World War One soldiers with a connection to Narre Warren and Narre Warren North

This is a list of any men I could find with a Narre Warren or Narre Warren North or Narre Warren East connection who enlisted in World War One. Twenty nine of the men are on the Narre Warren War Memorial, see here. Eighteen of the men are on the Narre Warren North War Memorial. One soldier, Louis Sage, is on both. The other names I found in newspaper reports including a report of the eight men who worked for Donald Rowe, a baker of Narre Warren, who all enlisted. I have written about the patriotic, Mr Rowe, here. If you know of anyone else, connected to Narre Warren or Narre Warren North, I would be interested in hearing about them.

Narre Warren originally referred to the township of Narre Warren North, which was surveyed around 1860. This was later known as Old Narre Warren to distinguish it from New Narre Warren which developed around the Railway Station, which opened in 1882. It is likely that some of these men who have their birthplace as Narre Warren, were actually born in 'old' Narre Warren or Narre Warren North.  Narre Warren East is a small town off Wellington Road in the Berwick Road and Mountain Flat, Edebohls and Haysey Roads vicinity. The State School No. 3719, opened in February 1912, in the Anglican Church Hall. It initially operated half time with Menzies Creek, No. 2457, but they both became full-time in 1914. In February 1921, a new school building was erected. The Church of England was called St Mungo's, there was also a public hall, which was opened on November 30, 1928.

The Narre Warren North War Memorial

Photograph courtesy of the  Casey Cardinia Remembers website. There are more photos of the memorial here

http://www.caseycardiniaremembers.org.au/narre-warren-north-war-memorial/

What follows is the list of First World Soldiers and their connection to Narre Warren or Narre Warren North and their Service Number (SN) so you can look up their full service records on the National Archives website, www.naa.gov.au   

Asling, Charles (SN 69229) 

Asling, Henry (69230)

Charles and Henry were twins, born February 24, 1899. They enlisted on August 17, 1918 at the age of 19.  They embarked on November 2, but the troopship was recalled due to the War ending and they were discharged in January 1919. The boys, both farmers, were born in Narre Warren North. They were the sons of Charles and Elizabeth (nee Meade) Asling of Narre Warren North. The brothers are listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Social for the Asling twins and Price Hill.

South Bourke & Mornington Journal October 31, 1918 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/6365118

Battersby,  Herbert David (SN 1218) Herbert was born in and lived in Narre Warren North. He enlisted at the age of 21 on March 11, 1916. He was a labourer and his next of kin was his mother, Jane. He was wounded in action in Belgium and died as a result on May 29, 1917. His injuries were horrific - right leg blown off as were toes of his left leg. Herbert was the son of  Edward and Jane (nee Crowley) Battersby of Granite Grove, Narre Warren North. He is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Report of the sad death of Lance-Corporal Battersby

Dandenong Advertiser, June 21, 1917 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/88662435#

Brown, J

Brown, Alfred Hart (SN 1217)
Brown, Robert Woodside (SN 3040) The Narre Warren War Memorial lists a J. Brown, I have not identified him yet. Robert and Alfred are brothers from Narre Warren North, so it may refer to one of them. They are both listed on the Narre Warren North Memorial.  I have written about them, here. 

Buchanan, Eric Alexander (SN 1676) Eric  is listed on the  Narre Warren War Memorial, read about  him, here. 

Burns, Charlie. Charlie Burns is on the Narre Warren War Memorial. I have not positively identified him as yet, but you can read what I know about him, here.

Charman, Herbert Henry (SN 3360). Herbert was born in Narre Warren and enlisted at the age of 19 on February 9, 1917. He was a carpenter. His parents, Thomas William and Kate (nee Brown) Charman, gave their consent to his enlistment. They lived at Oxford Street, Oakleigh. Herbert Returned to Australia February 19, 1919.

Chitts, Vic. Vic was employed by Donald Rowe, the baker. I have not identified him as yet, but you can read about my efforts, here.

Colliss, Alfred (SN 6780) Alfred said he was 44 years and 3 months old when he enlisted on January 18, 1917. He lived at Narre Warren North and was a labourer. His next of kin was his sister Helena Smith, the mother of Harold Curtis (see below). In reality Alfred was actully 46 and looks his stated age...and not capaable of carrying on full training according to his medical report. He was sent home from England in November 1917 and discharged on medical grounds, and the fact that he was overage, in February 1918. Alfred is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Colliss, Malcolm John (SN 6980) Malcolm enlisted on October 18, 1916 at the age of 31. He was a labourer, lived at Narre Warren and his next of kin was his brother, Joseph Colliss of Yallock. Malcolm Returned to Australia November 1, 1917 suffering from Tubercular peritonitis. He was discharged on July 2, 1918 and died on August 14, 1918. Malcolm is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Alfred, Malcolm and Helena were born in Narre Warren and were the children of Joseph and Elizabeth (nee Charman) Collis. 

Report of Colliss family War service

Berwick Shire News February 28, 1917 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/8579843

Cook, John Francis (SN 129) John enlisted on January 20, 1915. He was a 21 year old grocer. He Returned to Australia April 11, 1916 and discharged on medical grounds - he had Enteric fever (typhoid) and had also been wounded - shrapnel wound to knee and face.
Cook, Thomas Frederic (SN 10598) Thomas was a teacher at Warrandyte State School when he enlisted on January 19, 1916. He was 25 years old. He Returned to Australia April 30, 1919.

The brothers were born in Narre Warren. Their parents were Thomas Galliard and Annie Maria (nee Hayden) Cook of Westgarth Street, Northcote.

Crotty,  Gerald Francis Xavier (SN 6983) Gerald enlisted on October 24, 1916. He was a 23 year old Military clerk. Gerald Returned to Australia September 25, 1919. 
Crotty, John Patrick Joseph (SN 2783) John was 26 years old when he enlisted on April 26, 1916. He was a clerk. He did not serve overseas and was discharged as medically unfit on May 19, 1917.

John and Gerald were both born in Narre Warren. They were the sons of John Patrick and Teresa (nee Logan) Crotty of Frederick Street, Hawthorn.

Cunningham, Albert (SN 1245) Albert was a 30 year old butcher and farmer when he enlisted on February 25, 1916. He was wounded whilst serving - gun shot wound - shell right eye and Returned to Australia November 20, 1918.
Cunningham, Claude Sydney (SN 1246) Claude enlisted on March 18, 1916 at the age of 24. He was a farmer. Claude Returned to Australia April 30, 1919.

Albert was born in Dunedin in New Zealand; Claude was born in Sydney. Their next of kin was their mother, Emma Cunningham, of Narre Warren East.

Currie, Reg (SN 1840). Read about Reg, who was employed by Donald Rowe, here.

Curtis, Harold David (SN 4763) Harold was only 18 when he enlisted on September 28, 1915. He was  a blacksmith. His next of kin was his mother, Helena Smith, of Narre Warren North. Harold Returned to Australia April 13, 1919.  Harold is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial, along with his uncles, Alfred and Malcolm Colliss (see above).

Dean, James  (SN 2999) James was born in Sydney and was a 42 year old market gardener when he enlisted on March 17, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Frances, of Narre Warren North. James Returned to Australia March 28, 1919. James is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial. James was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.

Farewell to James Dean and Louis Sage

Dandenong Advertiser August 17, 1916 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/8488325

Dewar, Alfred James.  I have written about Alfred, who is on the Narre Warren War Memorial, here. 

Drury, Wilfred (SN 566) Wilfred enlisted March 13, 1916. He was a 23 year old farmhand and his address was c/o Mr H. Hillbrick, Narre Warren. His next of kin was his mother, Margaret Taylor, of Geelong. Wilfred was wounded in action - gunshot wound to the scalp - and Returned to Australia September 27, 1917 and was discharged on medical grounds in January 1918. 

Duncan, D  There is a D. Duncan on the Narre Warren War Memorial who  I believe is David Baird Duncan  (SN 2366). Read about  him, here. 

Duncan, James Ramsay (SN 432)  James is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, read about  him, here. 

Dunwell, Fred   (SN 1392)  Fred is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here. 

Edebohls, Arthur (SN 3135) Arthur enlisted on October 31, 1916. He was a 23 year old labourer and he Returned to Australia March 2, 1919.
Edebohls, Edwin John (SN 3136) Edwin enlisted at the age of 26 on July 13, 1915 and was discharged at Broadmeadows on December 13, 1915. He re-enlisted on October 27, 1916 and this time was accepted, served overseas and Returned to Australia July 24, 1919.
The brothers were born in Narre Warren and they were the sons of Henry and Mary (nee Troup) Edebohls. At the time of enlistment the family was living at Frankston Road, Dandenong. Mary was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (nee Fox) Troup. John Troup had purchased land in the area in 1855. Mary was also the sister of Ann Rae, so the Edebohls boys were first cousins of the Rae brothers, written about below. 

Fordon, John Henry (SN 1230 / 1462) John was a 39 year old labourer, from Narre Warren, when he enlisted on October 13, 1914. His next of kin was his sister, Mrs Smith,  who lived in Western Australia. John Returned to Australia Fenruary 13, 1917 and was discharged on medical grounds - Chronic Alcoholism - in the June. 

Forrester, George (SN 4810) Read about George, who was employed by Donald Rowe, here.

Gander, Albert Frederick  (SN 7004) Frederick, as he was known, enlisted on October 18, 1916. He was a 28 year old farm hand. He Returned to Australia May 1917 and was discharged on medical grounds - hammer toes and Tachy Cardia. Fred enlisted for a second time on June 4, 1918 in the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force and served in New Britain, and Returned to Australia from Rabaul August 6, 1919. Fred was born in England, his next of kin was his father who lived in Western Australia. His address on his first enlistment was Narre Warren and, on his second enlistment, was Hallam.

Haysey, Norman (SN 6813A) Norman was a 19 year old orchardist when he enlisted on August 12, 1917.  He was Killed in Action on July 4, 1918.
Haysey, Robert Ellesmere (SN 2588) Robert was a 20 year old orchardist when he enlisted on May 17, 1915. He was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the Belgium King and he Returned to Australia May 30, 1919.

The boys, both from Narre Warren North, were born in Seymour. Robert listed his mother, Annie Haysey (nee Adkins) of Narre Warren North as his next of kin and Norman, his father George of Seymour, as his next of kin. A notation on Norman's Attestation file said 'Mother, living apart from husband'. There is also a note that Norman's medals were to go to his mother. 

Report of the Haysey family

The Age July 29, 1918 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/1405381

Hill, Abraham Price (SN 1716)  Mr Hill was known as Price and is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial as P. Hill. Price was a 37 year orchardist from Narre Warren North when he enlisted on June 22, 1918. His next of kin was his wife, Clara (nee Lehman). He did not serve overseas and was demobilised December 24, 1918. Price enlisted again on January 16, 1919 in the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force, served in New Britain and Returned to Australia from Rabaul February 16, 1921.  

Hillbrich, A
Hillbrich, Ernest William WM (SN 3989 and 1045)
Hillbrich, Harold Herbert (SN 11760)
Hillbrich, Norman (SN 5326) 

Ernest and Harold and an A. Hillbrich are listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial. I cannot identify who A. Hillbrich might be and the only other Hillbrich to enlist was Norman. Norman and Harold are first cousins and Ernest is Harold's nephew. Read about them here. The surname is spelt as Hillbrick on the Attestation papers and Nominal Roll. 

Ireland, Percy Markham De Courcy (SN 1116).  Percy is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, read about him here. 

Johnstone, Harold. Harold was also one of Donald Rowe's employees, but I cannot idenitify him. I  have looked for Harold Johnson, Johnston and Johnstone and cannot find a man who enlisted with a connection to the area or to the bakers trade.

Kent, Alfred Ernest (SN 3336).
Kent, Charles Edward ( SN 237)
Kent, Norman Archibald (SN 1009)
The Kents were from Narre Warren and their parents, Anthony and Mary Kent, had arrived in Narre Warren around 1875 and purchased Granite Park, which they re-named Oatlands. They are on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about them, here. 

Le Mausrier, John William (SN 9564) John was born in Narre Warren, however he was living in Rathmines Road, Fairfield when he enlisted on July 6, 1915 at the age of 22. He was a salesman. His next of kin was his father, John, of the same address. John Returned to Australia June 20, 1919.

Lewis, Frederick (SN 3897) Fred was driver for Donald Rowe. Read about him here.

Lyons, Charles Jack  (SN 1394)  Another of Mr Rowe's employees. Read about him here.

MacKenzie, Dugald (SN 6069) Dugald, who is a first cousin to the Stedman boys, listed below, is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here. 

McClure, Alexander David  (SN 516) Alexander is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here. 

McGuire, Harry.  I cannot identify this man, who worked for Donald Rowe.  I have also looked at any Harry or Henry Maguires, but to no avail.

Moore, William Robert - see under Moors.

Moors, James Humphrey (SN 1169) James was 18 years old when he enlisted on October 11, 1915. He was a farmhand. James Returned to Australia January 25, 1919.
Moors, William Robert (SN 581) Enlisted under the surname Moore. Robert enlisted on July 5, 1915 at the age of 21. He was a labourer. He was wounded - gun shot wound hip, penetrating abdomen - and died as a result on July 28, 1916.

William and James were born in Broken Hill and were living in Narre Warren on enlistment.  They were the sons of Humphrey and Haddie Moore.  Humphrey has a statuary declaration in William's file that says my wife left me 8-9 years ago and that I bore all the responsibility of bringing up my family. There is also a letter in his file from his sister, Mrs H. J. Hall of  View Hill, Narre Warren. She had requested her brother's medals as her father considered I was entitled to my late brother's medals having carried out the responsibility of the mother towards the late soldier. The Moors brothers are listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Mouser, George.  Lieutenant Mouser is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here.

Moysey, William Brown Treeby (SN 239) William was born in Narre Warren and enlisted on March 31, 1916. He was a 29 year old farmer. He was the son of William Henry and Marie (nee Aurisch) Moysey of Jumbuk. William was awarded the Military Medal and Returned to Australia  November 7, 1919. William's grandparents, James Bickford and Susannah Brown (nee Treeby) Moysey arrived in Victoria around 1844 and had a farm in Moorabbin. In 1881 they moved to Narre Warren. 

Muffett, John Henry (SN 3104) John is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, read about him, here. 

Neil, W

Nutter, S T
Mr Neil and Mr Nutter are both listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, but I cannot identify either of them. Read about my efforts to identify them, here.

Pennycook, Ronald (SN 1016 & 38069).  Ronald enlisted on August 17, 1914 at the age of 21. His occupation was Sailor and Labourer. His next of kin was his father, Captain Pennycook, Master Mariner, Liverpool in England. Ronald Returned to Australia May 8, 1916 with a fractured skull.  He re-enlisted April 7, 1917 and this time his occupation was Sailor and Horseman. His address on the Embarkation rolls at both enlistments was Narre Warren North.  Ronald Returned to Australia November 22, 1919. There is a notation in his Attestation file that he signed a Statuatory Declaration on October 13, 1920 that his real surname was Pennycuik.

Rae, George Frederick (SN 5071) George enlisted on January 20, 1916 at the age of 23. He Returned to Australia March 25, 1919.

Rae, Walter John (SN 820). Walter was 18 years old when he enlisted on March 1, 1915. He Returned to Australia April 19, 1919.

The boys were both born in Narre Warren and were farmers from Narre Warren North. Their next of kin was their other, Ann; their father Frederick had died January 3, 1915 at the age of 48. In the late 1860s Frederick's  parents, George and Agnes (nee Webb) Rae, took up land in Narre Warren North and built a store, said to be the first building in the town. Ann Rae was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (nee Fox) Troup and a sister to Mary Edebohls and an aunt to Arthur and Edwin Edebohls, written about above. The Rae brothers are listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Randle, Henry George (SN 1274).  Henry was born in Narre Warren and enlisted on July 10, 1915 at the age of 27. His occupation was Orchardist and his next of kin was his father, William, of Narre Warren North. Henry Returned to Australia May 15, 1919.  Corporal Randle is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Welcome home to Henry Randle and Robert Brown

South Bourke & Mornington Journal July 31, 1919 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/66196497

Rooney, Alfred George (SN 481) Alf was awarded the Military Medal and was an employee of Donald Rowe. Read about him here.

Sage, Louis Francis (SN 30437)  Louis is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here. Louis is also listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Sherriff, Arthur Mason (SN 4529) Arthur was 26 year old Nurseryman when he enlisted on December 24, 1915. Arthur's next of kin was listed as his wife, Violet, of Narre Warren.  He received a gunshot wound to the left wrist whilst serving in France in August 1916 and after treatment,  Returned to Australia in September 1917 and was discharged on medical grounds on December 14, 1917.  Arthur is listed on the Narre Warren North War Memorial.

Arthur Sherriff returns home

Dandenong Advertiser, November 8, 1917 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/88818546

Sievers,  Frederick Richard (SN 1615). Frederick enlisted on December 16, 1914 at the age of 26. he was a labourer and his next of kin was his father, Richard, of Narre Warren. He fought at Gallipoli where a bomb burst close to him causing headaches, dizziness and defective eyesight. He was declared permanently unfit for War service. Frederick Returned to Australia October 1915 and was discharged January 24, 1916. 

Report of the return of Frederick Sievers and a presentation to Mrs Rae and Mrs Smith for her son, Harold. This is Harold Curtis, see above.

South Bourke & Mornington Journal March 2, 1916 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/6366531

Smith, George Stephen (SN 3679).
Smith, William Edward (SN 20121)
George and William are the sons of George Smith who was the Assistant Station Master at Narre Warren at one stage. They are both on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and you can read about them, here.

Stedman, Albert (SN 3262)
Stedman, Walter (SN 3909)

The brothers are the sons of Albert Stedman, who was Station Master at Narre Warren for a time. They are both on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and you can read about them, here. 

Thomson, William Henry.  William was born in Narre Warren on December 31, 1897. He enlisted in the Royal Australian Navy on June 1, 1912, when he was not yet 15. His enlistment form says he was 4 feet 9 inches at the time and 'On Advancement to Man's rating' he had grown to 5 feet 3½ inches. His next of kin on enlistment was his mother, Elizabeth, who lived at Mordialloc.  William served until May 21, 1919. 

Wanke, Arthur Robert (SN 1427)
Wanke, Frederick William (SN 6379)

The brothers are the sons of Emmanuel and Bertha (nee Aurisch) Wanke. They are both on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and you can read about them, here. 

Wauchope, Neil Andrew (SN 2239)  Neil is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here. 

Webb, Frederick John (SN 28407) Frederick was 19 years old when he enlisted on May 29, 1916. He was a 'striker for blacksmith'. Frederick died of cerebro spinal meningitis in England on January 30, 1917. He was born in Narre Warren, the son of Frederick John and Amelia Webb, who were living in Richmond at the time of Fred's enlistment. Amelia's maiden name was also Webb. As you can see by the death notice, below, he was the brother of Alice, Leo, Doris, Sylvia, Stanley and 'little Reggie'. Reggie was Killed in Action in New Guinea on July 31, 1943, another tragic death for the family. I feel this family must somehow be connected to Sidney Webb, of  Narre Warren, the namesake of Webb Street, Narre Warren, but I am not sure how.

Loving tribute to Frederick from his sister, Alice. 

The Age February 17, 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article155187526

Whinfield, David Horace (SN 2776).  David was a 27 year old teacher at Narre Warren East State School, when he enlisted on August 7, 1916. He was born in Macorna and his next of kin was his father, Stephen, of Macorna. David was awarded the Military Medal and he Returned to Australia November 15, 1919.

Report of David Whinfield's Military Medal

South Bourke & Mornington Journal November 14, 1918 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/66195050

Woodley, Ernest Simmell. Ernest enlisted on August 16, 1915. He was born in Narre Warren and was a 25 year old clerk. Ernest was discharged due to being medically unfit on May 29, 1916 as he suffered from 'traumatic epilspsy'. Ernest was the son of Thomas and Hannah (nee Buckley) Woodley. Thomas, at one time, operated a baker's shop on the corner of the Princes Highway and Webb Street.
Woodley, George Herbert (SN 4570) George, a brother of Ernest, is listed on the Narre Warren War Memorial, and I have written about him, here.

Young, Walter Leslie (SN 632)  A Walter Young was farewelled at a social and dance in April 1916 along with Alfred Brown and Herbert Battersby. There is an Walter Leslie Young listed in the 1914 Electoral Rolls at Narre Warren North, his occupation is a merchant. I believe this is Walter Young who enlisted on February 9, 1916 at the age of 24. His occupation was a grocer. Walter was born in Diamond Creek and his next of kin was his mother, Mary, of Diamond Creek. Walter Returned to Australia May 27, 1919. 

Farewell to Alfred Brown, Herbert Battersby and Walter Young

Berwick Shire News, May 3, 1916 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/92089861

Yannathan World War One Honor Rolls

There are two World War One Honor boards at the Yannathan Hall - one from the Yannathan State School, No. 2422 and the original board from the Hall. 

The Yannathan Roll was made by Mr H. Rawlings of Dandenong and unveiled at the Yannathan Hall, on March 28, 1919 (1). There is a Herbert Rawlings, of Melbourne Road, Dandenong listed in the Electoral Rolls at this time, so I presume he is the man who made the board. Herbert's occupation is a bricklayer, but he obviously had other skills as well. Mr Rawlings also made the Heath Hill State School Honor Board (see here) which is also now at the Yannathan Hall. 

The Yannathan Honor Board

South Bourke & Mornington Journal March 13, 1919   https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/66195719#

Yannathan Honor Board, unveiled March 28, 1919.

Image courtesy of the Narre Warren & District Family History Group website http://www.caseycardiniaremembers.org.au/

The Yannathan State School, No, 2422, opened in 1882. I currently have no information about when their Honor Board was unveiled or who made it.

The Yannathan State School Board, now housed at the Yannathan Hall.

Image courtesy of the Narre Warren & District Family History Group website http://www.caseycardiniaremembers.org.au/

What follows is information on the soldiers on the Yannathan Honor Roll. Some of these men are also listed on the Heath Hill State School Roll, see here,  and some on the Yallock Rolls, see here. I have included their Service Number (SN) so you can look up their full record on the National Archives of Australia, www.naa.gov.au

Addision, William Dailey (SN 806) William was born in Lang Lang and was 26 years old when he enlisted on February 23, 1916. He was a motor mechanic and his next to kin was his mother, Mrs Kenwright, of Prahran. In July 1917 he was declared unfit for military service and discharged to take up employment as a Munitions Worker. In 1937 he sent a statuary declaration to Army Base Records to say that his real name was Oswald Mann Addison. This is a bit odd as his birth was registered at Cranbourne in 1889 as William Dailey Addison to James Dailey Addison and Mary Jane Henderson. William was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file, here, on the Battle to Farm website. 

Bateson, Archibald Clarence (SN 4735) Archibald was born in Yallock and he joined the Navy on April 23, 1915 when he was 16. His next of kin was his mother, Mary. He remained in the Navy until April 1924. Arch is the brother of George, below.
Bateson, George (SN 1307) George was born in New Zealand and he enlisted on November 10, 1914 at the age of 21. His next of kin was his father, Elias Bateson of Yannathan. George Returned to Australia on December 30, 1918. 

Binding, Albert Dorman (SN 4134) Albert was born in Yannathan and enlisted at the age of 26 on August 13, 1915. He was a farmer, his next of kin was his father, James, of Toora. Albert Returned to Australia June 23, 1919 and was later living at Jandowae in Queensland (Jandowae is east of Chinchilla and north of Dalby)

Boxshall, Albert Victor (SN 3481)  Bert enlisted on July 7, 1915 at the age of 29. He was a  Tram Conductor. He Returned to Australia on May 8, 1919.  Bert was the son of Thomas  and Elizabeth (nee Mills) Boxshall, who moved to Yallock in 1895. You can read about the family, here.

Brodie, Frederick Arthur (SN 94) Frederick  was born in Clyde and was a 27 year old motor mechanic when he enlisted on January 4, 1918. His next of kin was his mother, Jane, of Cranbourne and his address was Yannathan. Frederick embarked on January 16, 1918 and Returned to Australia May 15, 1918. Before his enlistment, Frederick had been attached to the Remount Unit, A.A.S.C., Maribyrnong for three years. The Remount Unit trained and cared for the horses before they were shipped overseas for military use.

Burton, Gordon Frederick (SN 184) Gordon was born in Yannathan, enlisted on July 5 1915 at the age of 23. He was grocer and his next of kin were his parents, Frederick and  Elizabeth, of Wonthaggi.  Gordon Returned to Australia  April 13, 1919.

Cadd, Percy John (SN 3365) Percy enlisted on April 4, 1917. He was a 19 year old farmhand, from Yannathan, and his next of kin, his father William, was also at Yannathan. Percy Returned to Australia December 9, 1918. Percy also served in the Second World War, enlisting at the age of 41 in January 1941 and serving until June 1943.

Presentation to Percy Cadd

Lang Lang Guardian May 2, 1917 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/119514358#

Carson, Louis William (SN 2559) Louis was born in Yannathan and he enlisted at the age of 21 on April 12, 1916. His occupation was listed as scholar. Louis Returned to Australia in August 1918 and was discharged on medical grouds (neurasthenia).  Louis was the son of James and Elizabeth (nee Smethurst) of Myrtlewood, Yannathan. The family came to Yannathan in 1878, you can read about the farm, here.

Casey, Arthur William. Arthur enlisted on August 12, 1916. He was a 26 year old farmer. He was discharged ten days later on August 21 on medical grounds. 

Casey, George Henry 'Harry' (SN 2603) Harry was a 28 year old teamster when he enlisted on July 16, 1915. He Returned to Australia April 13, 1919.
Casey, John Alfred 'Jack'  (SN 2593) Jack enlisted on July 13, 1915. He was a 29 year old farmer. John was Killed in Action in France on August 2nd or 3rd, 1918. 
Casey, Victor (SN 57423) Victor was only 18 when he enlisted on January 5, 1918. He was also a farmer and he Returned to Australia January 17, 1919.

The boys were the sons of George and Lydia (nee Gardner) Casey of Yannathan. 

Jack Casey's death notice

The Argus, September 4, 1918  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1435192

Coates, Benjamin Wilson (SN Depot)  Benjamin enlisted on October 5, 1918. He was a 21 year old farmer. He was discharged due to the War ending.
Coates, Lawrence (SN 2623) Lawrence was a 21 year old farm labourer when he enlisted on July 19, 1915. He was Killed in Action in France, August 18, 1916.

The boys, both born in Koo Wee Rup, were the sons of Lawrence and Mary Jane (nee Wilson) Coates of Koo Wee Rup. 

In memoriam notice for Lawrence Coates

The Argus August 18, 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1643758

Cozens, James (SN 1085) James enlisted on June 26, 1917 at the age of 30. He was born at Yannathan and was a farmer.  In May 1919 James was granted leave to study 'Agriculture and Hog raising' in the United States. He returned to Australia July 17, 1920. His next of kin was his father, Henry Edwards Cozens, of Pine Grove Yannathan. His mother Jane, who died in 1891, was the sister of Joseph Carson of Myrtlewood, Yannathan  and  thus James was the first cousin of Louis Carson (see above). James was also the step-brother of James Payne, listed below. 

Denney, Powley (SN 2273)  Powley enlisted on December 27, 1915. He was a 22 year old farmer and his next of kin was his father, David Edward Denney, of Yannathan. Powley Returned to Australia Janaury 19, 1919.

Donaldson, Norman Stanley (SN 84) There is only one N.S. Donaldson in the Nominal Rolls. 

Norman enlisted in the AIF on August 18, 1914 at the age of 22, and later transferred to the Australian Flying Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant.  Norman was a motor driver and his next of kin was hsi father, John Walter Donaldson, of Elsternwick. Norman Returned to Australia July 12, 1919. What is his connection to Yannathan? He is listed on the Yannathan State School Honor Roll, so I can only assume that the family lived in the area at some time. 

Dunn, E.A  This man is listed on the Yannathan State School roll - it could be Alfred Egbert Dunn (SN 3271); Arthur Ernest (SN 1165); Cyril Edmund Andrew Dunn (SN 3058); Edmund Anderson Dunn (SN 1938); Ernest Albert (SN 2599) or 2nd Lieutenant Eustance Andrew Dunn. The closest man geographically to Yannathan is Alfred Egbert Dunn, whose address was Dandenong and his occupation was a farm hand.

Esler, Gordon (SN 534) Gordon enlisted on July 8, 1915. He was a 30 year old farmer. His next of kin was his mother, Mrs Helen Smethurst, of Avondale, Yannathan. Gordon Returned to Australia April 13, 1919. Gordon was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file, here, on the Battle to Farm website.

Gardiner, Balfour (SN 4232) Balfour was an 18 year old student when he enlisted on December 7, 1915. He Returned to Australia August 13, 1919.
Gardiner, Harold Edward (SN 870) Harold enlisted at the age of 23 on October 3, 1914. His occupation was carpenter. He Returned to Australia April 29, 1919.

Harold and Balfour were the sons of William Herbert and Maria Louisa (nee Wells) Gardiner of Yannathan. 

Gardiner, Robert Edward (SN 6815a) Robert enlisted on July 25, 1917 at the age of 22. He was  a farmer. He eventually Returned to Australia March 12, 1920. He had been scheduled for return on four other occasions and did not embark and was subsequently declared an 'illegal absentee'. Robert was the son of Robert George and Annie (nee Head) Gardiner of Yannathan. Robert senior and William, the father of Harold and Balfour, were brothers. 

Glover, Robert Leslie (SN 1118) Robert was born at Yannathan, was 22 years old and a farmer when he enlisted on February 14, 1916 His next of kin was his father, James Glover, of Tatura. His mother was Henrietta Harvey.  He Returned to Australia July 1, 1919. Robert was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here. James Glover was the brother of Abraham Patullo's mother, Sarah Glover. I have written about Abraham, below. This Abraham and Robert were first cousins and their other cousins, Robert and George Glover are listed on the Heath Hill State School Honour Roll, see here.

Greaves, Gordon Henry (SN 3128)  Gordon was a 26 year old Stock Agent, from Lang Lang, when he enlisted on August 6, 1918. His next of kin was his wife, Mona, of Albert Park.  He served in the Australian Remount Unit in the Middle East until August 1919. Gordon also served in the Army during World War Two from June 1940 until May 1947, he was a Lieutenant. 

Greaves, Richard Leonard (SN 5799) Richard enlisted on August 2, 1916. He was a 21 year old farmer. Richard Returned to Australia on January 11, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds (Facial paralysis). His next of kin when he enlisted was his father, of Yannthan. Richard was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here. Gordon and Richard are the sons of Henry and Annie (nee Nuttall) Greaves. 

Harker, George Ernest (SN 3840)  George enlisted on December 6, 1915 aged 21. George was awarded the Military Medal and he Returned to Australia on April 13, 1919. George was also granted a Soldier Settlement farm, read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.

Harker, Robert Herd (SN 345) Robert  enlisted on July 19, 1915 at the age of 28 and was Killed in Action in France, one year later, on July 20 1916.

The boys are the sons of Thomas and Catherine (nee Griffiths) Harker of Yallock. 

Hatty, David Samuel (SN 279)  Known as Sam, enlisted at the age of 22 on August 25, 1914. He served overseas and Returned to Australia on March 8, 1917 and was medically discharged as he suffered from chronic rheumatism.

Hatty, Thomas Alfred ( SN 5607) Thomas enlisted on November 25, 1914 when he was 24. He Returned to Australia on February 19, 1919. Thomas was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.

The Hatty boys were the sons of William and Jessie Augusta (nee Brown) Hatty and the family were living in Timboon when they enlisted. According to the Electoral Rolls they had previously lived in Yallock for a number of years. They are listed on the Yannathan State School Honor Roll. 

Head, Alfred John (SN 316) Alfred enlisted on July 19, 1916 at the age of 19. He was a farmer.  Alfred Returned to Australia on April 8, 1919. After the War, Alf was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.
Head, Charles enlisted on May 31, 1918  at the age of 29. He was a wheelwright. He did not serve overseas and was discharged due to the War ending.

The boys were the sons of John and Margaret (nee Forster) Head of Lang Lang.

Henderson, S  S. Henderson is on the Yannathan State School Roll, with the notation that he was wounded. I cannot identify who this is.

Hockley, George (SN 5577).  George was born in England and his father, Arthur who lived in England was listed as his next of kin. He enlisted on October 26, 1914. He was a 22 year old labourer. George Returned to Australia April 19, 1919. The Embarkation roll lists George's address as c/o Mr J. Leamon, Yannathan. This was Joseph Leamon, listed in the Electoral Rolls as a farmer. 

Hodgson, Joseph (SN 5390)  Joseph enlisted on March 9, 1916. He was a 23 year old farm labourer whose address on the Embarkation Roll was c/o J. T. Parker, Yannathan. Joseph was born in England and his next of kin was his father, who lived in England. Joseph Returned to Australia June 12, 1919. Joseph was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file, here on the Battle to Farm website.

Complimentary social at the Yannathan Hall for some men who had enlisted. 

Lang Lang Guardian, March 22, 1916 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/119513475

Holcombe, A   A. Holcombe who is mentioned in the advertisement above is not on either Honor Board.  I believe this man is either Allan Holcombe, who had a business in Caldermeade (see below) or connected to him, but I can't actually identify him, unless of course he was just invited to the social function, not because he enlisted, but because he was leaving the district.  In 1915 Holcombe and Monaghan also sold their property and choice dairy herd at Kernot, see here.

Dissolution of partnership between Monghan and Holcombe.

Lang Lang Guardian June 14, 1916  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119513697

Izzard, Horace Valentine (SN 373) Horace enlisted on February 22, 1915, aged one month off 28 years of age. He Returned to Australia on March 9, 1919. 

Izzard, Ralph Charles (SN 2636)  Ralph enlisted on June 9, 1915 aged 22. He served overseas and Returned to Australia on November 12, 1916 and was discharged in February 1917 as medically unfit, it mentioned in his record that he suffered from rheumatism. Horace and Ralph were the sons of Charles and Mary (nee Cant) Izzard of Yallock. 

Jones, J J. Jones is also listed on the Yallock Honor Board and I believe that it is 

Jones, John Owen (SN 2674) John enlisted on August 2, 1915 at the age of  26, he was a miner and his next of kin was his mother, Marian, of Campbell Street in Wonthaggi. He suffered a severe gun shot wound to the right thigh in  France on April 24, 1918 and Returned to Australia on December 24, 1918 and was medically discharged in June 1919. The 1909 Electoral Rolls show a John William Jones, Marian Jones and Maud Jones at Yallock.

Josephs, J This man is listed on the Yannathan State School Honor Board and the Yallock Honour Board (under J. Joseph). There is a Joseph Josephs on the Electoral Roll at Yannathan in 1909, his occupation is a labourer. This is possibly the man on the Honor Boards or some connection. There are two J. Josephs that I can find who enlisted who are from Victoria. 

Josephs, James Rolfe  (Lieutenant). James enlisted on May 24, 1915. He was a clerk, 24  years old and his next of kin was his father, James, who lived in Prahran. James Returned to Australia May 10, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds (otitis media).

Josephs, Joseph Isaac (SN 3824)  Joseph was  27 when he enlisted on July 13, 1915, so would have been around 21 in 1909 and thus old enough to be on the Electoral Roll. His parents were dead and his next of kin was Clara Letitia Cutts of Ringwood.  Joseph was discharged on medical grounds, due to rhuematism on December 3, 1917 having Returned to Australia on August 25 of the same year. I believe the man on the Yannathan and Yallock Honor Boards is this Joseph Isaac Josephs. As  a matter of interest, Clara was a school teacher and in 1918 she married Joseph Isaac Josephs. I was hoping they had a long and happy marriage together, however she died in 1918, that's very sad. 

Kelly, Thomas (SN 16078) Thomas was 21 when he enlisted on December 10, 1915, He was wounded in action and Died of Wound September 27, 1917.
Kelly, William (SN 16077) Nineteen year old William enlisted the same day as his brother. He Returned to Australia September 23, 1919.

Thomas and William, both born in Yannathan, were the sons of William and Sarah Ann (nee Stephens) Kelly.

Report of the death of Tom Kelly

Lang Lang Guardian October 31, 1917  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119514817

Leeson, Alfred Ernest (SN 485) Alfred was 22 when he enlisted on November 1, 1915. He Returned to Australia on March 16, 1919.

Leeson, Arthur Leslie (SN 4797) Arthur enlisted on July 13, 1915 at the age of 28. He Returned to Australia on May 29, 1919.

Leeson, Claude Albert (SN 3103) Claude enlisted on October 5, 1916 aged 18 years old. He Died of Wounds (a gun shot wound to the skull) in Belgium on October 18, 1917.
The Leeson boys were the sons of  Arthur and Mary (nee Kalmbach) Leeson of Yannathan; Arthur had already died at the time of their enlistment.  Both Alfred and Arthur were granted Soldier Settlement farms, you can read Alf's file here and Arthur's file, here. They were all born locally - Alf in Clyde, Claude in Caldermeade and Arthur's birth place is listed as Monham Heath, but I believe this is actually Monomeith. 

Lemming, Frederick Thomas (SN 1953)  Frederick was born England and his next of kin, who was his father, also lived in England. When he enlisted on April 1, 1916 his occupation was a farm labourer and his address was Yannathan. Frederick Returned to Australia July 1, 1919 and he was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file, here, on the Battle to Farm website.

Lineham, William James (SN 2711)  William enlisted on July 19, 1915 aged 20.  His next of kin were his parents, Benjamin and Eliza Lineham of Yannathan. He was born in Clyde.  William Returned to Australia on April 13, 1919. Read more about William Lineham, here.

Mann, John I cannot find a John Mann with a local connection.

McCraw,  Herbert William (Depot 81956).  Herbert enlisted on November 2, 1918 and was discharged in December due to the War ending. Herbert was born at Yannathan and was 20 years old on enlistment. His occupation was Agent. He was the son of Francis William  and Mary Lee (nee Charman) McCraw of East Malvern. 

McDonald, Hector Rodney (SN 3425)  Hector was 25 and a farmer when he enlisted on January 1, 1917. He Returned to Australia July 24, 1919.

McDonald, Lachlan John. Lachlan was born in 1881 and served in the Royal Flying Corps and was accidently killed. 
McDonald, Neil Lamont (SN 2060) Neil enlisted on February 8, 1916. He was 29 years old and a labourer. He Died of Wounds on May 14, 1917
McDonald, Norman Victor (SN 934) Norman was 31 when he enlisted on February 8, 1916, the same day as Neil.  He Returned to Australia July 4, 1919.

The boys were born in Ardmona and were the sons of Charles Stewart and Margaret (nee Matheson) McDonald of Yannathan.

This is from Neil's Roll of Honor Circular on the Australian War Memorial website, which mentions the death of his brother, Lachlan,

https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R1650209

McGhee, Gordon General (SN 22949) Gordon enlisted on October 27, 1915, he was a 23 year old labourer.  Gordon Returned to Australia May 12, 1919. He was granted a Soldier Settllement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.

McGhee, Donald Malachi  (SN 3416)  enlisted, on June 24, 1915. He was a 19 year old railway porter and he was Killed in Action in France on July 19, 1916. 

The boys were the sons of John and Margaret (nee Johnston) McGhee; they were living at 61 Bridge Street, Northcote when their sons enlisted. Donald was born in Heath Hill. Gordon was born in Lang Lang, according to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages Index or Warragul according to his enlistment papers. 

McMillan, Alexander Walton (Lieutenant) Alexander was 20 years old and a salesman when he enlisted on February 15, 1916. His address was Oak Street, Hawthorn. His next of kin was his father, also called Alexander McMillan of Caldermeade Estate, Caldermeade. His mother was Jessie Walton. He returned to Australia April 1, 1919.

McNalty, Ed - I cannot work out who this is. I have looked for M(a)cNalty, M(a)cNolty, M(a)cNaulty and M(a)cNally and cannot find a man with a connection to Yannthan.

Mitchell, Frederick Ernest (SN 716). Frederick was 19 years old when he enlisted on September 1, 1914. He was born in Yannathan, was a labourer and his next of kin was his aunt, Mrs Mary Ann Bissett of South Melbourne.  He was wounded at Gallipoli, severe gunshot wound to the arm, and discharged in England on his request, on medical grounds in May 1916. His reasons given for his discharge in England were that he had no family, parents of dependents in Australia and that he had been promised a billet driving  a motor car. He returned to Australia eventually as his address in the 1920s was Northcote, in Melbourne.

Monoghan, James. The only James Monoghan who enlisted  was 36 years old and a clerk, who was born in South Melbourne. His wife, whose address was Latrobe Street, Melbourne was his next of kin. James enlisted on June 8, 1915 and was discharged in the September on medical grounds.  There was a John Arthur Monaghan listed in the 1916 Electoral Roll at Koo Wee Rup and a Martin Henry Monoghan listed in the 1917 Electoral rolls at Caldermeade (see above under Holcombe).  James may be connected to either of those men. Another possibility is Michael Monaghan (SN 430), name spelt lightly different, who was born in Drouin and enlisted on February 2, 1915. He was a 21 year old labourer. His next of kin was his father, James, of Drouin and later of Lang Lang. He Returned to Australia January 30, 1920.  I have checked for the surnames Monohan, Monahan and Monaghan and can't find a soldier with a Yannathan connection.

Nelson, William Holdroyd (SN 22961)  William was born in Yannathan and he was a 20 year old medical student when he enlisted on June 16, 1915. His next of kin was his father, William Nelson, of Elsternwick. William was wounded on two occasions - gunshot wound right eye amd gassed. He was also awarded the Miltary Medal. He was discharged in England as he found employment with the Civil Service - in his application for discharge he wrote that it is generally admitted that it is a sound policy of a %age of Colonials to be in the English Civil Service. He had another reason to stay in England and that was because he was married there on October 1, 1919. His bride was Freida Helen Havelock (nee Bower), a 29 year old widow. Sadly, the marriage did not last. In 1920, William was appointed to the Colonial Office in Uganda, and Helen (as she was known) began an affair with another man and in 1928 William returned to Victoria and instituted divorce proceedings. The divorce was granted, their daughter, Joy, born 1921, remained in Nairobi in Kenya, with her mother. He had a varied life and ended up as the Director of the Melboure Zoo.

Obituary of William Holroyd Nelson, born in Yannathan.

The Age May 27, 1947 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article206024932

O'Donnell, Joseph Daniel (SN 3602) Joseph enlisted on September 17, 1915 aged 25. His next of kin was his father, M. O'Donnell of Koo Wee Rup and he was also born in Koo Wee Rup. He Returned to Australia on September 26, 1917 and had 'severe corns on the sole of the left foot'.  Joseph was listed as Michael's next of kin, after he returned home because their father 'could not be traced'.

O'Donnell, Michael Alexander (SN 730) Michael enlisted at the age of 25 on November 27, 1914.He was born in Ballarat.  He had a colourful military history with a range of disciplinary issues. He received  a gun shot wound to his shoulder, suffered a fractured skull and Died of Wounds on July 17 1918.  Michael was living in Sydney when he enlisted but his next of kin was his father,  Michael James O'Donnell of Yannathan. Michael's will, in his file at the  National Archives has the family's address as Yallock. 

O'Rourke, Alexander Dennis 'Alick' (SN4877) Alick enlisted on September 29, 1915. He was a 33 year old farmer and his next of kin was his brother, Frederick, of Loch. Alick Returned to Australia May 8, 1919. Alick and Fred are listed in the 1914 Electoral Roll at Heath Hill. 

Presentation to Alick O'Rourke at the Yanathan Hall, November 1915.

Lang Lang Guardian December 1, 1915 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/119513174

Parker, William Alexander (SN 6562) William was 21 years old when he enlisted on May 22, 1916. He was a driver and his next of kin was his father, John Thomas Parker, of Yannathan. William Returned to Australia June 12, 1919. William was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file here on the Battle to Farm website.

Patullo, Abraham Albert (SN 31500) Abraham enlisted on October 2, 1916, at the age of 25. He was a farmer and his next of kin was his father, Thomas, of Lang Lang, which is also where Abraham was born. His mother was Elizabeth Glover and he was the first cousin of  Robert Glover, listed above.  Abraham Returned to Australia July 13, 1919. 

Payne, James (SN 1561) James was born in Lyndhurst and was 28 when he enlisted on October 6, 1916. His next of kin was his mother, Mrs Christina Cozens, of Yannathan, which is where he was also living at the time of his enlistment. He suffered a number of gun shot wounds and  Returned to Australia on February 15, 1918. When he applied for his medals in April 1918 he was living in Five Mile (Koo Wee Rup North). Christina was the second wife of Henry Edwards Cozens and thus the step-mother of James Cozens, listed above. 

Welcome home to Jim Payne (sadly his surname is spelt incorrectly here)

Dandenong Advertiser, May 2, 1918 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/88818199#

Pritchard, George (SN 433)  George enlisted on September 11, 1915. His next of kin was his wife Janet, of Yannathan. He returned to Australia on October 18, 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds. George was 47 years old when he enlisted and had also been in the Boer War - the 4th Contingent Imperial Bushmen where he served for 1 year and 123 days. George was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.

Priestley, Alfred (SN 6877) Alfred enlisted on July 11, 1917, one month short of his 21st birthday. He Returned to Australia December 20, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds - gunshot wound, right shoulder.

Priestley, Arthur (SN 2200) Arthur enlisted at the age of 21 on June 20, 1916. He was a farmer. He was wounded in action and died on January 6, 1918. 

The boys were born in Lang Lang to Alfred Turner and Fanny (nee Gray) Priestley. Their father was listed as their next of kin, and at the time his address was Nullawil, which is north of Wycheproof, although they were later living in St Kilda. 

Obituary of Arthur Priestley

Lang Lang Guardian January 26, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119515081

Rietschel, Arthur William John  

Rietschel, Percy George Oscar  

Arthur (b. 1888) and Percy (b. 1889) are the sons of Otto William and Helen (nee O'Neil) Rietschel. Helen is in the Electoral Roll at Yallock in 1905 and 1906 and then I can't find her and I believe Otto died in 1901. This is what I had found out about Arthur and Percy, but I couldn't find any trace of their enlistment until Lynne Bradley from the Narre Warren & District Family History Group discovered the answer. It turns out that Helen (also known as Ellen) remarried in 1903 to William James Jones and the boys enlisted  as Arthur Jones and Percy Jones. Perhaps it was because there was so much anti-German feeling at the time, they wanted to hide a German sounding name.   Arthur (SN 2673) enlisted on July 28, 1915 aged 27, occupation wheeler, next of kin was his mother Ellen Jones of Hicksborough, Wonthaggi. Arthur Returned to Australia on January 8, 1919. Percy (SN 1403) enlisted a day later than his brother, on July 29. He was 26 years old and also a wheeler, Ellen was also his next of kin. Percy served overseas and then Returned to Australia on January 31, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds on May 28, 1918 suffering from 'myalgia and muscular atrop

Ridgway, Mark (SN 449) Mark was born in Lang Lang and he was a 23 year old Buttermaker when he enlisted on February 11, 1915. His next of kin was his father, William Ridgway of 'Hazeldean', Lang Lang. In the 1914 Electoral Roll, he was living in Yannathan. Mark received  a gun shot wound to his knee and his tibia and fibula were fractured. He Returned to Australia on September 9, 1916 and was medically discharged on March 30, 1917.

Ridgway, Norman Frederick (Lieutenant) Norman was born in Yannatha and enlisted on August 18, 1914. He was a 27 year old driver and his next of kin was his father, John, of Kilcunda. Norman Returned to Australia September 14, 1918, suffering from Neurasthenia and Debility. 

Robertson, George.  There is a George Daniel Robertson (SN 33273) born at Tooradin who enlisted on October 10, 1916. He was 25 years old and a Soldier. His next of kin was his father, Robert, of Tooradin. George Returned to Australia June 16, 1919. This man is the closest I can find, geographically. The 1918 Electoral Roll has a George David Robertson, farmer, of Yannathan listed. He may have been the man who enlisted, even though I can't find a matching record or he may be related to the George on the Honor Roll.

Rogers, Eric Cyril Patullo (SN V81381) Son of Henry and Margaret (nee Patullo) Rogers of Yannathan. Eric was two months off 21 years of age when he enlisted on October 21, 1918. His occupation was a mechanic. He did not serve overseas due to the War ending. 

Scharf, Alfred (SN 962) Alfred was a 26 year old carpenter when he enlisted on January 18, 1915. Alfred was Killed in Action in France on August 24, 1916.

Scharf, Richard Albert (SN 7961)  Richard was 19, a shop fitter and he enlisted on July 13, 1915. He Died of Wounds received whilst fighting in France on May 1, 1917.

Alfred and Richard were the sons of Henry and Liselle (nee Fritz) Scharf. The family had lived on Finck's Road at Yallock, although they were in St Kilda Road, Elsternwick when the boys enlisted.

Sly, Cecil (SN 574) Cecil was born in England and his next of kin was his father, William, who lived in England. Cecil was 19 when he enlisted on October 26, 1914 and he was a butcher. He Returned to Australia July 12, 1919. What was his connection to Yannathan? I assume he must have worked in the area before enlistment. 

Smethurst, Herbert Claude (SN 441)  Herbert enlisted at the age of 23 on September 18, 1914; he was a chaffeur. He married Lillian Dorothy Sanders in England on November 2, 1916. Herbert Returned to Australia July 26, 1919. His next of kin on enlistment was his mother, Annie (nee Redfern), of Coburg. His father, John Henry Smethurst had died in 1898. 

Smethurst, S.J. The State School Roll has this person listed. We believe it is Samuel James Smethurst, born in 1888 and a brother of Herbert. He served in the Indian Army - he was a second Lieutenant in the Infantry branch, appointed February 1, 1917.  You can see his appointment in the London Gazette, here. Thank you to Lynne Bradley of the Narre Warren & District Family History Group for supplying this information on Samuel.

Smethurst, John Samuel (SN V77589)  John was a 39 year old farmer, who was born in Yannathan and lived in Yannathan, when he enlisted June 6, 1918. His next of kin was his wife, Mable. John did not serve overseas and was discharged due to the War ending.

Steen, Arthur Walter (SN 1964) Arthur was a 19 year old labourer when he enlisted on February 16, 1916. His next of kin was his father, James, of Yannathan.  Arthur Returned to Australia May 3, 1919.

Stephens, James Bennett (SN 2367)  James enlisted at the age of 21 on August 7, 1916. His occupation was Drover. His next of kin was his father, Francis Stephens of Yallock. James was Killed in Action in Belgium on October 4, 1917. 

Thompson, James Henry 'Harry' (SN 4953) Harry was the son of Thomas and Catherine Thompson of Yannathan. He enlisted at the age of 22 on October 11, 1915.  Harry Returned to Australia May 15, 1919. 

Farewell to Harry  Thompson and the Kelly Brothers.

Lang Lang Guardian January 19, 1916.  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119513272

Ware, Charles William Francis (SN 3285a) Charles enlisted at the age of 23 on July 27, 1915. He was employed on the Railways and had been born at Nyora. He suffered a severe gun shot wound to his right buttock and Returned to Australia on March 17, 1917 and was discharged for medical reasons on July 9, 1917. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Christina Wilson Ware who lived at Kongwak.   His father was Charles Joseph Ware. 

Watson, Robert Charles (SN 2018)  Robert enlisted on February 28, 1916.He was a 21 year old farmer. He was wounded in action - gunshot wounds to arm and jaw - and Returned to Australia November 5, 1917. Robert was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.
Watson, William Dunbar (SN 730) William was a 27 year old blacksmith when he enlisted on March 15, 1915. He died of pleurisy in France on March 5, 1917.

The boys were the sons of Charles and Grace Watson (her maiden name was also Watson), of Yannathan.

Report of the death of Corporal William Watson, born at Hazlewood whose parents lived at Yannathan.

Morwell Advertiser, March 23, 1917 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article65919663

Whitehead, Clarence Cecil (SN 26755) Clarence was a farmer at Yannathan when he enlisted on March 4, 1916. His next of kin was his mother, Margaret, of Cora Lynn.  He was Killed in Action in France on October 30, 1917.

This poignant In memoriam notice was placed by the Bethune family for their son David and his loving chums including Clarence Whitehead.

The Argus August 23, 1919  https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/4701994

Wright, Frederick Charles (SN 271A)  Frederick was a 19 years old farmer from Yannathan, when he enlisted on January 27, 1916. He had been born in England and his next of kin was his father, Charles, of England. Frederick Returned to Australia September 22, 1919.

Wright, John William (SN 646) John enlisted on September 24, 1914 aged 21. He was a farmer and  born in Yannathan  John Returned to Australia on October 26, 1918. 

Wright, Marmaduke George 'Duke'  (SN 703)   Duke was born in Koo Wee Rup and he enlisted on February 23, 1916 aged 20, he was also a farmer.  Duke Returned to Australia on January 25, 1919. he was granted a  Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website, here.

The brothers listed their mother, Isabella Wright, of Shepparton East as their next of kin. Isabella and George Wright were in the 1909 Electoral Roll at Yannathan.

Footnote

Koo Wee Rup Sun, April 2, 1919.