Battle of Fromelles Commemoration – Ipswich, Australia and Fromelles, France

A very moving 108th Anniversary Commemoration (19th July 2024) held at the Ipswich RSL Honour Stone by the Ipswich RSL in conjunction with the 31st Infantry Battalion Association (Brisbane Branch). Honoured Special Guest was Mr Keith Payne VC AM,, a former member of both the 31st Battalion (1951) & 42nd Battalion (1975).

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Other honoured Guests were Brig Arran Hassell CSC, Commander of 8th Brigade Aust Army, Duputy RSL Qld President, Ms Wendy Taylor, Group Capt Dennis Tan, Senior Officer RAAF Base Amberley . Her Worship the Mayor of Ipswich Cr Teresa Harding, Mr Alain Etchegaray Hon Consul representing the French Ambassador to Australia, Maj Ed Dalheimer, Company Commander 31st/42nd Battalion RQR, The Hon Shayne Neumann MP, Member for Blair, Senator Paul Scarr ,Jennifer Howard MP, State Member for Ipswich.

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We were honoured to have the following Descendants of Soldiers who fought in the Battle of Fromelles –
Col Mark Plath Retd – representing– Lt Col Fred Toll DSO & Bar MBE VD, CO of 31st Battalion
Mr Keith Beardsmore – representing– Lt Col Henry Breardsmore DSO , 30th Battalion –
Ms Ann Kirby – representing – Sgt Cyril Kirby MM 31st Battalion
Lt Col Russell Linwood ASM Retd – representing – Pte Issac Linwood 31stBattalion
Mr Leo Rawlings – representing– Pte Frederick Rawlings 31st Battalion
Mr Bernie Delaney, Ms Siobhan Bouma & James Danaher 3rd – representing – Lt James Danaher 31st Battalion
Robert Doncaster- representing – Charles Christopher Doncaster 53rdBattalion
Additional we had Ms Deborah Gower representing the Mayor of Fromelles & the Fromelles Community lay a Wreath
Some photos of the Descendants at the Honour Stone after the Service. More to follow
We also mention the Service was live streamed on Ipswich RSL Facebook & can be viewed here – https://www.facebook.com/ipswichrsl/videos/1455856535298547

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Brig Arran Hassell CSC – Comd 8th Bde – Delivering Welcoming Address

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Group of 31st Battalion Association at 108th Commemoration of Battle of Fromelles at RSL Honour Stone Ipswich, Qld, Australia.

Members of the 31st Battalion Assoc with Keith Payne VC AM (Centre Front)

Maj Ed Dahlheimer, Coy Commander 31st/42nd Battalion, (In Uniform).

After the 108th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of Fromelles at Ipswich.

Lt Col Russell Linwood ASM Retd (on the left of Keith) renewed their acquaintance & stories

from when Russell was a Cadet at Duntroon & Keith was an Instructor there.

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Wreaths Laid at the Fromelles Commemoration in Ipswich

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Keith engaged in conversation with fellow Vet.

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Overhead photo of 31st Battalion Assoc Battle of Fromelles 108th Anniversary Commemoration held at the Honour Stone at Ipswich RSL Memorial Hall, in conjunction with the Ipswich RSL sub branch.

A great attendance of over 100.

Grave Stone for William Brumby – One of the Missing 200 – Identified 2024 – Reinterred Pheasant Wood Cemetery, France – RIP – Lest We Forget

BRUMBY , William Christopher S/N 585 Pte
Born -Cones Homley, England
NOK (m) Mrs Eliza Rowle, South Someroakes, Lincolnshire, England

Enlistment Date 12-Jul-15 Melbourne, Victoria
Age 28 yrs Single C.of E. Labourer Address Sorrento, Victoria

Outcome KIA 2 0th Jul 1916 at Fromelles.

Remembered at Villers Bretonneux – France

Original, ‘C’ Coy, 31st Bn

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Pte William Christopher Brumby

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Pheasant Wood Military Cemetery Fromelles France 19th uly 2024

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31st Battalion Association Wreath placed during the Ceremony

Fromelles France 19th July 2024

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108th Battlle of Fromelles Commemoration at Fromelles, France

Commemoration Ceremony Fromelles France 19th July 2024

Address of Commemoration – 2024

MAJ Edward Dahlheimer

Good morning, Ladies and Gentlemen, –

- MR Keith Payne VC AM,

- COMD 8th BDE BRIG Arran HASSEL CSC,

- Deputy President RSL QLD Wendy Taylor,

- President of the Ipswich RSL Mr Paul Rogers

- The Federal Member for Blair the Honourable Shayne Neumann MP

- State Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard MP –

- Her Worship the Mayor of Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding,

- Honorary Consul Representing the French Ambassador to Australia Mr Alain Etchegaray

- Honoured Guests

- Fellow Veterans, – Serving members, – Various Association Members – Descendants of those who served & Fell at the Battle of Fromelles,

and last but not least, The 31^st Bn Assoc. & Ipswich RSL Sub Branch Members for the excellent work behind the scenes setting up this Commemoration to ensure we never forget the anniversary of this tragic day.

When I was asked to deliver this address, I was excited to further my historical knowledge of the deeds of those brave Australian Soldiers who embarked on adventure in a foreign land. For me to talk about the Battle of Fromelles I needed to go to the written words of LTCOL Fredrick TOLL and the War Diary of the 31^st Bn AIF. I always find these documents have lots of information but it’s what is between the lines I enjoy. I found that the report, written by LTCOL TOLL to the COMD 8th BDE, to be very informative in laying out the plan he had and how the tragic operation on the 19th/20th July unfolded.

Late June found the Bn at Morbeque after traveling from Egypt via Marseilles, with C Coy the last to join the unit this brought the strength to 30 officers and 995 ORs. At Morbeque they would have completed final briefings, training and had practical displays of gassing. July 7th, they received Stand by orders to enter the line, July 8th 0115hrs movement orders issued and the 31st Bn marched to ESTARES then onto RUE DORMOIRE to relieve the 18th Bn. The Bn moved into the BOIS-GRENIER LINE relieving the 15th Bn as the reserve for the 29th Bn they moved back to the billets for rest on the 16^th as initial orders had the operation starting on the 17^th but due to heavy shelling on the billets and the support trenches it was delayed.

Some of the first causalities started on 16th July, the intelligence officer LT George Alfred STILL led a small team to conduct reconnaissance on enemy positions and disposition. CPL Alfred Carlyle DAY and PTE Robert Hurtle LUXMOORE were both WIA. DAY was an apprentice electrician who was born in Brisbane he was 19 years old. He received a GSW to his left buttock, he was RTA and MID for his actions prior to the operation. During those days leading up to the assault the Bn lost one officer and 34 ORs all WIA.

On 16th July, D Coy less one Platoon moved in to secure the right section of the BDE area the rest of the Bn was in reserve 300 yards behind the front. This area was shelled continuously so A & C Coys moved into billets to be protected from shelling. LTCOL Toll moved the Bn into BDE area with A Coy supported by B Coy and C Coy supported by D Coy broken into 4 waves with 2 platoons from each Coy in each wave. They were supported with Lewis Gunners and Signallers as runners, unfortunately 6 of the 8 signallers were killed or wounded during artillery fire.

On 19th July the Bn reported ready at 1600hrs, BHQ moved from support trenches to front line at 1730hr, the first wave crossed over the parapet at 1758hrs and began to cross no man’s land. The second waved stepped off at 1800hrs followed by the third and the fourth the CO decided that BHQ would join the third and fourth waves. When they reached the enemy trenches, it was noted what great destruction had taken place with dead and dying enemy. Sadly, due to the artillery from both sides and machine gun many of the 31st Bn were among the dead and wounded.

With most officers and NCOs killed or WIA, LTCOL Toll led the remnants of his Bn past the German frontline to about 200 yards but could not locate the other trenches, just open fields with water filled craters. This was very different to what aerial photos and reconnaissance had indicated. It was decided to consolidate and dig in about 250 yards from the German front line. The BHQ went through a box barrage for enemy guns, this is most likely when LT Still was partially buried and wounded, LTCOL TOLL and his staff conducted further reconnaissance out to about 400 yards and found a heavily fortified location. With MAJ Eckersley holding the forward position the CO went about to strengthen the German line and consolidate his scattered troops. At 1915hrs the first of many messages went to BDE asking then pleading for ammunition, tools, sandbags and reinforcements and they could not estimate the large number of casualties. They made contact with the 54th Bn and after some time they linked with the 32nd Bn who were well forward. At 2030hrs the forward position was untenable but asked to hold ground.

At 0230hrs 20 July the enemy counter attack started, pushing the advanced right flank back with grenades. At 0330hrs the left flank was pushed back. The main attack launched at 0530hrs and broke the fwd line which retired to their own lines, LTCOL Toll was the last to leave the German lines and cross no man’s land. PTE John Joseph GOULDING was one of the many lost on the night of the 19th July from one report stating he would not leave his post; he was reported wounded in a few accounts stating that he was most likely captured by the Germans. It was later reported that he died in Germany as a POW, but on 22 Oct 1919 a translated message dated 30 July 1916 stated, “Australian soldier J.J. Goulding of 31st Bn fell in the neighbourhood of Fromelles on 19 Jul 1916”. He was one of the many buried in the mass grave. There were letters sent to army requesting information of John’s fate, his mother’s request was very moving, and I will recite it now:

Dear sir,

I am writing to inquire of my son John Joseph GOULDING, No. 555. B. Company. 31st Battalion. A.I.F. who was reported missing since July 19th, 1916. I have not received anything belonging to him, but disc was sent from Germany sometime during 1917 with a promise that further inquiries would be made and I would be notified. Have heard no further of him. I have waited patiently with a aching heart for news of him if only I could know that he did not suffer too much from the huns if he fell in their hands which I have reasons to believe during that dreadful slaughter of Fleurbaix of which thousands of Australian Mothers has reasons to think seriously. My son left Australia to do his bit for the country he was born in England. He did not stand long but I do hope that something further will be made known to me although three years has passed it seems but as yesterday. I am still waiting.

First missing, then prisoner of war then killed in action. I know he was not the only one by thousands but he was my son just lent to me for 35 years and then missing. I know a good son, I believe a good man but do not know if a good soldier. He has paid the price as many others have done but in all the world there is no love like a mothers love for her children if she is ever so poor, if a true woman.

I have been trying to be patient for three years hoping but just today I thought perhaps you have forgotten but this I know that the war has just begun for mothers that dearly loved their boys all over the world. God help them to bear it. The suspense is what makes it so hard. Hoping this mail will bring some tidings or the next but one.

I cannot write more and I know you don’t want to read more. May I please ask will you try and find out if any record of him, my boy, and oblige.

(Sgd) Mrs. J. Alice Golding.

John was one of many lost during that attack, on 27^th Jul the casualty report detailed 1 Off & 71 ORs KIA, 11 Off & 403 ORs WIA and 5 Off & 81 ORs MIA a total of 5 Off & 576 ORs. Reducing the Bn to 56% strength. One member of my family tree, SGT Edward Harris TULK, was one of the reinforcements posted to the 31^st Bn in Sep 1969. When I read the war diary entry and the corresponding initial and detailed reports for the 19th/20th July I noted how much LTCOL TOLL recognised the efforts of the soldiers in his command under such arduous conditions. Some days after the operation he recommended officers and other ranks for outstanding contribution to the attack, most of whom received their commendations. But I suppose the following citation says it all about LTCOL Toll when he was awarded the DSO and Bar:

“This Officer has been with the Brigade since its formation and has always done his duty in a most conscientious and efficient manner.

During the operations in the Suez Canal Zone he was untiring in his efforts to obtain a high standard of efficiency and has always been an example to his Officers and men.

Lt. Colonel Toll displayed great gallantry all through the operations of 19/20th July 1916, at Petillon. He was slightly wounded at the commencement of the action and before the assault was made and he lost heavily in Officers and men. He led the 3rd and 4th waves over the parapet himself. Before reaching the enemy trenches 13 officers has (sic) been killed or wounded, including three Company Commanders. Lt Colonel Toll personally took charge and pushed on, making vigorous efforts to consolidate the position won, reconnoitring the enemy’s defences and taking prisoners. On the retirement he organised the troops on our original front line.”

At present the 31st/42nd Bn along with members of the 11th BDE are conducting EX Austral Shield in Cairns as part of the 2nd DIV mission to provide Home Land Security for our nation. As one of the Company Commanders in the 31st/42nd Bn I am extremely proud to serve in a unit with such a long history. The commitment my officers and soldiers display would make the men of the original 31st Bn proud. Two months ago our unit ran the first regular army recon course for the 2^nd Division, this was an outstanding success qualifying both regular and reserve force reconnaissance soldiers and has enhanced the capability of the 2nd Div.

As per our motto – Semper paratus defendere / cede nullius..

Lest we forget

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The following is is a copy of the Address by the Bremer SHS Student at the 108th Anniversary Commemoration at Ipswich RSL Memorial Hall last Friday,19th July 2024. The Address was on the Commanding Officer of the 31st Battalion, 8th Brigade, Lt Col. Fred Toll. A remarkable effort by the Student –

Good morning and welcome, everyone,

Today, we gather to commemorate the 108th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles, a battle etched in the annals of history for its profound significance and the remarkable bravery of those who fought. As we stand here, our thoughts are with the countless soldiers who laid down their lives, their sacrifices forever shaping the course of history and the legacy of our nations.

The Battle of Fromelles, fought on July 19-20, 1916, was a defining moment for the Australian Imperial Force and the British Army on the Western Front. It was intended as a diversionary attack to draw German forces away from the Battle of the Somme, but it resulted in devastating losses. In less than 24 hours, over 5,500 Australian soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing, marking it as one of the darkest days in Australian military history.

Amidst this tragedy, stories of extraordinary valour and leadership emerged, illuminating the resilience and courage of our soldiers. One such story is that of Lieutenant Colonel Frederick William Toll, a name that resonates with honour and bravery.

Fred Toll’s military career began long before Fromelles. He served in the Boer War, earning commendations for his exemplary service. But it was at Fromelles where his heroism truly shone. As the commanding officer of the 31st Battalion, Fred Toll led his men with unwavering determination and strategic acumen in the face of overwhelming adversity.

During the chaos of battle, Toll’s leadership was instrumental in managing the intense and relentless enemy fire. His actions were marked by his steadfast commitment to his men and his mission. Under his command, the 31st Battalion exhibited remarkable tenacity, reflecting Toll’s own indomitable spirit. For his gallantry and distinguished service, Fred Toll was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO), a testament to his extraordinary leadership during one of the most challenging battles of the Great War.

Fred Toll’s story is not just a tale of military prowess but also of the enduring spirit of camaraderie and sacrifice that defines our armed forces. His bravery at Fromelles serves as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made by so many. It is through the stories of individuals like Fred Toll that we connect with the broader narrative of courage and dedication that characterized the Battle of Fromelles.

As we remember the fallen today, let us also honour the spirit of those who survived, who carried the weight of their experiences and the memory of their comrades for the rest of their lives. Their legacy is our heritage, a reminder of the costs of war and the value of peace.

In closing, let us bow our heads in a moment of silence to pay tribute to all those who fought and fell at Fromelles. Their sacrifice and courage will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. May we, the young and the old, rise to honour their memory and carry forward their spirits.

Thank you.

More Pictures From the Gallery

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Battle of Fromelles Commemoration – 2024 – Ipswich

IMPORTANT MESSAGE:

Members, – OUR MAJOR EVENT OF THE YEAR – Your support is required.
“THE BATTLE of FROMELLES” – Commemoration Service
WHEN:- FRIDAY – 19th July 2024 at 1100 Hrs
WHERE:- The Honour Stone – Soldiers Memorial Hall – Ipswich RSL Sub Branch – 63 Nicholas St, Ipswich
DRESS:- Jacket & Tie – Beret, – Medals, – Name Tag

Special Guest:- Mr. Keith Payne VC AM – (Ex Member of 31st Bn & 42nd Bn)
Other Guests:- BRIG Arran Hassell CSC Commander – 8th Brigade – (31st Bn was part of the 8th Brigade at the Battle of Fromelles – WW1)
Members, – THIS IS NOW OUR MAIN EVENT FOR THE YEAR – PLEASE MAKE A SPECIAL EFFORT TO ATTEND.

Wives/Partners are most welcome.
It is our intention to have a Lunch at the CSI Club after the event. (Your expense)
If you have a Transport Issue, – please contact me.

RSVP – By WED – 10th July – Email:- wadesonriver@aapt.net.au

Please advise (1) Attending the Service (2) Attending the Lunch at CSI Club.

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Lt James Danaher – One of the many Heroes of the Battle of Fromelles

Plaque produced by our Honorary Member in France Pierre Seillier

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Map showing Parking in Central Ipswich, Qld and

available parking for Battle of Fromelles Commemoration

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Lists of 31st Battalion Diggers from WW1

A list of Diggers from 31st Battalion from World War 1 is in the process of being compiled by Association Member Peter Nelson. This monumental work is an ongoing work in progress over a period of years.

The alphabetical lists have appeared on the “31st Battalion AIF Memorial Association” Facebook pages over a long period. The work thus far has been consolidated on this website page. A big thanks to Peter for this huge effort.

We will add further lists as they become available.

N.B. These lists have now been revised and they appear on their own page under the

Unit Matters Menu Item at the head of this website. See:

Unit Matters > 31st Battalion > 31st Battalion – WW1 Personnel Lists

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Anzac Day – Brisbane – 2024

Anzac Day for members of the 31bn association in Brisbane started with the Dawn Service at “Dasher” Deed’s place followed by the 2/31st Bn commemoration service at the Cenotaph at SouthBank. Our Secretary Tony Wadeson represented the Association there before taking the Banner to the main march through the City. Some of the pictures of the SouthBank Service and Main March below.

Preparing for the SouthBank Service

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Student Playing the Last Post and Reveille on the Trombone

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Welcoming and Service at SouthBank

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Association Members Participating in the Main March Through Brisbane

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Hearty Congratulations To Centenarian Member Norm Snell

The Secretary of the Charters Towers Branch of the 31st Inf. Bn. Assoc., Vic Nichol, had previously extended an invitation to all of our members to celebrate the Hundredth Birthday of fellow member Norm Snell (19th Jan 2024). The celebration was in the form of a Tree Planting Ceremony at the Walking Track area at the bottom of Charters Towers Hill in association with the Charters Towers Regional Council and the RSL Charters Towers Sub Branch. The ceremony to be followed by a cake and refreshments at the RSL.

Vic has sent us a brief description of the day and included the pictures below:

Re Norm's centenary, The Charters Towers Council organised a Tree Planting
Ceremony with a plaque. and a Guard of  Honour was provided by 10FSB 
Townsville.
The reception at the RSL was attended by approx. 75 people including
representatives from the 31st Assoc., State and District RSL. And the Cake
was provided by the Local council. 
Norm received congratulatory telegrams and well wishes from the King and Queen,
the Governor General, the Prime minister and Government Representatives. 
The 31st Bn Assoc. and the RSL presented Norm with Birthday Certificates. 
The event was well done and was most enjoyable.
Regards,
Vic  
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The following email was sent by Association Brisbane Branch Secretary Tony Wadeson:

Attention to all our old Charters Towers Members, – NORM SNELL’S 100th Birthday Invitation. Please refer to the attached Invitation.

The Brisbane Branch wishes Norm a very Happy Birthday in celebrating his 100th Year.

Regards Tony

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Norm with honour Guard at the Tree Planting

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Norm With Honour Guard

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Norm with Honour Guard

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Norm’s Message from King Charles and Queen Camilla

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Norm’s 100th Birthday Cake

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Norm with Certificates of Congratulations, Family and Friends

LTCOL Frederick William Toll DSO and Bar

The following is a contribution located by Association member Mick James – “I don’t think I have posted this before. It is a report on the Battle of Fromelles (referred to as Fleurbaix which was the village on the Allied side.)
It was a letter to the Editor of the Brisbane Courier in 1919 by LtCol Fred Toll DSO &Bar. His initial DSO was awarded for his actions in this Battle. The reference to ”remembering Gallipoli” is remembering his only son who was KIA at Galipoli.”

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Thanks to our Honorary Member in France Pierre Seillier for

His great Tribute to Fred & his son Vivian.

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Brisbane Courier Fri 18 July 1919
THE BATTLE OF FLEURBAIX
LEST WE FORGET
TO THE EDITOR
Sir,- The 19th July is the anniversary of the era which marks one of the greatest tragedies of the past war affecting the Australian Army. Little has been given through the medium of the Press of the first battle in France in which Australian soldiers were engaged. I feel it is my duty, as the late commander of a battalion that was engaged and sorely depleted in this awful struggle, to write a brief account in memory of my comrades who died on that fateful day.
With the splendid traditions of Gallipoli to follow, do you wonder that every man of the newly-formed Fifth Division vied with each other in his training and preparation for big things. For six hard months on the desert sands of Egypt they toiled and trained, and studied the problems of the future. This six months of close association had another effect, and that was to effect a comradeship between all ranks, which created that feeling of confidence and loyalty necessary for the future success of great doings.
To this stage I can assure you the battalions of the Fifth Division, had attained, especially may I speak of the Eighth Brigade, comprising the 29th, 30th 31st and 32nd Battalions. To the 31st and 32nd Battalions was allotted the task of the assault on the enemies’ stronghold on the fateful day of July 19 1916, at Fleurbaix. The history of this terrible period may never be complete, but the memory of our beloved comrades who gave their lives and the presence of those who were maimed by that engagement should be as sacred to us as the memory of our own dead.
You who may read these cold lines will never realise what those men went though without the slightest thought of self. A great forlorn hope, in agony of despair in many cases, after being battered about all day, for the enemy had gained information about the intended attack, and tried to demoralise our men with intense artillery fire. During the whole of the day (July 19) our men had to stand through a veritable hell. It would be cruel to attempt to describe the horror of that day, for the feelings of those who mourn this day their beloved, I would refrain from details. Before the attack was launched (zero hour being at 6.00 pm) more than half the attacking battalions were casualties. From this shambles, at the given signal, the remaining heroes followed their officers who were left to them, over the now blasted and torn breastworks, only to meet a withering fire from the enemies guns and bombs, but this had no effect on those determined men. On and across the awful “No Man’s Land”, and into the enemies’ breastworks, with bayonet and bomb they destroyed those who resisted. Can you wonder that one saw red at such a time? Lucky are you who have been spared such sights, for strong men went mad, others wept at the sights.
The records of splendid deeds of this battle will compare with any of the history of the war. The writer was spared to come out of this alive, and to see many another battlefield, and many brave deeds, but nothing surpasses those that took place at Fleurbaix on July 19 and 20 1916. In penning these lines to the memory of my comrades who fell at Fleurbaix, it is with the hope that those who mourn for them might feel a little consolation in that, though the bells of peace and joy ring out, and merriment abound, there are still those who will remember their splendid comrades who made the world-famed reputation of the Australian Army what it is today. It is to those heroes, the cream of Australian manhood, who laid down their lives in the first great battles, that we owe our great traditions and examples.
So it appears to one who has reason to remember Gallipoli, that this time of rejoicing should be tempered with a little regard and thought for those whose hearts are sad. In conclusion, it may enlighten your readers to know the special reason of the attack at Fleurbaix on July 19, 1916, was to draw off the overwhelming reserves of the enemy, who at this time threatened to smash our lines in the southern area, in which some of our own countrymen were fighting for dear life, that the Fifth Division was thrown into the vortex, with the result that it stopped the enemy’s attacks, drew off his reserves, and caused considerable loss to his forces. With this knowledge in front of us at the beginning, also that little or no support would be available, and a very limited amount of reserve ammunition for our guns, can you appreciate why I place on record the Battle of Fleurbaix as being the finest exhibition of bravery of Australian troops in France or Belgium. All honour to our splendid dead. I salute your memory, my comrades. I am, sir, &c,
FRED W. TOLL Lt-Col
Late Commander 31st Battalion A.I.F.

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End of Year Lunch 2023 – Townsville Branch

The following message was received from Paul Ellems, President of

Townsville Branch of 31st Battalion Association:

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Greetings to all members and those interested in the 31st Bn Assoc.,

we have arranged for an End of Year Lunch for the 31st Battalion Assoc

(The Kennedy Regiment), Royal Queensland Regiment.

It will be on:

Saturday 16th December 2023 at 12:00 noon,
in the Function room alcove in the Star Graze section,
at the Cowboys Club, 335 Flinders St., TOWNSVILLE CBD.

The Cowboys Club is a great supporter of our association by giving us

regular raffle nights during the year. and a venue for our celebrations.

The Club has won numerous prizes for the high quality and good value

of its meals and service. Because of that, the Club is a very popular venue.

We have made the timing as a lunch so that as many as possible can

attend with a minimum of crowd and ease of parking.

It would be fantastic if all could attend.

All are invited and welcome to attend.

Please pass this message on to any of our members I may have missed.

If you wish to attend, please advise me asap, as I need to advise the numbers.

Paul.

pellems@gmail.com

Below are the important dates for 2024.

Commemorative Services and Important Dates for 2024

(* marked – Assoc normally receives a formal invitation and requires formal association presence.)

(There is an open invitation to all Assoc. members to attend these services and our monthly meetings.)

Meetings are on the second Tues of each month in the Board Room at Townsville RSL.

· Tues 13 Feb 2024.	First meeting for Assoc in 2024. Subsequent meetings are on the second Tues of each month.
· Wed 14 Feb 2024.	*National Serviceman Day
· Thurs 15 Feb 2024.	*Fall of Singapore
· Fri 01 Mar 2024.	Formation of Australian Army. Formation of Australian Navy. (1901)
· Sat/Sun XXX Mar 2024.	31^st Assoc. Townsville Branch Annual General Meeting and Assoc Lunch. TBA. All are Welcome.
· Sat/Sun XXX Mar 2024.	Assoc BBQ at Museum.
· Fri 29 Mar- 01 Apr 2024.	Easter holidays
· Sat/Sun XXX Mar 2024.	Assoc BBQ at Burdekin
· Mon 22 Apr 2024.	Battle of Kapyong Commences (1951)
· ???? ?????.	Cowboys Raffle night
· Thur 25 Apr 2024.	*ANZAC DAY.
· Wed 01 May 2024.	Labour Day Holiday
· Sun 12 May 2024.	Mother’s Day
· Sat/Sun xxx Jun 2024.	Assoc BBQ at Museum POSSIBLE
· Sat 08-10 Jun 2024	*Battle of Porton – Possibly 31/42 Bn and 51^st Bn Assoc and 35^th Water Transport Transport Squadron.
· ??? ????? 2024.	Cowboys Raffle night
· Sun 30 Jun 2024.	*National Servicemen’s Day.
· Mon 01 Jul 2024.	Reserve Forces Day
· Sat 20 Jul 2024.	*Fromelle’s Day.
· TBA Jul 2024.	*31^st Battalion Assoc BBQs at Burdekin.
· Sun 18 Aug 2024.	Vietnam Veterans’ Day
· Sun 18 Aug 2024	*31^st Battalion Association Commemorative Church Service
· Dates TBA.	31^st Battalion (Royal Queensland Regiment) Association Formal Dinner
· Sun 01 Sept 2024.	Father’s Day
· Sat 14 Sept 2024.	Australian Peacekeepers Day
· TBA Sept/Oct 2024.	31^st Battalion Assoc BBQs at Burdekin.
· Mon 07 Oct 2024.	King’s Birthday – QLD.
· ??? ????? 2024.	Cowboys Raffle night.
· Thurs 31^st Oct 2024.	31^st Battalion Birthday
· Mon 11^th Nov 2024.	*Remembrance Day
· Wed 18 Dec 2024.	*Texas Terror Commemoration in Ingham.
· Tues 11^th Feb 2025.	First Assoc Meeting for new year.
· Tues 11^th Mar 2025.	Tentative date for 31 Bn Assoc Townsville Branch 2025 AGM for the 2025 year.

Remembrance Day – 2023 – Charters Towers –

The Charters Towers Cenotaph was the venue for Remembrance Day Commemoration. Members of the Charters Towers Branch of the 31st Battalion Association including Norm Snell who paid his respects to his comrades. Norm will celebrate his 100^th birthday on the 19^th January.

Towers Branch Association Secretary Victor Nicol reports that the Commemoration Service was attended by approximately one hundred people and refreshments were available at the RSL afterwards.

Norm Snell Paying His Respects to Comrades at the Cenotaph

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31st Battalion Association Members at the 2023 Commemoration

WO1 Francis Law DCM

The following information was provided by Peter Nelson who has done a wonderful job of putting together an alphabetical list of members of the 31st Battalion who served in World War 1. Below is an extract of the service record of Francis Law including the citation for the award of his Distinguished Conduct Medal – DCM. In the citation the name of the place for the action in which he was awarded the DCM is shown as Petillon. Today the action is referred to as the Battle of Fromelles.

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RSM Francis Law DCM survived WW1, living until 11th Jun 1944. He was subsequently buried in Lutwyche Cemetery Brisbane and now, due to the efforts of the Remembrance Army, has a memorial plaque in Lutwyche Cemetery. See the story of the Remembrance Army. Search the “Australian Remembrance Army – Projects” on this website.

Service Number	246
Rank	Sgt/RSM
Born	1872, Wentworth, NSW
NOK	Friend, Albert Wolfenden, Union Hotel, Barcaldine, Queensland
Father	Henry Law
Mother	Elizabeth Arabella Barnett
Enlistment	15th Jul 1915 Barcaldine, Queensland
Age	44
Status and Religion	Single, C. of E.
Occupation	Labourer


Notes	A Coy, 31st Bn

Embarked at Melbourne, on HMAT A62 “WANDILLA”, 9 Nov 1915
Arrived at Suez, Egypt on 6 th Dec 1915

Admitted 14 th Fld Amb (influenza), at Ferry Post, on 26 th Apr 1916
Rejoined Bn from hospital, at Ferry Post on 5 th May 1916

Embarked at Alexandria, Egypt to join B.E.F. per HMAT ‘Hororata’ on 16 th Jun 1916
Disembarked at Marseilles, France on 23 rd Jun 1916

Awarded DCM for actions: – “At PETILLON on the 19 th /20 th July 1916, this NCO acted with great gallantry and
coolness under a withering hail of artillery on the right flank. He with about 10 men, attacked an enemy Machine
Gun’s position and put it out of action and captured it; one of the party carried it back to the main position. This
NCO afterwards got most of his little band back to the main position and held on all night.”

Awarded Medal of St George 1 st Class for actions:- “At PETILLON on the 19 th /20 th July 1916, this NCO acted with great gallantry and coolness under a withering hail of artillery on the right flank. He with about 10 men, attacked an enemy Machine Gun’s position and put it out of action and captured it; one of the party carried it back to the main position. This NCO afterwards got most of his little band back to the main position and held on all night.”

To be RSM WO Class 1 (vice Brodie commissioned) on 20 th Aug 1916

WIA

(GSW face, fractured R ulna) (GSW = Gun Shot Wounds, fractured ulna = fractured forearm)to hospital on 25 th Oct 1916
Admitted 36 th CCS (GSW face) on 25 th Oct 1916
To Amb Train on 28 th Oct 1916
Admitted St John’s Ambulance, Etaples, on 28 th Oct 1916

Embarked per HS “Stad Antwerpen” from Calais, ex St John’s Ambulance to England on 25 th Nov 1916
Admitted King George Hospital, Stamford, on 25 th Nov 1916
Transferred to 2 nd Aux Hospital, Southall, from King George Hospital, on 22 nd Aug 1917

Discharged to furlough from 11 th Sep 1917 to 25 th Sep 1917 and to report to Depot, Weymouth on 25 th Sep 1917

Marched in to CD, Weymouth on 25 th Sep 1917
RTA per A35 “Berrima”, due compound fracture of R lower jaw for discharge on 31 st Oct 1917

Disembarked at Melbourne for overland journey to Brisbane

Discharged at Brisbane on 7 th Feb 1918

Died 11 th Jun 1944

Buried Lutwyche Cemetery, Brisbane

Plaque created by Association Honorary Member in France – Pierre Seillier

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Metal Plaque installed at Lutwyche Cemetery Brisbane by the Australian Remembrance Army

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Australian Remembrance Army – Projects

This year as we commemorate Remembrance Day we highlight the work of the Australian Remembrance Army. Following the 107th Anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles Commemoration on 19th July 2023, the Official Party with relatives of those who fought in the Battle were invited to a light lunch at the Soldiers Hall. At the Lunch 31st Battalion Association’s Mick James made a special Presentation that tied in with the Battle of Fromelles Commemoration. Part of Mick’s presentation is recorded as follows:

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“My name is Mick James and I’m on the 31st Battalion organizing Committee for this Battle of Fromelles Commemoration. I’d like to take a few moments to inform you of a similarity between this Commemoration and another occurrence in Brisbane.”

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“Later today French time at Fromelles CWG Cemetery Pheasant Wood there will be another 7 graves that will now have named Headstones, bringing the total to 173 with named headstones. These men have lain in unmarked graves for at least 90 years.”

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“Similarly in Brisbane and other Cemeteries throughout Australia, there are many WW1 Diggers who returned from the War and subsequently died and were buried in Military Sections of Cemeteries, almost all without a name plate on their grave. Such was the case in Lutwyche Cemetery in Brisbane until recently.”

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“In 2019 the Australian Remembrance Army, led by Cate Walker & Katrina Trevethan applied for a Federal Govt Grant of $317,000, to research, produce & place metal Plaques on 709 graves of WW1 diggers who died in the 1940s,50s & 60s. The grant was approved and in April this year the 1st 247 name plaques were unveiled, including one for RSM Francis Law of 31st Bn. He is one of twenty 31st Battalion WW1 diggers who will have a named Plaque when the project is completed.”

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“Francis Law was a Sgt during the Battle of Fromelles, where, for his gallant actions in enemy trenches he was awarded a Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), and shortly after was promoted RSM.” For further information on RSM Francis Law DCM see the article – WO1 Francis Law – on this website.

Cate and Katrina were called forward to receive the presentation.

“On behalf of the 31st Battalion Association, I would like to present this Tribute to RSM Francis Law DCM to each of you in appreciation of the great work you are doing.”

For Further information on the Remembrance Army’s Project see Archives – April 2023 – on this website (Unveilling of Plaques at Lutwyche Cemetery).

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Presentation of Plaques to Remembrance Army’s Cate Walker and Katrina Trevethan

by Mick James on the Anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles 2023.

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The Plaque of WO1 Francis Law DCM presented to Remembrance Army Representitives

Cate Walker and Katrina Trevethan

(Plaque was Created by Association Honorary Member Pierre Seillier)