Gosford |

Victor J. Mackenzie

Posted on May 13, 2017 by Crash Graphics

Methodist Section 1 Row 1 Plot 22

Victor J. Mackenzie

Victor Joseph Mackenzie was a Man about this Town. He mixed in elite circles and was a go to guy for many of the upcoming Council politicians. He was a big strong man , an ordardist and would have known the Adcock’s He participated as a strike breaking action to load oranges onto ships. He knew Robert Baker, he went to Robert Baker’s men’s gathering just before his wedding in 1920 and Baker to his wedding in 1922. He had a wife Thyra and many children. The Train accident would have had a lasting impact on Victor. His mate Robert Baker would normally have been the Coroner, I note that W. E. Kirkness is in his place.

Gosford Times and Wyong Advocate

Dated 13 January 1921.

WOY WOY BRIDGE DISASTER.

Coroner’s Inquests Accidental Deaths

Railway Officials Exonerated.

On Monday morning last, at Gosford Courthouse, the District Coroner, Mr. W. E. Kirkness, J.P., held an inquest regarding the recent Woy Woy Bridge disaster, which resulted in the deaths of Mrs. Victor McKenzie and her two children, and Mr. C. W. Roughley. The following evidence was adduced: —

James Lewis Russell deposed: I am a police constable stationed at Woy Woy; I remember the 3rd instant; at about 6.30 p.m. I received a message by telephone from Mr. P. Gillan ; I hurried to the Railway Bridge, Woy Woy; Constable Young, of Newcastle, was also present; I there saw on the Railway Bridge the body of a man apparently the age of 36 years, a boy of about 9years; I also saw the mangled remains of a woman; from inquiries I made I believe that train No. E74 Gosford to Sydney, had just previously run them down and killed them; I also believe that there was a baby 2 and a half years missing from the party; with the assistance of persons present, I conveyed the bodies to one of Mr. W. J. Parks ‘ cottages close by; next day, about 10 a.m., the body of a female child about 2 and a half years was found at Mt. Pleasant washed up on the shore; this was conveyed by the police and placed with the other bodies in Mr. Parks’ cottage; Mt. Pleasant is about two miles away from the scene of the accident; I have reason to believe that the body of the child found was one of the party; I have reason to believe that it fell through the [sleepers of the Bridge into the water below.

By Inspector Haslam: I believe that there are notices at both ends of the Bridge warning persons against crossing.

Victor Joseph McKenzie deposed: I am a property owner and reside at Gosford; I remember 3rd instant; the members of my family left home on that date to join Mr. Roughley and his family at Woy Woy; they consisted of my wife, Thyra McKenzie, 42,Edna May, 15 years, Harold John, 8 years, Bruce, 4 years, and Gladys Jean, 2 and a half years; they were all in good health; that was the last time I saw my wife, Thyra, my son Harold, and my daughter Gladys; their lives were not insured; they did not leave any property.

William Rudland Hawkins deposed :I am an orchardist and reside at Dural; I remember the 3rd day of January ;the deceased, Clifton Wilmott Roughley was my son-in-law; I last saw him alive about a fortnight previously; he went to Woy Woy in company with his wife and family for a holiday; they rented a cottage from Mr. W. J. Parks; they were joined by Mrs. McKenzie and her children; I went to Woy Woy on the 3rd, and to the cottage occupied by Mr. Roughley; I there saw the bodies of Clifton Wilmott Roughley, Thyra McKenzie, Harold McKenzie, and later the body of Gladys McKenzie; I identfied the bodies of the four persons mentioned; I understand the reason the party proceeded to Woy Woy by foot along the line instead of going by boat was the rough weather conditions.

I know that they were run down by the train while crossing the Bridge; Mr. Roughley ‘s life was insured in the Colonial Mutual Insurance Office for| about £900; He left a will leaving his wife executrix, and Reginald Roughley trustee; he was a total abstainer. Alfred Harold Wilcockson deposed.

I am an engine driver, and employed by the Railway Commissioners; I remember the 3rd January; I was in charge of train No. E74; I took up duty at Gosford at 4.15 p.m.; I left Gosford at 6.35; we stopped at Point Clare, Tascott, and Koolewong; we were travelling at about 30 miles an hour; the first intimation I had of anything wrong was the fireman blowing his whistle; the train was then just coming out of the cutting; we were then about 75 yards from the Woy Woy Bridge;

I immediately cut off steam when the whistle was sounded as I felt there was danger ahead when the fireman blew the whistle; the fireman said there is someone on the Bridge ; I looked ahead and saw several people on the Bridge; I at once applied the air brakes with full force, and reversed the engine; this had the effect of bringing he train to a standstill at about three cars past the bridge; from the time of applying the brakes the train pulled up within its own length ; I met the guard coming toward me; he said “we have killed three people”; he said that they were all dead; I then went back to the engine, and got my detonators and gave them to the fireman and told him to go and protect the down line by placing detonators on the line; I told him then to proceed to Woy, Woy Station and in form the Station Master of what had occurred; I then got on the engine and moved the trains to allow the guard to take the remains from under the train .

The weather was stormy and raining ;the whistle is a deep toned and strong one, and should have been heard at the Bridge; part of the train was still on the Bridge when I pulled up; the mileage is 45 miles 65 chains; the time of the accident was 6.46 p.m.; when I saw the people on the Bridge. They seemed too confused to get out of the way.

William Thomas Wallace deposed: I am employed by the Railway Commissioners; I remember the 3rd day of January; I was fireman on Train E 74 on that day; the No. of the engine is909; we left Koolewong about 6.42 p.m. the next stop would be Woy Woy; before reaching the Woy Woy Bridge there is a long cutting and a curve; I had a clear view ahead after leaving the cutting; it is about 75 yards from the end of the cutting to the Bridge; I saw several people walking on the Bridge; I at once blew the engine whistle, and thought the people would get off the Bridge; I called to the driver and told him, and he at once applied the brakes and reversed the engine; this brought the train to a standstill suddenly about three cars past the Bridge; there were also several cars on the bridge; the driver got off the engine and went back the left me in charge of the engine while he did so; he came back and informed me that the train had run over three people and killed them; I was sent to Woy Woy to report the matter; the train was travelling about 30 miles an hour; the driver used every means possible to avert the accident.

Robert Alexander Lindsay deposed: I am employed by the Railway Commissioners as a guard; I remember the 3rdday of January; I was guard on TrainE74 on that day; the train left Koolewong at 6.45 p.m.; when in the cutting before reaching Woy Woy Bridge I heard a blast from the engine; I had no clear view of the line; I heard another whistle, and a few seconds afterwards the brakes were applied with full force; I immediately applied the hand brakes; the train pulled up; I jumped on to the Bridge; I heard a boy calling out “Dadda, Dadda” on the Bridge; I also saw Mr. Roughley ‘s body lying on the down line, also the body of a boy and the body of a woman; the body of the boy was between the two lines and the body of the woman was under the train about the 4th or 5thcar from the engine; I then went forward and informed the driver that three persons had been killed, and to send the fireman to report the matter to Woy Woy and to protect the opposite line on his way; I do not know the span of the Bridge; it is possible for a child to fall between the sleepers into the water below; I satisfied myself that life was extinct when I saw the bodies; I set the train back a few yards to allow the bodies to be removed.

The Coroner returned the following verdict : — “I find that the said Clifton Wilmott Roughley, Thyra McKenzie, Harold John McKenzie, Gladys Jean McKenzie, at Woy Woy, Police District of Brisbane Water, N.S.W., on January 3rd,1921, died from injuries accidentally received on that date through being struck by a passing train, no blame being attachable to the train officials.”

Victor remarried in about a years time.

16th February 1922

McKENZIE— WHITE.

A wedding was celebrated at St. Anne’s Church of England, Strathfield, on Saturday afternoon last, when the Rector, Rev. Rose, joined together in holy wedlock, Mr. Victor J. McKenzie and Miss Lydia White, daughter of Mr

and Mrs. R. J. White, of ‘Khandallah,’ Strathfield. Both were former residents of

Gosford, and the ceremony was witnessed by a number of Gosford friends and relatives. The bride, who was given away by her father, Mr. R. J. White, was attired in a grey tailored costume, hat to match, and carried a lovely bouquet of white carnations, cactus dahlias and asparagus fern, the gift of the bridegroom.

Mr. E. K. White acted as groomsman. The bridegroom’s gift to the bride was
a diamond and torquoise ring, whilst the bride’s gift to the bridegroom was
an inscribed gold watch. After the ceremony, an adjournment was made
to ‘Khandallah,’ the residence of the bride’s parents, where the reception was held, and the health of the bride and bridegroom, proposed by Mr. Baker, President of Erina Shire, was enthusiastically honored, and acknowledged by the bridegroom. Among the wedding guests were Mr. and Mrs. William Burns, of Homebush, old time residents of Gosford, Mr. Burns driving the bridal party to and from St. Anne’s in his motor car. Later in the afternoon the newly-wedded couple motored to the Mountains on the honey moon trip. The wedding presents were numerous and costly, including a handsome case of cutlery, the gift of Gosford friends. The future home of Mr. and Mrs. McKenzie will be in Burwood.

So fast forward a couple of years and Victor is back in the Gosford area and has become an action man and He is attempting to drive his Buick Six over the ridgeline to Woy Woy the first bloke to do so. Adverts in the local paper have him as a real estate agent and car salesman.

15 March 1923

PRACTICAL ROUTE ROUND THE HILLS DISCOVERED.

Woy Woy’s isolation by road was ended on Saturday last, when Mr. V. J. McKenzie, of Gosford, drove his Buick Six, with the Shire President and Engineer, from Gosford to Woy Woy by a route along the western hills. The bridle track which had previously been used by Cr. Staples on horseback was round to lead through country ,the nature of which would permit of a trafficable road being made at comparatively little cost; and as at last Council meeting £250 was voted for the work from the Government endowment, to be supplemented by a like amount from the rates, it is hoped that it will not be long before it can be announced to the North, and to the State at large, that motor and other vehicles can come right into Woy Woy.

The approximate distances are in miles:—

From Gosford via Main Road to Boys’ Home 3 miles

From Main Road along cleared road past Parry’s 1 mile and half miles

From cleared road over hills to Woy Woy Tunnel 3 and half miles

From Tunnel over hills to Dillon ‘s Gap at formed road 1 mile

From top of hill down Dillon ‘s Road to bottom of hill 1 mile

From bottom of hill to Woy Woy 1 and half miles

‘Pilot’ writes: — When a Buick six cylinder car, driven by Mr. V. J. McKenzie, of Gosford, and carrying two passengers, Cr. C. J. Staples (Shire President) and Mr. C. J. Fenton (Shire ‘ Engineer) rolled into- Woy Woy on Saturday afternoon, the locals could not for some time be convinced that this car had travelled under its own power and on its own four wheels from Gosford to Woy Woy. Yet this was the simple- truth. It was all the more surprising because of the fact that, as any Woy Woyan will tell you, the town is isolated so far as road communication is concerned, and even a horse-drawn vehicle has not yet negotiated the rough bridle track running from the Woy Woy Tunnel to the road near the Boys ; Home, about 3 miles from Gosford.

The news soon got around and caused considerable excitement when Mr. McKenzie’s accomplishment became known. Many were, at first, frankly sceptical, and those who were most inclined to doubt the truth of the report were those who know the track best — for they know from first-hand experience the difficulties of the mountain route.

It was known only to a few — and they had beforehand been sworn to secrecy — that the trip from. Gosford to Woy Woy by motor car was to be at tempted. And here it should be noted that the trip was undertaken without any preliminary examination of the route or any beforehand preparation of the track to be traversed. The ‘overlanders’ did not wish the attempt to be known for fear it might not be successful. When one particularly rough and apparently impassable natural obstruction was met with near the Woy Woy Tunnel, ‘ ‘ Mae. ‘ ‘ remarked, ‘I hope no one has got wind of this stunt in Woy Woy!’ And at this point the venturesome three feared that they would be classed as lunatics if they were to fail and the thing they had attempted became known.

But thanks to V.J. ‘s truly remarkable driving, the car was got through without mishap.

The Shire Councillors have recently conducted a series of inspection by motor car all over the Shire, and on these trips ‘Mac’s’ skill in negotiating rough and awkward country that most road difficulties can be overcome by a daring and skilful driver.

This prompted Cr. Staples to suggest to Mr. McKenzie that it might be possible for him to negotiate the bridle track over the mountains between the Boys’ Home at Gosford and the Woy Woy Tunnel.

Always ready to tackle a difficult proposition, “ Mac” promptly promised ‘ ‘ to give it a fly.”

It was at first thought advisable to go over the route on foot to make a preliminary examination of the route. But last Friday night it was decided to ‘the attempt the next morning by dispense with the usual preliminaries in a trip of this kind.

At 9.30 on Saturday morning a start was made from the Gosford Railway station. Three miles by road to the top of thee hill near the Gosford Boys Home was speedily negotiated and the journey really commenced from this point. Where a cleared track leads off to the south right at the top of the hill. For a mile and a half the going was good, as the road has been cleared for this distance, ending near Mr. Parry ‘s holding.

From here it was found that the bridle track could not be negotiated by car on account of its many windings between rocks and up and down steep places.

A route was chosen over the hills which necessitated much hard work in the way of clearing trees, grass-tree roots, and sometimes ‘rock chopping,”’ as well as roughly forming steep activities and declivities, and filling in dry water-courses to allow the car to pass. The only accident of the trip was met with about a mile from the Woy Woy Tunnel, one of the rear mud-guards of the car being badly buckled through striking a fallen tree as the car swerved to avoid an obstruction just ahead.

The telegraph line on top of the Woy Woy Tunnel was’ reached at 12.30 — just three hours from the starting time. And, considering the roughness of the country, as well as the fact that at many points the car had to be left while the route ahead was surveyed on foot, this was making good time. At this point it began to be feared that the attempt would prove a failure.

After casting around for threes hours to find a possible’ ascent of the high hills on the south eastern side of the Tunnel a way out was eventually discovered. A little over a mile of exceedingly rough going. in which several sharp, steep climbs had to be made by the car. brought the party on to the formed road at the top of Dillon’s Gap, leading from Woy Woy to Mr. George Dillon’s.

Here the party at last realised that the journey was practically accomplished, and that a few minutes later they would be the proud claimants of the distinction to be the first to enter Woy Woy from the outside by motor car.

At a spring on the roadside the success of the trip was drunk in good, clear water — the first good water that was found during the journey, though the travellers had perforce to drink from many stagnant pools along the route.

It may be mentioned that no food or drink was carried on the trip — certainly a great over sight! The road down from Dillon’s to the railway line was found to be rough and steep, and its many awkward turns — it is only about 8ft wide with a precipice on one side — necessitated careful driving. But it was easy for ‘Mac.’ compared with the country he had been driving over all day, and the level land was gained without mishap.

Three-quarters of a mile of sandy track brought the car to the metalled road (Railway Street) near the Woy Woy South railway gates, and the car raced from here into Woy Woy with the ‘hooter’ in full blast. ‘The arrival,’ at 4.30p.m., seven hours after leaving Gosford, was celebrated at Hadley ‘s with a bottle of champagne, the cork of which ‘Mac.’ annexed as a souvenir’ of the great occasion.

Then this happens his 25 year old son gets sick and dies.

7^th June 1928

OBITUARY

ALFRED VICTOR McKENZIE.

The sad death, occurred in Quirindi Hospital on Monday evening, May 28, at 9. 15 p.m., of Mr. Alfred Victor McKenzie, aged 25. Deceased took suddenly ill a fortnight prior to his death, and was taken to Quirindi Hospital, suffering from enteric fever. Despite all efforts by the three doctors and two nurses (one of whom, Sister McKenzie, was his sister), the patient gradually grew worse, and succumbed) on the Monday night.

Mr. McKenzie was operated upon on Monday afternoon, as a last resource. He rallied after the operation, but only temporarily. His father, Mr. V. J. McKenzie, of Gosford, Sister G. McKenzie, and sisters-in-law from Mosman were with him at the end.

The news of deceased’s serious illness, and then of his death, was very distressing to a large circle of friends and relatives in the Gosford district, all of whom held him in high esteem.

Mr. A. V. McKenzie, who was in the service of the Government Savings Bank of N.S.W., had been stationed at Quirindi for the past six years, and held the position of teller at the time of his death. Joining the Bank at Gosford (after a short term on the Railway staff at Gosford) he was attached to the local Branch for a number of years, after which he was transferred to Edgecliffe, and later to Quirindi. The late Mr. McKenzie was married in February last to Miss Dorothy Ferguson, at Mosman. Many friends sympathise deeply with the young widow, and with the other bereaved relatives in the sad loss they have suffered by his untimely passing. The mourners include Mrs. A. V. McKenzie (widow), Mr. V. J. McKenzie (father), Mrs. T. H. Pryor (sister), Mrs. Ray Fagan (sister), Nurse G. McKenzie (sister), and Master Bruce McKenzie (brother). A shocking tragedy at the Woy Woy railway bridge on January 3, 1921, was responsible for the death of three members of the family — the late Mrs. V. J. McKenzie, and a daughter and son, aged 8 and 2.5 years. The Funeral On the arrival of the Brisbane Mail at Gosford on Wednesday morning, May 30, the cortege moved to Point Clare Cemetery. The hearse was followed by over 30 cars. At the cemetery the coffin was borne to the Methodist portion, and laid at rest beside the graves of deceased’s mother and little brother and sister. The Rev. G. A. Baily, Gosford Methodist Minister, officiated at the graveside, which was surrounded by a host of family friends.

Mr. Baily delivered a very impressive address. Among the relatives at the graveside were Mr. and Mrs. V. J. McKenzie, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. B. Fagan, Bruce McKenzie, Mr. and Mrs. Alf. Sterland, (sister and brother-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson (mother and father-in-law), Mr. A. Wane (brother-in-law), Messrs. McQueen and Reichendah, of Quirindi, near friends of deceased, were also at the funeral.

Among the wreaths, the following cards were noticed: — From Daddy, Mummy, and your Sisters; Florrie and Tom; Marj, and Arthur; Ray and Edna; Lal. and Norm; Sterland Bros. And Arthur Wane; Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Moore; Mr. and Mrs. V. F. Fagan; Mr. and Mrs. Bert Moore; Mr. and Mrs. D. G. Pryor; Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Sterland; Syd and N. Gregory; Members of Quirindi Golf Club; G. And F. May; Mr. and Mrs. Creighton and Family; Lodge Rising Sun, Gosford; Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Stephenson, Daphne, and Duncan; Mr. and Mrs. F. G. McPherson; A. and L. Tetsell; Mr. and Mrs. S. J. Black; Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Gollan and Family; Mr. Breakspear, Inspector, Bank; Mr. and Mrs. B. A. Hill and Family; Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Murrell and Family; Mr. and Mrs. Clarke, Mr. and Mrs. Croal, Mr. and Mrs. Galloway, Mrs. Merchant; Edith and Lyal Sutton; Mr. and Mrs. Macqueen; Mr. and Mrs. F. Wheeler and Family; Charles T. Hills; Thomas Bros.; Dr. and Mrs. Howell, Quirindi; Mr. and Mrs. Parr, and Staff, Govt. Savings Bank; Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Nyall; Gosford Agricultural Association; Mr. and Mrs. H. Benson and Family; Mr. and Mrs. B. L. Campbell, Quirindi; Mr. and Mrs. G. Stephens; the Anderson Family; Mr. and Mrs. B. Hill; Dr. and Mrs. Magill; Commissioners, Govt. Savings Bank of N. S.W.; Mr. and Mrs. Bathgate; Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Mason; the Margin Family.

The last mention of Victor J Mckenzie was in 1938 when he lived in Manly. He died in 1957 aged 81.

Robert Baker

Posted on May 10, 2017 by Crash Graphics

Church of England Section 1 Row 6 Grave 125

Robert Baker

The Public Life these news articles refer to is he was the District’s Coroner up until his death and the position was then taken by William E. Kirkness.

Had there been any deaths by accident in the area from 1916 to 1925, the graves in this cemetery would have been attended by Robert Baker, in his role as Coroner.

The news articles about all these deaths would have been written by him or his journalists for his paper. He had been dead for four years when is son died in 1929, at Terrigal Byron ”Sonny” Baker who is mentioned in an earlier blog post.

9^th December 1920

In honor of her approaching marriage Miss Zoe Mason was entertained at a ‘White Tea’ ^ Mrs. A. I. Chapman’s residence on Wednesday afternoon, 1^st instant. There was a large gathering oi ladies, including members of the Orchestral Society.

The Mason’s had a son Lance, brother of Zoe, who was referred to who is mentioned in an earlier blog post for Cecil Morris the Policeman’s son in his final letter to the newspaper in 1915. Bakers journalist’s mind had the foresight to get these young boys writing to him for his paper getting first hand accounts of the Great War.Zoe ‘s father was a local magistrate, J. J. Mason, and the family lived in Point Frederick in a house named “Waterville”.

Zoe married Robert Baker in 1920. This is the sort of wedding write up if you happen to own the paper.

9^th December 1920

Wedding Bells. BAKER— MASON.

Yesterday afternoon the wedding of Mr. Robert J. Baker, President of the Erina Shire Council, and Proprietor and Editor of the Gosford Times, ‘ ‘ with Miss Zoe Mason, daughter of Mr. and Mr. J. J. Mason, ‘ Waterville, Gosford, was solemnised in the Sacristy of the Roman Catholic Church, Gosford, Rev. Father John Kelly officiating.

Though heavy rain was falling throughout the day and whilst the ceremony was in progress, a large gathering of the public was present in the church.

Both bride and bridegroom being very popular in the district. The bride looked particularly charming in a white crepe-de-chene wedding dress, with deep flounces of white georgette, edged -with seed pearls. A tunic ornamented with jewelled trimming was worn, and the beautiful veil of Brussels net and hand-embroidered Honiton point, arranged in Juliet cap fashion, trimmed with orange buds, was loaned by Mrs. Guy Parr and looked strikingly effective. Given away by her father, the bride was attended by her sister, Miss Marie Mason, as brides maid, who wore a pale blue crepede cuene frock dra*ped fashion, with trim mings of pale pink georgette, and picture hat of similar shades, trimmed with fruit and flowers. The bride’s mother was gowned in amethyst georgette and crepe-de-chene, brocaded tunic, with floral hat to match.

Mr. Fred C. Warmoll acted in the capacity of Best man. The gift of the bride groom to the bride was a handsome diamond pendant set in platinum and a beautiful bouquet of lilies of the valley.

The gift to the bridesmaid was a gold bangle, also a shower bouquet of pale pink carnations.

Whilst the register was being signed, Miss Ursula Mason, sister of the bride, and Gosford ‘s prima donna delighted those present in. A perfect rendering of the exquisite ‘Beloved it is Morn,’ and as the happy couple left the church, the Wedding March, played on the organ by

Mrs. Passlow, sped them cheerily on their way. Mr. and Mrs. Mason entertained relatives and a few near friends fort a sumptuous breakfast at ‘Waterville,’ East Gosford, where the usual toasts were most enthusiastically honoured.

The door attendant was kept busily engaged in receiving telegraphic despatches wishing the ,-newly-united pair the happiness they deserve, and after an inspection by the guests of the many valuable gifts received, the party accompanied Mr. and . Mrs. Baker to the railway’ station where much merriment and good feeling prevailed.

The train on, leaving ; the’ station discharged a royal salute of detonators which had been placed on the line, and to the accompaniment of loud cheering, much confetti, and joyous ‘ ‘ Cockadoodle dooing’ from the engine, the happy couple left for Sydney on a few weeks’

honeymoon in the mountain country, carrying with them the best wishes of the whole of the district.

The bride travelled in a charming frock of champagne georgette and crepe-de-chene, accordion pleated, and embroidered in latest pastel shades, and wore a pretty little French hat of Henna and champagne trimmed with fruit and streamers. Amongst the presents noticed

was the handsome plate consisting of a charming rose-bowl and set of entree and cake dishes, the gift of ninety of Mr. Baker’s friends.

A short five years later Robert dies leaving Zoe Mason/Baker becomes a widow.

5^th Dec 1925

Aged 51 Newspaper publisher.

10^th December 1925

TRIBUTES

TO THE LATE MR. R. J. BAKER.

AN APPRECIATION BY MR.

W. E. KIRKNESS.

As one who has been closely. associated with Robert Baker in most public affairs since his arrival in Gosford, 16 years ago, I wish to add my tribute to his worth as a friend and a citizen.

He had his limitations, and acknowledged them, but we can well afford to let any shortcomings of his fade into the past of our forgetfulness, because our own faults are ever before us. His virtues and generosity were of a high standard, and over stood for the advancement of his fellowmen, and of this town and district in particular.

The journal that he conducted -was clean in principle, broad in sympathy, and progressive in character. He will be missed and mourned by the whole of the district.

His death means a personal loss to many of us. I know of many persons who, in time of need have financially helped him, and he never went back on a friend. These arc the qualities that lift men above .their faults, and exalt the remembrance of their life and name into a sweet experience.

10^th December 1925

The Passing of R. J. Baker.

Widespread Mourning.

Popular Pressman and

Respected Public Man.

After an illness which caused him suffering over a long period, Robert James Baker passed from this life, in Lewisham Private Hospital, in the very early hours of Saturday morning last.

The very best of medical skill had been called upon, but the doctors were powerless to avert the cruel fate which took from this community, and from the State at large, one of its most valued

citizens, when he had spent most of the half-century of his life in strenuous work, but before he could enjoy any of the ease he had so thoroughly earned.

His passing has been a blow keenly felt by all sections of the community. Robert James Baker was a man who never spared himself, in the common tasks of his business or in the service of the public. And he was a man who never turned down I a genuine plea for help. The result of a life lived on those principles was seen on Monday, when a whole district turned out to pay a last mark of respect to its most esteemed citizen, and to I

mark deep sympathy with those who have been cruelly bereaved by his death. Mr. Robert James Baker has gone, more’s the pity. But the work that he has done for Gosford— and for the districts-will I never die.

.The late Mr. Baker, who was born at Hill End on the 8th August, 1874,

was the only son of the late Mi- Henry Baker, of Hill Bad and Emmaville. He served his apprenticeship on the Emmaville ‘Argus,’ and at an early age displayed exceptional ability both as a practical printer and all-round journalist. At the age of 21 he was engaged by the late Dr. Ross, M.L.A., to man age the Molong ‘Argus,’ which in a few months he acquired as his own property.

He conducted this paper with very great success for nearly ten years, eventually selling it to the Hon. J. C. L. Fitzpatrick, M.L.A. Mr. Baker then purchased the Peak Hill ‘Express,’ which he speedily trans formed into one of the best weeklies in the Central West. During his period (four years) of residence in Peak Hill lie took a very active part in public matters.

He was secretary of the Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Secretary of the Jockey Club, and of the Curra Amateur Race Club. On his leaving Peak Hill he was publicly entertained by town and district residents and presented with a gold watch (suit ably inscribed), and massive gold and belt. After disposing of his Peak Hill paper, the subject of this sketch enjoyed a well-earned six months holiday.

He then, just sixteen years ago, ‘acquired the ‘Gosford Times,’ which wry quickly evidenced that dynamic energy which had always characterised his work as a pressman. A few years ago Mr. Baker established the ‘Woy Woy Herald,’ and both papers were under his sole control up to his death. The late Mr. Baker was one of the foundation members of the New South Wale- Country Press Association. He was a member of the Executive for some 20 years, a Vice-President for three years, and President for two terms in 1920-22.

For many years he was a director of the Country Press Co operative Company of Australia, Ltd., and also n Vice-President of the Australian Provincial Press Association. Of the 300 members of the Country Press Association, none had displayed more well-directed activity in the affairs of the Association, and no member was more highly esteemed or will be more misled than Mr. R. J. Baker.

The late Mr. Baker was twice married. In 1902, He was married to Miss Margaret Black, of Forbes, to whom four children were born — Misses Thelma. Edna, and Lola, and Mr Henry

Georgia Baker. His first wife died in 1917. and in 1920 he married Miss Zoe Mason, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Mason, of Gosford, who, with three little children, survive him.

Here is a brief history of the Gosford Times after Robert J Baker died.

14 December 1954

When the late Robert James Baker in 1913 erected the two-storey brick building at 144-146 Mann Street, Gosford, he no doubt believed that he was establishing here

the permanent home of “The Gosford Times.”

After his death, the property and the paper were purchased by Mr. Stanley Kings

bury, who converted the building into two shops and erected a fibro and weather

board building at the rear to house the paper.

Now the property of P. J. Palmer & Son Pty. Ltd., the original building has been

modernised ‘and extended to provide a large menswear store for the city company —

one of its many branches in NSW.

The next move, so far as “The Gosford Times” is concerned, will be to a new two-

storey brick building, now in course of construction at 1 35 Mann Street, Gosford. This is planned to take place in 1 April 1955.

This Scribe

Keith Atkins

Posted on August 27, 2016 by Crash Graphics

Grave site Roman Catholic 1 Row 3 Plot 21

Keith Atkins, Bicycle messenger

8^th September, 1944

Newcastle Morning Herald

CYCLIST CRASHED INTO TAXI

Shortly after noon on August 10, a bicycle ridden by Keith Alwyn Atkins, 15, messenger, of Healy-st., Gosford, crashed into the side of a taxi cab, driven by Herbert Cowper Ranyard, at the intersection of York and Mason Parades’ Gosford.

Atkins died in Newcastle Hospital that night. The Coroner. (Mr. A. G. Chiplin) returned a verdict of accidental death.

Constable E. .A ‘ Albury, of Gosford, said Atkins: rode his own bicycle. There was no brake Thomas Walker gardener, of Point Clare, said it was raining’: heavily He saw ‘Atkins riding down the hill and trying to pull a cape over his knees.

The taxi driver said he veered to the right but could not avoid the impact.

Mr. H. L. O’Neill appeared for the relatives; Mr. A. G. Downey for the employer: and Mr. N. Booth for the taxi driver.

Gosford times

8^th August 1949

ATKINS.— In loving memory of our dear son and brother, Keith, who died August 10, 1944.

It does not need a special day to bring you to our minds;

The days we do not think of you are very hard to find.

Always remembered by dad, mum and Fay.

Mary and Bridget Jopson

Posted on August 26, 2016 by Crash Graphics

Grave site Roman Catholic 1 Row 2 Plot 18

Mary and Bridget Jopson
21 April 1921

Miss Mary Jopson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Jopson, of Gosford, was the victim of a severe burning accident on Tuesday evening. She was standing with her back to the fire in the dining room, when her dress became ignited, and it was not until it was well in flames that she realised her position. She ran into the bedroom, where her mother, with the aid of bed clothes, extinguished the flames, and removed the burning garments. The unfortunate, girl was badly burned about the body, and suffered considerable pain. Dr. Paul attended the sufferer, and ordered her removal to a Sydney hospital, where she was taken this (Thursday) morning.

28 April 1921
Return Thanks.

MRS. JOPSON wish to sincerely thank the following friends, who were so kind to them in the sad event of the burning accident to their daughter, Mary: — Father Kelly, Mrs. F. Burns, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbow, Mrs. McCarthy and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Collits, and all other friends.

5^th May 1921
Obituary.

It is with sympathetic feelings that we chronicle the death of Miss Mary Jopson, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Jopson, of Gosford, which sad event took place at Mater Misericordiae Hospital, North Sydney., on Saturday morning last, as the result of severe burns received a couple of weeks ago through her clothes catching fire. Having passed the crisis, great hopes were entertained for her recovery, but at midnight on Friday, complications, -following shock, intervened, and she peace fully closed her eyes for her last long sleep at 4.30. She was 15 years of age, of a quiet and amiable disposition, and beloved by everybody who knew her.

At the time of her accident she was a student at the local Catholic School, and had successfully passed her exam inations in book-keeping and typewriting, and was a generous worker in the interests of the Church. The remains were brought by train to Gosford on Saturday afternoon and interred in the Catholic portion of Point Clare Cemetery on Sunday. The funeral was largely attended, tlie Children of Mary, of whom the deceased young lady was a prominent member, marching behind the hearse, after which followed a procession of the Catholic School children.

At the graveside, Father Kelly recited the last sad rites, during which the members of the Order of the Children of Mary rendered that pathetic hymn, ‘Nearer My God to Thee,’ which farther added solemnity to the already sad surroundings. To the bereaved parents we offer our sincerest sympathy in their irreparable loss. Mr. R. H. Creighton had charge of the mortuary arrangements.

26^th May 1921
MAGISTERIAL INQUIRY.

It will be remembered that some weeks ago Miss Mary Jopson met with a burning accident at Gosford, and died from the injuries received, death taking place at the Mater Misericordiae Hospital, in North Sydney.

At request of the City Coroner, an inquiry was held at Gosford Court house on Monday by Mr. W. E. Kirkness, J.P., when a finding of accidental death was recorded.

12^th April, 1950

Obituary
Mrs Bridget Jopson

The death of Mrs Bridget Jopson, wife of Mr John Joseph Jopson, of Blackwall, Woy Woy, took place at a Gosford private hospital last Monday at the age of 67 years.

She had been ill for the past three months.

Mr and Mrs Jopson were born in the Armidale district, where they were married 46 years ago. They came to Gosford 37 years ago and made their home at Blackwall upon Mr Jopson’s appointment as roads ganger for the Woy Woy Shire Council in 1927 this position he still retains in the employ of the Gosford Shire Council.

Three sons survive: William, John and Bernard, all of Sydney.

A daughter, Mary, died many years ago while the family was living in Gosford.

A woman of strong character and kindly, generous disposition, the late Mrs Jopson was beloved by all who were privileged to know her.

The funeral took place yesterday afternoon. After a service at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Gosford, the remains were buried in the Catholic portion of the Pt. Clare Cemetery beside those of Mrs Jopson’s daughter, Mary.

The Rev. Father Lynch conducted the service in the church and at the graveside.

Cecil and Francis Morris

Posted on August 24, 2016 by Crash Graphics

Grave Site Roman Catholic Section 1 Row 1 Plot 1

Francis Lyle and Cecil William Morris
Both the sons of Sergeant 2^nd class William Morris of Gosford Police Station,
Francis Lyle Morris died 21 October 1916, aged 20 years.
Cecil William Morris, died 6^th August, 1915, aged 21 years. (as per the stone).

Unless otherwise stated all newspaper referrals are from the Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate (1906 – 1954)

Francis Lyle and Cecil William Morris.

This is the grave that has caused the most historical anomalies in the written histories of Point Clare Cemetery in the past. The first internment occurred in January 1916 (Fred Cox), and with the Morris stone mentioning a date in 1915, the Morris’s grave site is often mistakenly listed as the oldest and first in the cemetery.

Cecil Morris died in 1915 at the battle of Lone Pine, none of the bodies from that battle were repatriated to Australia.

Francis Lyle Morris died just over a year from when the news of his brother’s death became known, yet not officially confirmed. When Francis Morris died in 1916, his father commissioned the headstone to have both the brother’s names on it, and as with the tradition the names were placed in the chronological order of the deaths and so Cecil’s name is above Francis’s.

So it is Francis’s burial plot and Cecil’s place of memorial.

The William Morris and family moved to Sydney in 1922 and lived in Abbotsford and are buried in Rookwood Cemetery.

We learn of Cecil’s war tale via a series of soldiers letters published by the local paper. There is below, a link to Cecil’s War record, it contains a particularly distressing letter (which has been included on this page scroll down) from Cecil’s father when he wants it confirmed that Cecil has indeed been killed on the war front.

22^nd January, 1915

A Soldier’s Letter.

Mr. Henry Hastings, of Gosford, now with the Australian soldiers in Egypt, writes to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Hastings: —

Suez Canal, December 3. — We are told no censorship will be exercised over these letters, but even so, I cannot tell much for we have to little time before the mail goes. Cairo is to be our destination, so after all it is to be hot instead of cold weather, but ‘ so far, I have not found the heat as great as, our Australian heat.

We have just passed a French vessel going the opposite way. She greeted us with English, cheers, and our band played the Marseillaise. The Canal is just wide enough to allow two ships to pass. Each side seems to be endless stretches of sand, while every little way along are men on garrison duty, who are very much in evidence.

Our men are all well now. Ern Bailey (formerly schoolteacher at – Gosford), is very well, though like the rest of us, the heat has thinned him a bit. So are Donald, Ken, and Tom Robertson, and Cecil Morris; the Sergeant’s son.

Their friends might be glad to know, if they do not happen, to hear from them — and there are such hosts of letters, thousands in every mail, that no one knows whether many of them will ever reach their destination.

Young Burns, whose place adjoins “Fraternus ” on Mangrove Mountain, is on this boat, too, and Mitchell, who was in the Newcastle Scottish’ Rifles when George and I were there, and several men, too, whom I knew in Narrandera.

Alexandria, December 5th. — We arrived here yesterday, after -7% weeks. Two companies of infantry went out of our ship to-day. The New Zealanders left their ships yesterday, and with other troops have gone on to Cairo. We (the Army Medical Corps) will leave to-morrow. Everything is in readiness, and ‘Tights out” has just sounded, so I must , stop in a minute.

Egyptian; scenery so far seems to bentirely sand and rocks, but all the color of the towns makes them look like a bazaar or fancy fair.

Mena Camp, Pyramids, Cairo,

December. 7.— We arrived here at eight o’clock last night, and are camped right at the foot of the Pyramids, just about 10 miles out of Cairo. The British flag; is to be hoisted in Cairo to-morrow. The mail closes at once, and we are awfully busy, so I can’t write any more how. The ticket enclosed is a Cairo tram ticket. Loving greetings to you all, — HENRY.

The following link is to Henry Hasting’s War Record

http://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=4768273&S=1&N=27#/SearchNRetrieve/NAAMedia/ShowImage.aspx?B=4768273&T=P&S=27

14^th May 1915

The following is an excerpt of the local paper,

Word has been received that’ Mr Cecil Morris, son of Sergeant Morris, Gosford, has been detained in Malta Hospital suffering from a bayonet thrust in the leg.

9^th July 1915

Private Cecil Morris, son of Sergeant Morris, of Gosford, writes

from Imafa, Malta, under date May 5 : — . –

I suppose you have heard all – about our battle with the Turks. I am wounded in the leg and hand with shrapnel after having bad a fortnight’s fighting. We were landed, under a perfect hail off shot and shell, in small boats each containing about 50 men.

Some of the boats by the time they reached the shore had nothing but loads of mangled humanity. The Turks bad hundreds of machine guns td ‘ concealed batteries .. commanding the beach, and it looked an utter impossibility for our men to land.

However, we fixed bayonets, jumped out of the boats into the water up to our waists, and made for the shore. We were soon struggling with wire entanglements fitted under the water, again there was heavy slaughter among the landing parties before we finally got to the land. The Turks then endeavoured to drive us back into the sea with the bayonet, “but our chaps, ‘knowing what was in store, fought as never a fight has been waged before and gradually gained foothold.

The coast where we landed is something like Terrigal round about The Skillion, and we had to scale up these huge cliffs that were absolutely swarming with the enemy. They were yelling “Allah, Allah!” and sounding all the British bugle calls.

Others were shouting out orders to retreat, the object being to confuse us. But we had warnings about the enemy’s tactics and took no notice of them, beyond rushing their trenches with the bayonet.

The Australians fought with such grim tenacity, that the enemy gave way everywhere, and retired to the heights from where they fired volleys of rifle fire on the attackers below.

The Turks were officered by Germans. While we were landing, one of them stood up and yelled in English, ” Come on, you Kangaroo, you are not fighting Cairo now.

After an hour’s fighting, and with the assistance of the warships (Queen Elizabeth included), we had control of the hill and started to advance and built trenches under heavy fire for the day.

When advancing, the order was to run ahead about 20 yards, one at a time, and drop down, eventually forming one long line. During these operations’ I had a peculiar, creepy experience; I was advancing and ran up the required distance and dropped between two other comrades. I asked the one on my right the range and he did not answer. Turning to the one on my left I repeated the question, but no reply came. Both poor fellows were stone dead, shot through the head while still remaining in a firing position.

Needless to say, I soon shifted on. We were entrenched one night about 10 o’clock and the order came along from mouth to mouth, “Cease firing, Indians on the right about to charge.” So we stopped firing.

The Turks then came in thousands, but we mowed them down. This looked a bit “fishy,” and our officer told us to look out for anyone passing orders. Another order started to come along, and the chap that started it was grabbed. He turned out to be a German dressed in an Australian uniform. He has ceased to exist.

It was the second Sunday, at 8 o’clock at night, that I got hit. The wounds, however, were not serious, although I was packed off to the hospital at Malta. The British call us the ” white Gurkhas.” An English officer said he never saw men fight like the Australians, and that the fighting was worse than at Mons.

At time of writing I am doing well, but expect to be sent from here to England to get thoroughly well again. I suppose you know more about the Dardanelles in Australia than I have heard. We who have actually been in the firing line know little about things in general, the operations being so extensive. By the bye, when X was hit I was ordered to get back to the first dressing station.

While doing so as best I could, I met an old ” cobber ” and was shaking bands with him when a bullet came ” zip ” and planted itself in his shoulder. He coolly said ” Hold on, I will come with you.” Do not worry about “toe, I am not going to get knocked over/ . I have already had as many lives as a cat. I do not know where Lance Mason or any of the other Gosford chaps are. – Cecil.

This letter was published about a fortnight before his death during the battle of Lone Pine. Lance Mason to whom he refers to made it back after the war.

The following link is to Cecil William Morris’s War record.

http://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=7984266

24^th December 1915

Killed at Gallipoli.

ANOTHER GOSFORD HERO.

In October last Private Mayo, writing home, reported that Private Cecil W. Morris, of Gosford, had been killed in the charge on the Turkish trenches at Lonesome Pine on 6^th August last. No confirmatory news was received from the military authorities, and Sergeant Morris at once placed himself in communication with the Officer of Base Records.

Several cables were sent to and fro, and on 16th instant the following letter was received from the Department of Defence : —

‘ In continuation of letter dated 30th ultimo, a further cable has been received from Egypt that No. 160, Private C. W. Morris, 3rd Battalion, was last seen on the parapet of a Turkish trench seriously wounded. The foregoing is the result of an enquiry made to the officer commanding your son’s battalion. —Yours faithfully, J. M. Lean, Capt.”

The letter from the Defence authorities confirms the authenticity of Private Mayo’s statement, and there is little to ‘ doubt but that another of Gosford’s gallant young men has fallen in mortal combat against the enemies of our King and country Private Cecil Morris was the eldest son of Sergeant Morris, of Gosford, and, had life lived, would have celebrated his 21st birthday on 21^st October. He was educated at Gosford, Burwood and Fort Street Superior Schools, and was last employed as clerk in Messrs. Goodall’s office, Sydney. On the outbreak of war he enlisted in the 1st Expeditionary Force and was sent to Egypt and later to the Dardanelles. He was twice wounded prior to the storming of the Turkish trenches at Lonesome Pine. As already stated, Private Morris was but 21 years of age, and was an all-round athlete, just the type of young Australian that would play his part when acts requiring, grit and courage were called for, otherwise he would not have received, his death-blow on the parapet of the enemy’s trenches. We deeply sympathise with the parents and family – relatives in their sad bereavement, but they have the consultation of knowing that their brave young soldier boy died doing his duty with his face to the foe, as so many of our gallant young Australians have done in this cruel and world-wide war.

Note : It took a little while for Cecils death to be officially confirmed to the Morris family, the official date of death, from the armies records is the 7th of August 1915, but the family having heard before this official notification of his death, had the date of the begining of the Battle of Lone Pine put on the stone… (6th August).

9^th August 1917

ROLL OF HONOR.

MORRIS. — Killed in action at Lone Pine, 7th August, 1915, our dearly loved son and brother, Private Cecil Wm Morris. Aged 21 years 10 months.

No one he loved was by his side,

To bid a fond farewell ;

Or give one word of comfort,

To him they loved so well.

Inserted by his father and mother, sisters and brothers.

Francis Lyle Morris

Roman Catholic Section 1 Row 1 Plot 1

26^th October, 1916

Obituary.

It is with feelings of extreme regret that we are called upon this week to report the death of Francis Lyle Morris, second eldest son of Sergeant William Morris, of Gosford.

The sad event took place in the Sydney Hospital on Friday morning last, the cause of death being *Bright’s disease.

The deceased who was 21 years and 1 month of age, was born at Carinda, and finished his education at Burwood Superior Public School. He entered the Postal Department as a telegraph messenger at Gosford Post Office, and at the time of his death was relieving Postmaster at Cessnock.

Four weeks ago he was taken seriously ill, and admitted to Cessnock Hospital. Sergeant Morris was later on sent for, and the young man was subsequently removed to Sydney Hospital, where the end came a week after admission.

Young Mr. Morris was a gentlemanly and courteous official, and was popular with all sections of the community. He had reached a high standard in the Service,’ and was a brilliant operator. His elder brother, Cecil, was killed at Lone Pine. At that time Lyle, though under age, was also in khaki, but withdrew in response to his mother’s pleadings. The remains were brought to Gosford and interred in Point Clare cemetery on Saturday afternoon. The funeral was largely attended, and Rev. Father Kelly conducted the burial service.

*Bright’s Disease is a term for Renal/Kidney failure.

Dr and Mrs Sidney Fielder

Posted on August 21, 2016 by Crash Graphics

Grave Site Church of England Section 1 Row 7 Plots 4 and 5

Mr and Mrs Sidney Fielder

Dr Sidney Fielder, Medical Practioner, Died 3^rd May, 1924, aged 62 years.

Mrs Edith Fielder, Local Red Cross founder, Died 15^th February, 1925, aged 65 years.

Unless otherwise stated all newspaper referrals are from the Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate (1906 – 1954)

The following are some of the many articles in the local paper regarding incidents Dr Fielder played some part in.

30^th August 1907

Serious Accident,

A serious accident occurred on Saturday evening at the Tascott railway platform, Point Clare, to Mr. Forster, a well known, especially in sporting circles, as the caterer for the A. J.C. at Randwick and also at other metropolitan race courses.

Mr Forster, with Mr. R. F. Pickering, Mr Archibald and number of other gentlemen had enjoyed a pleasant and successful days ocean fishing on Mr Fred Couche’s launch ‘ Glenrock,’ and returned to Woy Woy in time to catch the evening northern train.

At Tascott, where Mr Forster resides, the carriage in which he was seated over ran the platform by several yards and being unaware of the fact, in the darkness he stepped out into space and experienced a nasty fall. Mr Forster’s friends at once rendered him prompt aid and were dismayed to find that he was unconscious and that his head had been injured.

With all care he was lifted into the train and brought on to Mr Laws’ Imperial Hotel, Gosford, where he was attended to by Dr Fielder, but prior to that his companions were gratified to find that he was returning to consciousness. The injured gentle man had so far recovered on Sunday that he was able to return to Tascott, but his many friends will regret to know that he had evidently sustained a very severe shaking.

28^th July, 1911

Driving Accident.

While driving out near Springfield yesterday Nurse Harley met with a a painful accident. The sulky collided with a stump, arid she was thrown out, the wheel passing over her.

Nurse Harley was taken to Dr. Fielder’s surgery suffering from shock and bruises. Fortunately no bones were broken, and everyone will be glad to hear of her speedy recovery, for Nurse Harley is extremely popular in the district of Brisbane Water.

6^th October 1911

WAMBERAL.

A young man named Ernest Watkins while engaged chipping among beans was bitten on the finger by a brown snake. After scarifying the wound he was brought in to Dr. Fielder’s surgery, and on reaching Gosford was almost in a state of collapse.

However, on being treated by the doctor he recovered and is now quite out of danger. This is the third time that he has been bitten by snakes during the past twelve months.

1^st December, 1911

NARARA ACCIDENT.

Mr. A. Edwards, , of the Penang Sawmills, had the misfortune to meet with a serious accident on Wednesday last. He was removing a piece of bark when by some means his finger was caught and drew his hand in. He had the presence of mind to stop the saw (which was fortunately a large one) but not before his hand was badly lacerated and the muscle torn off the arm from the elbow to near the wrist. Mr. Dahlgren drove him into the surgery where Dr. Fielder attended to the injury, inserting 8 stitches.

3^rd January 1918

Land Sale at Terrigal

The auction sale of land at Terrigal (Dr. Fielder’s Subdivision), advertised to take place on New Year’s Day, was conducted by Messrs. Richardson & Wrench, in conjunction with Mr. F. Wheeler, in the presence of a fair crowd which was composed mainly of spectators rather than speculators, as only three blocks of what is honestly ‘ described as a choice subdivision were disposed of — two by auction, and one by private treaty afterwards. Satisfactory prices were obtained in each case.

8^th May 1924

Death of Mrs. S. Fielder.

SAD LOSS TO THE DISTRICT.

By the death of Mrs. Sidney Fielder, Gosford district has lost perhaps its mosts benevolent and well-beloved resident.

There was no movement of a charitable or patriotic nature which could not count upon Mrs. Fielder’s assistance and active co-operation; and her disposition was so sweet and kindly ‘that she had a host of friends who regarded her with ~a very genuine affection. The universal expressions of regret, the great number of floral tokens forwarded, and the exceptionally large attendance at the last rites, were only the outward tokens of the sincere grief of the residents of the district, who realise that they have lost a helper and friend of rare worth.

The deceased lady had suffered a long and very painful illness, which she bore with an uncomplaining spirit, which proved that her Christian faith was a very real thing in her life — indeed, her whole life was an object lesson in Christ-like fortitude which could not only sustain a sweet and gentle disposition under suffering and sorrow, but could also still give kindly comfort to others in trouble.

Last Anzac Day marked a crisis in Mrs. Fielder’s illness. During the memorial and unveiling ceremony at the new Memorial, she followed the service from her residence, ‘Beverley,’ opposite the Park, and joined in the singing of the hymns.

Within a few hours of this she became unconscious; and this was the beginning . of the sad end, which came on Saturday morning last, after a period of unconsciousness lasting over six days.

It is difficult to indicate the range of Mrs. Fielder ‘s activities in assisting worthy movements; she was the prime mover and helper in so many of them, and besides was a bringer of help and comfort to a host of individuals in need. Some of her work is known to the many, but after all, it represents only a part of her influence for good.

There are hundreds bf cases in which her sympathy, care and counsel helped those in sore need—instances which are not known to the public, and never will be known save in the grateful hearts of those she helped. Perhaps her most outstanding public work was done in connection with the Red Cross Society, of which she was the revered President for many years. She led the good ladies of this Society in a’ long series of efforts to assist patriotic and charitable objects, and a very large share of the credit for the great amount of good work accomplished is due to her self sacrificing and untiring work. During the period of the War, particularly, when there was so much to be done, Mrs. Fielder’s energies never flagged, and the amount of work done with her inspiration and help in the district was enormous.

Mrs. Fielder was a deeply religious woman in the highest sense of the term, and was always ready and willing to help in Church work. She was President of the Christ Church Women ‘s Guild, and in many other |ways strove by works, example – and influence, to lighten and deepen the lives of those about her.

Her death, as well as being a sad blow to her host of personal friends, means a well-nigh loss to the religious and benevolent life of the district.

Edith Beatrice Henrietta Buckley was born in Ayr, Scotland, and was married to Dr. Sidney Fielder at Glasgow. After leaving the Homeland, she went to New Zealand, later going to South Australia, where she spent three years: She had lived in New South Wales for 36 years — in Molong, Wellington, and Wollongong, and for the last 30 years in Gosford.

She was 62 years of age at the time of her death.

Mrs. Fielder leaves a widower and one child — Esther Edith, who is the wife of Dr. J. H. Paul, of Gosford.

There are three grandchildren. Her Sister, Mrs. W. Cumming, ‘ of Perth, Western Australia came across to be with the deceased lady in what proved to be her last illness; and a nephew and niece, to mourn their loss.

The interment took place, on Sunday afternoon and the funeral service was commenced Christ Church, Gosford, and the cortege afterwards moved to Point Clare Cemetery, where the Rector, Rev. Arthur Renwick, conducted the last rites.

Pall-bearers were chosen from among the returned soldiers, who — many of them in uniform —

attended in force. A number of Red Cross members, some of them in their nursing uniform, were also present; and the attendance of the general publice was probably the largest seen at a district funeral, and gave eloquent testimony to the sincere regard in which the deceased lady was held.

Hers was a beautiful life of love for others; and she, lying at rest on the gentle slope, looking to the East over the beautiful Broadwater to the greater glory of Heaven, where she will receive her reward, will not be forgotten by the many who have reason to call her blessed.

The number of wreaths forwarded was unprecedented; the funeral vehicles were covered with them. It is emblematic of the popular sorrow that many of them bore no name of the sender. Among those which had cards attached were the following: —

Gosford Sub-branch Returned Sailors and Soldiers’ Imperial League of Australia, President and Councillors of the Shire of Erina, Members of the Gosford Branch Red Cross Society, Women’s Guild, Members of Gosford Presbyterian Church, Springfield Women’s Guild, Narara Red Cross, Members of Narara Church of England Women’s League, Narara Church, of England Girls’ Guild, Husband, Son, and Daughter, and Grandchildren, Mrs W. Cumming (sister), Grace, Bertha, and Hugh Cumming nieces and nephew), Mr . and Mrs Tubman and family, Mrs W. Wheeler and daughter, Mr and Mrs W. E. Kirkness and family., Mr and Mrs G. H. Adcock, Mr and Mrs W. Eley, Mr and Mrs J. F. Davison and family, Mr and Mrs Elliott (Narara), Mr and Mrs Arden Fell, Mr and Mrs C. J. Fenton, Mrs Gell and family, Mrs. Borritt, Mr and Mrs B. Moore, Mr and Mrs J. May and family, Mr and Mrs Ferguson (Railway Refreshment Rooms), Mr and Mrs Harris and family, Mrs E. E. Shaw, Mr and Mrs Clias. Hills, Lady Ewing, Mrs D’Arcy Johnston, Mrs Carne, Captain and Madame G. I. Adcock, Mr and Mrs J. O’Brien, Mr and Mrs H. Pateman and Jean, Mr and Mrs R. R. Mortimer and family, Mr and Mrs W. Bradbury and family, Mr and Mrs Tom Campbell, Mr and Mrs C. E. Ingram and family, Mr and Mrs W. Horsnell and family, Mr and Mrs J. Verden and family, Mr and Mrs W. E. Gell, Mr and Mrs F. Klumpp and family, Mr and Mrs G. Margin and family, Mr and Mrs Will J Sterland, Mrs E. Clifford, Mr and Mrs J. N. Swinson, Mr and Mrs F. R. Archbold, Mr and Mrs Eden and family, Mr and Mrs A. J. Rigelsford, Mr and Mrs. Guy Parr, Mr and Mrs C. T. Pile, Mr and Mrs Robert Burns and family, Mrs and Miss Worley, Mr and Mrs Ranyard and family, Mr and Mrs A. A. Golian and family, Mr and Mrs Fred Wheeler and family, Mr and Mrs L. E. Pring, Mr and Mrs R. J. Baker and family, Mr and Mrs J. T. Pryce, Mr and Mrs J. W. Lees, Mr and Mrs James Frost, Mr and Mrs Deasey and family, Mr and Mrs A. Gibson, Mr and Mrs Arthur Delandre, Mr and Mrs A. W. Helsham, Mr and Mrs J. R. Chapman (Lisarow), Mr and Mrs W. Parry, Mr and Mrs G. A. Walpole, Mr and Mrs J. Sergeant, Mr and Mrs W. S. Moase, Mr and Mrs A. James and family, Mrs and Misses MacCabe (Lindfield), . Ruth, Arthur and Cyril (The Rectory), Miss Delandre, Sister Greene, and many others without cards.

The funeral arrangements were reverently carried out by Mr. R. H. Creighton.Bottom of Form

24 July, 1924

Mr. R. Dumbrell, monumental mason, in Gosford, is at present engaged on a memorial designed for the grave of the late Mrs. E. Fielder, which will be handsome in its simple dignity.

The stone being used for the two course kerbine, comes from the Gosford quarry, managed by Mr. Hayward, and is another proof of the excellence, of the local article.

Mr. Dumbrell, who introduced this stone to Newcastle, and erected many hundreds of pounds worth of it in the cemeteries there, says it is the best, in fineness and evenness of grain., that he has handled, and it is doubtful whether , it could be equalled anywhere. With’ such superiority or texture, and practically unlimited life (with Gosford Court House as a standing testimony in proof), there is, as Mr. Dumbrell says, a wonderful future ahead of this Gosford stone.

19^th February, 1925.

SIDNEY FIELDER.

On Sunday morning last the news swiftly passed through the town that Dr. Sidney Fielder bad gone — another of the link’s with the Gosford of the past had been severed. For some time Dr. Fielder had been in indifferent health, and after a short acute illness he passed away peacefully shortly after midnight on Saturday.

He was the fifth son of John Roberts and Elizabeth Ann Fielder, and was born at Tichfield, Hants, England, 64 years ago.

After graduating at Glasgow, he practised his profession at Rochdale in Lancashire. On arrival from the old country he commenced the practise of his. profession at Wollongong, transferring his practice there to Dr. John Kerr.
In 1895 he came to Gosford, and, in those days of pioneering, was the only medico between the outskirts of Newcastle and Hornsby. This fact necessitated many hardships and long horseback excursions.

Dr. Fielder became endeared to his patients by his wonderful personality and undoubted professional skill. Sanitation was defective in those days, and typhoid was common in Gosford.

As an Alderman, and a quiet but keen worker for the good of his town, Dr. Fielder suggested and advised what was necessary, and that disease was wiped out except for an occasional imported case.

He was a member of the Masonic Order, a Trustee of the School of Arts, and in the past a very ardent worker for all the local movements.

The loss of his wife nine months ago deprived him of the mainspring of his life. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. James H. Paul, and three grandchildren.

On Monday afternoon a most impressive and touching funeral service was held at Christ Church. The Rector, Rev. A. Renwick, spoke of his friend — Dr. Fielder — very feelingly, and mentioned instances of his love for children and their ready response to that love. A large number of friends followed to the graveside at Point Frederick (this is clearly a typo on behalf of the newspaper as he is buried in Point Clare Cemetery. Point Frederick was the cemetery in use before Point Clare Cemetery), where Dr. Fielder was interred beside his wife, who so recently pre-deceased him. The pall-bearers were Messrs Charlie Hills, W. M. Beckett, R. Ingram, and E. Rowlands.

The mortuary arrangements were carried out by Mr. R. H. Creighton.

Many beautiful wreaths covered the cedar casket, including: —

Narara Red Cross Members, the Committee

Gosford School of Arts,

Women’s Guild (Church of England),

Women’s Guild (Presbyterian Church),

Dr. Gerald Archbold, Mr and Mrs J. O’Brien, Mrs Shaw, Mrs Battley, Miss Donaldson, Mr and Mrs Deasey, Mr and Mrs A. A. Gollan and family, Mr and Mrs Jim Frost, Mr and Mrs Swinson, Mrs A. Harris, Mr and Airs McGlashan and family, Mr and Mrs R. H. Clifford, Mr and Mrs W. J. Coulter, Mr and Mrs W. Eley, Mr Arthur and Misses Coulter, Mr and Mrs W. Beattie and family, Mr and Mrs J. F. Davison and family, Mrs Gell and family, Mr and Mrs A. I. Chapman, Mr and Mrs J. Verden and family, Mr and Mrs C. J. Fenton and family, Mr and Mrs F. Wheeler and family, Mr and Mrs W.

Horsnell. Mrs Hastings, Mr and Mrs W. E. Gell,’ Mr and Mrs F. R. Archbold and family, Mr and Mrs Bradbury, Dr and Mrs Rowland, Mr and Mrs Margin and family, the Rector and Mrs Renwick, the Children at the Rectory, Mr onil Mrs IT. Patep.in.ii, Mr and Mrs Harold Delandve, Mr and Mrs S. Uren

(Springwood), Mr and Mrs H. G. White and family, Mrs Stephen and Mavis, Mr and Mrs Lindgram and family, Mr and Mrs Guy Parr, Mr and Mrs W. H. Parry and family, Mr and Mrs C. Hills. Mr and Mrs Tummut and daughter, his loving Son and Daughter, brother Tom, and the grandchildren Adrian, Alister, and June.

2^nd April, 1925

IN MEMORY OF DR. AND MRS. FIELDER.

The ceremony of unveiling Memorial Windows, placed in Christ Church, Gosford, to the memory of the late. Dr. and Mrs. Fielder, will be performed on Tuesday afternoon next, at 2.30 pm.
The Ven. H. A. Wood, Archdeacon of Newcastle, will officiate.

3^rd April 1951

First Motor Car Comes To Gosford

It is recorded that the first motor car owned by a Gosford resident was that of a Miss Fletcher, who brought it here in 1905.

The late George Fletcher (‘Penang’), an ‘old-timer’ himself. Who recorded more early history of the district than anyone before or since his time, in an article in ‘The Gosfond Times’ of July 24, 1935, tells us that the lady was not related to him.

Even in 1915,’ he wrote, ‘there were only about four cars, these being owned by Dr Fielder, Ross Smith (running to Avoca i, A. H. Warner (Wyong) and a private hire car.

‘P. E. Thompson was actually the first local owner, he sold his first car (a Crossley) to Dr Fielder.

Fred Cox was the next owner, then O. F. Ash, Dr Paul, Mr G. Pagan followed suit, until now they are uncountable.

It was a sight to watch the playing up of the horses when the cars first came, and there was general dread by passengers of horse-drawn vehicles when a car was met on the Punt Road or similar highways. One had to hop out and hold the horse’s head as the infernal machine went by.’