Eastern Adelaide Teacher resource.pdf - Army Museum of South ...

Attunga Garden - Burnside Memorial Hospital
Kokoda Trail - St Agnes
St Peter’s Memorial
Payneham Memorial Gardens
Kokoda Trail - St Agnes
War Trophy - Kensington
Avenue of Trees
Rose Park
War Memorials
and Commemorative Sites
in the Eastern Area
- Teacher Resource

Memorial Burnside District Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial and ‘Avenue of Trees’
Address Alexandra Avenue and Prescott Terrace, Rose Park
Background Information
C. Webb-Gilbert designed the distinctive Burnside District Fallen
Soldiers’ Memorial. The memorial was unveiled on the 14
December 1924. It features a bronze figure of a World War I -
Great War - soldier leaning forward with his left arm extended
towards the ground and giving aid to a comrade. The bronze figure
is mounted on a two-tier pedestal of granite. There are four bronze
plaques fixed to the pedestal which list the 'fallen' World War I
soldiers from the Burnside District. A fifth plaque honours the
fallen from World War II, Korea and Vietnam.
The memorial is situated at the eastern end of a strip of parkland
running down the centre of Alexandra Avenue from Prescott Terrace to Fullarton Rd. The
parkland is lined with “Trees of Remembrance”, each planted in memory of a Burnside
district soldier killed in the Great War. Numbered memorial plaques honouring these men
are spaced along both Alexandra Ave and Prescott Terrace.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) How many names appear on the Burnside District Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial?
a) 91
b) 83
c) 87
87 names
(2) What do you think the pose of the soldier on the Burnside District Fallen
Soldiers’ Memorial suggests he may be doing during battle?
He is bending down to give aid (succour) to a fallen comrade. The pose suggests he is about
to lift a friend to his feet.
(3) How many surnames appear more than once on the Memorial? Write these
names down.
11 names
They are;
Fordham
Frerichs
Hughes
Keely
Sando
Shepley
Slape
Suhard
Tucker
Roberts
Robin
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(4) When was the ‘Avenue of Trees’
planted and consecrated to the
memory of Burnside District’s fallen
soldiers in World War I?
19 July 1919
Source: Plaque Close St, West Side
(5) Can you find any evidence that not
all trees in the ‘Avenue of Trees’ are
the ones that were originally
planted? What is it?
In 1955 several trees were cut down and removed for street widening. New trees were
planted when the alterations were completed and have the appearance of younger
healthier trees.
(6) Following World War I, the Burnside community erected this magnificent
monument to the fallen and dedicated individual tributes to these local
soldiers by the planting of a tree in their memory. These gestures clearly
indicate the gratitude to the soldiers who had served and sense of loss felt
by local families for those men who had lost their lives.
World War I ended nearly ninety years ago. What significance do these
war memorials have for the local community and Australia generally
today?
The tributes show that World War I was a significant event in the history of the
Burnside district and greatly affected the local community. The fact that some trees
were replaced in 1955 and that the Burnside Council still carefully maintains the area,
suggests the war memorials are still considered an important part of the area’s cultural
heritage.
The impact of World War I in cities and towns throughout Australia was profound. It
represented an important period during which Australian troops proved themselves on
the world stage. This period saw the birth of the Anzac legend, which has played an
important role in the emergence of our national identity.
(7) Count the trees with no memorial plaques. What are their numbers? What
reasons might there be for these soldiers’ names not to be recorded on
individual plaques?
The numbers of the trees are 54, 60 and 76 found on two plaques located on Prescott
Terrace. The cost of plaques for some families may have been prohibitive and others
for various reasons may have preferred anonymity for their fallen relative.
Teachers note: Photos on the next page show the two granite blocks with the missing
names. Both are located on Prescott Terrace.
2

No
names
Classroom
(8) What are some of the obvious and significant
differences between the Burnside District Fallen
Soldiers’ Memorial and that of the more traditional
St Peters “stone digger” which is pictured right?
The figure on the Burnside District Fallen Soldiers’
Memorial appears more life like than the St Peters “stone
digger”.
The soldier on the Burnside memorial appears to be in
action, armed with a rifle in one hand and simultaneously
in the act of aiding a fallen comrade with the other.
It is someone doing his duty and at the same time showing
compassion for his wounded mate.
By contrast
The St Peters War Memorial features a soldier standing at
attention with his head bowed and with his rifle upside down in a stance, which is
known as “resting on arms reversed”. It is a traditional military mark of respect for
fallen comrades.
The St Peters soldier appears somewhat sombre, pallid and stiff in contrast to the
soldier featured on the Burnside memorial. Nevertheless it is still a dignified and
reverent tribute to the fallen.
(9) Private Horace Utting Fordham was a former student of
Norwood Primary School whose name appears amongst
the names of the fallen on the Burnside District Fallen
Soldiers’ Memorial. Visit the Australian War Memorial
website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Roll of Honour
Enter Private Fordham’s name, select First World War, 1914 – 1918, and click
on search. Locate the correct soldier and from the Circular Information find out
the following
3

How old was he when he lost his life?
24 years of age
On what date did he enlist?
Enlistment Date August 1914
Where and how did he lose his life?
Location of death: Mena Camp, Egypt
Cause of death: Smallpox
According to his family was he the first South Australian soldier to lose his life
overseas?
From the “Roll of Honour” information we learnt that his family believed he was the
second South Australian to lose his life overseas. Given the date of his death this
could well be correct.
What other relative of Horace Fordham lost his life during World War I?
Roy O. Fordham
What was this relative’s occupation (calling) before the war and where did he
lose his life?
Occupation (calling): Accountant
Place of death: In the region of Bullecourt, France
(10) MC is an abbreviation for the Military Cross which is a military award.
Find out why Lieutenant J K Robin MC, whose name is listed on the
Burnside District Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial, was recommended for this
award by accessing the Australian War Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Honours and Awards > Honours
and Awards Recommendations: First World War.
Enter the name Robin and ‘click’ on search. You will then need to open the
document, which contains the original recommendation.
Student Note: The block type reads SOMME and MOUQUET FARM. The Somme
River in France was the area of a major British offensive known as the Battle of the
Somme, which was launched on July11916. Mouquet Farm was the scene of fierce
fighting involving Australians during this battle which cost around one million lives
over a three and half month period.
The Military Cross recommendation for Lt. Robin reads in part,
“for showing exceptional coolness and bravery in
reconnaissance for positioning and firing of guns (trench
mortars). On two occasions, his guns repelled an enemy
bombing attack in the area of the Somme River. Throughout
days of heavy and continuous shelling at Mouquet Farm, his
coolness and bearing had a most steadying effect on the gun
crews under him”.
4

(11) The memorial trees in the “Avenue of Trees”, which line Alexandra
Avenue and Prescott Terrace, are evergreen.
Why do you think the local community chose this type of tree?
The fact that the leaves never fall is symbolic of the enduring tribute to those from
the Burnside district who were killed during World War I.
The evergreen trees are also symbolically linked to the Christian belief of eternal
life.
5

Memorial Burnside Council Chambers – Honour Rolls
Address Within the Mayoral Chambers, Greenhill Road, Tusmore
Background Information
Over 2,000 men and women from the Burnside Council
district served their country during World Wars I (Great War)
and II. Following the First World War, the people of the
district commenced fundraising in order to provide suitable
memorials to honour those who served in the Great War. As
in many other Australian communities, wooden honour rolls
were constructed listing the names of local citizens who
served, and those who died, during what was believed would
be the war to end all wars.
Perhaps the best known soldier commemorated on the
Burnside Council Honour Rolls is Lieutenant Colonel William
Charles Nightingale (W.C.N) Waite, DSO, MC, VD who
served in the Boer War, World War I and as Director of Recruiting in South Australia
during World War II. This lean and tough man was known affectionately by many as
"Mr Anzac" because he led Adelaide's Anzac Day parade twenty nine times on a
dashing white charger (horse). He also served a term as the Mayor of Burnside and
the Colonel Waite Oval, at Kensington Gardens Reserve, is named in his honour.
Perhaps his greatest exploit was during World War I at Gallipoli. As the officer in
charge of the 8 th Battery, he received the order to ceasefire at 1700hrs (5pm) on
December 19 1915, the day before the evacuation of Gallipoli. However, as Colonel
Waite later recalled, “I determined to have something special to remember it (the
evacuation) by, (so) at 1705 hrs (5.05pm) I ordered crew of No. 4 gun to fire again. I
risked a Court of Inquiry, I suppose, but none was ordered. So we fired, without
challenge, the last shot from Anzac”. He retained the shell case, which he mounted
and inscribed and kept on his mantelpiece following his return to Australia.
Teachers note: As the Mayoral Chambers are not open to the public you will need to
ring the Burnside Council Offices on 08 8366 4229 and speak to the Communications
Officer to organise access.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) Where are the Burnside Council Honour Rolls located within the Burnside
Town Hall?
Do you think an alternate location might be more appropriate given their
significance to Burnside’s history?
They are located near the Mayor’s chambers on the south west side of the Burnside
Town Hall, in an area that does not have public access for reasons of security. They
were initially easily accessible to the public. Students could argue that their original
7

location is inappropriate given their historical significance and that they should moved
to a location where they are on full public view.
(2) List three features relating to the design, wording or
names listed on the larger of the Burnside Council
Honour Rolls.
Some features include;
A complete list of names of those from Burnside who served
during World War I.
A distinctive header which appears on the honour roll.
Some women's names appear on the honour roll.
Wording includes the terms “King and Empire”, highlighting the strong ties
between Australia and Britain.
Many surnames appear on multiple occasions suggesting the impact of the war on
individual families.
Those who lost their lives appear with crosses after their names.
(3) How many names of those from the Burnside community appear on the
large Burnside Council Honour Roll?
Of these what number and what percentage died of all causes?
Total Names Killed in action (K.I.A) Died of
Wounds/Disease(DOW/DOD)
Total Names Killed in action (K.I.A) Died of
Wounds/Disease(DOW/DOD)
386 23 60
(4) Approximately one in five or six of the Australians who served in the First
World War did not return home. What percentage of those whose names
are listed on the Burnside Council Honour Roll lost their lives?
How do the Burnside figures compare with the national average and what
does this suggest about the impact of the war on communities throughout
Australia?
83 soldiers lost their life and a total of 386 served.
83 ÷ 386 = 22%.
Based on this figure the losses in Burnside were a little higher than the national
average.
Teachers note: The average percentage recorded on local memorials of those not
returning to Australia was approximately 18%. Of the 330,000 Australians that went
overseas during World War I in excess of 60,000 lost their lives. It is worth informing
students that approximately 50% of those who did return had injuries or wounds of
some kind which would have impacted significantly on the servicemen, their family
and their local community.
8

(5) How many medical staff, including both doctors and nurses, can you locate
amongst the names?
Seven nurses and two (male) doctors’ names appear on the honour roll.
Teachers note: The names of these nurses are D.A.H. Brinsley, M. Lenton, E.M.
Laity, L.A. Marchant, J.J. Marchant, I Rodgers and Rodgers. The doctors are Dr W.J.
Close and Dr R. Haste.
(6) What is the significance of the second smaller honour roll, which is also
located near the mayoral chambers?
It contains the names of those members of the Burnside council who served during the
First World War including Waite.
(7) Transcribe all the details, including his title and war decorations, relating
to Colonel Waite on the smaller honour roll.
Lt. Col. W.C.N Waite, DSO, MC, VD
Teachers note: William Charles Nightingale Waite was born in Adelaide in 1880.
When he was a schoolboy, first at St. Bartholomew's Church of England School at
Norwood and later at Prince Alfred College, he carried the dream of being a soldier.
Colonel Waite served in the Boer War (1899-1902). He re enlisted at the outbreak of
World War I and served at Gallipoli and then on the Western Front as an artillery
officer. He was appointed the Director of Recruiting in South Australia during World
War II. His public duties included a period as the Mayor of Burnside.
Lieutenant Colonel Waite was known affectionately by many as "Mr Anzac" because
he led Adelaide's Anzac Day parade 29 times riding a dashing white horse. In 1962, a
veteran of 82, he was a delegate of the South African War Veteran's Association to
the Boer War Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London. He was due to sail from Outer
Harbour at noon on April 25 of that year. "You won't have time for the march this
year, Bill," friends told him. "Miss the march?" he said, "Not on your life. I would
rather miss the trip." But he missed neither. As chief Marshall he was first off the
mark, first to finish and was driven down to the harbour in a fast car in an operation of
typical military precision. Lt Col Waite died, aged 93 on the 27 December 1973. The
Colonel Waite Oval, at Kensington Gardens Reserve, is named in honour of this great
Burnside citizen soldier.
Source: History of Burnside Chapter 7 Burnside at War Page 98 and
http://www.lighthorse.org.au/Pershist/waite.htm
Classroom
(8) South Australia sent nine contingents of soldiers to South Africa between
1899 and 1902 to fight in the South African or Boer War. By accessing the
Australian War Memorial website at
9

www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases> Nominal Rolls > Boer War
Nominal Roll
Enter the name Waite and click on search. Find out in which contingents,
Corporal and subsequently Lieutenant W.C.N. (William Charles Nightingale)
Waite served?
1 (MNTD RIFLES) CNTGNT and 6 (IMPERIAL) CNTGNT
(9) During the First World War, Lieutenant Colonel Waite served as an
artillery officer at Gallipoli and on the Western Front (France and
Belgium), where he won a number of military honours. By accessing the
Australian War Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Honours and Awards > Honours
and Awards (Recommendations: First World War)
Enter his surname and click on search. Locate the record for W.C.N. (William
Charles Nightingale) Waite. Click on the recommendation to find out why he
won the Distinguished Service Order (DSO).
The recommendation reads “For specially meritorious service and devotion to duty as
an Artillery Group Commander in FRANCE, from June 1916 to February 25 th 1917”
and then provides further details of the achievements of the artillery battery under his
command.
Teachers note: Teachers may wish to explain that accurate and timely artillery fire
was crucial to the success or failure of most large scale attacks on enemy positions
during World War I. Techniques for firing artillery improved throughout the war and
the process of planning artillery support became extremely sophisticated. This
generally involved many types of guns firing simultaneously to provide defensive
barrages for advancing troops and to bombard a range of enemy targets. These
included enemy artillery positions, which could be detected by the flashes that
emanated from their barrels when they were fired.
(10) One surname that appears five times on the large Burnside Council
Honour Roll is Sando. Two of the soldiers, S.J and L.H Sando, have a cross
next to their names. By accessing the Australian War Memorial’s website
at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Roll Of Honour
Enter the name Sando, select First World War, 1914 -1918 and ‘click’ on search.
Locate the records of these two men and from the ‘Circular Information” find
out the following;
What age was he Sydney Joseph Sando when he lost his life?
19 years and 10 months
10

What relations were Sydney Joseph and Leslie Hurtle Sando?
Brothers
Where did they go to school?
Rose Park
Where and when did Sydney Joseph Sando lose his life?
Pozieres, France August 12 1916
What was Leslie Hurtle Sando’s calling (occupation)?
Lithographer
Where and when did Leslie Hurtle Sando lose his life?
Mericourt, France, September 29 1918
Teachers note: Commencing 1 July 1916, the Battle at Pozieres, which was part of
the Battle of the Somme, was one of the first major battles involving Australian troops
on the Western Front. Australian troops were withdrawn exhausted from the area near
the Hindenburg Line in October 1918 and saw no further action. It is interesting to
note the younger brother died in the first major campaign involving Australians on the
Western Front and the older brother lost his life in the last major campaign prior to
Australian troops being withdrawn from the Western Front.
(11) By accessing the Commonwealth War Graves website at
www.cwgc.org
Enter the name Sando and the initials of one of the brothers into the ‘Debt of
Honour Register’, select World War I and the year of his death. Locate the
correct record and print a certificate in his honour.
The certificate will include a photo of the place where the soldier is buried or
commemorated.
(12) Why do you think so many people lost their lives during World War I
which for the most part involved opposing armies engaged in trench
warfare?
The loss of life is highlighted by the breakdown of those killed from the major
combatants, which appears on the next page.
Country
Approximate number of lives lost
Great Britain and her Empire 1,000,000
France 1,300,000
Russia 1,700,000
Germany and its allies 3,500,000
Losses of life per day of the war exceeded 5,500
11

These figures above demonstrate the extremely high loss of life of which a major
contributing factor were the conditions encountered in trench warfare, which typified
the fighting during World War I.
Students’ answers should mention the causes and consequences of trench warfare in
explaining the loss of life.
One major cause of this immense loss of life is that the countries involved didn't
realise the destructive power of the weapons developed since the last European war
almost 50 years earlier. These included;
The bolt action 303 Lee Enfield Rifle, which by 1915, had a range of nearly a mile
(approximately 1.6 kms) and could fire 15 rounds a minute.
The even more devastating Vickers Machine Gun that fired 600 rounds a minute.
The impact of modern artillery such as the howitzer (cannon) which could fire
shells eight miles (approximately 12 kilometres).
The toll that would be taken by grenades, flamethrowers and (eventually) gas that
progressively became part of World War I arsenals.
It is no surprise that by the end of 1914 both sides had dug into the earth like moles in
a desperate attempt to stay alive.
The resulting trench system on the Western Front not only covered the equivalent
of 25,000 miles (enough to encircle the world) but also stretched non-stop from
Belgium to Switzerland.
The effect of the appalling conditions in the trenches resulted in all manner of
diseases and deaths related to poor sanitation, extreme weather conditions and the
lack of modern medicines.
Soldiers who did not die by gunfire were often buried in the mud, which was the
result of incessant shellfire, whilst others drowned in water in shell holes whilst
seeking cover from enemy fire.
Source: http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/trench.htm and for information on the
Lee Enfield rifle http://members.optushome.com.au/lee-enfield/gh1.htm
12

Memorial Burnside War Memorial Hospital
Address 120 Kensington Road, Toorak Gardens
Background Information
The establishment of a community hospital in Burnside was
first suggested in August 1943 at a meeting of the Burnside
Council's Post-War Reconstruction and Development
Committee. In November 1943, the council adopted the
committee's recommendation that a hospital costing up to
£100,000 be built and that it become the area's principal
memorial to the fallen service personnel of World War I
(Great War) and II.
In February 1944, local resident Mr Otto von Rieben offered
his property Attunga for this purpose. His generous offer
was accepted unanimously by the council and a community
fundraising campaign began. In April 1949, von Rieben's
home was converted into a convalescent hospital for 21
patients as the first part of the War Memorial Hospital
scheme. It was closed in September 1956, having cared for
around 1,400 patients.
Burnside War Memorial Hospital was opened on 26 October 1956. Today, Burnside
is a progressive, not-for-profit private hospital, which underwent a multi-million
dollar redevelopment in 2002.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) In what year was the Burnside War Memorial Hospital opened? (Refer to
the above notes.)
26 October 1956
(2) Examine the War Memorial hanging in the entrance of the hospital.
What is the significance of the flowers featured in this coloured print?
The hanging establishes the connection between the hospital and its construction as a
‘living’ war memorial following World War II. The flowers featured on the hanging
are poppies. In English literature of the nineteenth century, poppies symbolised sleep
or a state of oblivion; this symbolism was carried into the literature of the First World
War, when a new, more powerful symbolism was attached to the poppy - that of the
sacrifice of shed blood. Poppies are also significant because they survived the horrors
of battlefield conditions and continued to grow.
The sight of the poppies on the battlefield at Ypres in 1915 moved Lieutenant Colonel
John McCrae to write the poem In Flanders Fields. The words of this poem
13

eventually inspired the sales of poppies by charities to assist those soldiers injured and
maimed during the war. This practice commenced in the early 1920’s and continues
today.
The hanging with its multitude of poppies would immediately suggest to most visitors
that the hospital has some link with Australia’s involvement in war, especially the
local Burnside community.
Source: http://www.awm.gov.au/commemoration/customs/poppies.htm
(3) The Attunga Garden is located next to the
Burnside War Memorial Hospital entrance.
Locate the arbour and associated memorial
plaque.
Who does it recognise and when was it
unveiled?
It recognises the surviving servicemen and women of World War II and also those
who kept Australia running through the war years. The plaque was unveiled on 2
April 1995.
Classroom
(4) Tributes to those who served during wars such as the Burnside War
Memorial Hospital are often described as living memorials. Comment on
the choice of a hospital as a living “War Memorial”.
The sentiments and practical purposes associated with war memorials help give them
their meaning. It is the choice of a particular sentiment or purpose over another that
provides a range of alternative possibilities for war remembrance. War memorials that
perform a public service such as hospitals draw upon the sentiment which seeks to
improve the human condition by looking after the sick and injured. They also have the
practical benefits of serving the specific needs of the veteran community who may
have war related or other medical needs. By dedicating such buildings as hospitals
and schools as war memorials, this public purpose is linked to the worthy values
associated with the war that is being commemorated. Students may therefore suggest
specific values, such as looking after one’s mates and service to the community which
make a hospital an appropriate choice as a war memorial. Teachers may wish to
contrast this choice against something like a water desalination plant, which may be
an important community asset but does not have the sentimental or practical
associations of a school or hospital.
(5) Design a cover for a submission to your local/district council informing
them of the options available for building a new war memorial. A central
feature of the cover should be a picture of the type/style of memorial you
would like to see endorsed by council. You could choose a building or other
structure, monument, memorial garden or any other appropriate tribute.
Images can be obtained by accessing
14

www.tributesofhonour.info
Or by searching the internet using the key words “War Memorial”. You should
include a paragraph at the back of the poster explaining the reasons for your
choice.
(6) Research the history and significance of the poppy that is traditionally sold
on Remembrance Day. For information refer
www.awm.gov.au > encyclopedia > poppies
The Flanders poppy has been a part of the 11 November, Armistice or Remembrance
Day rituals, since the early 1920s and is also increasingly being used as part of
ANZAC Day observances. During the First World War, the red poppies were seen to
be among the first living plants that sprouted from the devastation of the battlefields
of northern France and Belgium. Soldiers' folklore had it that the poppies were vivid
red from having been nurtured in ground drenched with the blood of their comrades.
The sight of the poppies on the battlefield at Ypres in 1915 moved Lieutenant Colonel
John McCrae to write the poem In Flanders Fields. Flanders poppies also featured
prominently in several other literary responses to the carnage on the Western Front.
Teachers note: An American, Moina Michael, read McCrae's poem and was so
moved by it that she wrote a reply and decided to wear a red poppy as a way of
keeping faith, as McCrae urged in his poem. Moina worked for the American YMCA
and at a meeting of YMCA secretaries from other countries, held in November 1918,
she discussed the poem and her poppies. Madame Guerin, the French YMCA
secretary, was similarly inspired and she approached organisations throughout the
allied nations to sell poppies to raise money for widows, orphans and needy veterans
and their families.
The poppy soon became widely accepted throughout the allied nations as the flower
of remembrance to be worn on Armistice Day, which is now known as Remembrance
Day.
15

Memorial Campbelltown Soldiers Memorial
Address Corner of Gorge Road and Lower North East Road, Campbelltown
Background Information
This World War I (Great War) memorial features a
soldier in full uniform with his head bowed and
standing at "Resting on Arms Reversed”, which is a
traditional military mark of respect for fallen
comrades.
The white marble statue of the soldier, which faces
west, is mounted on a red granite pedestal. All the
details on this memorial are in gold leaf. It contains the
names of those men from the Campbelltown district
who served and those who lost their lives during
World War I.
The memorial is located in front of the St Martins
Anglican Church.
The memorial was unveiled on the 5 July 1925.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) The Campbelltown Soldiers Memorial is an example of a “stone digger”,
which was a popular style of Australian war memorial in the 1920s and 30s.
Sketch or photograph the monument. In a few lines briefly describe the
memorial, its location and the soldier’s stance.
The Campbelltown Memorial features
A white marble statue of a World War I soldier standing at “Resting on Arms
Reversed” which is a traditional mark of respect for the fallen.
The soldier with his left hand over his right and the rifle muzzle on his left boot.
The soldier mounted on a polished granite three-tier pedestal, which is on a
granite block with a concrete slab below.
All details on the memorial are in gold leaf.
The statue faces west and is located on the corner of Gorge Road and Lower North
East Road, a prominent north eastern road junction. It is on the elevated side of the
road junction and overlooks the surrounding Campbelltown district. At the time of its
construction Campbelltown was a thriving agricultural and market gardening
community.
17

(2) How many soldiers’ names are listed on the Campbelltown Soldiers
Memorial? Complete the table below.
The Fallen Returned to Australia Total who served
The Fallen Returned to Australia Total who served
15 79 94
(3) Approximately one in five of the Australians who served in the First World
War did not return home. What percentage of those whose names are listed
on the Campbelltown Soldiers Memorial lost their lives?
What does this suggest about the impact of the war across Australian
communities?
Approximately 19% of those whose names are listed lost their lives. It suggests that
communities across the country bore equally the impact and suffering caused by the
First World War.
(4) Write down the full name and initials of the soldier whose name starts Mc
that appears under the inscription “IN MEMORY OF THOSE WHO
PAID THE SUPREME SACRIFICE” to use for further research when you
return to the classroom.
Mc Donald J.F.W.
(5) Write down the names and initials of the other two soldiers from
Campbelltown with the same surname commencing with Mc who also
appear on the monument under the heading of “IN HONOUR OF THOSE
WHO SERVED IN THE GREAT WAR 1914 –1919”?
Mc Donald E.J.
Mc Donald H.E.
Classroom
(6) Complete the table below by accessing the Australian War Memorial
website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Nominal Rolls >
First World War Nominal Rolls – Nominal Roll
Enter the soldiers’ surnames, from the Campbelltown Soldiers Memorial, that
appear in the table on the next page. Each soldier’s service number is included to
assist you to find the correct person listed within the pages of the Nominal Roll.
18

Service
No.
Rank
Abbrev
Christian
Names
1715 Ey
1647 Gilks
3888 Hamblem
Family Name Unit Date of
Enlisting
Fate*
Date of return
to Australia
or death
Service
No.
Rank
Abbrev
.
Christian
Names
1715 Sgt Archibald
Leslie
1647 S/Sgt Albert
Stanley
3888 Pte Roy
Augustus
Family Name Unit Date of
Enlisting
Ey
Gilks
RTA = Return to Australia
Hamblem
15 th
Battalion
27 th
Battalion
48 th
Battalion
Fate*
Date of return
to Australia
or death
2.1.15 RTA 11.12.18
6.4.16 RTA 1.4.19
12.11.17 RTA 12.7.19
(7) Complete the following details about the soldier whose name and initials
you recorded in Question (4) on your visit to the Campbelltown Soldiers
Memorial. The information can be found by accessing the Australian War
Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Roll of Honour
Enter his name, select First World War, 1914 -1918 and ‘click’ on search. Locate
the correct soldier and click on ‘Circular Information’ to answer the following
questions.
McDonald J.F.W.
At what age did he come to Australia?
25 years of age
What was his calling (occupation)?
Labourer
What was the date and cause of his death?
April 21 1918, Typhus
What was his age at the time of his death?
37
Had he served in any previous conflict? If so, what and
where?
Yes, The Boer War
Were any of his relatives also killed during the war? Give details.
Two Brothers in Law
19

Memorial Kensington and Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial
Address Immediately south of Norwood Parade and Osmond Terrace, Norwood
Background Information
The First World War (Great War) was a significant but tragic
time for the Kensington and Norwood community, with 183
local men losing their lives during the four-year conflict. The
Kensington and Norwood Soldiers' Memorial Committee was
formed to plan a suitable memorial and undertake fundraising
to raise money to erect the monument. The grey granite
memorial was the result. Architect H.F.R. Chisolm designed
it. Local contractors Dawes and Chisolm completed the
bronze work. A crowd of around 3,000 local people turned out
on Sunday 3 June 1923 to see the memorial unveiled. A
prominent Norwood landmark, the Kensington and Norwood
Soldiers’ Memorial, is located in a garden setting that features
red and white roses. The gardens are further dedicated to the
memory of those who paid the supreme sacrifice during
World War II.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) List five features of the Kensington and Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial and
its surrounding gardens.
The memorial column is set in a rose garden and is part of a road plantation
running down the centre of Osmond Terrace, Norwood.
It is a very high grey granite memorial with a tapered square cut column, a
pedestal and two-tier base on a concrete slab.
At the front and back of the columns are bronze wreaths.
It displays the names of the fallen in alphabetical order.
There are additional inscriptions on plaques bearing the names of the Kensington
and Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial Committee, The Kensington and Norwood
Mayor, architects, contractors and makers of the bronze work.
It also bears inscriptions relating to the dedication of the surrounding gardens and
the lower plaque reads “ERECTED BY THE CITIZENS OF KENSINGTON
AND NORWOOD TO THE MEMORY OF THOSE WHO FELL IN THE
GREAT WAR”.
(2) When the roses in the memorial garden are in bloom, they are coloured red
and white. These same coloured blooms are also seen in other war
memorial gardens. The best known example in Adelaide is in Pennington
Gardens, near the Cross of Sacrifice, which is the location of the annual
service that follows the Anzac Day march.
What do you think is the symbolic significance of this choice of colours?
21

The red roses represent the blood shed in battle and
white represents purity and rebirth.
(3) Comment on the location of the Kensington and
Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial.
Do you think this is a good site for this
monument?
It occupies a prominent location close to Norwood Parade and leads to other
important commemorative sites, which are located further south along Osmond
Terrace. Situated on a plantation, it can be safely visited by the public. It is also near
the Norwood Primary School, where many of the fallen had studied. Given the
available sites for a war memorial in the area, this seems to be an ideal location.
However, students may be able to suggest some alternatives. It is worth noting that,
whilst many World War I war memorials have had to be relocated over the years, the
Kensington and Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial has remained in its original location
which suggests that it was a good choice.
(4) Locate the following names on the Kensington and Norwood Soldiers’
Memorial and record their rank and initials for further research. Note:
PTE = Private and LCE-CPL = Lance Corporal which are army ranks.
FUNNELL
VEITCH
WINKLER
FUNNELL
VEITCH
WINKLER
LCE-CPL. A.H. (Rank = Lance Corporal)
PTE. W.R (Rank = Private)
PTE. C.W (Rank = Private)
Classroom
(5) Using the details of the three soldiers you have recorded in Question (4)
answer the following questions by accessing the Australian War Memorial
website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Details > Roll of Honour
Enter their full name, select ‘First World War, 1914-1918’ and click search. (You
may need to page through the list of people with the same surname to find the
correct soldier). The details you require will appear in the Circular Information
which form part of the “Roll of Honour” records.
What were his Christian names?
What was his occupation or “calling”?
Where did he go to primary school?
Where did he lose his life?
How old was he when he lost his life?
What was his association(s) with Norwood?
22

FUNNELL A. H.
What were his Christian names?
What was his occupation or “calling”?
Where did he go to primary school?
Where did he lose his life?
How old was he when he lost his life?
What were his association(s) with Norwood?
Arthur Harold
Clerk
Beulah Rd, Norwood (Norwood
Primary School)
Noriel, France
23 years of age
Born, primary educated and
parents lived in Norwood
VEITCH W.R.
What were his Christian names?
What was his occupation or “calling”?
Where did he go to primary school?
Where did he lose his life?
How old was he when he lost his life?
What was his association(s) with Norwood?
William Robert
Mason labour(er)/Monumental
Mason
Norwood State School
Villers-Bretonneux, France
31 years and 11 months
Born at Kent Town and educated
at Norwood Primary School.
WINKLER C.W.
What were his Christian names?
Charles William
What was his occupation or “calling”?
Coach Driver
Where did he go to primary school?
Wallaroo South
Where did he lose his life?
Near Harbouiers, (Harbonnieres)
France
How old was he when he lost his life? 21
What was his association(s) with Norwood? His mother lived in Kent Town.
No other connection can be
established from Roll of Honour
particulars.
(5) Access the Commonwealth War Graves Website at
www.cwgc.org
Enter the name and initials of the soldier in the ‘Debt of Honour Register’ and
select World War I. Click on the name and, when it loads, check details against
those found in Question (5). If correct, click on ‘certificate’.
Students just need to print the certificate, which will include an image of the cemetery
or site in which these soldiers are buried or commemorated in either France or
Belgium.
23

(6) The Norwood and Kensington community chose to name their memorial as
the Kensington and Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial rather than the
Kensington and Norwood War Memorial.
What do you think is the significance of this choice of name?
Student answers should note the memorial commemorates the service and sacrifice of
local citizens and not the war itself, which cost so many lives and resulted in so much
suffering.
24

Memorial Kensington and Norwood War Trophies (cannons)
Address Osmond Terrace, Norwood
Background Information
War trophies are captured objects that
have been taken from the battlefield.
The history of claiming trophies or
spoils of war from defeated enemies
dates back thousands of years. During
World War I, trophies captured by the
Allies were specially marked with a tag
which included the name of the unit that
captured the piece and the date and time.
Soldiers carried these labels into battle
ready to tag captured items according to
War Office regulations. During World
War I, Australian troops captured large numbers of guns of all types. The ground
taken and consequently the trophies claimed by Australian soldiers far exceeded the
comparative size of our contribution to the allied forces on the Western Front. Many
items were acquired including rifles, trench mortars, machine guns and various
artillery pieces, including one large gun, the Amiens Gun, which was mounted on a
railway carriage at Harbonnieres, France. After the war, items such as the Amiens
Gun were transported back to Australia. Under the Australian War Trophies Act of
1919, communities were allocated these trophies in recognition of their contribution
to Australia's war effort.
In addition to official war trophies claimed by the government individual soldiers also
brought back other items of memorabilia from the Boer War and subsequent conflicts.
These were often easily carried items, some of which were obtained from enemy
soldiers. Some of these had personal or cultural significance to the original owners
and their relatives. A small number of these items, mostly acquired during the Second
World War, have been returned to thankful relatives over recent years. However, the
great majority of Australia’s wartime memorabilia remains in private hands with some
forming part of displays in local Returned and Services League (RSL) halls. The term
wartime memorabilia includes a wide range of objects and material. Common items
include wartime diaries, swords, flags, letters, badges, postcards, buttons, weapons,
uniforms, hats and helmets, ration cards, medals, weapons, ammunition and trench art.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) The war trophy (large gun) which is located closest to the Kensington and
Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial was captured by the Australian Light Horse
in the Middle East during World War I. It is a World War I howitzer.
What is the number of the gun, its German maker and the year of
manufacture of this gun? Hint: Check the back of the breech.
25

Number 460
Fr. H.KRUPP
1915
(2) The war trophy closest to the Burnside Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial on
Prescott Terrace, Rose Park also has some visible markings.
In what year do you think it was manufactured?
Whilst the manufacturer’s name does not appear on this cannon what
marking suggests it might have been made by the same company as the
cannon nearer the Kensington and Norwood Soldiers’ Memorial?
1915
The three inscriptions Kp, which appear on the gun, suggest that it is also a Krupp
cannon. Krupp was a major manufacturer of armaments during the First World War.
Teachers note: Krupp began to make steel cannons in the 1840s mainly for the
Russian, Turkish, and Prussian armies. Low non-military demand and government
subsidy meant that the company specialised more and more in weapons. By the late
1880s the manufacture of armaments represented around 50% of Krupps total output.
In World War I, Krupp's sold cannons to the Central Powers as well as to the Entente,
a policy which turned out to be highly profitable. After Hitler came to power on
January 30 th 1933, the Krupp works became the centre for German rearmament. Its
factories were heavily bombed during World War II and some plans to World War I
vintage weapons were destroyed making restoration for some of these pieces quite
difficult.
Classroom
(3) The Australian Government actively lobbied the
British Government after World War I to send war
trophies back to Australia to be allocated to the
Australian War Memorial and communities whose
local men had contributed to the war effort.
Why do you think the Australian Government thought this was so
important?
The First World War was the first conflict in which Australia was engaged as an
independent nation. During World War I, around 330,000 Australians served overseas
with more than 60,000 losing their lives. Australians fought at Gallipoli, where they
proved both their resilience and fighting qualities. They were subsequently involved
in a number of major battles on the Western Front and played an important role in the
decisive stage of the First World War from March to October 1918.
During this time, Australians captured a large number of trophies relative to the size
of our contribution to the British war effort. Australian units tagged these when they
were captured and the trophies were subsequently shipped to England for distribution
after the war. The Prime Minister, W.M. Hughes”, who was known as the “Little
Digger” for his support of Australian soldiers, actively lobbied to ensure that trophies
26

captured by Australians were returned to Australia. In his argument to obtain release
of the war trophies by British authorities, Hughes pointed out the relatively short
history of Australia and the need to establish our own cultural legacy. He contrasted
this with the long history of Britain, which already had many spoils of past victories
on public display. Whilst some of these trophies were given to what has become the
Australian War Memorial in Canberra, the great majority were allocated to cities and
towns throughout Australia in recognition of their local soldiers’ contributions
towards the war effort. They served as a visible and continuing reminder of the role
Australians played in the Great War. These trophies can still be seen on display in
parks and gardens throughout Australia. A number have been fully restored in recent
years as local councils and community groups seek to preserve these important links
with the past.
(4) The best known and largest war trophy captured by Australians during
World War I was the so called Amiens Gun which is currently on display at
the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Briefly summarise the history of the capture of this gun and comment on
the role played by Australian soldiers between August and October 1918.
The capture of the Amiens Gun by Australian and British soldiers was a significant
achievement. During the summer of 1918, it had been used by the Germans to fire on
the city of Amiens, about 25 kilometres away. Attempts had been made by the Allies
to destroy this powerful weapon, but to no avail. During the August 8 advance, the
train, on which the gun was mounted, was attacked by a British aircraft, causing the
German soldiers on board to evacuate. Although RAF aircraft and British cavalry
were the first to engage the gun, the advancing Australian infantry quickly claimed it.
The capture of the Amiens Gun was one of many significant achievements of
Australian troops in France between March and October 1918. As the trench warfare
of World War I moved to semi open warfare following the slowing of the German
Spring Offensive of March 1918, Australian troops displayed unique personal and
fighting qualities which saw them play a vital role in this decisive phase of the war.
After assisting in the defence of Amiens in August 1918, Australian troops were
successful in breaking through sections of the Hindenburg Line which was the last
and strongest of the German Army's defences and consisted of three well-defended
trench systems. It has been argued that this feat remains Australia’s most significant
single contribution to the course of world history.
Teachers note: Throughout September 1918, Australian forces had helped the British
army to secure positions from which an attack on the Hindenburg Line could be
launched. On 18 September 1918, a preliminary attack was launched when Australian
troops reached the first part of the Hindenburg Line. On 29 September, the line was
finally broken. Australian and United States troops spearheaded this battle. The
fighting lasted four days and resulted in heavy losses on both sides. Eventually, the
Allies broke through the third and final stage of the Hindenburg Line, and the
Germans were forced to fall back. An attack on 5 October was to be the last in which
Australian troops would take part. Australians took the Montbrehain village, and with
that success, the Hindenburg Line was completely broken. The defence of this sector
was then handed over to the Americans, while the Australians, exhausted and depleted
by heavy casualties, were withdrawn for a rest. Following this action, Germany
27

commenced the process that would eventually result in the signing of the Armistice,
which took effect at 11 am on the 11 November 1918.
Tomorrow we are to take part in the greatest and most important battle that we
have yet been in, for we are to assault the Hindenburg Line, the famous trench
system which the Germans have boasted is impregnable.
- Diary entry, Captain Francis Fairweather, 28 September 1918.
Source: www.awm.gov.au > Encyclopedia > Amiens Gun and
http://www.awm.gov.au/1918/battles/hindenburg.htm
(5) Perhaps the best-known war trophies to be found in South Australia are
two Crimean War cannons presently located at the Torrens Parade
Grounds. No Australian soldiers fought in the Crimean War, which is best
known for the “Charge of the Light Brigade”. Find out how and why South
Australia came into possession of the two Russian Crimean War cannons.
Refer
http://argo.net.au/andre/tropheysCWENFIN.htm
Australia's isolation and early distribution of war trophies into the care of local
communities, or military authorities, have been major factors in their survival,
including one small group of trophies from the Crimean War (1853-56). At the end of
the Crimean War, a large number of trophies were supplied to Britain and distributed
to cities and towns in the United Kingdom and her Empire. An address to the House
of Commons during 1863 provides a list of 1165 Russian guns taken at Sebastopol.
Included on the list are 730 iron guns and 324 iron carronades. The trophies were to
be distributed among the Australian colonies in accordance with their contribution to
the Patriotic Fund. Australian colonies donated the following amounts in pounds to
the Patriotic Fund designated to assist the war effort:
Colony
Amount
New South Wales £64 916
South Australia £6,297
Tasmania £28,375
Victoria £47,711
Western Australia £818
In recognition of these large contributions, each colony, except Western Australia,
was awarded a pair of Russian trophy guns. Adelaide's two trophies were first
installed in the Botanic Gardens during February 1859. In 1867 they were used to
announce the arrival of the Duke of Edinburgh. Some time later, they were removed
from the gardens and were handed over to the military authorities, which placed them
in front of the armoury, which was located on North Terrace. One of the guns was
fired daily as Adelaide’s time signal for midday. In the mid 1930s, they were moved
to their present position on the Torrens Parade Ground. They were subsequently
moved to the Keswick Army Barracks but were returned to the Torrens Parade
Ground in 2004 where they are currently on display.
28

(6) Whilst the Australian Government has generally claimed and distributed
larger war trophies individual service people have usually collected smaller
items known as wartime memorabilia.
By searching the internet or examining the collection of a local RSL sub
branch, identify four items of wartime memorabilia. Refer
www.dva.gov.au > Media Centre > Publications >
Memories and Memorabilia > Memorabilia
Students may mention specific items such as diaries, badges, militaria etc. However
they all fall into the following general categories.
1. Written and printed material including personal letters and diaries and official
government documents.
2. Photographs.
3. Medals and ribbons.
4. Wartime souvenirs and mementoes.
(7) In some cases, servicemen and women obtain possessions from the enemy
which may have personal and/or cultural significance.
What sort of items might these be and do you think they should be
returned to their owners where possible? Refer
www.dva.gov.au > Media Centre > Publications > Memories and Memorabilia >
Memorabilia
Personal items could include anything from
cigarette boxes to samurai swords. Students’
answers should demonstrate that they understand
the potential significance of such items. Good
examples of items of both personal and cultural
significance are Japanese personal flags, some of
which found their way back to Australia. These
flags carried messages from family and friends and
were carried into battle by Japanese soldiers. Of
course, it is not practical or possible to return all
such items. In recent years, the Australian War Memorial in Canberra returned some
of the personal effects of a Japanese mini-sub crewman killed in the attack on Sydney
Harbour to his aging mother when she visited Australia. This process can work both
ways. In late 1997, a watch worn by an Australian World War II pilot killed in France
in August 1944 was returned to his only surviving relative, a sister. The engraving on
the back indicated that his local town had originally presented the watch to the pilot.
Returned to Australia, it has become an important link, reaching back across the
years, for the family and the local community as well as actively promoting positive
international relations between nations, which previously had been at war.
Source: http://www.dva.gov.au/media/publicat/memories/page_08.htm
(8) Comment on the significance of wartime memorabilia and the importance
of keeping some items in local Returned and Services League (RSL)
clubrooms and local museums.
29

Some items of wartime memorabilia, which are either rare or are of national
importance, belong in the Australian War Memorial or other similar large museums.
However, most wartime memorabilia has the greatest significance to the service
person to whom it belonged. Often items, which are highly valued by the individual
serviceman and women, are found in many wartime collections. What is unique about
these items are the stories associated with them, such as the circumstances under
which they were acquired and how they subsequently came to be returned to
Australia. This information will enable future generations to interpret their
significance. Those members of the community to whom the item belonged can best
tell these stories. It is for this reason that wartime memorabilia should remain within
the community to which the service person belonged as it forms an important part of
that community’s history
30

Memorial Magill Soldiers Memorial
Address Corner of Magill Road and Penfold Road, Magill
Background Information
The Magill Soldiers Memorial is a white marble
monument comprising an obelisk, mounted on a pedestal
of granite. At the base of the obelisk, superimposed in
marble, are the Australian and British flags.
Brigadier-General R.L. Leane unveiled the memorial on
the 14 November 1920. Raymond Lionel Leane was a
decorated First World War (Great War) commander. He
was one of the first men ashore at Anzac Cove and was
twice wounded at Gallipoli, including a wound to the head
received when an enemy shell struck him following the
successful attack on an enemy position that became
known as Leane's Trench. In 1925, he was appointed the
Chief Commissioner of Police in South Australia.
Following the end of World War II, an additional plaque commemorating those who
served during this conflict was added to the memorial.
Student Activities
On Site
The memorial was first erected in the former Magill
Primary School, which is now the site of the Pepper
St Art Centre and Community Studio. It was moved
to its present site, in the present Magill Primary
School in 1956. The memorial was restored and
rededicated in 1966.
(1) What two wars are commemorated on the Magill Soldiers Memorial? By
checking the inscriptions on the Magill Soldiers Memorial in which years
did these conflicts begin and end? Hint: World War II dates are partly
surrounded by a wreath.
During The Great War (World War I) - 1914-1919
World War II - 1939 – 1945
(2) Complete the following inscription found on the side of the monument
facing the Magill intersection.
ERECTED BY THE RESIDENTS OF MAGILL
FOR SOLDIERS WHO MADE THE
SUPREME SACRIFICE
DURING THE GREAT WAR 1914 -1919
31

(3) How many soldiers whose names appear on the monument lost their lives
during the First World War?
How many others had died by 1920 from the effects of war?
Assuming these figures were reflected throughout Australia, how many
Australians might have lost their lives as a result of the effects of war by
1920. To assist in your calculations 60,000 Australians lost their lives
during the Great War.
29 died during the war and 5 due to the effects of war.
5/29 X 60,000 = Approx 10,335 would have potentially died by the end of 1920 due
to the effects of war if these figures represented a national trend.
(4) How many surnames appear more than once on the Magill Soldiers
Memorial? List these names. Note the initials of the family with the
surname starting with K. These will be used for further research when you
return to the classroom.
The four family names that appear twice are CRABB, JURY, KENNEDY and MAIN.
The Kennedy’s initials are S.C. and R.
Classroom
(5) Both the Australian and British flags appear on the monument. Why would
the flag of another country appear on an Australian war memorial?
Whilst an independent country, Australia was still a part of
the British Empire in the early 20 th century. Given its
colonial history, in 1914 Australia, still had strong political,
social, cultural, military and commercial ties with Great
Britain. A sense of Australian nationalism was still
emerging and many Australians still saw themselves as
British and looked to the mother country for leadership,
recognition and support. The epitaph, chosen by one South
Australian mother after the war, which appears on a grave
marker at Gallipoli, reads, “He died like a Britisher”.
Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/war/wwone/australia_02.shtml
(6) List some reasons why so many Australians were willing to enlist to serve in
the First World War?
There were many reasons soldiers enlisted. Some of these include:
Loyalty to the British Empire.
The desire for adventure.
The result of friends or relatives joining up.
The chance of overseas travel.
32

Concern about a German victory and its impact on Australia.
Chance to show what Australians could do on the battlefield.
Outrage at reported German atrocities in Belgium early in the war.
To visit the motherland (Great Britain) and ancient civilisations.
Chance to play a role on the world stage in the “war to end all wars”.
The impact of recruiting drives and community pressure.
Christian commitment.
(7) Using the information recorded in Q(4) about the family name starting
with the letter K, visit the Australian War Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Roll of Honour.
Enter their surname and christian name (R is Reginald and S.C. is Sidney
Clarence), select the First World War, 1914 –1918 and ‘click’ on search. Open
the Circular Information and find out what three things were especially tragic
about their deaths in respect to their relationship, place and time of death.
Reginald and Sidney Clarence Kennedy were brothers. Both of them lost their lives at
Ypres (Belgium) within a few days of each other on 28/9/17 and 4/10/17 respectively.
(8) The names of M.J.R. and N.B.L. Crabb appear on
the Magill Soldier’s Memorial.
By accessing the Australian War Memorial Roll of
Honour find out if they were related.
By looking at the notes in the Circular Information
what happened to Murray on the 20 - 21
September 1917?
Murray John Rossiter and Norman Benjamin Lyndon Crabb were brothers.
Murray was gassed on 20-21/9/1917.
(9) Poison gas was a horrible weapon that was used during the First World
War. During the period of its use on the Western Front, over 16,000
Australians were gassed, with over 300 being killed by poison gas exposure.
One particularly terrible form of chemical, which was first used in 1917,
was known as “Mustard Gas”. Find out about the effects and problems
with its use.
Mustard Gas
Germany unveiled an enhanced form of gas weaponry, which became known as
mustard gas, an almost odourless chemical which was contained in artillery shells,
against the Russians at Riga in September 1917. The serious blisters it caused, both
internally and externally, brought on several hours after exposure, distinguished
mustard gas from other types of poison gas used during World War One. Protection
against mustard gas proved more difficult than against either chlorine or phosgene gas
which had been used previously in the war. The use of mustard gas - sometimes
proved to have mixed benefits. While inflicting serious injury upon the enemy, the
33

chemical remained potent in soil for weeks after release: making capture of infected
trenches a dangerous undertaking.
Source: www.firstworldwar.com/weaponry/gas.htm
(10) Why do you think that this memorial was initially erected at the site of the
old Magill Primary School and in 1956 was moved next to the current
Magill Primary School grounds?
Many Magill residents who served during the First World War had been educated at
the Magill Primary School and would have had relatives who also attended the school.
The school community would have been proud of the contribution of their former
students and those who had died in the service of their country. The school grounds
would have therefore been seen as an appropriate location for the community’s tribute
to its local soldiers. The move in 1956 may have reflected the desire of community
leaders to ensure that the sacrifices made in World War I and II were not lost on the
younger generation whose freedom and liberty former students had fought to
preserve. The location is a prominent corner one, which is adjacent to the original
Magill settlement.
34

Memorial Norwood Primary School Memorial
Address 96 Beulah Road (corner Osmond Terrace), Norwood
Background Information
Norwood Primary School was opened in 1851 and became
South Australia's first Model Primary School. Norwood
and surrounding districts had a substantial population and
the status of a model school meant that Norwood Primary
School attracted many students. In 1918, the Headmaster of
the school had the inspiration of building a memorial to the
old scholars of the school who died in the First World War
(Great War) with the active involvement of his current
students. The children contributed pennies for bricks and
then laid them together. The Headmaster made a cardboard
model of the memorial and, although many of the fathers
helped with the heavier work, the children did the actual
building. During the school's Jubilee year in 1951, a plaque was added to honour
those old scholars who had fought and died during World War II. Inside the school is
a magnificent honour roll listing the names of all past students who served during the
Great War. Many of these names also appear on the nearby Norwood and Kensington
and Burnside War Memorials.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) Complete the following text that appears on the plaque on the Norwood
Primary School Memorial in front of the school. This plaque can be seen
from the footpath and does not require entry into the school grounds.
IN MEMORY
OF
THE BRAVE LADS
WHO ATTENDED THIS SCHOOL
AND WHO DIED
FOR LIBERTY AND COUNTRY
IN THE GREAT WAR 1914-1918.
ERECTED BY BY THE CHILDREN OF THE NORWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL
AND BUILT WITH THEIR OWN HANDS.
Classroom
(2) Why do you think the Norwood Primary School
headmaster considered it important that the
school children build this monument with their
own hands?
Why do you think he chose an obelisk design?
35

Consider both the practical and symbolic significance of the choice of this type of
war memorial.
The headmaster probably thought that as it was former students who served in World
War I that it was most fitting that current day students also build the memorial. No
doubt the work involved in the construction of the war memorial would have
promoted a sense of ownership and provided cause for reflection by the students on
the contribution made by their predecessors in the Great War that might otherwise not
have been the case.
Obelisks are relatively easy to construct compared to other memorials such as those
that involve carving human figures. They are high structures and therefore tend to
stand out. Another practical advantage of obelisks is that they have at least four
inscription faces. Obelisks have their origins in Egyptian, Greek and Roman
architectural styles. The standard obelisk, of which the Norwood Primary school war
memorial is a form, is shaped like a finger or ray of the sun. It is Egyptian in origin
and originally represented “Ra” the Egyptian Sun God. Their symbolic significance as
a choice for a war memorial lies in the fact that “Ra” was the giver of life. Pointing
skywards also has connotations of being closer to God.
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Memorial Tea Tree Gully War Memorial and ‘Avenue of Trees’
Address North East Road and Memorial Drive, Tea Tree Gully
Background Information
The Tea Tree Gully community's tribute to the
men from their area, who served their country
during the two World Wars, consists of
the Tea Tree Gully War Memorial in the
form of an Arch and
the Avenue of Trees.
The arch is made of two brick pillars with a
wrought iron arch spanning the entrance to
Memorial Drive and the Avenue of Trees. On
each of the pillars is a bronze plaque with the names of those men from the local
district who served during World War I (Great War) and World War II.
The Avenue of Trees runs along both sides of Memorial Drive down to the Tea Tree
Gully oval. A tree was planted for each World War I and II soldier who served from
the area. Originally, each tree had a plaque placed on it, but by 2005 none of the
plaques remain.
Student Activities
On Site
(1) Count the number of names that are listed on the World War I plaque that
is located on the eastern side (left-hand) pillar of the war memorial. Then
count the names that have crosses adjacent to them and calculate what
percentage lost their lives during the war.
24 and 5.
5 ÷ 24 x 100 = Approx. 21%
Teachers note: This was about the national average for the
First World War with one in every five or six soldiers not
returning. The figures indicate that Tea Tree Gully, like
many communities, was equally and tragically impacted on
by Australian involvement during the First World War.
(2) Record the names and initials of the First World
War soldiers with crosses adjacent to them for
further research?
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Names of fallen are;
Angove E.L
Elliott E.R.
Lewis W.
Lucas W.
Phillips A.V.
(3) Examine the names on the World War I and II plaques on the Tea Tree
Gully War Memorial.
What do they suggest about changes in the population in the area that
occurred between the two wars?
The names on the plaques suggest that Tea Tree Gully was a relatively small
community during World War I with some well established families such as Angove
and Phillips living in the area. Records indicate that the population was around 2,000
at the outbreak of World War I. The new names on the World War II plaque suggest
that by this time some of the old families had moved, or did not have children of
military age, and that there had been an influx of new residents. The numbers
enlisting also suggest considerable population growth occurred in Tea Tree Gully area
between the wars, which is consistent with the general population growth that
occurred in Australia at that time.
(4) Complete the table below by recording the names and initials of those First
World War soldiers who have capital letters adjacent to them for further
research when you return to the classroom. These letters are abbreviations
for military awards for bravery or exceptional service. There are four in
total.
Name
Military Award
M.S.M
D.C.M
M.M.
M.M
Name
BEAMES A.E.
BEAMES H.H
BOWEN V.S.
PHILLIPS J.H
Military Award
M.S.M
D.C.M
M.M.
M.M
(5) Compare the percentages of those Tea Tree Gully servicemen who lost
their lives during the First World War and Second World War in relation
to those who served. What does this suggest about the numbers who served
in both wars and the likelihood of survival? Can you suggest why there is
such a significant difference in survival rates?
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First World War 5 ÷ 24 = 21%
Second World War 5 ÷ 56 = 9%
The figures suggest that many more Australians served during World War II. In fact
just under one million Australians served in World War II compared to approximately
330,000 in World War I.
The comparative percentages also suggest that the likelihood of a service person
surviving World War I was considerably less than during World War II.
Some factors affecting casualty rates included;
The tactics that were employed during the First World War, especially the period
of trench warfare, which included frontal attacks by massed infantry against
heavily defended positions.
The ratio of personnel who served in the trenches or front lines, as opposed to
support jobs in the First World War was much greater than in the Second World
War.
Many Australians, who served in the armed forces during World War II, were
based in Australia in the event that the mainland was invaded. With some
exceptions, such as parts of Northern Australia, the risk to life in these areas was
minimal.
Improvements in the treatment of the wounded also reduced the numbers who lost
their lives during World War II. These included the application of surgical lessons
learned from World War I and other advances in medicine, which reduced the
numbers of those who, died from infection in the Second World War. Of
particular importance in fighting bacterial infection was the development of
sulphur drugs in the 1930’s and the development of a powdered form of penicillin
in 1941, which proved to be the most powerful antibacterial agent of World War
II.
History of penicillin: http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blpenicillin.htm
(6) Record the names and initials of the servicemen on the World War II
plaque with a cross next to their name.
Dillon L.J.
Hobbs H.C.
Newman P.F.
Smart E.R.
Tregeagle J.R.
(7) Record the name and initials of the last person to appear
on the First World War plaque.
Whitmore A.E.
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Classroom
(8) As a tribute to those ten servicemen from Tea Tree Gully, who lost their
lives in the two World Wars, the local community planted the ‘Avenue of
Trees’. These trees originally had plaques bearing the names of the fallen.
They have now all disappeared. Write a letter of 50 –100 words to the
editor of the local paper arguing for these plaques to be replaced.
Student answers should reflect the contribution and sacrifice made by these ten
servicemen during the two World Wars.
Teachers note: Students may also be encouraged to write to their local member of
Parliament or local RSL branch requesting that they argue for the replacement of
these plaques.
(9) The very last name on the Tea Tree Gully World War I plaque, which you
recorded in Question (7), is that of a famous World War I veteran who died
on July 26 2002 aged 102. His first name was Albert. However he was
better known as Bert. Use the internet to find out why he was so important.
Albert (Bert) Whitmore will be remembered because he was the last of the World
War I Australian Light Horsemen and the last South Australian World War I veteran.
He was honoured by a State Funeral when he passed away. The Australian Light
Horse were mounted infantry. Light Horsemen served at Gallipoli with distinction and
some also served on the Western front. However they are best known for their
campaigns in Egypt and the Middle East from 1916-1918.
Teachers note: By birth, upbringing and training, Whitmore fitted
into the mould of a Light Horseman perfectly. Born, as he said, "way
out in the bush" in the then hamlet of Tea Tree Gully, 20km north
east of Adelaide, he was put in the saddle before he could walk. His
first job on leaving primary school was mustering sheep on
horseback. The 17-year-old was still riding to and from his Adelaide
Hills job as an apprentice baker when he enlisted on March 5, 1917,
putting his age up and passing the riding test at first go. Trained in
Mitcham in South Australia and in Seymour, Victoria, he joined the
9 th Light Horse Regiment and sailed for Port Suez. He was taught
desert warfare before joining the campaign at Gaza, just west of
Beersheba, which his countrymen had just captured. The 9 th Light
Horse then liberated Gaza from Turkish and German occupation to
open the way to Jerusalem. Whitmore rode into the fray in the
successful third battle for Gaza.
Riding north along the Mediterranean coast, they occupied Jaffa, Bethlehem and
finally Jerusalem. "It was like riding through the Bible," Whitmore said. He then
served in the Jordan Valley with the 9 th , and "rode off at a gallop" on the famous Es
Salt Raid in April 1918 to help the Allied Light Horse advance from the east towards
enemy positions still held by enemy forces in Palestine. In this operation, they rode
over the high plateau at Moab to the River Jordan, helping to gain and then guard an
Allied crossing despite enemy fire at Es Salt. When enemy forces counterattacked
40

from the west over the river, cutting off the easier of two escape routes, they had to
retreat. With numerous casualties and outbreaks of disease, the Light Horse had only
800 effective rifles remaining. "As soon as our meagre rations were consumed,"
Whitmore recalled, "we decided to try and ride our way out of the trap." They climbed
over "terrible limestone cliffs and crags like mountain goats" to escape. Many horses
fell hundreds of metres to their death. Similarly to the evacuation at Gallipoli, their
successful retreat passed into military textbooks as one of history's most epic retreats.
Whitmore's adventures were cut short when he contracted malaria during a recordbreaking
Jordan Valley heat wave. "When one of our chaps saw me, he said: 'We'll
never see Whit again' - but they carted me off to hospital and I pulled through," he
said. Having recovered, Bert served as army camp quartermaster at Ezbekieh
Gardens, Cairo, before setting sail for Australia in August 1919.
Farewelling the Australian Light Horse, their Commander, General Allenby thanked
them for helping "conquer Palestine and Syria". He said, "the Australian Light
Horseman combines a splendid physique and restless activity of mind, rendering him
somewhat impatient of rigid and formal discipline, but giving him the gift of
adaptability mounted or on foot. Eager in advance and staunch in defence, the
Australian Light Horseman has proved himself equal to the world's best, earning the
gratitude of the Empire and admiration of the world".
Back in Adelaide, Bert returned to Tea Tree Gully by horse and buggy before setting
off again on horseback with a government surveying party to pioneer the Riverland,
founding the town of Barmera. He helped build the town and worked as the local
butcher for most of his life. He married Kathleen Whitehead in 1931 and fathered two
children, Murray and Shirley. He also served with the Engineers in World War II as
staff sergeant and was presented with the 80th Anniversary Armistice Remembrance
Medal in 1999. Albert Whitmore had two children, eight grandchildren and 16 greatgrandchildren.
He is the only individual honoured by a plaque on the Australian Light
Horse Memorial on East Terrace.
Source: http://www.lighthorse.org.au/Pershist/whitmore.htm
(10) You recorded four names at the Tea Tree Gully War Memorial, in
Question (4), of men who won military awards in the First World War. In
order to find out why they received the honour or award visit the
Australian War Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Honours and Awards >
Honours and Awards (Recommendations: First World War)
Enter each soldier’s surname and click on search. Locate their records, click on
the recommendation to find out why they won these awards. Make sure to
include the full name of the award in your answer.
Beames A.E
Meritorious Service Medal
His medal “For conspicuous energy and devotion to duty” referred to the period 25 th
February 1918 until the night of 16/17 September 1918.
41

Beames H.H.
Distinguished Conduct Medal
On 21 October 1917 he was involved in the rescue of soldiers when an ammunition
dump was shelled in Zonnebeke in Belgium. The rescues were conducted under
heavy fire “and set a fine example of bravery under trying conditions”.
Bowen V.S.
Military Medal
“On September 29 1918 Private Bowen moved well forward of our troops taking with
him a supply of bombs (grenades) which he used to stop an enemy attack.”
Phillips J.H.
Military Medal
On the 2/3 of June 1918 with two other soldiers he captured three German Machine
guns. “Throughout the action he showed great courage and dash and set a fine
example to the men of his platoon who witnessed the act”.
Teachers note: Those words in quotation marks taken from actual citation.
(11) Complete the table below for four of the First World War soldiers who
have a cross against their names. You can find the information on the
Australian War Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Roll of Honour
Enter each soldier’s surname, select First World War 1914 - 1918 and ‘click’ on
search. The details you require will appear in the Circular Information, which
forms part of the “Roll of Honour” records. Once the table is completed
summarise the information to build a profile of the soldiers from the Tea Tree
Gully area who lost their lives during World War I.
Name Birthplace Married Age Rank School
Edward Lawrence
ANGOVE
Ernest Robert
ELLIOTT
Walter LEWIS
Albert Victor
PHILLIPS
Name Birthplace Married Age Rank School
Edward Lawrence
ANGOVE
Sussex England Yes 34 Lieutena
nt
Tea Tree Gully
Public School
Ernest Robert
ELLIOTT
Milbrook S.A. Unsure 25 Private Hope Valley Public
School
Walter LEWIS Tea Tree Gully Yes 29 Private Golden Grove Public
School
Albert Victor
PHILLIPS
Tea Tree Gully Unsure 25 Private Tea Tree Gully
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Profile
They were all young men.
Around one quarter were born in England.
At least half were married.
They mainly served in the army as privates.
Most attended public (government) schools.
They all came from Tea Tree Gully and surrounding districts.
Teachers note: Whilst this sample of Tea Tree Gully soldiers is too small to draw
conclusions it does provide some useful insights for students.
It is worth noting that around 30% of the original Anzacs were born in Great
Britain.
Whilst single men were initially preferred as recruits, many soldiers, who served
overseas during World War I, were married.
Most of those who served in World War I were privates. This is the lowest rank in
the army and therefore represented the largest number of soldiers who lost their
lives.
The level of education of these men reflects contemporary standards with most
having only attended primary school.
The entry standards for age for World War I recruits were 18-35 in August 1914
and these were changed to 18-45 in April 1917. The average age of 28 is therefore
probably close to the mean age of World War I recruits.
This small group does provide some basic clues as to the types of men who
enlisted throughout Australia during World War I.
(12) With what business, that is still operating just west of the Tea Tree Gully
War Memorial, do you think Edward Lawrence Angove was associated?
Hint: Look at the occupation on the Roll of Honour record.
Angoves Winery – He was Vigneron according to his “Roll of Honour” record.
Teachers note: This information appears on his Roll of Honour details. Students may
guess this from knowing the name and location of Angove’s winery. He was skilled
winemaker who was being groomed to take over the Angove family winery.
(13) Complete the table below about three of the Tea Tree Gully soldiers whose
names you recorded in Question (6) and who lost their lives during World
War II. By accessing the Australian War Memorial website at
www.awm.gov.au > Biographical Databases > Roll of Honour
Enter each soldier’s surname, select ‘Second World War 1939 –1945’ and then
‘click’ on search. The details you require will appear in the Circular
Information, which forms part of the “Roll of Honour” records. Once the table is
completed summarise the information to build a profile of the soldiers from the
Tea Tree Gully area who lost their lives during World War II.
43

Name Birthplace Married Age Place of burial Date of Death
Leslie James
DILLON
Peter Frederick
NEWMAN
Jesse Roy
TREGEAGLE
Name Birthplace Married Age Place of burial Date of Death
Leslie James Tea Tree Yes 24 Tobruk ( Libya) 9/7/41
DILLON
Gully
Peter Frederick
NEWMAN
Jesse Roy
TREGEAGLE
Adelaide Yes 23 New Guinea
(Bonama War
Cemetery) Pt
Moresby)
Tea Tree
Gully
No 33 New Guinea
(Finschhafen
Cemetery)
27/12/42
1/10/43
Profile
The soldiers were all young men.
They were all born in the Tea Tree Gully/Adelaide area.
Two out of three were married.
They lost their lives in North Africa (1) and New Guinea (2)
They died between the years 1941 – 43.
Teachers note: Whilst this is too small a group to draw conclusions it is the case that
most men serving in the Australian Army during World War II were relatively young
with an average age of 26. This is approximately the average age of the three soldiers
from Tea Tree Gully.
Australian soldiers served in two major theatres during World War II, namely the
Middle East which included North Africa from 1940 –1942 and the South West
Pacific which included New Guinea from 1941 – 1945. The soldiers from Tea Tree
Gully were involved in some of the pivotal campaigns in these two major theatres. In
fact the locations of the deaths of these men correlates with some of the hardest fought
and best known battles in Australian military history. Their involvement illustrates to
students the local contribution and impact on small communities of these major
battles and campaigns during World War II.
(14) Summarise the World War II battles or campaigns in which these three
servicemen lost their lives by searching the internet under the words “Rats
of Tobruk” for L.J Dillon, Kokoda Track or Trail for P.F Newman and
Finschhafen or Huon Peninsula for J.R Tregeagle.
Leslie James Dillon was a “Rat of Tobruk’ and lost his life during the famous siege of
the Libyan port which lasted from May to December 1941.
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Teachers information on the Seige of Tobruk
Tobruk, like Gallipoli, is a name that means much in the war
annals of Australia. Between April and August 1941 up to
14,000 Australians, under the command of Lieutenant-
General Leslie Morshead, were besieged in Tobruk by a
German-Italian army commanded by General Erwin Rommel.
The Allied garrison, largely Australian, grimly defended the
strategically important fort. At night, the Royal Navy and the
Royal Australian Navy service kept the garrison supplied by
means of the "Tobruk ferry" which included the Australian
destroyers Napier, Nizam, Nestor and Vendetta that were also
known as the “scrap iron flotilla” due to the age of the ships.
The German propagandist Lord Haw Haw (William Joyce) derided the allied troops
as the "Rats of Tobruk", because they lived underground during the day to escape
bombing raids by German aircraft. The term “rats” was proudly embraced by the
defenders of Tobruk as an ironic compliment.
Tobruk was a nut the Germans and Italian forces could not crack. Its defence held up
Rommel’s advance towards Egypt and the vital allied sea link the Suez Canal. If
successful in his North African campaign, Rommel then could have advanced further
east and threatened the Middle East oilfields. Under the inspired leadership of the
Australian General Morshead, offensive tactics achieved the task of defending
Tobruk. These tactics included regular night patrols deep into enemy held territory. Its
defence was a thorn in the side of the German army, upsetting not only plans for an
attack on Egypt, but also giving the allies time to build up its forces for a counter
attack. This occurred in November 1941 and the siege at Tobruk finally ended after
242 days when the garrison broke out to join up with the British Eighth Army, which
affected the relief of Tobruk on 10 th December 1941. The Australian casualties at the
siege of Tobruk were 3,009 killed or wounded and 941 taken prisoner.
Source: www.awm.gov.au/encyclopedia/tobruk/
Teachers note: William Joyce was executed after the war for his treasonous
propaganda.
Peter Frederick Newman was a Lance Corporal with the South Australian 2/27 th
Battalion, which was involved during the final stages of delaying of the Japanese
advance along the Kokoka track at Efogi and Brigade Hill in September 1942.
Teachers information on the Kokoda Track
In July 1942 the Japanese landed troops at Buna and Gona on the Papuan north coast.
Their plan was to capture Port Moresby. The barrier between the Japanese forces in
the north and Port Moresby on the south coast was the Owen Stanley Range - a steep,
rugged series of mountains crossed only by a few foot tracks, the most important of
which was the Kokoda Track. At the end of June, one thousand Australian militiamen,
‘Maroubra’ Force, had been ordered to hold Kokoda and its airfield against any
possible Japanese attack.
45

By the end of July, the Australian militia, who were outnumbered, inexperienced and
had an average age of 20, were carrying out a fighting retreat. It was not until late in
August that reinforcements from the battle hardened 7 th Division, Australian Imperial
Force (A.I.F.) who had fought in the Middle East began to reach them. However
Japanese advances continued through the trackless jungle on the flanks of positions
that the Australians defended along the track. The Australians were unable to counter
attack at this stage but continued with a policy of fighting withdrawals delaying the
enemy advance and stretching the Japanese supply lines to their limit.
By mid-September the Australians had dug in at Imita Ridge, fifty kilometres from
Port Moresby, and were ordered to hold that position. A fight to the death was
expected but the Japanese, worn down by Australian resistance, lacking sufficient
supplies and fearing an American attack on their base at Buna, at the order of their
Emperor, began to withdraw.
During October and November 1942, the Australians pursued the Japanese through
the stinking mud and treacherous, slippery tracks as they moved back along the
Kokoda Track. The Japanese advance through the rain-sodden jungles of Papua had
been turned into a retreat but, even though many of them were sick and starving, it
was always a fighting retreat. Most of the hardest fighting was around the Japanese
bases at Buna and Gona, where they had determined to fight to the death to maintain a
foothold in Papua. The Papuan campaign ended with the surrender of Japanese
survivors in this area on 22 January 1943.
Source: www.anzacday.org.au/history/ww2/bfa/kokoda.html
Jesse Roy Tregeagle was killed at Finschhafen during the campaigns on the Huon
Peninsula in Papua New Guinea, which prevented the Japanese from using this area
on the northern coast as a base in Papua New Guinea. This effectively eliminated any
future Japanese threat to both Papua and the Australian mainland.
Teachers information on the campaign on the Huon Peninsula
The Australian 9 th Division captured Finschhafen, on the Huon Peninsula in New
Guinea on 2 October 1943. The Australians made an amphibious landing north of
Finschhafen, which was the largest large-scale, seaborne invasion by Australian
troops since the landing at Gallipoli in 1915. It suffered a number of air attacks and
stiff resistance from Japanese marines but was able to advance. Resistance from the
Japanese garrison at Finschhafen ended on 1 October with an air and artillery
bombardment, and the Australians entered the town with no further opposition. Heavy
fighting continued around Sattelburg, to the north. Finschhafen became the Australian
base for the long Huon Peninsula campaign of 1943-44. By early 1944 the entire
Huon Peninsula was in allied hands. The successful campaign on the Huon Peninsula
was critical in preventing the Japanese from reinforcing their troops in New Guinea
and isolating those who remained.
Source: http://minister.dva.gov.au/media_releases/2001/sep/history144.htm
46