then on to Broadmeadows.
He embarked on the “Ballarat” February 19th, 1917. When that transport was torpedoed in the English channel, on Anzac Day, Mr. Reeve was taken off by or torpedo boat destroyer and landed at Devonport.
For three months he was in training at Lark Hill, Salisbury Plains as a Lewis Machine Gunner then attached to the 37th Battalion, with which body of troops he saw service in Flanders — Ploeg Steert and on the Somme, Heilly and Proyart in the big push.
He left for France for England in April, 1919, and embarked for Australia on the “Wiltshire” on 16th July, arriving in Melbourne 19th August, 1919.
After his discharge in October, here again settled down to fruit growing at Doncaster East.
WALTER GOTTLIEB RIESCHIECK, Reg. No. 2495
Son of August and Henrietta Reischieck, was born at Tanunda, South Australia, 1891 where he received a public school education.
As a lad he led a very busy life in the orchard, even doing the marketing alone successfully.
In Victoria, he left mainly with his brother William, at Doncaster East, from whence he enlisted on 10th July 1915, receiving about four months training at the Seymour camp.
In November of that year he embarked on the “Osterley” for Egypt and was attached to C. Company 21st Battalion, 6th Brigade. Moving with his division to France, he fought around Armentieres and made the supreme sacrifice at Poziers on July 29th, 1916, being killed by shell concussion.
Walter Reischieck was of a quiet disposition but was thought much of by all who knew him, as a true comrade and courageous fighter.
On enlisting, his long cherished ambition of becoming an orchardist on his own land had just been realized, having obtained a block near Ringwood, but he left all to obey the summons..
As a lad he led a very busy life in the orchard, even doing the marketing alone successfully.
In Victoria, he left mainly with his brother William, at Doncaster East, from whence he enlisted on 10th July 1915, receiving about four months training at the Seymour camp.
In November of that year he embarked on the “Osterley” for Egypt and was attached to C. Company 21st Battalion, 6th Brigade. Moving with his division to France, he fought around Armentieres and made the supreme sacrifice at Poziers on July 29th, 1916, being killed by shell concussion.
Walter Reischieck was of a quiet disposition but was thought much of by all who knew him, as a true comrade and courageous fighter.
On enlisting, his long cherished ambition of becoming an orchardist on his own land had just been realized, having obtained a block near Ringwood, but he left all to obey the summons..
OLIVER WHITE, No. 6427
Son of Mrs Elizabeth White, was born at Warrandyte on August 14th, 1894. At Doncaster East School, he received his education and was successful in the obtaining his merit certificate.
Previous to enlisting he worked in an orchard.
On October 7th, 1916, he enlisted for active service and was trained at Broadmeadows and Royal Park. Embarking for the Front on 23rd November, 1916, on board the S.S. “Hororata” with the 24th Battalion, he saw active service at Ypres, and on the Somme.
He was wounded in the right knee, invalided to England, and left there on the “Argyllshire” on December 19th, 1918, to return to his native land.
On February 1st, 1918, he arrived in Melbourne, and was discharged on 14th April, 1919.
Since his return he has taken up an orchard at Doncaster East, and is now one of our successful fruit growers.
Previous to enlisting he worked in an orchard.
On October 7th, 1916, he enlisted for active service and was trained at Broadmeadows and Royal Park. Embarking for the Front on 23rd November, 1916, on board the S.S. “Hororata” with the 24th Battalion, he saw active service at Ypres, and on the Somme.
He was wounded in the right knee, invalided to England, and left there on the “Argyllshire” on December 19th, 1918, to return to his native land.
On February 1st, 1918, he arrived in Melbourne, and was discharged on 14th April, 1919.
Since his return he has taken up an orchard at Doncaster East, and is now one of our successful fruit growers.
FREDERICK CARL ZERBE
Son of Fred and Mary Zerbe, was born at Doncaster East on 10th October, 1894, and attended School No. 2096, where he obtained his Standard Certificate.
His industry an aptitude for orchard work made him a valued worker in his father's orchard.
After home service with the Citizens Forces at Queenscliff and Maribyrnong, he enlisted on 23rd November, 1915, and went into camp at Royal Park and later, Ballarat and Broadmeadows.
He embarked with reinforcements to the 8th Battalion, 14th March, 1916, on H.M.A.T. “Wiltshire” for Egypt, where he received further training at Tel-el-Kebir and Ferry Post on the Suez Canal, and was transferred to the 5th Division Pioneers.
With this unit he sailed from Alexandria, on 23rd June, 1916, to Marseille France.
At Fleur Baix he was in action and took part in most of the engagements of his Division (excepting Ypres”) until he was wounded in the left arm by an aeroplane bomb. He was removed to hospital thence to England, for nine months.
After his return to France he was with his unit until the Armistice.
While in England he married Miss A. Spackman of Milton, with whom me sailed for Australia 24th June, 1919 on the “Port Lincoln” disembarking at Melbourne on 11th September.
His industry an aptitude for orchard work made him a valued worker in his father's orchard.
After home service with the Citizens Forces at Queenscliff and Maribyrnong, he enlisted on 23rd November, 1915, and went into camp at Royal Park and later, Ballarat and Broadmeadows.
He embarked with reinforcements to the 8th Battalion, 14th March, 1916, on H.M.A.T. “Wiltshire” for Egypt, where he received further training at Tel-el-Kebir and Ferry Post on the Suez Canal, and was transferred to the 5th Division Pioneers.
With this unit he sailed from Alexandria, on 23rd June, 1916, to Marseille France.
At Fleur Baix he was in action and took part in most of the engagements of his Division (excepting Ypres”) until he was wounded in the left arm by an aeroplane bomb. He was removed to hospital thence to England, for nine months.
After his return to France he was with his unit until the Armistice.
While in England he married Miss A. Spackman of Milton, with whom me sailed for Australia 24th June, 1919 on the “Port Lincoln” disembarking at Melbourne on 11th September.
ERIC HILLMAN, No. 896
Son of the late Francis G. C. Hillman and Annie (now Mrs Frederick B. Sleeth) was born at Doncaster on 26th February, 1898, and educated at Doncaster State School.
After leaving school he took up orchard work.
Just after reaching his 18th birthday he enlisted for active service and was sent to Seymour camp to be trained.
Attached to the 37th Battalion, C Company, he embarked on the S.S. “Persic” on 3rd June, 1916. Arriving in England in July 1916, he was sent to Sailsbury Plains. Whilst in training there he took up signalling and passed his Qualification Certificate. Later he was sent to a signalling school in France and obtained his Assistant Instructor Certificate.
On 26th February, 1917, he was in action in France and was mentioned in despatches for good work in the field. He was then sent back to England as he was suffering from pleurisy.
Later on he returned to France and was killed in action at Passchaendale on 4th October, 1917.
Just after reaching his 18th birthday he enlisted for active service and was sent to Seymour camp to be trained.
Attached to the 37th Battalion, C Company, he embarked on the S.S. “Persic” on 3rd June, 1916. Arriving in England in July 1916, he was sent to Sailsbury Plains. Whilst in training there he took up signalling and passed his Qualification Certificate. Later he was sent to a signalling school in France and obtained his Assistant Instructor Certificate.
On 26th February, 1917, he was in action in France and was mentioned in despatches for good work in the field. He was then sent back to England as he was suffering from pleurisy.
Later on he returned to France and was killed in action at Passchaendale on 4th October, 1917.
HAROLD DOWNING
Son of William H. Downing was born at Albert Park on 19th May, 1898. At Brunswick and Windsor he received his education, then later on went to Hassett’s College.
Before the war he was engaged as a grocer, and offered his valuable services to his country on 8th July, 1916.
At Bendigo he received his training as a soldier, being attached to the 38th Battalion. On 28th October, 1916, he embarked for active service on S.S. “Port Lincoln”.
in France he fought bravely at Armentieres..
As a storming party was needed he went out as a volunteer and was killed in Action on 4th October, 1917.
The Church of England Chaplain — Norman Osborn — writing to his parents states:— “Your son is buried in a soldier's grave on the battlefield near Ypres. You have at least the consolation of knowing that he died doing his duty and that he gave his life in the highest cause”.
Before the war he was engaged as a grocer, and offered his valuable services to his country on 8th July, 1916.
At Bendigo he received his training as a soldier, being attached to the 38th Battalion. On 28th October, 1916, he embarked for active service on S.S. “Port Lincoln”.
in France he fought bravely at Armentieres..
As a storming party was needed he went out as a volunteer and was killed in Action on 4th October, 1917.
The Church of England Chaplain — Norman Osborn — writing to his parents states:— “Your son is buried in a soldier's grave on the battlefield near Ypres. You have at least the consolation of knowing that he died doing his duty and that he gave his life in the highest cause”.
ASHBY BURTON HARDIDGE, No. 2420
Son of Arthur Hardidge of Doncaster, was born on 6th April, 1896, and attended Doncaster State School. At Box Hill he attended the sloyd class and obtained his sloyd certificate gaining 90% of the possible marks. Leaving school at the age of 14 he began work in the orchard.
He became a Sunday School Teacher in the Church of England.
On 3rd July, 1916, he enlisted for active service and was sent to be trained at Broadmeadows.
On 25th September, 1916, he embarked with 57th Battalion on S.S. “Shropshire” arriving in England on 11th November, 1916.
He was then sent to France and at Bullecourt in May 1917, he was wounded and sent back to the hospital in England. Later he returned to France and fought at Albert, Bapaume, Deville Wood and Villers Bretonneaux, in the Lewis Machine Gun Section.
On four different occasions he was wounded, and was in England when the Armistice was signed.
On 21st February, 1919, he returned on S.S. “Movardo” and great was the rejoicing when he returned home.
He was discharged on 30th June, 1919, and since then has been engaged in orchard work.
He became a Sunday School Teacher in the Church of England.
On 3rd July, 1916, he enlisted for active service and was sent to be trained at Broadmeadows.
On 25th September, 1916, he embarked with 57th Battalion on S.S. “Shropshire” arriving in England on 11th November, 1916.
He was then sent to France and at Bullecourt in May 1917, he was wounded and sent back to the hospital in England. Later he returned to France and fought at Albert, Bapaume, Deville Wood and Villers Bretonneaux, in the Lewis Machine Gun Section.
On four different occasions he was wounded, and was in England when the Armistice was signed.
On 21st February, 1919, he returned on S.S. “Movardo” and great was the rejoicing when he returned home.
He was discharged on 30th June, 1919, and since then has been engaged in orchard work.
CAPTAIN WILLIAM JOHN STUTT
Only son of William and Julia Stutt, was born at Hawthorn, Victoria on 11th December, 1889. He attended the State School at Doncaster East, and at the age of ten, went as a boarder to Xavier College, Kew. After leaving School, he qualified as a Mechanical Engineer and then proceeded to Bendigo as Chief Engineer at the freezing works later entering into partnership with a motor and engineering firm there.
Becoming convinced that there was a great future ahead for the aeroplane, he left for England early in 1913, to study aviation, and joined the British Colonial Aeroplane Company. At the outbreak of war, he joined the Royal Flying Corps and was highly successful in training pilots for the front, and other important duties amongst which was the honoured one of being first “Kings Air Messenger”. He carried the first dispatches sent by King George to France by aeroplane.
After much flying across to France and night flying after Zeppelins, he was transferred to the Royal Aircraft Factory as Chief Test Pilot, his arduous work here being the testing of all aeroplanes before they were sent on active service.
Towards the end of 1916, he was granted leave by the British War Office to proceed to Sydney to take charge of the New South Wales Government Aviation School where, he acted as Chief Pilot Instructor and trained over one students for active service in the Flying Corps.
in 1919 he was transferred to the Australian Flying Corps and was appointed as Office in Command of the Aeroplane Repair Section at the Central Flying School, Point Cook, Victoria.
In September 1920, volunteers were called for amongst the pilots at Point Cook to go in search of the missing schooner “Amelia J” some weeks over-due between Newcastle and Hobart, and believed to be drifting in Bass Strait. Two aeroplanes were equipped at very short notice and Captain Stutt piloted one of them. His machine was last observed over Flinders Island some two hours later and from that time was never seen again.
Becoming convinced that there was a great future ahead for the aeroplane, he left for England early in 1913, to study aviation, and joined the British Colonial Aeroplane Company. At the outbreak of war, he joined the Royal Flying Corps and was highly successful in training pilots for the front, and other important duties amongst which was the honoured one of being first “Kings Air Messenger”. He carried the first dispatches sent by King George to France by aeroplane.
After much flying across to France and night flying after Zeppelins, he was transferred to the Royal Aircraft Factory as Chief Test Pilot, his arduous work here being the testing of all aeroplanes before they were sent on active service.
Towards the end of 1916, he was granted leave by the British War Office to proceed to Sydney to take charge of the New South Wales Government Aviation School where, he acted as Chief Pilot Instructor and trained over one students for active service in the Flying Corps.
in 1919 he was transferred to the Australian Flying Corps and was appointed as Office in Command of the Aeroplane Repair Section at the Central Flying School, Point Cook, Victoria.
In September 1920, volunteers were called for amongst the pilots at Point Cook to go in search of the missing schooner “Amelia J” some weeks over-due between Newcastle and Hobart, and believed to be drifting in Bass Strait. Two aeroplanes were equipped at very short notice and Captain Stutt piloted one of them. His machine was last observed over Flinders Island some two hours later and from that time was never seen again.
WILLIAM JOHN STUTT
(Note: 2nd entry for him), son of Mrs J. M. Stutt, was born at Hawthorn 11th December, 1890. At Doncaster East he attended the state school and later on when to Xavier College, Kew.
He became a Mechanical Engineer and afterwards took up position as Aviator Instructor.
Before the war broke out, he was in England acting as pilot instructor at the British Colonial Aviation Company's Aerodrome. At the outbreak of war, he enlisted with the Royal Flying Corps and appointed to the rank of Lieutenant.
On returning to Australia, he was employed as chief instructor at the New South Wales Government Aviation School at Richmond. Afterwards he was transferred to the Commonwealth Military Forces and soon rose to the rank of Captain whilst at the Flying School Point Cook, Victoria.
During the period he was engaged at Point Cook, volunteers were called to go in search of the missing schooners “Amelia J” and “Southern Cross”. He responded to this call but unfortunately he did not return from the flight (record of captain William John Stutt continued - page 2)
Untiring efforts by sea and on land were made to find him or at least explain the mystery of the disappearance, but without avail, and the search after many weeks, had to be reluctantly abandoned.
Captain Stutt was married shortly after his return to Australia in 1917, and leads two little son's Billy and Jack.
He became a Mechanical Engineer and afterwards took up position as Aviator Instructor.
Before the war broke out, he was in England acting as pilot instructor at the British Colonial Aviation Company's Aerodrome. At the outbreak of war, he enlisted with the Royal Flying Corps and appointed to the rank of Lieutenant.
On returning to Australia, he was employed as chief instructor at the New South Wales Government Aviation School at Richmond. Afterwards he was transferred to the Commonwealth Military Forces and soon rose to the rank of Captain whilst at the Flying School Point Cook, Victoria.
During the period he was engaged at Point Cook, volunteers were called to go in search of the missing schooners “Amelia J” and “Southern Cross”. He responded to this call but unfortunately he did not return from the flight (record of captain William John Stutt continued - page 2)
Untiring efforts by sea and on land were made to find him or at least explain the mystery of the disappearance, but without avail, and the search after many weeks, had to be reluctantly abandoned.
Captain Stutt was married shortly after his return to Australia in 1917, and leads two little son's Billy and Jack.
ARTHUR ERNEST IRELAND
Son of Elijah Ireland, was born at Doncaster East on 2nd September, 1896.
At Doncaster East State School, he received his education and was successful in obtaining his Merit Certificate.
Prior to enlistment he was an orchardist.
On 13th July, 1915, he enlisted and was sent to be trained at Seymour, and then at Broadmeadows, and was attached to 13th Field Artillery Brigade, 5th Division. On 10th November, 1915, he embarked for active service abroad on the “Ascanius”.
In France he saw much fighting, being engaged in battles ian Fromelles, Somme, Passchaendale, Villers Bretonneaux, and Mont St Quentin.
In recognition of his valuable service, he was appointed 2nd Lieutenant on 10th April, 1918, and 3 months later was promoted to the rank of 1st Lieutenant.
After returning home on the “Wandella” he disembarked on 18th May, 1919, and was discharged on 26th July of the same year.
Since his return he has followed his pre-war career as an orchardist.
At Doncaster East State School, he received his education and was successful in obtaining his Merit Certificate.
Prior to enlistment he was an orchardist.
On 13th July, 1915, he enlisted and was sent to be trained at Seymour, and then at Broadmeadows, and was attached to 13th Field Artillery Brigade, 5th Division. On 10th November, 1915, he embarked for active service abroad on the “Ascanius”.
In France he saw much fighting, being engaged in battles ian Fromelles, Somme, Passchaendale, Villers Bretonneaux, and Mont St Quentin.
In recognition of his valuable service, he was appointed 2nd Lieutenant on 10th April, 1918, and 3 months later was promoted to the rank of 1st Lieutenant.
After returning home on the “Wandella” he disembarked on 18th May, 1919, and was discharged on 26th July of the same year.
Since his return he has followed his pre-war career as an orchardist.
EDGAR HAROLD PETER-BUDGE
Son of Mr. and Mrs.Laban Peter-Budge, was born at “Brooklyn” Doncaster East, on 23rd August, 1896, and attended Doncaster East State School.
After leaving school he became an orchardist.
On 26th May, 1915, he enlisted for active service and was trained at Broadmeadows and Seymour, being attached to 7th reinforcements, 8th Light Horse.
On 23rd September, 1915, he embarked on “Malakuta”.
Near Jerusalem on 14th December, 1917, he was killed in action while advancing on the enemy's position. He sighted an ambush Turk, quickly fired, and so save the lives of the five men with him, but drew the fire on himself and was instantly killed.
Concerning him Chaplain F. H. King wrote “We have lost a brave young hero, gallant soldier, and a good comrade. He has left an example for good among his brother soldiers. A simple wooden cross marks his grave. His body rest there in the Holy Land, but his spirit is in Paradise, and his glory is part of Australia's history.
A comrade writing to his mother says, “He was always so cheerful and would never see anyone in a fix but would do his best to try and help them. Then again, his fine a bright character and straight living were a fine example to others. I can assure you he died a hero's death”.
After leaving school he became an orchardist.
On 26th May, 1915, he enlisted for active service and was trained at Broadmeadows and Seymour, being attached to 7th reinforcements, 8th Light Horse.
On 23rd September, 1915, he embarked on “Malakuta”.
Near Jerusalem on 14th December, 1917, he was killed in action while advancing on the enemy's position. He sighted an ambush Turk, quickly fired, and so save the lives of the five men with him, but drew the fire on himself and was instantly killed.
Concerning him Chaplain F. H. King wrote “We have lost a brave young hero, gallant soldier, and a good comrade. He has left an example for good among his brother soldiers. A simple wooden cross marks his grave. His body rest there in the Holy Land, but his spirit is in Paradise, and his glory is part of Australia's history.
A comrade writing to his mother says, “He was always so cheerful and would never see anyone in a fix but would do his best to try and help them. Then again, his fine a bright character and straight living were a fine example to others. I can assure you he died a hero's death”.
EDWARD HERMANN ZERBE
Son of August and Bertha Zerbe, was born at Doncaster East, 15th January, 1891.
At Doncaster East he was educated and was successful in obtaining his certificate. After leaving school he became an orchardist.
On 12th July, 1915, he enlisted for active service and was sent to Seymour and Broadmeadows camps to undergo a course of training. Whilst there, he was attached to 21st Battalion and embarked on 29th September, 1915, onboard R.M.S. “Osterley”.
Further training he received at Setoun Camp in Egypt, and Tel-el-Kebir. On 25th March, 1916, he was sent to France and saw much fighting at Fleurbaix, Poziers, Moquet Farm, Bullecourt, and also in Flanders.
After the Armistice was signed he became ill and was invalided to England on 1st December, 1918.
He left England for his native land on 7th February, 1919, on S.S. “Lancashire” and disembarked on 31st March, 1919.
After being discharged in May of the same year, he went back to work in the orchard.
At Doncaster East he was educated and was successful in obtaining his certificate. After leaving school he became an orchardist.
On 12th July, 1915, he enlisted for active service and was sent to Seymour and Broadmeadows camps to undergo a course of training. Whilst there, he was attached to 21st Battalion and embarked on 29th September, 1915, onboard R.M.S. “Osterley”.
Further training he received at Setoun Camp in Egypt, and Tel-el-Kebir. On 25th March, 1916, he was sent to France and saw much fighting at Fleurbaix, Poziers, Moquet Farm, Bullecourt, and also in Flanders.
After the Armistice was signed he became ill and was invalided to England on 1st December, 1918.
He left England for his native land on 7th February, 1919, on S.S. “Lancashire” and disembarked on 31st March, 1919.
After being discharged in May of the same year, he went back to work in the orchard.
RICHARD HERALD CLAY
Son of Richard and Mary Ann Clay, was born at Kew, 10th February, 1894, and attended Doncaster School obtaining his merit certificate.
Prior to enlistment he was an orchardist, and offered his valuable services to his country on 10th July, 1915, was sent to Broadmeadows then to Seymour to be trained.
On 10th September, 1915, he left Australia on S.S. “Makarini'' with the 53rd Battalion but when he went to Gallipoli, he was transferred to the 8th Battalion.
Both In Gallipoli and France he saw much fighting. In recognition of his aptitude, he was made a Corporal, then later was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
On 31st July, 1917, he was wounded whilst fighting in France and his wounds proved fatal on 4th August, 1917.
He is one of our brave Anzacs who made the supreme sacrifice for his country.
The board listed the names of the 86 men from the area who served had in the Great War 1914-1919 and identified those who were ex-students and/or teachers.
An advertisement in the “The Reporter (Box Hill)” newspaper of Friday, 20 Aug 1920 p2, announced a reunion of old scholars of the Doncaster East school to be held on 27 August 1920 to celebrate the opening of the remodelled school building and the unveiling of the Honor Board.
The announcement read:
The Reporter newspaper on Friday 3 September 1920, p5 subsequently ran a long article on the opening of the remodelled school. The article also reported on the unveiling of the Honor Board as follows:
Board details and soldiers’ names (listed in five columns) read:
References:
Prior to enlistment he was an orchardist, and offered his valuable services to his country on 10th July, 1915, was sent to Broadmeadows then to Seymour to be trained.
On 10th September, 1915, he left Australia on S.S. “Makarini'' with the 53rd Battalion but when he went to Gallipoli, he was transferred to the 8th Battalion.
Both In Gallipoli and France he saw much fighting. In recognition of his aptitude, he was made a Corporal, then later was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
On 31st July, 1917, he was wounded whilst fighting in France and his wounds proved fatal on 4th August, 1917.
He is one of our brave Anzacs who made the supreme sacrifice for his country.
The Honor Board
In addition to the Honor Book, the Doncaster East school committee facilitated and progressed the erection of an Honor Board at the school. The board measuring approximately 2,400(w) x 1,300(h) mm in size was made of timber with ornate timber decoration, stained a golden brown colour with wording in gold lettering.The board listed the names of the 86 men from the area who served had in the Great War 1914-1919 and identified those who were ex-students and/or teachers.
An advertisement in the “The Reporter (Box Hill)” newspaper of Friday, 20 Aug 1920 p2, announced a reunion of old scholars of the Doncaster East school to be held on 27 August 1920 to celebrate the opening of the remodelled school building and the unveiling of the Honor Board.
The announcement read:
DONCASTER EAST STATE SCHOOL - No. 2096.
A re-union of old scholars will take place on Friday, August 27, when the re-modelled building will be opened by the director of education ((Mr. F. Tate, M.A. D.S.O.), at 3 p.m.
The school's Honor Board will be unveiled by the State Commandant (Brigadier-General Brand, C.M.G., D.S.O.).
Tea will be served at 5 p.m., after which a concert will be held commending at 7 p.m. all past scholars are specially invited to attend.
E. H. Zerbe Sec. Old Scholars League, W. H. Downing, Correspondent School Committee
Doncaster East State School Reunion advertisement - The Reporter newspaper - 20 Aug 1920 Page 1.
The Reporter newspaper on Friday 3 September 1920, p5 subsequently ran a long article on the opening of the remodelled school. The article also reported on the unveiling of the Honor Board as follows:
The school Honor Board, an artistic piece of workmanship, was next unveiled by the State Commandant Brigader-General Brand. It contained the names of 86 former pupils who had served in the Great War, 16 of whom had paid the supreme penalty. He referred to the self-sacrifice of those brave men, the heroic deeds of the Australians generally, both at Gallipoli and in France, and the fine characters moulded in their State schools which had gone to make for the great success of the A.I.F. abroad. Brigadier-General Brand extended his sympathy to the relatives of those who had fallen, and said their gift had not been in vain. At the conclusion of his address, the "Last Post" was sounded by Bandmaster Plunkett, the assemblage standing with bowed heads meanwhile.
Mr. W. H. Downing, correspondent of the committee, detailed the work performed by that body, and stated that the honor board had cost £38 15, and £41 had been subscribed towards it. They also purposed issuing an honor book”
Board details and soldiers’ names (listed in five columns) read:
1914 THE GREAT WAR 1919 - ROLL OF HONOR - IN MEMORIAM
(column 1)
* Bailey, W. | Beavis, J. | Beavis, W. | Breheny, W. | * Brown, W. | * Carrucan, W. | Caunter, W. | * Clark, H. | Clark, N. | Clark, S. | * Crouch, S. | Crouch, E. | * Crossman, N. | * Craig, F. | Dempster, G. | Downing, J. | + Edgoose, H.
(column 2)
* Ellis, H. | * Ellis, G. | * Elder, F. | * Elder, T | Francis, W. | * Finger, H.G.E. | * Fromhold, H. | * Gale, N. | Gale, L. | * Handasyde, F. | * Hills, H. | * Hills, R. | Hunter, T. | Hardridge, A.B. | Hennessy, T. | * Ireland, A.E. | Johnston, H. | Finger, P.C.H.
(column 3)
Mcinnes, A. | * Clegg, A.J. | Clay, H.R. | Downing, H. | * Elder, M. (M.M.) | Frost, L. | Hillman, E. | * Johnston, A. | * Johnston, R. | * Kennedy, M. | * King, K. | + Manfield, G. | * Peter-Budge, E.H. | Rieschieck, W. | Svanborg, F. | * Sullivan, H. | Wright, R. | * MacKinlay, H.
(column 4)
* Kent, T.I. | Kent, S. | * Laurie, B. | * C. Mathews | * Mathews, Chas. | * Mathews, H. | * Mathews J. | * Hutchinson, J. | * Kelso, A. | * Mays, E. | + Mackenzie, R. | Mahony, B. | McWhinney, R. | * Nippe, M. | * Nicholas, T. | * Nicholas, L.
(column 5)
* Rose, W. | Riley J. (D.C.M.) | Reeve, A.S. | Sloan, H.E. (M.M.2) | * Schafter, G. | + Simpson, S. | * Stutt, W. | * Townsend, A. | + Uebergang, G. | * White, G.A. | * White, O. | * White, J. | * Wright, W.E. | * Watson, C.W. | Wells, W. | * Zerbe, F. | * Zerbe, E.H.
R.R. Hobbs, Head Teacher 1920
* Ex-Scholars Doncaster East S.S. 2096 + Ex-Teachers
The Great War 1914-1919 - Roll of Honor: Following the closure of the Doncaster East School in 1996, the board was relocated to the Doncaster RSL and is now proudly on public display on the end wall of the main room of their premises Cnr Leed St & Doncaster Road.
- Roll of Honor, Doncaster east State School, no.2096 - Victorian Collections - https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/4f72b94997f83e0308605b05
- Doncaster RSL Facebook Page- https://www.facebook.com/RSL-Doncaster-Subbranch-107744134762346/
- State Library Victoria - Victoria Education Gazette And Teachers' Aid. V.18-V.19 and V.20-V.21 - http://search.slv.vic.gov.au/permalink/f/1cl35st/SLV_VOYAGER984259
- National Library of Australia - TROVE - 'Advertising', The Reporter (Box Hill, Vic. : 1889 - 1925), 20 August 1920, p. 2. , http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article257154668
- National Library of Australia - TROVE - 'DONCASTER EAST SCHOOL', The Reporter (Box Hill, Vic. : 1889 - 1925), 3 September 1920, p. 5. , http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article257154757
- Scans of pages from Honor Book
Source: Ian Schafter, 2021
Doncaster East Avenue of Honour soldier profiles
Private Ethelbert Crouch (service number 4159)
Ethelbert Crouch was born in 1886 in Doncaster to Henry William and Hert Amelia Crouch. He went to Doncaster State School and attended the Holy Trinity Sunday School and Youth Group.
Ethelbert enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) on 22 July 1915 and just over six months later, left for Cairo in Egypt on board His Majesty’s Australian Transport (HMAT) Demosthenes. In March the next year he came down with bronchitis and was hospitalised for two weeks before joining his unit as part of the 6th Battalion in France on 15 May 1916.
Ethelbert suffered wounds to his head, chest and hands on 5 October 1917 and spent the rest of the year recovering in various English hospitals, with “loss of sight resulting from wounds” and a traumatic cataract in his right eye. Recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal, he left for home on the hospital ship, Osterley, and was discharged on 25 June 1918.
Ethelbert married Victoria Lillian Petty and they raised a family on their orchard in Woodhouse Street, Doncaster East. He died in 1987 at the age of 101.
Private John Downing (service number 1592)
John William Downing was born in 1894 in Elsternwick to William Henry Hambling and Mary Ann Downing. He had two other siblings. In 1917 the family were living in Hunt Street, Doncaster East. After leaving school John trained as an engine fitter.
John enlisted on 5 February 1917 and left from Sydney on board His Majesty’s Australian Transport (HMAT) Marathon on 10 May 1917. He was attached to the Australian Flying Corps based at Farnborough Training Depot in England. He qualified as a First Class Air Mechanic on 1 November 1917 and was based in England at the AFC Training Depot in Wendover. He was discharged on 16 June 1919 after returning to Australia on HMAT Kaiser-I-hind.
John also served during World War II and was known to be living in Queensland in 1959.
Private Stanley Crouch (service number 796)
Stanley Crouch was born in 1892 in Doncaster. His parents were Henry and Marion Crouch. He was educated at Doncaster State School and attended Sunday School and Youth Group at Holy Trinity Doncaster. After leaving school he worked on the family orchard.
Stanley enlisted on 7 July 1915 and left Melbourne on 10 November 1915 on board His Majesty’s Australian Transport (HMAT) Ascanius for France. As part of the 29th Battalion, C Company, he was wounded on 28 August 1916 but remained on duty. He was again wounded in action by gunshot to the chest and transferred to England for treatment at the Horton War Hospital, Epsom. He returned home on 4 May 1917 on the hospital ship, Miltiades, and was discharged from the army on 13 August 1917.
Stanley returned to Doncaster to work as an orchardist. He married Agnes Elizabeth Bienvenu of Leeds Street, Doncaster and died in 1975, aged 82.
Private Norman Adam Crossman (service number 2082)
Norman Crossman was born on 22 November 1894 to Charles and Sarah Crossman. He was educated at Doncaster State School and joined in all the activities of the youth group at Holy Trinity Sunday School.
Norman enlisted on 17 July 1915, initially serving with the Senior Cadets and training with the Citizen Forces at Box Hill. He married Phyllis Diamond just before leaving for England on His Majesty’s Australian Transport (HMAT) Persic on 22 December 1916. He served as a driver in the headquarters of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) Depot in England where he was also trained as a gunner.
Norman was sent to France as a driver on 3 November 1917 and was injured in his left leg on 15 October 1918. After initial treatment in Rouen Hospital, on 17 October he was transferred to the Bath War Hospital in England then returned to Melbourne on the hospital ship, Orantes, arriving on 30 January 1919. After his discharge from the army, Norman and Phyllis lived in South Geelong.
Sergeant Richard Harold Clay (service number 2957)
Richard Harold Clay was born on the 10 February 1894, to Richard and Mary Clay who were orchardists in the region. He was always called Harold to avoid confusion with his father Richard. Harold was a popular and active member of the Holy Trinity youth group, and a bass singer in the church choir.
Harold enlisted for military service on 6 July 1915, leaving Melbourne on the Empress of Britain and arriving in Alexandria, Egypt, on 7 January 1916. As a member of the 14th Field Artillery Brigade in the 8th Battalion, he was involved in action at Alexandria, Serapeum and Tel-el-Kebir and quickly promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
Harold was severely wounded on 31 July 1917 at Ypres in Belgium and died on 4 August 1917, unaware that his mother had died in Doncaster only two weeks earlier. He was 23 years old.
Army records use the name Harold Richard Clay and it was not until forms were sent to the next of kin for the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial that the error was discovered and corrected.
Harold is buried at the Brandhoek New Military Cemetery, Belgium, and his name is on the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, and the Doncaster War Memorial.
Private Henry August Fromhold (service number 1470)
Henry August Fromhold was born on 5 September 1891 to Heinrich Augustus Fromhold and Annie Marie Zerbe in Doncaster.
Henry’s parents were both from well-known orcharding families in the district, so he followed in the family footsteps as an orchardist before enlisting at the age of 23. He served in the 4th Light Horse Regiment before being hospitalised with synovitis (joint inflammation) in November 1917.
In February 1918, Henry rejoined his regiment in India before returning to Australia a year later. Henry was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Henry settled back into the local orcharding life in Doncaster and married Adela Elizabeth White in 1920, with whom he had two children. He died in October 1960, aged 69.
Private Frank Roger Elder (service number 287)
Born in 1894 to William Elder and Elizabeth Rose Williams, Frank was the middle brother of three brothers from the district who served in World War I. Corporal Murray Elder was killed in action at Bullecourt, France in 1918 and Driver Thomas William survived the war and returned to Australia in March 1919.
An accountant by profession, Frank enlisted in the Australian Flying Corps at age 21 on 9 July 1915 where he served in Egypt as part of No 1 Squadron’s Australian Army Pay Corps. During his service, he was hospitalised for ‘melancholia’ (an old term for depression) before returning home on 12 November 1917. For his service he received the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
Driver Thomas Elder (service number 1074)
Thomas William Elder was the eldest of three Elder brothers who served from the district in WWI. He was born in 1882 to William Elder and Elizabeth Rose Williams. His brothers were Private Frank Elder (who survived the war and returned to Australia in November 1917) and Corporal Murray Elder (killed in action at Bullecourt, France in 1918).
Thomas married Laura Marion Maskiell in 1906 and worked as a fruit grower in the district. He enlisted in Doncaster on 8 March 1915 and served as a driver with the 23rd Infantry Battalion in France. He was wounded in action on 28 July 1916 with a slight gunshot injury to his left leg and re-joined his unit almost a year later before returning home on 9 March 1919. Thomas received the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service in WWI. He died on 29 December 1955 aged 72.
Private Murray Elder (service number 1197)
Murray Elder was the youngest of three Elder brothers who served from the district in World War I. He was born in 1896 to William Elder and Elizabeth Rose Williams. His brothers were Private Frank Elder (who survived the war and returned to Australia in November 1917) and Driver Thomas William (who returned to Australia in March 1919).
Murray was born in Doncaster West in 1896 and attended Doncaster East State School before taking up work as a clerk. He enlisted on 15 March 1915, two months before his 19th birthday. Murray served at Gallipoli and in France. He was wounded in action on 3 May 1917 with a gunshot injury to his left leg.
Murray re-joined his unit in November 1917 and was killed in action in Bullecourt, France, less than a year later on 10 June 1918, aged 22. Murray is buried in Ribemont Communal Cemetery Extension (Somme) in France and his name is at panel 99 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Private Herbert Harry Edgoose (service number 15114)
Herbert Harry Edgoose was born in 1885 in Port Fairy to John James Edgoose and Sarah Ann Adams who had seven other children.
One of Herbert’s brothers was Lieutenant Percy Llewellyn Edgoose who served in the 7th Infantry Battalion until March 1919. Herbert was a clerk by profession and enlisted in the Australian Army’s Medical Corps at the age of 31. He served with the 14th Australian General Hospital and Reinforcements from July 1916 to November 1917 on the Western Front in France before being wounded in action.
Herbert returned to Australia on 22 September 1919 where he was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service. He married Ethylene Elizabeth Le Lievre in 1920 and died at age 60 in Richmond.
Private Harold Downing (service number 2304)
Harold Downing was born in 1898 in Albert Park to William Henry Hambling Downing and Mary Ann Cock of Doncaster East. He was the brother of Private John William Downing of the Australian Flying Corps who returned to Australia in May 1919.
A grocer’s assistant, Harold enlisted on 8 July 1916 aged 18 and served in the Australian Army’s 38th Infantry Battalion from June to December that year. He was killed in action on the Western Front in Belgium on 4 October 1917 at the age of 19. He is remembered on Panel 25 of the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium, alongside the names of more than 54,000 soldiers whose graves are also unknown.
Private Albert Joseph Clegg (service number 4089)
Born in 1880, Albert Clegg was the son of Edward Clegg and Susanna Whitworth, one of seven children.
Albert attended Doncaster State School and worked as an orchardist before enlisting on Christmas Day 1915. He joined the 24th Infantry Battalion (9th to 12th Reinforcements) from February to April 1916 and was promoted to Sergeant on 7 January 1917.
Albert was killed in action at the age of 37 on the Western Front in Grevillers, France, on 13 March 1917. Albert is buried in Adanac Military Cemetery (plot II, row 1, grave no 2) in Miraumont, France. His name is also located at panel 101 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra.
Trooper (Private) Stuart Clark (service number 1325)
Stuart Clark was born in 1884 in Dunkeld to Robert and Louisa Clark of Doncaster East. He was the elder brother of Driver Hector Clark who returned to Australia in October 1918.
A farm labourer until he enlisted at the age of 28, Stuart joined the 7th Infantry Battalion. He served in Egypt as a trooper in the 14th Light Horse Regiment and Camel Corps before being wounded in action on 8 August 1915 with a slight gunshot wound to the hand. He was hospitalised for this injury and others (jaundice and rheumatism) during his service, then returned home on 5 March 1919.
Stuart received the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his contribution during World War I. He died aged 41 in February 1926.
Driver Hector Clark (service number 687)
Hector Clark was born on 20 May 1894 in Roseberry to Robert and Louisa Clark of Doncaster East. He was the younger brother of Trooper Stuart Clark who returned to Australia in March 1919.
Like his older brother, Hector was a labourer and enlisted early in the war on 20 August 1914, aged 20 years. He served as a driver as part of the Divisional Train (1st to 4th Companies, Army Service Corps) on the Western Front in France until returning home on 15 December 1918 on His Majesty’s Australian Transport (HMAT) Borda.
For his service during World War I, he received the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Hector marred Estella Mary Logan in 1920 and died in Hastings on 26 March 1961.
Private Alfred Edwin Caunter (service number 3032)
Alfred Caunter was born in 1886 in Cornwall, England, to Edwin Caunter of Launceston, England. He worked as a farmer before enlisting on 6 November 1916 in the 37th Infantry Battalion of the Australian Army from February to December 1917.
His unit left Melbourne on His Majesty’s Australian Transport (HMAT) A70 Ballarat. The troopship was bound for England but was torpedoed by a submarine in the English Channel on 25 April 1917 and sank the next morning despite efforts to tow the ship to shallow water All 1,752 people board were evacuated.
Alfred served in France until he returned home on 5 September 1919. He received the British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service during World War I. He died on 17 April 1959 aged 85.
Sapper (Private) William Breheny (service number 109)
William Michael Breheny was born in 1893 in Rushworth to Patrick Breheny and Margaret McGuiness.
William worked as a labourer before enlisting in the Signals Corps as part of the 13th Light Horse Regiment at age 22 in January 1915. He served at Gallipoli and in France before returning home on 5 June 1919.
William married Elise Lousia Read in September 1944 and had two children but died less than five years later on 1 March 1949. He received the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Private James Beavis (service number 4430)
James Beavis was born in Nunawading in 1873 to William Beavis and Margaret Harbour.
A labourer before enlisting on 27 August 1915, James served in France as part of the 1st Division Salvage Company in the 6th Infantry Battalion from December 1915 to July 1916.
He was reported missing in action for a day on 16 August 1916, with the official paperwork describing him as a “well-known woodchopper in sports with a big build, slightly grey”. James returned home on 12 May 1919. James married Bessie Rose Henty Fereday in 1931 and died in 1957, aged 84.
Private Ashby Burton Hardridge (service number 2420)
Ashby Hardridge was born on 6 April 1896 to Arthur Hardridge and Caroline Hillman. Before enlisting in Doncaster on 26 June 1916 at the age of 20 he worked as a salesman.
Ashby served in the 57th Infantry Battalion in France and was wounded in action with a gunshot injury to his left foot on 18 May 1917, before being temporarily promoted to Corporal on 21 December 1917. Ashby was wounded three more times during his service before returning home on 4 January 1919 on the Royal Mail Steamer, Moldavia. Royal Mail Steamers mostly carried mail between Australia and England and only occasionally carried troops, including some from the First Australian Imperial Force (AIF).
Ashby married Florence Adelaide Craze in 1925 and received the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service in World War I. He died at age 57 on 14 September 1953.
Private Eric Hillman (service number 896)
Eric Hillman was born in 1898 to Francis Hillman and Annie Sleeth in Doncaster. A fruit grower before enlisting at age 18 on 6 March 1916, Eric joined the 37th Infantry Battalion and fought in France on the Western Front.
Eric was killed in action at Passchendaele in Belgium on 4 October 1917, aged 19, and was posthumously awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. He is buried at Tyne Cot Cemetery (Plot XXII, Row E, Grave 12) in Passchendaele (Belgium) and remembered at panel 128 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra.
Private Arthur Ernest Ireland MBE (service number 31)
Arthur Ireland was born on 2 September 1896 in Doncaster East, the only child of Elijah Ireland and Keziah Emma Bowers.
He worked as an orchardist in the area before enlisting at the age of 18 on 13 July 1915 and joining the 29th Infantry Battalion in France. Arthur served in the 13th Field Artillery Brigade and was promoted through the ranks during his service, eventually becoming a Lieutenant on 10 July 1918.
He returned to Australia on 18 May 1919 and received the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Arthur married Mabel Blanch Peter-Budge in 1920 and served as Commissioner of the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works (MMBW) for 39 years. He was also recognised with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his long-standing service as a councillor. Arthur died on 2 August 1989, aged 92, and is buried in Templestowe Cemetery.
Private Herbert Bowen Johnston (service number 3877)
Herbert Johnston was born on 2 October 1870 to Waldron Johnston and Susan Kent. He worked as a carpenter before enlisting in Doncaster East on 12 July 1915 at the age of 44.
By July 1915, the age limit had risen from 38 to 45 and the minimum height requirement had fallen from five feet six inches to five feet two inches. In April 1917 the minimum height was lowered again to five feet.
During the first year of war approximately a third of volunteers were rejected due to height and age restrictions. However, with the relaxation of physical standards, previously ineligible men could enlist. He joined the 5th Infantry Battalion and served in France.
Herbert returned to Australia on 25 August 1917 and was discharged from the army the following year on 18 February. For his service during World War I he received the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Herbert died on 7 April 1949, aged 78, in Doncaster.
Private Samuel James Kent (service number 1667)
Samuel Kent was born in Doncaster on 4 January 1872 to James Kent and Jane Nicholas. He worked as a wood carter before enlisting on 29 February 1916, aged 43.
Samuel joined the 59th Infantry Battalion and served in Abyssinia (Ethiopia) before returning to Australia on 18 August 1916. He received the British War Medal for his service during World War I. Samuel died in Doncaster on 2 June 1938, aged 65.
Private Thomas Isadore Kent (service number 2520)
Thomas Kent was born in 1895 to John Kent and Lillian Eager. A school teacher by profession, he enlisted on 28 April 1916 at the age of 21.
Thomas fought with the 59th Infantry Battalion in France and was promoted through the ranks, from Acting Corporal on 27 July 1916 to Acting Sergeant on 25 September 1916.
He was wounded in action on 2 September 1917 with a gunshot injury to his left foot and hospitalised on 19 December. Thomas re-joined his unit on 15 January and continued to serve until 30 April 1918 before returning home on 5 March 1919. He received the British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service during World War I. Thomas died on 7 January 1962, aged 66.
Sapper (Private) Frank Augustus Svanborg (service number 2311)
Frank Svanborg was born in 1890 to Brewer Fabian Svanborg and Susannah Barton in Doncaster. Frank attended Templestowe State School and then worked as a fruit grower before enlisting on 12 July 1915 at the age of 24.
He joined the 22nd Infantry Battalion as part of the 13th Field Company Engineers in France where he was wounded in action on 2 September 1916. Frank had his wounds dressed and remained on duty. Unfortunately, the following year on 23 February he was shot again, this time severely in the back and abdomen, and died of his injuries at a casualty clearing station near Albert (France) on 4 February 1917, aged 25.
Casualty clearing stations were usually sited adjacent to railway lines to make it easier to move casualties from the battlefield to hospitals. These large stations moved frequently following the aftermath of large-scale attacks. Their locations can often be identified from the military cemeteries around them.
Frank is buried in Dernancourt Communal Cemetery (Plot IV, Row H, Grave 36) in France and is remembered on panel 25 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Frank was posthumously awarded the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his sacrifice in World War I.
Private Geoffrey Gottlieb Uebergang (service number 12556)
Geoffrey Uebergang was born to Pauline Caroline Uebergang in Doncaster. He worked as a carpenter before enlisting on 10 September 1915 at the age of 22.
Geoffrey joined the 9th Field Ambulance unit as part of the 23rd Howitzer Brigade and Brigade Ammunition Column in France. He was hospitalised for influenza on 10 September 1917 and two days later was afflicted with trench fever.
Geoffrey returned home on 22 May 1918 and married Alice Mabel Aumann the following year. He died at age 81 and is buried in Templestowe Cemetery. Geoffrey received the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service in World War I.
Private Gordon Alexander White (service number 1073)
Gordon Alexander White was born on 4 February 1893 in Doncaster East to Henry White and Elizabeth Jane MacDonald. He worked as an orchardist before enlisting on 26 May 1916 at the age of 22.
Gordon joined the 8th Light Horse Regiment in France where he was wounded in action with an injury to his left knee caused by a bomb blast, on 19 April 1917. He re-joined his unit on 12 May. He returned home to Australia on 19 August 1919. Gordon received the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service in World War I.
Gordon married Florence Gertrude Mann on 1 April 1922 in Doncaster East and raised two children. He died in Doncaster East on 6 July 1970 aged 77.
Private John White (service number 2020)
John White was born on 26 June 1891 to Elijah White and Harriet Lousia Matthews and had a younger brother, Private Oliver White, who also served in World War I. John worked as a driver before enlisting in Doncaster on 8 March 1916 and joining the 57th Infantry Battalion in France.
He was wounded in action with a gunshot injury to his right shoulder on 9 May 1917 and returned home to Australia on 22 October 1917. John died on 11 November 1983, aged 92. He received the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Private Oliver White (service number 6427)
Oliver White was born on 12 November 1894 to Elijah White and Harriet Louisa Matthews and had an older brother, Private John White, who also served in World War I. Oliver worked as an orchardist before enlisting on 17 October 1916 at age 22 and joining the 24th Infantry Battalion in France.
He was hospitalised for influenza on 31 January 1917 and again for an injured knee on 25 July 1917 and 31 July 1918 before returning home on 1 February 1919.
Oliver married Alice Rose Knee on 17 September 1919 and the couple had three children. Oliver died on 11 September 1965 aged 71. He received the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Private Fredrick Carl Zerbe (service number 4924)
Fredrick Zerbe was born on 10 October 1894 in Doncaster to Fredrick Carl Zerbe and Marie Eliza Aumann.
Fredrick worked as an orchardist before enlisting on 8 November 1916 at age 21. He joined the 8th Infantry Battalion in France, was wounded in action with a gunshot injury to his left arm on 11 February 1917 and returned home on 6 November 1919.
Fredrick married Ada Emma Spackman the same year and they had one child. He died in a car accident on 12 June 1936, aged 41. Fredrick received the British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Private Edward Herman Zerbe (service number 2453)
Edward Herman Zerbe was born on 15 January 1891 in Doncaster to Johan August Zerbe and Augusta Bertha Fuhrman.
He worked as an orchardist before enlisting on 12 May 1915 at the age of 24. Edward was assigned to the 5th Reinforcements of the 21st Infantry Battalion and after training in Egypt, moved to France to serve on the Western Front.
Edward was hospitalised for fever on 16 November 1918 that developed into bronchopneumonia (possibly Spanish flu) and was transferred to England to recover. An examining doctor noted he “looks depressed and nervy. Tremulous and sweaty hands”, suggesting that he may have been suffering from delayed shellshock.
Edward returned to Australia on 31 March 1919 and the following year, married Elizabeth Winifred Lawford on 25 September in Doncaster. The couple had three children.
Edward died on 5 April 1957, aged 65. He received the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service during World War I.
Source: https://www.manningham.vic.gov.au/avenue-honour-soldier-profiles Dec2022
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