Sound convictions marked a long life
OBITUARY: Isabel BEASLEY
Born: February 16, 1901
Died: March 7, 2002
Centenarians are fairly rare, even today, but Isabel Beasley is one woman who reached the age of 101 still holding firm to her convictions and stating these convictions through letters, essays and poetry.
She will be remembered for her strong involvement in the church, her devotion to her family, and her belief in what she held to be true.
Born in a tiny cottage at Glenview Farm, behind Allora Mountain, Isabel was the eldest of three daughters to Mark and Tuersley Wilson. Her first school was at Willow Vale, near Allora, and when this school held its school commemoration this year, Isabel was the only surviving First Day Pupil.
Isabel then attended the Warwick Girls and Infants School to complete her education, and at the age of 15, became a pupil teacher. Isabel taught at Dalveen, and at Turners Creek in a bark hut, before marrying fellow teacher Thomas Carl Beasley at the age of 22. The wedding took place at the Warwick Baptist Church, where both Isabel and Thomas had been baptised (by immersion) on the same day. Seven daughters were born to Isabel and Thomas over the next 15 years -- Joan, Betty, Shirley, Valerie, Linda, Daphne, and Gillian.
Immediately after their marriage, Isabel and Thomas lived in Stanthorpe for two years, then moved to Springside, near Pittsworth, where they stayed for 18 years. Eventually the family settled in Toowoomba, where Isabel would live for the rest of her life. She was involved with the Toowoomba North Church of Christ, the original building of which her father had helped to construct in only one day. Isabel also was active in the Women's Christian Temperance Union, firmly upholding and defending the beliefs of this group. Isabel was a very talented writer and won prizes for her essays, poems, lyrics and music. Most of her works have been recorded in book form, while the Fact and Fantasy booklet contains many of her poems and articles. Isabel handwrote original copies of her music for each of her daughters, and compiled a book called Memories and More which documents her research into the family history of both her and her husband's families. Many readers of Toowoomba's newspaper,The Chronicle, will also recall her regular correspondence to the editor when she felt that Christian principles needed to be stated. Much of Isabel's writing focused on her deeply held faith and beliefs. In 1976, Isabel's husband Tom died, and her daughter Joan died three years later. Isabel maintained her independence until 1997, when failing health required she receive more full-time care.
Despite this, she still did what she could to remain mobile, using an electric scooter, and playing a small organ when possible. At the end of 2000, Isabel received a cheque for a true story called Once Upon a Polling Day she had published by the Toowoomba Writers Anthology Group, in the book Forever Home. More than 200 friends and relatives attended Isabel's lOOth birthday celebrations last year, with one family singing a song written by Isabel which had won a prize from the Queensland Churches of Christ centenary in 1982. Isabel continued, despite health setbacks, to enjoy playing Scrabble, completing The Chronicle crossword puzzle, and spending time with her family until her death earlier this year. Isabel is survived by her sister Bessie, aged 97, six of her seven children, 25 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, and 15 great-great-grandchildren.
Published in “The Chronicle,” Toowoomba, March 20, 2002.
1925 – 2001
Aubrey Buckley, a grain grower from Macalister, was a hardworking man of simple and decent beliefs. Like most farmers, he had a profound respect for the land, and was never happier than when on his property "Mar-Lee" with his family. The elder of two sons, Aubrey Albert was born to Joe and Millie Buckley in Oakey on September 21, 1925. He attended Tankam, a small country school in the Oakey district, but was happy to end his formal education at the age of 13 to help out his parents on their dairy farm.
In 1947, Aub married Jean Speed, and the pair had five children - -Ian, Lynette, Janice, Helen and Wendy. For the first 10 years of their marriage, Aub and Jean farmed dairy cattle, sheep and grain, at “Burradoo”, Oakey, before moving to their property “Mar-Lee”, at Macalister in 1957. Aub grew most grains on "Mar-Lee", and managed to provide for his family despite the often harsh elements, not even losing hope when the sheep he farmed were lost during the 1981 floods.
Farmers are undeniably hard workers, and Aub was no exception. In the early days of establishing “Mar-Lee”, Aub is remembered for working one stretch for three days and two nights without a break. He ploughed through the night on a tractor with a kerosene lantern hooked on to the front to show him the way, becoming disoriented in the process. Whenever the opportunity arose for a rare break from farming, there was nothing Aub enjoyed more than a fishing trip. Later in his life, Aub enjoyed an association with some local organizations, sharing his time and valuable experience. He was a patron and past president of the North Dalby Bowls Club, and was involved with the Probus Club, the National Seniors Club, and the Condamine Bowls Association (of which he served a term as president). Aub also loved a chance to talk with friends over a glass of good Scotch on his verandah, and strived to get the most out of each day.
Aubrey Buckley passed away in Toowoomba on October 12, 2001, aged 76 years. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jean, their five children, and 12 grandchildren.
Published in “The Chronicle”, Toowoomba 20th December 2001.
Farewell to Jackie Boyd
ANYONE who lived in or around Gatton from the mid 1930s will have known John Joseph "Jackie" Boyd in person or have heard a good word for him. He was a personality who made friends easily, and his ready smile ensured that he kept them. Such were the sentiments of those who took the opportunity to speak at his farewell in Toowoomba on Friday. As one lady put it "we need happy people to make life worth while," and another from Yukana Retirement Village where Jackie had spent the past four years said he was called "happy Jackie" by all Among the messages was one from Sir Reginald Schwartz, ex soldier and member of parliament. Jackie came to Gatton from Nudgee Orphanage and worked on several farms. After the disastrous fire which razed one side of Railway Street on April 5, 1933, Jackie spent some time helping to clear away the damaged roofing iron and charred remains while employed at the Royal Hotel. He had gained employment with the Department of Public Works when war broke out in September 1939 and he was an early volunteer for active service, enlisting on July 5, 1940. A year later he landed in Singapore with the other Gatton members of the 2/26 Battalion. They were Tom Dwyer, Eric Nitz, Les Petersen and John Reuter. John is the sole survivor of that contingent and the only Gatton-born member of that Battalion, still resident there.
Kevin McCosker, representing the Toowoomba RSL spoke of the tragic loss of life at the hands of the Japanese where 7866 out of the 15,000 who made up the 8th Division perished, a survival rate of only 47 per cent. One of the prisoner-of-war group spoke feelingly of the support "Darkie' Boyd had given them by his cheerful optimism even under the fearful conditions of their capture. Jackie had spent a large part of his imprisonment in Japan, working on the wharves and in coal mines. Upon repatriation he was honourably discharged on February 17, 1946, and was employed with the Southern Electric Authority. Jackie is remembered affectionately as a champion doubles seller for the Gatton Football Club when it was revitalised in 1947. At the 50th anniversary of that event Jackie proudly showed the canvas bag he used. He was made a life member of the club, and after moving in retirement to Toowoomba he retained his membership of the Gatton RSL as well as joining the Toowoomba branch.
Jackie was very fortunate to have been "adopted" by Mr. and Mrs. John F. Yates and their six children when he came to Gatton. There was always a home for him there and I believe that his love for dancing started and was encouraged by his "sisters" Marj, Dorothy and Jessie. He was always ready to prepare the dance floor in the old School of Arts and keep it in good order during the evening. Jackie Boyd will be remembered for his service to his country and his support of worthwhile recreational activities in Gatton. He was in his 88th year.
- Contributed by Coll Hickey, 45 Gouldson Drive, Toowoomba (46353464)
by Merryl Miller
Mervyn Burgess
(1919-2001)
Mervyn Alfred Burgess, who died on 22 July aged 81, was a stalwart of the Pinelands and Crows Nest communities. Born in Toowoomba on 29 December 1919, Mervyn was the eldest of five children born to Alfred and Margaret. Raised in Crows Nest, Mervyn attended St Matthew's Convent before finishing his schooling at Pinelands School, where his family had bought a farm. After several years working on the family farm, Mervyn was called up to serve in the Army in 1941. Mervyn was a member of the 25th Infantry Battalion, and saw some of the war's bloodiest action in Milne Bay, New Guinea. Like many servicemen who served in the Pacific, Mervyn suffered several bouts of malaria, but was not discharged from duty until October 1944. He then headed home to resume farming life.
In 1946 Mervyn married Nancy Patch of Emu Creek, and the couple had 10 children: Eunice, Helen, Marilyn, Donella, James, Thelma, Robert, Linda, Frank and Colleen. Mervyn often attributed his large family to the arrival of the cream carrier at 4am each morning -- a dangerous time for a man to be woken up, he claimed. Horseshoe, a-97ha (240 acre) property at Pinelands, became home for the ever-increasing Burgess clan in 1950. Mervyn was kept busy with dairy farming, producing poultry, droving cattle, making hay, and growing corn, lucerne, and oat crops. Both Nancy and Mervyn also enjoyed their orchard and vegetable garden, and the local show was always the lucky recipient of their home-grown produce. Another property, Wolski's, near the Pinelands farm was purchased in 1959, and Mervyn expanded his holding further with the acquisition of Coalbank in 1980, and Cooby in 1990. Meanwhile, the house at Horseshoe continued by necessity to grow, and Mervyn appreciated the help of neighbours during these busy years. Mervyn maintained a strong community involvement in the Crows Nest district throughout his life. For 28 years he was a member of the Crows Nest Hospital Board, as well as serving on numerous dairy organisations, hall committees, the RSL, and the Pinelands Fire Brigade. If Mervyn Burgess had one wish, it was to build a successful and happy life for himself and his family -- a goal he certainly achieved. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, his children, 30 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 30 August, 2001
By MERRYL MILLER
Meg BUTT
1915 - 2001
Toowoomba lost one of its most active community workers with the death on July 27 of Mrs Meg Butt. Meg, who was aged 85, was tireless in her work for political, musical and educational causes, and her passion and dedication for these endeavours earned her great respect in the community. Margaret Louise Phillot Streten (Meg) was born in Toowoomba on August 19, 1915, the third of five children to parents William and Emily. In 1923, Emily Streten died, a family tragedy which left Meg motherless at the age of seven. The Streten children were educated at Drayton, Charleville and Toowoomba, and in the mid-1930s, Meg married Matthew Duggan. The couple had six children together - Shirley, Norma, Rodney, David, William and Mark. In 1969, Meg married Leo Butt, and became a stepmother to his two children, Richard and Wanda. The pair were inseparable during their 32 years of marriage, enjoying travel, and sharing a great love for community service. Meg and Leo were actively involved in the Rotary Club (of which Leo was president for a time), the Royal Society of St George, and the Victoria League for Commonwealth Friendship, an organisation of which Meg was an honorary life member. Meg was also awarded the same honour by the Toowoomba branch of the Australians for a Constitutional Monarchy Movement in recognition other work as a co-founder and director of the organisational branch. Meg had an abiding interest in politics, and was always active in her support for the Liberal Party of Australia, earning her a meritorious service award. A fervent patriot and devoted royalist, Meg was also a life member of the Friends of St George Chapel in Windsor Castle. Although not herself an Old Girl, Meg was a loyal supporter of The Glennie School, and maintained a lifelong involvement with the campus. She was one of the founding members of the parents and friends' association, and must hold some sort of record for attending 58 consecutive speech days at Glennie. "The Meg Butt prize for diligence and perseverance" awarded to a Year 12 student each year was presented by Meg at the 1998 speech day. Meg's two daughters attended The Glennie School, and one great-granddaughter is currently enrolled, establishing a family tradition of which Meg would be proud. Meg was also a member of the Education Development Group of the University of Southern Queensland, the Chamber Music Society, and for many years, the National Trust. It is hard to believe that Meg still had time to maintain a beautiful garden, which she delighted in sharing with her many friends and members of the community. Above all, she relished her role as matriarch of the Butt family, always taking an interest in the activities of her children and grandchildren. Meg Butt was well known in Toowoomba and will be remembered for her dedication, hard work, and engaging sense of humour. She is survived by her husband Leo, her children, 12 grandchildren, and nine great - grandchildren.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 25th August 2001.
1910 - 2001
Long-time supporter of the University of Southern Queensland, Keith Bellmaine, died in Toowoomba last week, aged 91. Mr Bellmaine was made a Fellow of the university in 1997, in recognition of his generous support to the campus since 1979. Born in Melbourne, Mr Bellmaine described himself as a "child of the Great Depression". Taking work where he could, he supported himself through university, graduating in 1931 with a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Sydney. In 1934, he began work as a storeman with Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd and in the following 36 years worked up to the position of general sales manager for BP Australia. Mr Bellmaine was then invited to head the joint Australian/French energy company Total Boral. He and his wife chose to retire in Toowoomba in 1979 and began an association with the DDIAE which was to continue until his death. In 1997, Mr Bellmaine donated more than $750,000 to provide extra facilities for the $10 million general purpose building at the USQ campus. The Keith and Beryl Bellmaine Wing of this building is named in honour of the generosity of these benefactors. Beryl pre-deceased Keith in 1992, and the couple had no children. They were passionate in their concern for the youth of today, however, and chose to invest in the future by offering funds to benefit the education of University of Southern Queensland students.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 13th August 2001.
Mr Bob Balsillie
Fairholme College is mourning the loss of popular music teacher Mr Bob Balsillie. Mr Balsillie, 45, lost a 15-month battle with leukaemia on Thursday. Fairholme's director of performance, Mr Balsillie was also well known for his involvement in the Sing Out program, which brought together singers from schools across Toowoomba to form one 500-plus voice choir on stage at the Empire Theatre. School chaplain and close friend Mr Richard Jessup said Mr Balsillie would be missed by all who knew him. "His life had an extraordinary effect on all who knew him," he said. "He was a Christian with great faith and I have no doubt he would be conducting the choirs of Heaven." Mr Balsillie is survived by his wife Kaye and children Scott, Ian and Mice. A thanksgiving service for Mr Balsillie's life will be held at Fairholme College, Wirra Wirra Street, tomorrow from 2pm. A private family cremation will precede the service.
Printed in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 20 August 2001.
Mary BRAYSHAW
Mary Brayshaw (nee McLoughlin) was born on April 7, 1906 and died on July 14, 1998. She was the eldest of seven children, born to Thomas and Cecilia McLoughlin (nee Skeily) of Sabine, where she started school. Later her parents bought land at Acland and she finished her education at Logan Creek School which was part of her parents' property. Her father donated the land to the Government for the school. Mary, at the age of 15, and after the death of her mother in 1921, helped her father take care of her brothers and sisters. Later she worked in Toowoomba and met Harry Brayshaw. They were married at St Patrick's Cathedral on October 25, 1929. After their marriage, they lived in western Queensland at Mitchell where their children were born. A daughter died at birth, then they had a son, Russell. After World War II, they lived and worked in St George and Meandarra districts. In 1974, Harry and Mary retired to live in Toowoomba in the home Mary had bought. Mary was a very friendly lady and gave help wherever possible. She loved dancing, races and meeting folk. Mary was survived by her husband Harry, son Russell (dec), daughter-in-law Margaret, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba, 24 November 1998
Mrs Frances Bacon
1909 - 1998
Frances Beatrice (Dot) Bacon passed away peacefully on July 25 at Toowoomba. Dot was born Frances Beatrice Cherry on March 8, 1909, daughter of Thomas and Clara Cherry of Oakey. She was one of twins; the other, Vernon Cherry, lives in New Zealand. The twins proved difficult to rear, but survived on a special milk preparation sent from Brisbane. As Frances was very small at the time, she was nicknamed "Dot". a name that stayed with her all her life. Educated at Oakey State School, Oakey Convent and later Lourdes Hill Convent in Brisbane, she loved music and attained top marks in the State for music theory. On her return to Oakey, she worked as a clerk at the Oakey butter factory, during which time she played tennis, basketball and vigaro. Her future husband, Clarrie Bacon, was a supplier to the factory from his family farm at Greenwood. Dot and Clarrie married at St Augustine's Church on April 12, 1932, and moved to a farm outside Bowenville with younger brother Fred Bacon, who bought his own farm when he married his wife Mary. The property was for many years a dairy farm while being cleared for grain. Dot and Clarrie had four children, Noela (now Noela Wippell, Roma), Bill (Gowrie Mountain), Valma (now Valma Torjul, Adelaide) and Barbara (now Barbara Taylor, Darwin). Dot was a member of the CWA for many years as well as helping in local organisations such as the hall committee, school committee and the progress association. - In 1958, the family moved to a small farm at Rochedale and for many years grew small crops and lemons. Eventually the property was planted with custard apple and macadamia trees which still thrive today. In 1985, when work became too difficult, they moved to Macgregor near Garden City, Mt Gravatt. However, it was always Dot's wish to return to Downs and in 1989 the Bacons bought a new home in Mott Crescent, Toowoomba. Clarrie passed away the following year. She is survived by her four children and families, 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grand children.
Printed in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 8 September 1998.
Florence Blades
1902 - 1993
May Florence Blades was unashamedly a home-loving person whose chief concern was for her daughters and their families. She was born on June 17, 1902, at Mooroomba Station, Nara, via Oakey, and died at Dalby Base Hospital on October 24, 1993. On July 17, 1920, she married Arthur Blades at the Church of England, Oakey, and the young couple made their home at Mt Irving, Aubigny, where they were engaged in farming. After a brief stint in 1929 running the general store at Kulpi, they returned to the land and bought "Dunbrae" in the Pirrinuan district. Arthur, May and their four daughters later moved to the Range's Bridge area in 1941, and May continued to live at the property, "Glendon", until the time of her death. Up to the time of Arthur's death in 1963, the family had owned a succession of properties from Aubigny to Burncluith in the Chinchilla district and had varied business interests in and around Dalby. May loved reading and was blessed with an alert mind until her days' end. Always an intelligent conversationalist, she was loved by all who knew her. At one time May was a member of the Dalby Bowls Club, where she greatly enjoyed the game and the fellowship of many friends. May is survived by her four daughters -- Mearl Luck, Dulcie von Pein, Dell Bach and Arley Courts -- eight grand- children, 19 great-grandchildren and four great-great- grandchildren. Two little grandsons predeceased her in 1962 in a drowning accident. She is also survived by two sisters, Ruby Koch (Toowoomba) and Sylvia Sharp (Oakey), but was predeceased by her brother, Harry, and sister, Edith Woods.
Printed in "the Chronicle", Toowoomba, 27 January 1994.
Arthur Harold Bichel
1917 - 1993
One of Toowoomba's leading competition gardeners for more than 13 years and a recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship from Toowoomba South Rotary for his service to Rotary and the community, died recently. Arthur Harold Bichel was born at Marburg on September 8, 1917, and married Eileen Zischke on December 28, 1940, at Hatton Vale. They had two sons -- Trevor and Geoffrey. Art, as he was affectionately known, served four years in the Army during World War II. A builder for 44 years, he lived in Gatton for 37 years before retiring to Toowoomba with his family, where he lived for 15 years. He was involved with Gatton Rotary Club, was president for a term, and held a 100% attendance record during his 20 years as a member. He instigated the Gatton Potato Carnival and was president for 10 years. A man who devoted himself to the care of family and others in the community, Art built the Gatton Subnormal Children's Association building at cost. This building is now called "Ar-Lene" -- a combination of his and his wife's names -- Activity Centre in recognition of his work. A member of the Gatton Sub-normal Children's Welfare Association (now Endearour) for many years and president of the P & F committee, Art was honoured with life membership for his voluntary work. He was also a Gatton State School P & F committee member, served a term on the Gatton Fire Brigade board, and enjoyed golf. Shortly after retiring to Toowoomba he became ill, and on his doctor's recom -mendation that he find an interest he ventured into gardening. With a neighbour's encouragement he entered The Chronicle Gardens competition and in 13 years of competition won 27 awards, including several championships. He was a member of the Toowoomba Home Gardeners' Club lnc and at the time of his passing had been president for three years. He was also involved with the Endeavour garden nursery. One of his last community functions was to present the memorial trophy for the champion novice garden in The Chronicle Home Gardens competition. For more than 12 years Art was a member of the Garden City Probus Club and its members, Rotary and garden club members formed a guard of honour at his funeral service at the Apostolic Church. Art lived for his family and helped them wherever possible. His aim in life was to be good at anything he did and to help those less fortunate than himself. He is survived by his wife Eileen, sons Trevor and Geoffrey, six grandchildren and two great-grand-children.
Printed in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 30 October 1993.
Keith Conley Bailey
1912-1999
Keith Conley Bailey was born at his parents' home in Greenwattle Street, Toowoomba, on November 24, 1912, the youngest of seven children of William and Mabel Bailey. He was educated at Wilsonton State School and later at Toowoomba Grammar School, from which he matriculated in 1926. He did not obtain one of the few Teachers' Training Scholarships issued for the following year and, with no wealthy father to pay for university studies, he found himself among the new unemployed of the Depression. He accepted a teaching position at a small subsidised school in the Barraba district of NSW for four years. Out of school hours he turned his hand to a variety of jobs shearing, horse-breaking, fencing, trapping etc. When the school was burnt down he returned to Toowoomba, riding his stock horse from Barraba to Toowoomba in six days, accompanied by his red kelpie dog Pedro. Still during the Depression, he spent time share-farming with sister Rita and her husband on their dairy at Cranley, then tractor driving and sewing grain bags near Dalby. He also cleared 40 acres of land by hand with pick, shovel and axe. He balanced work with leisure (cricket, tennis and dances) and duty (joined the Kaimkillenbun Troop of the llth Light Horse Regiment). He saved enough money to commence studies in Animal Husbandry at Gatton College, beginning in 1939. While there he joined the First Cavalry Mobile Veterinary Section. This unit went into camp when World War II was declared, to provide veterinary support at the Army Remount Depot, Enoggera. When the decision was made not to send cavalry abroad, he transferred to 6th Australian Signals Division. He sailed to Britain on the Queen Mary in June 1940. In December he went to the Middle East with the 9th Division. His job as linesman took him to Tobruk (he was one of the infamous RATS), Alexandria, Syria, Tripoli and Aleppo. His Division returned to Australia in 1943 for jungle retraining before being sent to Mylne Bay in New Guinea. In 1944 he returned to North Queensland for more training before going to Borneo. Peace was declared while he was in Borneo and Keith was discharged in November 1945 -- six days short of six years' army service. After the war he completed the diploma course at Gatton College and, with funding from the Repatriation Department, studied Veterinary Science at University of Queensland, graduating in 1952. During the course of holiday practical work he met Wally Mills, a Toowoomba Veterinary Surgeon, who offered him a job and later a partnership. They were later joined by Ray Hart to form the Toowoomba Veterinary Clinic. Keith retired from practice at the end of 1977, bought a bush block and took up beekeeping as a hobby. He was made a Life Member of the Southern Beekeepers' Association and took an active part in the Honey Court demonstrations at the Toowoomba Show and Jondaryan Woolshed. His other community interests included Rotary, Scouting and Probus. As president of the local Rats of Tobruk Association in 1996, he was conducting the annual Tobruk Day Ceremony when he suffered the first of a series of strokes which affected his balance and mobility and later his speech. He endured his illness with dignity and grace and never lost his sense of humour. Early on Sunday, March 21, Keith suffered a major stroke and his life slipped away peacefully with the final pink glow of the sunset, as his wife, son and daughter sat with him. Members of the Rats of Tobruk Association participated in his cremation service on Wednesday, March 24, and a large number of family and friends attended the Memorial Service which followed in St Stephen's Uniting Church, Toowoomba. In 1956 he had married Rosalie Onus at her hometown of Inverell NSW and they had two children, Peter and Diana, who presented them with three grandchildren, Jasmine, Anna and Kate. Keith is remembered throughout the Toowoomba area, not only as a friend, but for his gentleness and his love for the animals with which he worked.
Printed in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 20 April 1999.
Kevin Barron
1922-1999
An edited version of a eulogy given by Mr Graham Healy, MLA.
Born on the June 3, 1922 at the Wilga Hospital, Mort Street, Toowoomba, Kevin was the fourth child born to Robert and Mary Barron. Kev attended the Biddeston State School, completing his schooling in 1936. As it was in those days, he would have to attend to allotted duties on the farm before going to school. After leaving school Kev worked as a farm labourer in the surrounding districts, at the same time assisting on the family farm at Biddeston. Kev commenced full-time war service on the April 8, 1942 serving in Bougainville. Early in 1949 Key met Ellen Wicks. On November 26, 1949 Key married Ellen. After marrying, he and Ellen settled in the Mt Tyson district. With farming in his blood he then moved back to the land. On July 27, 1951 their first child, Graham was born followed by Joan in 1955 and James in 1959. With a young family of three children, Key and Ellen were actively involved in the small community at the Mt Tyson State School where Graham and Joan attended and the Mt Tyson Sub-branch of the RSL. In 1962 the Barron family relocated to 5 Boxsall Street, Toowoomba where Kev commenced work as a salesman at a local machinery firm, Plant and Plant. He later joined S. Fitzpatrick, Oakey, again a machinery salesman, before returning to Plant and Plant in 1974. He was acknowledged as one of Queensland's most experienced retail machinery representatives. Kev was still very well known and respected in the farming industry although he retired in 1984. He was also very proud of the achievements of his children, the most recent being when Graham was elected as a councillor on Toowoomba City Council. Key was diagnosed with early stages of Parkinson's Disease in 1990. After Ellen's death on November 15, 1995 Kev's general health deteriorated and he spent many weeks in St Andrew's Hospital. He then agreed to enter the RSL Westhaven War Veterans Home in October 1997, where he received very special care from dedicated staff.
Robert Brunner
1943-1999
Well-known and respected Toowoomba builder Bob Brunner died on July 2 after a six month battle with mesothelioma, the severe asbestos-related cancer. He was 56. Bob was born March 19, 1943 to Harry and Lily Brunner, of Gowrie Little Plain. He was the youngest of eight, and Walter, the eldest, is 21 years his senior. On leaving Gowrie Little Plain school, he worked with brother Stan for 12 months, helping him in his plumbing business before taking up an apprenticeship with Strohfeldts in Toowoomba. Bob worked on many large projects for that firm and remained with them for around 20 years. He married Jill Spies in Oakey on April 4, 1964, and they lived in Tara Street, Toowoomba where son John and daughter Roslyn were born. Bob and Jill were excellent dancers, won waltzing competitions, and were regulars at many country dances. They later moved to Meringandan with extended stints away for building projects both at Blackwater and St George where Bob was the project manager for Strohfeldts. Youngest daughter Amanda was born while living at Meringandan. They moved to their Nuss Street home in 1978. He worked for some time in his own right before accepting a position with Simon Pty Ltd more than 20 years ago and supervised the setting up and operation of the truss and framing plants. Just before his illness overcame him, he virtually rebuilt their hardware section. There would be few buildings on the site that did not have some treatment from Bob. As Simons representative, he toured the USA about three years ago examining new fixing technology. Bob was generous with his time, always willing to help. He could look at a problem, sum it up and in no time it was fixed. His idea of fun was building in his spare time with Gary and Kev. He was admired by workmates for his work ability and conscientiousness and comments about him would include statements such as "the hardest working bloke I know" and a "top-class builder". Bob's other interest was fishing, be it off any creek bank or out off Woodgate. He genuinely loved a beer and a barbecue and those held in the back yard at Nuss Street could be considered legendary. About 450 people attended a memorial service at the Sacred Heart Church on July 6 and Bob was laid to rest in the Drayton and Toowoomba Lawn Cemetery. He is survived by his loving wife Jill, son John and wife Janelle, daughter Roslyn, daughter Mandy and husband Jamie Chant and grandsons Lachlan and Harrison Brunner, brothers Wally, Kevin, sister Marge, brother Stan and wife June, sister Jean Ruhle and husband Keith (Spider), brother Glen and sister Doris, brothers and sisters-in-law, Melody and Michael Kalinowski and Fay and Glen Frith and a multitude of cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.
Printed in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 20 Jul 1999.
City farewells man of music
by Merryl Miller
BOB BALSILLIE
(1956-2001)
To his students he was "Mr Amazing", a tall man who was inspirational for his love and talent for music. To others who knew him, Bob Balsillie was a dedicated and innovative teacher, founder of the Sing Out performances in Toowoomba. Allan Robert (Bob) Balsillie was born in Mitchell on 1 May 1956, and spent his early years at Cedarvale with sister Lindy and parents John and Nan. He completed his senior education as a boarder at Scots College, Warwick, obtained his Diploma of Teaching (Music) from the DDIAE in 1976, followed by a Bachelor of Education degree. It seemed only natural that Bob would choose music teaching as a career path; his talent as a musician was evident at a young age, and he had a great love and genuine appreciation for children. Bob's first teaching position was in Roma in 1977, and the following years saw him work extensively in South West Queensland. While posted in Miles Bob met and married Kaye Uebergang in 1980. During their 21 years of marriage the Balsillies moved house six times. Bob worked in Warwick, Childers, and in several State schools across Toowoomba, including East, North, Harlaxton, and Centenary Heights. It was during his time as a teacher at Fairholme College that Bob really made his mark on the local music scene. Accepting the position of music teacher in 1991, Bob was kept busy with the often daunting task of instilling a love of music into his small charges. The children, however, quickly came to love this gentle giant, and responded enthusiastically to his humour, quirkiness, and passion for his craft. In 1996 Bob organised Toowoomba's first Sing Out, with three schools performing together at Fairholme College. Prizes were not a motivating feature -- students performed for the sheer enjoyment of sharing music. Sing Out grew to become a tremendous success, with 900 voices participating at the Empire Theatre in 1998, and 25 schools being involved in a two day performance in 1999. Bob also organised String Out in 2000 and 2001, and was instrumental in the performance last year of Muscle Dance, the story of Sister Elizabeth Kenny.
In 1995 Bob accompanied the Fairholme choir to England, where he played the grand piano at Australia House in London. Bob had a particular love for the pipe organ, an instrument he took great delight in playing at his wedding to Kaye. In 1995 he was involved in Fairholme College's procurement of a pipe organ from St Phillip's Anglican Church in Sydney. The pipes for this organ originally came from another organ built in England in 1886, and the instrument was totally rebuilt to its present form in 1968. Bob pre-taped three hymns on this organ for the celebration service held at Fairholme Chapel following his death.
While Bob's school activities kept him busy, he was also much in demand to play at weddings, church services and other occasions. Bob knew many people, and had a remarkable presence in the community. He also maintained an active involvement with the Toowoomba Chamber Music Society, the Eisteddfod committee, and several other musical organisations. Bob was a dedicated Christian, and his strong faith was evident to all who met him. This, together with his love for music and his undying commitment to his students, is how he will be remembered. Bob's great gift lay in being able to inspire others with his musical talent, and before his death in August he recorded a CD, Inspirational Blessings. Bob Balsillie is survived by his wife Kaye, and their three children, Scott, Ian, and Alice.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba, 11th October 2001.
Mrs Helena Bernoth
1917-2001
The matriarch of the successful Bernoth family, Mrs Helena (Helen) Bernoth, died in Toowoomba on Monday at the age of 83. Mrs Bernoth was the driving force behind the success of her children. Family involvement over the past 27 years has included Bernoths Electrical, That's Country, and most recently NB Style in the Bernoth Centre. Born in Gatton in 1917, Helena Sinn grew up in Tenthill and married her farming husband Allan Bernoth in 1940. Ten years later the family moved to the Darling Downs and eventually settled at "Collingbourne", Southbrook, where Mrs Bernoth lived until her death. A country woman at heart, she worked principally alongside Allan as a farmer's wife, but found time to volunteer for both Lifeline and Meals on Wheels for many years. She also showed a keen business sense and was a source of great encouragement and support for the ambitions of her children, Carol, Barry, Harvey, Claire and Russell. Sadly, Mrs Bernoth lost both her daughter Claire and husband Allan in 1994. She is survived by four children, 12 grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. Her funeral service will be held today at the Community Baptist Church at Glenvale at 1.30pm.
1910 - 2001
Long-time supporter of the University of Southern Queensland, Keith Bellmaine, died in Toowoomba last week, aged 91. Mr Bellmaine was made a Fellow of the university in 1997, in recognition of his generous support to the campus since 1979. Born in Melbourne, Mr Bellmaine described himself as a "child of the Great Depression". Taking work where he could, he supported himself through university, graduating in 1931 with a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Sydney. In 1934, he began work as a storeman with Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd and in the following 36 years worked up to the position of general sales manager for BP Australia. Mr Bellmaine was then invited to head the joint Australian/French energy company Total Boral. He and his wife chose to retire in Toowoomba in 1979 and began an association with the DDIAE which was to continue until his death. In 1997, Mr Bellmaine donated more than $750,000 to provide extra facilities for the $10 million general purpose building at the USQ campus. The Keith and Beryl Bellmaine Wing of this building is named in honour of the generosity of these benefactors. Beryl pre-deceased Keith in 1992, and the couple had no children. They were passionate in their concern for the youth of today, however, and chose to invest in the future by offering funds to benefit the education of University of Southern Queensland students.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 13th August 2001.
Toowoomba philanthropist committed to youth
Toowoomba lost a true philanthropist this month, with the death of Mr Keith Oliver Bellmaine. Mr Bellmaine, 91, was a generous benefactor to the University of Southern Queensland, believing that offering funds to benefit the education of students was a worthy investment in the future of the community. Born on January 16, 1910, in Melbourne, Keith was the only son of Jessie and Oliver Bellmaine, an accountant. Keith attended school in both Melbourne and Sydney, and completed his secondary education at the Sydney Boys High School. Keith was awarded his Bachelor of Economics degree from the University of Sydney in 1931. Upon graduation, Keith could not afford the obligatory ceremonial cap and gown, and was forced to borrow the necessary apparel to collect his degree. In 1934, Keith moved to Queensland and took on the position of storeman with Commonwealth Oil Refineries Limited. At the close of 36 years with this company, which produced petroleum products under the COR then BP brand, Keith retired as general sales manager for BP Australia. Upon his retirement from BP Australia, Keith was invited to head the joint Australian French energy company Total Boral. Keith married Beryl Hildebrandt of Sydney in 1935, and the couple shared 57 years of marriage before her death in 1992. Although they remained childless, both Beryl and Keith held a passionate concern about the future of the youth of Australia. Following their retirement to Toowoomba in 1979, the Bellmaines became involved with the Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education through the Steele Rudd College Appeal.
In 1997, Keith donated more than $750,000 to provide extra facilities for the $10 million Phoenix Building constructed that year. In recognition of the endowment, Keith was made a Fellow of the University of Southern Queensland. In another fitting tribute, the "Keith and Beryl Bellmaine Wing" of the Phoenix Building was also unveiled in 1997, to acknowledge the tremendous support Keith and his wife offered to the university over 22 years.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba 14th August, 2001
A self-described "city slicker who saw the light and moved to the bush".
Bush poetry 'legend' dies
One of Australia's most-respected bush poets, Kev Barnes, known throughout the country as "The Legend", died this week in Millmerran aged 57. Author of Legendary Things, a compilation of his poetry, Key wrote, performed, judged and organised bush poetry events for the past 11 years. Born and raised in Brisbane, he described himself as a "city slicker" before seeing the light and heading bush. After completing school, Kev spent 12 years in the Army before taking up professional fishing in Townsville. He then headed west working on several properties. He retired due to illness and he bought his home in the bush, just outside Millmerran, 11 years ago and took up writing in earnest. He became a member of the Bush Poets' Association in 1996. Among his many projects, Kev was also responsible for the annual Millmerran Bush Poets Round-up which attracts poets from throughout the country. The "legend" title was given to him by a fellow poet early in his writing career and just stuck and became his trademark.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba, November 30th, 2001
LEILEA BUSIKO
Leilea devoted to community work
Shop owner; community worker
Born: March 30, 1921
Died: January 13, 2002
By MERRYL MILLER
Leilea May Busiko was a mainstay of the Crows Nest community, well-known for her involvement in business and other aspects of town life. She enjoyed friendships with a large number of people, and will be remembered as an outgoing and active woman.
Born in Crows Nest, Leilea was the youngest child of Ferdinand and Ellen Wrembeck. She was educated at Plainby School, together with her older siblings Billy and Eileen. Upon leaving school, Leilea worked on the family farm, but it wasn't long before a young local lad diverted her attention. On her trusty steed, she would frequently gallop off to visit the object of her affections, and on April 13, 1942, she married Herb Busiko at St Luke's Church in Toowoomba. Herb and Leilea began their married life at Pechy, where their first son Trevor was born. Leilea soon became a familiar sight in these parts as she walked into town to buy supplies pushing her baby pram. They later moved to Crows Nest and welcomed another two sons, Glen and Bevan, into their family. Crows Nest would remain her home for the rest of Leilea's life.
Leilea was always happiest cooking and caring for her young family. However, she relished meeting and talking with people from all walks of life, and when the opportunity arose to operate a local fish and chips shop, Leilea was quick to take advantage of it. Her role as shopkeeper lasted for several years during the 1960s and 1970s. After having raised three sons, Leilea was delighted to have a close involvement in the upbringing of her grand-daughter Janine. Janine, together with her other seven grandchildren, was the apple of Leilea's eye, and she was never prouder than when Janine won the Queensland Miss Tiny Tots Award for the Endeavour Foundation. Leilea worked hard for both the Endeavour Foundation and the Carnival Of Flowers organisation, fuelling an ongoing passion for community activities. As her children and grandchildren grew up and moved away, Leilea decided to go back to work rather than retire. She kept herself busy during the picking seasons for tomatoes, onions, parsley, strawberries, roses, carnations, geraniums, and proteas. She also became involved in the catering business, and took cleaning work with the Department of Primary Industries and the Post Office.
While aged in her 60s, Leilea found the physical challenges of her life proving more difficult, and decided to spend her time on community activities. She became actively involved in the local ambulance association, and pursued her interests with the museum, the Senior Citizens Club, and the Anglican Guild. Leilea loved attending meetings and took great pleasure from selling raffle tickets, going on bus trips, and spending time with her many friends. Leilea died in Crows Nest aged 81. She is survived by her three sons, eight grand children, and four great grandchildren.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba February 7th, 2002.
Les BERMINGHAM
April 16, 1928 - March 9, 2002
Les Bermingham represented everything good about the wonderful Irish Catholic traditions in society. He was a hard-working man, with a strong sense of social justice, who devoted his life to his family and helping the less-advantaged people in the community. Born in Gympie, Leslie John was the youngest of six children to David and Maude Bermingham (nee Benstead). The family lived on a farm at Glasenbury, near Gympie, and Les's father worked as a timber-getter with a bullock team, a drover, and a farmer. Les attended school at Glasenbury and Widgee, and later at St Joseph's Christian Brothers College in Gympie.
Leaving school at 14, Les worked for a brief time at a timber mill in Maryborough, before joining Queensland Railways at 16. The following 49 years would see Les rise from the position of lad porter to Inspector in 1991. Les's career with the Railways saw him move throughout Queensland regularly. His first transfer out of Maryborough was to Bethania Junction, where he lived in a tent, then to Cordelba, before receiving a promotion to the position of night officer and a transfer to Howard. Les's time in Howard was special for two reasons -- it was here in 1949 that he bought his first motorbike, a BSA 500, and he met his future wife, Bette Juniper.
Marrying in Maryborough in October 1950, Les and Bette spent the next 51 years together, enjoying a close partnership. Les's advice for a happy marriage was to 'admit to nothing', but perhaps the secret lay more in his charm, humour, and tradition of serving his wife breakfast in bed each day. The pair had six children, with three of them being born on public holidays - a possible legacy of Les's work within the Railways Union. Over the following years, the Bermingham family lived in Tiaro, Esk, Murgon, Maryborough, Linville, Eidsvold, Dirrinbandi, and eventually Toowoomba. Les and Bette loved Toowoomba, and even though Les would receive further transfers to Brisbane and Ipswich, they always planned to eventually settle here. In 1990, Les attained the position of Railway Inspector in Toowoomba, and when he retired in 1991, he and Bette were able to finally achieve the dream of buying their own home.
Les never had a lot of money, and frequently the family struggled to make ends meet, yet he was always doing what he could to help the poor. Possessing a strong sense of social justice he believed in trying to change things for the better, and allowing each individual to maintain a sense of dignity. Les never passed judgement, and led by example through his work with the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Knights of the Southern Cross, the Australian Labor Party, and the Railways Union, in which he was an office bearer for many years. A hands-on sort of man, Les found great fulfillment in delivering food parcels, visiting the sick or imprisoned, and sharing his home with those down on their luck. The greatest joy in Les's life was his family, with whom he loved to spend time. Les is survived by his wife Bette, his six children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. - Merryl Miller
Published in "The Chronicle" March 23, 2002.
Kev Barnes
1944 - 2001
Kev Barnes was one of Australia's most respected bush poets and authors, known throughout the country as "the Legend". Based in Millmerran for the past 11 years, Kev was instrumental in writing, performing, judging and organising bush poetry events. Born in Brisbane on 18 October 1944, Kev was one of three children of William and Grace Barnes. He attended the Greenslopes State Primary School and St Lawrence's before joining the Army, where he served for 13 years. After his discharge from the Army the self-described city dweller "saw the light" and went bush. Kev became something of a jack-of-all-trades during the following years, working as a professional fisherman, taking jobs where he could find them on properties, and even running a boarding house for a time. It was only when he was forced to retire because of illness that Kev finally stumbled upon his true calling, and was able to take up writing in earnest. Settling on a home in the bush just outside Millmerran 11 years ago, Kev quickly established a name for himself as a talented poet. The title "Legend" was bestowed early in his writing career by a fellow poet; it stuck, and became his trademark.
The years Kev spent writing were his happiest, and he took great enjoyment from travelling around schools talking to children about poetry. He was also an active member of the Bush Poets' Association, which he joined in 1996. Chief among Kev's many projects was responsibility for organising the annual Millmerran Bush Poets' Round-up, a forum that attracts writers from around the country. He also found time to write Legendry Stuff, a compilation of his poetry, and was known for his ability to talk and talk... and talk some more. Kev's friends always told him that the angels in heaven would have much to endure listening to him talk for all eternity, especially if he had managed to procure some of his favourite beer or rum first! Kev Barnes died in Millmerran on 27 November 2001, aged 57. He is survived by two of his three sons.
Published in "The Chronicle", Toowoomba, 10th January 2002.
Tmba politician a man of the people
Born: January 13, 1911
Died: May 28, 2002
Ray Bousen was a born and bred Toowoomba man, who represented the area as a state MP until the mid-1970s. Ray was actively involved in many community endeavours, industrial groups, and sporting interests, ensuring he was a well-known identity across the Darling Downs. William Raymond James Bousen was the fourth eldest of nine children, the son of Sydney Herbert and Annie Louise (nee Stayte). He attended the North State School until the age of 13, and often regretted not pursuing further formal education. Ray acknowledged, however, that his real education didn't actually start until he left school. Ray returned to the North School in 1969, when opening the A.E. Home Centenary Library. Ray loved the sport of rugby league and was an excellent player, representing Toowoomba while a young man. His involvement with the Newtown Rugby League Football Club continued unabated for many years after he had hung up his boots.
With a father who was an active member of the Federated Engine Drivers and Firemen's Association union, it was perhaps only natural Ray would follow in his footsteps. Ray joined Queensland Railways in 1925, initially posted to Murphys Creek as a lad porter. He later moved to Cooyar, working as a porter on the Cooyar Rail Motor when he met and married Doris Hooper. While in his 20s, Ray's developing interest in union matters saw him become the Australian Railways Union sub-branch secretary, and later chairman. He was based in Bundaberg and Charleville at this time, but in 1945 moved back to Toowoomba as a guard with the Railways. His involvement with the union continued and he became the Australian Railways Union State Council and State Conference local sub-branch secretary and delegate. Ray was also interested in political issues. A member of the Australian Labor Party since 1930, he was elected president of the Toowoomba West branch and campaign secretary for State and Federal elections. In 1953, Ray resigned from the Railways to become district secretary of the ARU, a position he held for almost 17 years. He subsequently became the Toowoomba Trades and Labour Council president, and the Trades Hall Board president. Ray also was the Combined Railways Union president, and Queensland Council executive of the ALP union delegate. Ray was accorded life membership of the ALP in 1978. After the retirement of former Deputy Premier, and one-time Toowoomba Mayor, Jack Duggan, Ray was elected as ALP Member to the seat of Toowoomba West in 1969. This seat was abolished by the 1971 redistribution and changed to the new seat of Toowoomba North. In Parliament, Ray held the post of Shadow Minister for Land and Forestry, and maintained his interest in the Government's railway policies. He also successfully fought for a pre-school at Harlaxton and Toowoomba's second special school in Gladstone Street.
At the 1974 State election, Ray, along with 21 other ALP Members, was wiped out by the massive swing against the party, due to the unpopularity of the Whitlam Federal Labor Government.
Ray subsequently became involved in community affairs, serving as the Subnormal Children's Welfare Association senior vice-president, and the development committee for the Darling Downs College of Advanced Education treasurer. He was on the Municipal Band and the Carnival of Flowers Board committees, and was the Labour Day celebrations committee chairman. Ray took a particular interest in the development of the Marching Girls Association. A co-founder of the Toowoomba Girls Marching Association (the first in Queensland), Ray also served as State secretary and was awarded life membership. Other involvements of Ray's included the Red Cross, the Toowoomba Tourist Association, the committee organizing the visit of overseas delegates on behalf of the Duke of Edinburgh's third study group conference, and vice-president of a committee conducting a diabetic survey, the first of its kind held in Queensland. Ray enjoyed lawn bowls, and was a prominent member of the West Toowoomba Bowls Club for several decades. The club recently presented Ray with his patriarch badge. He also participated fully in church affairs at St James's Anglican Church and St Alban's at Newtown. In 1991, Ray was awarded life membership of the Anglican Men's Society. Ray and Doris spent most of their married life in Toowoomba, where they raised two daughters Shirley and Norma. In 1998, they retired to Mt Coolum Aged Care Home, where Doris died last July. When Ray died aged 91, he was survived by his two children, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Published by “The Chronicle”, Toowoomba, 20th June 2002.
Community rallied to help young mum
Born: November 23, 1974
Died: May 10, 2002
Jodi Betros' story captured the hearts of Toowoomba people. When it became public that the young mother was ill, the community rallied to offer her family support and love, an outpouring of emotion not often seen in society today.
Born in Toowoomba, Jodi Anne Uebergang was the middle child of three to mother Glenys. She attended the North State School and Centenary Heights State High School in Toowoomba, before going to the Grovely College of TAFE in Brisbane to study floristry and horticulture. Following graduation, Jodi was employed at Southerden Florist in Toowoomba, where she worked for 10 years.
On October 19, 1996, Jodi married prominent sportsman Michael Betros, and the pair settled on their property, "Lik Lik Dewai" in Upper Flagstone Creek. Mick, as Jodi's husband is known, has won several Queensland boxing titles in the lightweight division, and has contested Australian titles. He currently coaches well-known local boxer Mick Katsidis. Jodi and Mick had three children during their marriage, Luke, Ryan, and Erin, and they were the light of Jodi's life. It was while pregnant with Erin that Jodi and Mick were told the news that changed everything forever -- that Jodi had liver cancer.
Jodi's plight could not fail to touch the hearts of Toowoomba people. Community, sporting and business groups joined forces for the young family, urging locals to get behind Jodi in her "big fight". Jodi and Mick's cause was embraced by the city and region, and while ultimately nothing could be done to save Jodi's life, the support shown for them during their battle was overwhelming. Jodi Betros was only 27 when she died just before Mother's Day this year. She was at home with her husband and her three young children, the greatest legacy she could have left, Mick is determined that their children will grow up hearing about their mother every day, and about the impact such a young person made upon the community in which they live. Jodi is survived also by her mother Glenys, stepfather Darryl Humberdross, sister Tina, and brother Michael.
Published by “The Chronicle”, Toowoomba 2nd July, 2002.
Wally an innovative farmer, community worker
Born: October 30, 1921
Died: May 18, 2002
Wally Bourne was a familiar and well-liked local of the Cambooya area, an innovative farmer and community worker. He also lived in Toowoomba for many years, where he knew many people through his involvement in a number of charitable, sporting, and social organisations. Born in Toowoomba, Walter Thomas Bourne was one of two children to Albert and Vera. He and his sister Daphne attended primary school at Cambooya, before beginning work on "Montrose", his parents' farm at Cambooya. In 1944, Wally purchased the adjacent property to "Montrose", called "Bon Accord", a property he maintained until its sale in 1996.
Wally was a talented sportsman throughout his life, excelling in his youth at athletics, rugby league, and tennis. Joyce Proellocks, a fellow tennis player, caught his fancy in the early 1940s, and the pair were married just after the war ended in 1945. Courting wasn't an easy process with the petrol rationing imposed by the war however, and often Joyce would ride her bicycle to Cambooya from Toowoomba to visit Wally. During the years Wally and Joyce farmed "Bon Accord", their family grew to include five children. The pair grew traditional crops, but also pioneered the growing of soya beans, linseed, and blue lupins. Wally was acknowledged for his foresight in developing a bean-cutting and wind-rowing implement, the local press covering his endearours. He also diversified his activities to include contract harvesting, hay baling, breeding lambs, cattle, pigs, egg production and market gardening. Wally was a resourceful farmer and learned the skills of mechanics and welding to make his own specialised equipment. He modified and built many items of machinery, stirring up debate and earning respect in the process. Wally also developed an interest in photography and established a dark room at "Bon Accord” to pursue this passion.
Wally and Joyce bought a home in Toowoomba in 1964 to enable the children -- Max, Garry, Ken, and Janice -- to attend school in the city. Wally commuted to the farm each day until his retirement just six years ago. Both Wally and Joyce were avid campers, caravaners, and travellers (both within Australia and overseas), and shared a love of fishing. They particularly enjoyed fossicking on the Central Queensland gem fields, and Wally won several prizes at the Toowoomba Show for his gem-cutting abilities. He was also a member of both the Lapidary Club and the Faceters' Guild.
Community involvement was of great importance in Wally's life and he believed all people should work in whatever capacity possible to assist the well-being of everyone in the community. Wally was a member for 37 years of the Lions Club, president and member of the Cambooya P and C, an elder in the Cambooya Presbyterian Church, and drove for Meals on Wheels. He was also a member of the Toowoomha Probus Club, the Association of Independent Retirees, and undertook Community Care transport. Wally took up golf, indoor bowls, and lawn bowls late in life, and proved very talented in each of these sports. He also became involved with the clubs attached to these pursuits, joining the Toowoomba Golf Club, Drayton Bowls Club and Westbrook Indoor Bowls Club. Socialising was important to Wally, and he gave evidence of his appreciation for a fine wine by being involved in the formation of the Wheatsheaf Beefsteak and Burgundy Club. He was both a founding and life member of this group. He and Joyce also enjoyed dancing, and were regulars at many of the dance halls in the district. Wally Bourne died in Toowoomba aged 80, and is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joyce, four of his five children, and 10 grandchildren.
Published in “The Chronicle”, Toowoomba, 21st June 2002.
Catherine unsung pillar of the Oakey community
Born: February 9, 1914
Died: June 4, 2002
Catherine Burke was one of those unsung pillars of society -- a mother active in her children's pursuits, a helpmate to her farming husband, a busy member of the Catholic church, and a tireless community worker. Her quiet endeavours helped to make the world a little better place for many people in the Darling Downs region.
Catherine Bridget Hayden was the third of 10 children born to Michael and Bridget of Gowrie Junction, where she was raised. Marrying Edward Joseph Burke (Joe) in September 1935 at the Holy Name Church in Toowoomba, the pair settled on a property at Crosshill, on the outskirts of Oakey. Many years were spent watching the skies and praying for rain, as they raised their 11 children on a heavily mortgaged dairy farm.
Their Catholic faith was central to life in the Burke household, and while things were always tight financially, attending Mass remained a priority. Every Sunday, the family would pile into the old Plymouth in their very best attire, and travel to the Aubigny Church. Catherine engrossed herself in the Oakey Catholic community, assisting with balls and fetes, and becoming an active member of the Majellan Club. She was always the first to welcome newcomers to parish life, showing a flair for this sort of ministry.
The development of her children also kept Catherine busy. She worked at tuckshops, cooked for the school, attended school functions, and sewed for school balls and concerts, seeing this as an important part of a mother's role. In February 1978, Joe retired from working their dairy farm, and died only a few weeks later on St Patrick's Day. Following her husband's death, Catherine became increasingly involved in community pursuits, initially working as a volunteer at the St Vincent's opportunity shop. While Catherine's heart was in the right place, her kindness to people in need indicated she would never have made much profit as a businesswoman. Catherine also joined the Oakey Senior Citizen's club, and enjoyed the outings, activities, and especially the company the group provided.
The one aspect of Catherine's character which many people recall was her sense of justice and fairness. While she was not particularly outspoken, she would always register her disapproval with the offenders or authorities in situations she perceived to be unfair. This framework of justice extended to trades people who she felt were not providing high quality service. Catherine's second eldest daughter returned to live at home in 1989, a situation which suited them both perfectly. As well as providing company, Carmel, a trained nurse, was able to assist her mother who was suffering deteriorating health. Despite illness, however, Catherine maintained her home until near the end of her life. Dying in Oakey, aged 88, Catherine Burke is survived by 11 children, 35 grandchildren, and 32 great-grandchildren.
Published in “The Chronicle”, Toowoomba, 27th July, 2002.
Max BUSCH
1931 - 2002 The Toowoomba City Library and the community lost a tireless worker with the death of Max Busch on Saturday.
Mr Busch had been a volunteer with the library's Lex Graham Mobile Library since 1986 when, as a member of Toowoomba East Rotary Club, he was instrumental in establishing the service. He undertook a variety of tasks, driving the van and delivering books to the housebound, organising rosters of other volunteers, and delivering bulk loans of books to local nursing homes and community organisations.
Born in Toowoomba in 1931, Mr Busch started his working life as a telegram boy in Brisbane, later serving as a postal clerk in various towns in South-West and North Queensland. While a relief officer in Carton he met his future wife, Enid, who was monitor in charge of the Gatton telephone exchange. The couple married on May 21, 1960, and moved to Toowoomba, where they built the house they still occupied at the time of his death. Mr Busch worked his way through the Toowoomba postal ranks and rose to be postmaster at the Toowoomba City Hall Post Office. He retired in 1986. He was a keen bowler and Toowoomba Bowls Club secretary for eight years. However, he surrendered that position to pursue his interests in the mobile library and gardening.
Although he suffered from poor health over the past few years, Mr Busch still gave his time to the mobile library service. He is survived by his wife, and sister Laura Nuskey.
Published as a news item in “The Chronicle”, Toowoomba 20 December 2002
Obituaries Index
Toowoomba Dead Persons Society
