de GROOT, Carrie Moore

Staff Nurse
AANS
Born Caroline Moore De GROOT in 1892 at Benalla, Vic.
Daughter of Henry Alfred De GROOT and Isabella nee MOORE
Died 30 October 1922 in Dandenong, Vic.
Late of Picket Street, Dandelong, Vic.
She died intestate
At the time of her death she had and estate of War Gratuity Bond of £54.13.6 and
Personal Effects valued at £13.0.0
Buried Kyneton Cemetery
www.awm.gov.au
P07133.003
Sister Carrie De Groot who was trained at St. Vincent's Hospital and who, under instructions from "the capable' sisters, developed into a nurse with special qualifications for her task and later became associated with the work at the Base Hospital, St. Kilda road, has now left Australia for war nursing, in company with Sister Devine of Geelong who has acquaintances and friends here. It will be interesting to further learn of'the well being and the well-doing of these young women. The De Groot family are certainly playing their part, having, in addition to the sister, one son and brother, Ray, who is taking on his share of actual warfare.
Kyneton Guardian Thursday 19 July 1917 page 2
There has passed away at the residence of her sister, Mrs. Welch, at Dandenong, Miss Carrie de Groot, of Kyneton. The deceased, who was a nurse, saw service abroad with the Australian Imperial Forces, and held the position of sister at the local hospital for about 12 months, leaving here in August, 1920. During her residence at Jerilderie she made many friends, who will be very sorry to hear of her untimely demise.
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express Friday 10 November 1922 page 47
AANS
Born Caroline Moore De GROOT in 1892 at Benalla, Vic.
Daughter of Henry Alfred De GROOT and Isabella nee MOORE
Died 30 October 1922 in Dandenong, Vic.
Late of Picket Street, Dandelong, Vic.
She died intestate
At the time of her death she had and estate of War Gratuity Bond of £54.13.6 and
Personal Effects valued at £13.0.0
Buried Kyneton Cemetery
www.awm.gov.au
P07133.003
Sister Carrie De Groot who was trained at St. Vincent's Hospital and who, under instructions from "the capable' sisters, developed into a nurse with special qualifications for her task and later became associated with the work at the Base Hospital, St. Kilda road, has now left Australia for war nursing, in company with Sister Devine of Geelong who has acquaintances and friends here. It will be interesting to further learn of'the well being and the well-doing of these young women. The De Groot family are certainly playing their part, having, in addition to the sister, one son and brother, Ray, who is taking on his share of actual warfare.
Kyneton Guardian Thursday 19 July 1917 page 2
There has passed away at the residence of her sister, Mrs. Welch, at Dandenong, Miss Carrie de Groot, of Kyneton. The deceased, who was a nurse, saw service abroad with the Australian Imperial Forces, and held the position of sister at the local hospital for about 12 months, leaving here in August, 1920. During her residence at Jerilderie she made many friends, who will be very sorry to hear of her untimely demise.
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express Friday 10 November 1922 page 47
De LANY, Eily Beatrice
Staff Nurse
AANS Born 07 July 1894 in Melbourne, Vic. Daughter of Samuel J DeLANEY and Isabelle nee McDONALD Address Boogardie, via Mt Magnet, WA Training 3 years Perth Public Hospital Age 24 years Enlisted 16 November 1917 at 8th AGH Fremantle Embarked 24 November 1917 per “Canberra” Service in India Promoted to Sister 20 November 1919 Returned to Australia per “Janus” 08 December 1919 Appointment Terminated 29 January 1920 Military contact regarding medals 26 August 1940 Married Conroy RICHDALE in 1922 in Bombay, India She served in the military during WW2 with WAAF in England. She retired from the WAAF in 1952. At some time after retirement she went to South Africa to live. Photograph www.ancestry.com |
de LISLE, Maie St. Clair
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born Sevenoaks, England
Next of kin (Uncle) Brigadier General Alfred de Lisle, London (deceased 1917)
Next of kin (3rd cousin) Constance de Lisle of South Yarra,Vic
Age 36 years
Training St Luke’s Hospital, London
Enlisted 14 August 1915
Embarked 25 April 1917 per “Karoola”
Transport Service from India to Australia
Hospital ships “Karoola” & “Janus”
Contacted Malaria in June 1917 and Amoebic Dysentery August 1917
Transferred to Australia for disciplinary reasons (unexplained) 09 January 1918
Appointment terminated 25 November 1918
Re-enlisted 26 February 1919
Embarked 26 February 1919 in Melbourne per “Karoola” as Staff Nurse
Resigned appointment in England 25 May 1919 due to marriage - 22 April 1919
Will altered 22 February 1919 to Major G Hazeldine of the B Company 18th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps
Married Edwin De LISLE in 1919 in England
AANS
Born Sevenoaks, England
Next of kin (Uncle) Brigadier General Alfred de Lisle, London (deceased 1917)
Next of kin (3rd cousin) Constance de Lisle of South Yarra,Vic
Age 36 years
Training St Luke’s Hospital, London
Enlisted 14 August 1915
Embarked 25 April 1917 per “Karoola”
Transport Service from India to Australia
Hospital ships “Karoola” & “Janus”
Contacted Malaria in June 1917 and Amoebic Dysentery August 1917
Transferred to Australia for disciplinary reasons (unexplained) 09 January 1918
Appointment terminated 25 November 1918
Re-enlisted 26 February 1919
Embarked 26 February 1919 in Melbourne per “Karoola” as Staff Nurse
Resigned appointment in England 25 May 1919 due to marriage - 22 April 1919
Will altered 22 February 1919 to Major G Hazeldine of the B Company 18th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps
Married Edwin De LISLE in 1919 in England
De MESTRE, Sarah Melanie
Sister
AANS Born 08 February 1877 at Shoalhaven, NSW Daughter Andre Cotteral De MESTRE and Anusta Ann nee NOICE Address Greenwell Point, Shoalhaven, NSW Age 38 years Enlisted 27 February1915 in Sydney Embarked 15 May 1915 per “Mudros” Sister attached 3rd AGH - Lemnos, Abbassia, Brighton & Abbeville, France Awarded Royal Red Cross 2nd Class June 1918 Returned to Australia per “Ormonde“ 16 June 1919 as Matron Appointment Terminated 03 October 1919 Address in 1937 – “Guyra” 18 Whitton Rd, Chatswood, NSW Did not marry Died 23 april 1961 at Hospital, Strathfield, NSW Read more here |

Awarded Royal Red Cross (2nd Class)
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 7 November 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 2111, position 123
Date of London Gazette: 3 June 1918
Location in London Gazette: Page 6475, position 2
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 7 November 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 2111, position 123
Date of London Gazette: 3 June 1918
Location in London Gazette: Page 6475, position 2
LONG SERVICE NURSES
Sister S. De Mestré, A.A.N.S., who wears the ribbon of the Royal Red Cross, in addition to the 1914-15 ribbon, and the Allies ribbon, returned with two other decorated, long-service nurses, Sister B. Glasson, A.A.N.S., and Sister V. M. Hardwick, A.A.N.S., both of whom went away in 1915. Sister De Mestre is a daughter of the late Andrew Do Mestre, one of the celebrities of the Shoalhaven district, who, when he died last year, at the age of 95, was the oldest magistrate In New South Wales. The late Mr. Ettie De Mestre was s very successful and well-remembered Sydney racehorse owner. The Queenslanders left by special train during the morning for Brisbane. Sydney Morning Herald Tuesday 5 August 1919 page 7 |
A Distinguished War Nurse
Sister S M de Mestre, RRC who is a daughter of the late Mr. Andre de Mestre, a pioneer of the Shoalhaven district, has been spending a few days with friends in Singleton. Sister de Mestre, it is interesting to note, served in the Rabaul campaign, being in charge of the hospital ship Grantala. Later on, transferred to Europe with the Third General Hospital she was one of the earliest nurses on Lemnos, where Gallipoli casualties received treatment, entitling the wearing of the Anzac dolours. At the close of the Gallipoli offensive this hospital went to Egypt, thence to Brighton, and for the later two war years was stationed in France. Her services were duly rewarded with the Royal Red Cross, conferred at the hands of his Majesty the King at Buckingham Palace. Sister de Metre visited the Dangar Cottage Hospital during her stay here, and expressed herself as highly delighted at the position, surroundings and appointments of the institution.
The Maitland Daily Mercury Thursday 02 October 1919 page 7
Sister S M de Mestre, RRC who is a daughter of the late Mr. Andre de Mestre, a pioneer of the Shoalhaven district, has been spending a few days with friends in Singleton. Sister de Mestre, it is interesting to note, served in the Rabaul campaign, being in charge of the hospital ship Grantala. Later on, transferred to Europe with the Third General Hospital she was one of the earliest nurses on Lemnos, where Gallipoli casualties received treatment, entitling the wearing of the Anzac dolours. At the close of the Gallipoli offensive this hospital went to Egypt, thence to Brighton, and for the later two war years was stationed in France. Her services were duly rewarded with the Royal Red Cross, conferred at the hands of his Majesty the King at Buckingham Palace. Sister de Metre visited the Dangar Cottage Hospital during her stay here, and expressed herself as highly delighted at the position, surroundings and appointments of the institution.
The Maitland Daily Mercury Thursday 02 October 1919 page 7
De MORTON, Myrtle Irene
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born 1888 at Deer Park, Vic.
Daughter of Joseph Anthony DE MORTON and Charlotte Lavina nee WILLIAMS
Address Victoria ST, Tallygaroopina, Vic
Age 28 years
Enlisted 18 June 1917
Embarked 30 June 1917 per “Somali”
Service in Bombay
Returned to Australia per “Ellora” 13 January 1919
Discharged 02 March 1919
By 14 February 1919 married Mrs. H J TIPPETT of Shepparton, Vic
Military contact regarding medals 26 August 1940
Died 29 January 1972
Buried Centennial Park Cemetery - site expired - plaque removed
AANS
Born 1888 at Deer Park, Vic.
Daughter of Joseph Anthony DE MORTON and Charlotte Lavina nee WILLIAMS
Address Victoria ST, Tallygaroopina, Vic
Age 28 years
Enlisted 18 June 1917
Embarked 30 June 1917 per “Somali”
Service in Bombay
Returned to Australia per “Ellora” 13 January 1919
Discharged 02 March 1919
By 14 February 1919 married Mrs. H J TIPPETT of Shepparton, Vic
Military contact regarding medals 26 August 1940
Died 29 January 1972
Buried Centennial Park Cemetery - site expired - plaque removed
De MOULIN, Eileen Eloise
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born Aillen Elouise De MOULIN 1886 at Warwick, Qld
Daughter of James Anthony (Jules Antoine) De MOULIN and Harriette nee GORMON
Age 30 years
Enlisted 02 September 1916 at Sydney
Embarked 03 September 1916 per “Kashgar”
Service in Bombay
Promoted to Sister 03 September 1918
Returned to Australia per “Gracchus” 10 December 1918
Discharged 18 December 1919
Did not marry
Died 20 July 1937 in Manly, NSW
AANS
Born Aillen Elouise De MOULIN 1886 at Warwick, Qld
Daughter of James Anthony (Jules Antoine) De MOULIN and Harriette nee GORMON
Age 30 years
Enlisted 02 September 1916 at Sydney
Embarked 03 September 1916 per “Kashgar”
Service in Bombay
Promoted to Sister 03 September 1918
Returned to Australia per “Gracchus” 10 December 1918
Discharged 18 December 1919
Did not marry
Died 20 July 1937 in Manly, NSW
Nurse Eileen de Moulin, whose death occurred in Lewisham Hospital recently, was a member of a family well known in Armidale, and a sister of Rev. Brother Benildus, Director of De La Salle College. The late Miss de Moulin was born in Warwick, Queensland, the daughter of the late Jules Antoino and Harriet de Moulin, and came to Armidale with her parents at an early age. She was educated at St. Ursula's College, Armidale, and received her training as a nurse at the Armidale and New England Hospital. At the outbreak of war she enlisted as a war nurse, and for three years attended to the soldiers serving in the Mesopotamian campaign. While nursing a patient she was bitten by a cobra, which had concealed itself in a mosquito net on the soldier's bed. She suffered much ill-health as a result of the bite, and then another misfortune befell her. When travelling by train to Madras she was attacked by a rabid dog. She managed to shoot the dog, but only after it had bitten her. The after effects of this experience were of such a serious nature that Miss de Moulin was invalided home. When her strength returned she won a public health diploma, became a member of the R.S.L, and served in the Health Department until the time of her last illness. Sisters of the late Miss de Moulin are Miss Bloss de Moulin (Mosman), Miss Lily de Moulin (Manly Public School) and Mrs. C. B. Lewis (Manly). Mr.T. J. Smith, president of the Board of Fire Commissioners, is a brother-in-law. His Lordship Bishop Coleman presided at the obsequies in St. Mary 's Cathedral, Armidale, Rev. Fathers Burchell and Mc Grath (Armidale), Condon (Uralla), McDermott (Bundarra) and Healey (Guyra assisted. Armidale ex-soldiers were fully represented, and at the graveside the Last Post was sounded by Mr. J. Short. With the returned men were two war nurses, Mrs. J. Shortand Mrs. Smith, of Ben Venue. De La Salle Brothers acted as pallbearers. De La Salle students marched before the hearse, and students of St. Ursula's College were present at the Cathedral and represented at the graveside. The boys and girls of St. Patrick's Orphanage joined the cortege en route, and rendered hymns at the graveside. — R.I.P.
The Catholic Press Thursday 29 July 1937 page 32
The Catholic Press Thursday 29 July 1937 page 32
De VEAUX, Beatrice
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born 1877 in Christchurch, New Zealand
Daughter of Augustus Frederick De VEAUX and Annie nee DAHL
Address 116 Chester ST. Christchurch, NZ
Age 38 years
Enlisted 02 September 1916 at Sydney
Embarked 03 September 1916 per “Kashgar”
Service in Bombay
Promoted to Sister 03 September 1918
Resigned appointment 04 March 1919 due to marriage
Married name Mrs. B RADFORD “Manica” Gilgandra Rd, Bondi, NSW
Died 01 October 1925 at Parkville, NSW
AANS
Born 1877 in Christchurch, New Zealand
Daughter of Augustus Frederick De VEAUX and Annie nee DAHL
Address 116 Chester ST. Christchurch, NZ
Age 38 years
Enlisted 02 September 1916 at Sydney
Embarked 03 September 1916 per “Kashgar”
Service in Bombay
Promoted to Sister 03 September 1918
Resigned appointment 04 March 1919 due to marriage
Married name Mrs. B RADFORD “Manica” Gilgandra Rd, Bondi, NSW
Died 01 October 1925 at Parkville, NSW
De VIS, Gertrude Julia (Pixie)
Sister
AANS No 1 Australian General Hospital Born 1889 in Charters Towers, Qld. Daughter of George Holmes de VIS and Adelaide nee GODWIN Of 'Rosalie' Rosemount St., Windsor, Brisbane, Qld. Occupation prior to enlistment Nursing Aged 27 years Enlisted 29 May 1915 Embarked 12 June 1915 in Southhall, County of Middlesex, England Nursing to Australia aboard 'Borda' 17 Augusst 1916 Returned to England and attached to No 1 Aust. General Hospital 10 January 1917 Served in France and Egypt Returned to Australia per 'Karoola' 06 May 1919 Appointment terminated 06 August 1919 Married Edward Bolton RALSTON in 1918 in NSW Died 04 March 1975 in Caloundra, Qld. Late of Mona Vale and Eraring, NSW |
de WARREN, Rose Evelyn Antill
Nurse
Lister Hospital
Gisborne, New Zealand
Lister Hospital
Gisborne, New Zealand
Rose Evelyn Antill De Warren was born 26 August 1887 to Joseph De Warren and Elizabeth nee Sydes. The Antill name was added as she became the "adopted daughter "of Major General John Macquarie Antill. Occupations on Australian Electoral Rolls shows she was a governess, Journalist and author. There is mentioned of her as a qualified nurse in the Truth (Sydney) 25/9/1921 re story about a bogus purser. There does not seem to be any information about her serving overseas. She is not on the New Zealand records as a nurse serving overseas. She did not marry and died 18 June 1937 at Sydney Hospital. Courier Mail 30/6/1937.
Formerly of Brisbane, Qld.
Formerly of Brisbane, Qld.
DEACON, Clare/Clair
Maton
AANS Born 1891 at Pipers River, Tas. Daughter of William DEAKIN and Ellen nee GORDON Enlisted 13 November 1914 Embarked 20 November 1914 Appointment terminated 05 March 1919 Died 07 August 1952 at 101 Willoughby Rd , Crows Nest, Sydney Sister Claire Deacon, of Hobart, who returned recently to Australia as matron on a hospital transport, wears a decoration ribbon signifying that she has been presented with the Military Medal. This is a unique distinction. The usual method of recognising an army nurse's service is to decorate her with a Royal Red Cross. The Military Medal is only given when she has displayed bravery under fire. Sister Deacon, Sister M.J Derrer (Brisbane), sister D W Cawood (New South Walse) and Sister. A. Ross King (Victoria) are the first Australians to secure this silver medal bearing the inscription, 'For Bravery in the Field'. These Australian Sisters were working at the 2nd Australian Clearing Station at the time of a bombardment. Sister Deacon, who was off duty when the shells exploded in the hospital, took up a position in one of the shattered wards and removed the patients to a place of safety. A number of patients were killed by the aerial attack, and many were severely wounded. Some weeks later Sister Deacon and her colleagues received letters intimating that they had been awarded the Military Medal for this deed of valour. Each nurse thought that somebody was having a little joke at her expense. They all knew that the Military Medal had never been awarded to a woman, so they kept silent about the notes, until the official notifications came through. Later Sir William Birdwood visited the station and unofficially presented a piece of ribbon similar to the kind attached to the Military Cross. The decoration was conferred in due course at Buckingham Palace. Sister Deacon is fresh and girlish-looking, and her personality is charming. She is a trainee of the Hobart Hospital and left for active service with the first hospital ship. Her first experience of military nursing was gained in Egypt, where she remained for nearly twelve months. Before leaving for France she was attached to various hospitals in England and at different times has been associated with hospitals at Wandsworth, Denmark Hill, and Dartford. Before her departure last week for Hobart, Nurse Deacon was entertained at an Informal party at the Army Nurses Club in the Grand Hotel. Weekly Times (Vic.) Saturday 20 July 1918 |

Awarded Military Medal
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 24 January 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 83, position 71
Date of London Gazette: 28 September 1917
Location in London Gazette: Page 10038, position 24
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 24 January 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 83, position 71
Date of London Gazette: 28 September 1917
Location in London Gazette: Page 10038, position 24
MCGREGOR (nee Deacon).-Suddenly, on August 7, 1952, at 101 Willoughby Rd , Crows Nest, Sydney, Clare, widow of James (Jock) McGregor. Late Sister A.A.N.S., 1st A.I.F
Sister Deacon, M.M.
The death occurred suddenly in Sydney of Sister Clare Deacon, Military Medal.
She was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Deacon, formerly of Burnie. For some time before entering the nursing profession she lived with her aunt and uncle, Mrs. and the late Mr. Samuel Bird, Burnie.
She saw active service in World War I, leaving for the"front" with the first batch of Australian nurses. She served in Egypt, France and England until the end of hostilities and for her "wonderful devotion to duty and conspicuous bravery" during the bombing by the Germans of the 2nd Australian casualty clearing station at Messines she was awarded the Military Medal, the greatest honor that can be bestowed on a woman for bravery. To a Red Cross sister the M.M. is equivalent to the Victoria Cross to a soldier. While on leave in England Sister Deacon was invested with the coveted award by thd King at Buckingham Palace.
Sister Deacon visited relatives on the North-West Coast a few weeks ugo. She was not in the best of health at the time.
Surviving relatives are Mrs.H. Good (Penguin), Mrs. F.Butler (Cleveland, U.S.A.), Miss O. Deacon (Launceston)
and Mr. William Deacon (Ulverstone).
Advocate Thursday 28 August 1952 page 4
Read more here
Sister Deacon, M.M.
The death occurred suddenly in Sydney of Sister Clare Deacon, Military Medal.
She was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Deacon, formerly of Burnie. For some time before entering the nursing profession she lived with her aunt and uncle, Mrs. and the late Mr. Samuel Bird, Burnie.
She saw active service in World War I, leaving for the"front" with the first batch of Australian nurses. She served in Egypt, France and England until the end of hostilities and for her "wonderful devotion to duty and conspicuous bravery" during the bombing by the Germans of the 2nd Australian casualty clearing station at Messines she was awarded the Military Medal, the greatest honor that can be bestowed on a woman for bravery. To a Red Cross sister the M.M. is equivalent to the Victoria Cross to a soldier. While on leave in England Sister Deacon was invested with the coveted award by thd King at Buckingham Palace.
Sister Deacon visited relatives on the North-West Coast a few weeks ugo. She was not in the best of health at the time.
Surviving relatives are Mrs.H. Good (Penguin), Mrs. F.Butler (Cleveland, U.S.A.), Miss O. Deacon (Launceston)
and Mr. William Deacon (Ulverstone).
Advocate Thursday 28 August 1952 page 4
Read more here
DEACON, Dora

Nurse
Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service
Born 1885 in England
Daughter of Frederick George DEACON and Kate Marie nee CHESHIRE
Embarked for Australia 21 May 1919 per 'Osterley'
Married John FROOME
Died 03 June 1928 in Perth, WA
Resided North Beach, WA
Aged 42 years
Buried Karrakatta Cemetery Baptist AA 0081 - site expired
Nurse Dora Deacon, of the 'Bungalow' Loch Street, Claremont, late of Grosvenor Hospital, Fremantle,
now on active service in England in Wiltshire Military Hospital, who has been awarded the Royal Red Cross,
in recognition of her valuable services in connection with the war.
The Daily News (Perth) Tuesday 18 July 1916 page 5
Two returning war nurses expected by the Osterley are Sister Dora Deacon (she has been on duty nearly four years,
and has won the Royal Red Cross) and Sister Nellie Doyle, also four years on active service. She is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Doyle.
Sunday Times Perth Sunday 15 June 1919 page 18
Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service
Born 1885 in England
Daughter of Frederick George DEACON and Kate Marie nee CHESHIRE
Embarked for Australia 21 May 1919 per 'Osterley'
Married John FROOME
Died 03 June 1928 in Perth, WA
Resided North Beach, WA
Aged 42 years
Buried Karrakatta Cemetery Baptist AA 0081 - site expired
Nurse Dora Deacon, of the 'Bungalow' Loch Street, Claremont, late of Grosvenor Hospital, Fremantle,
now on active service in England in Wiltshire Military Hospital, who has been awarded the Royal Red Cross,
in recognition of her valuable services in connection with the war.
The Daily News (Perth) Tuesday 18 July 1916 page 5
Two returning war nurses expected by the Osterley are Sister Dora Deacon (she has been on duty nearly four years,
and has won the Royal Red Cross) and Sister Nellie Doyle, also four years on active service. She is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Doyle.
Sunday Times Perth Sunday 15 June 1919 page 18

FROOME.—On June 3, 1928, Dora (nee Sis- ter Deacon, R.R.C., late Q.A.I.M.N.S.), dearly beloved wife of John Froome, and mother of
Peter, of 82 North Beach-road, Mt. Hawthorn, and fifth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. Deacon(Claremont).
And so He giveth His beloved sleep.
FROOME (late Sister Deacon, R.R.C., Imperial Army).—On June 3, 1928, at Perth, after a long
illness, Dora, the beloved daughter of Mr.and Mrs. F. Deacon, of Loch-street, Claremont,
and loving sister of Kate (Mrs. George, England), Edie (Mrs. Arthur, Perth), Mary (Mrs. Alliston, England), Minnie, Fred, Ida (Mrs.Byrne, Cottesloe), Ivy (Mrs. Hobbs, deceased), Beatrice, Elsie
(Mrs. Minchin, Carnarvon), Valen-tine (Mrs. Heydon, Claremont), Hilda (Mrs.Wright, Busselton),
and Jack; aged 42 years.
FROOME (nee Deacon, late Sister, R.R.C).— On June 3, Dora, loving sister-in-law and sisterof Mr.
and Mrs. Arthur, 188 Aberdeen-street, West Perth; on active service four years.
Peacefully sleeping.
THE LATE MRS. FROOME who was formerly Sister Deacon,
Royal Red Cross, Imperial Army. She was the fifth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Deacon, of Loch-street, Claremont, and received her nursing training at the Sittingbourne Hospital and the Shoreditch Infirmary (England), where she was the gold-medallist for her final year. She came to Western Australia in 1913, and followed her profession here until the outbreak of war, when she went to England, and was accepted for duty with Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service. Sister Deacon served with this unit at the military hospital at Sutton-Veny (England), and at Salonika. Here she was taken ill, and was invalided to Malta. While travelling there the vessel was torpedoed. From Malta she was sent to London, where again she nursed in various military hospitals until 1919. After her return to the State she nursed at Blackboy Hill during the outbreak of pneumonic influenza. For her services during the war Sister Deacon was decorated with the Royal Red Cross by His Majesty the King, at Buckingham Palace.
In 1919 Sister Deacon married Mr. John Froome, who, with his son Peter, is left to mourn their loss.
The Daily News Friday 08 June 1928 page 8
Peter, of 82 North Beach-road, Mt. Hawthorn, and fifth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. Deacon(Claremont).
And so He giveth His beloved sleep.
FROOME (late Sister Deacon, R.R.C., Imperial Army).—On June 3, 1928, at Perth, after a long
illness, Dora, the beloved daughter of Mr.and Mrs. F. Deacon, of Loch-street, Claremont,
and loving sister of Kate (Mrs. George, England), Edie (Mrs. Arthur, Perth), Mary (Mrs. Alliston, England), Minnie, Fred, Ida (Mrs.Byrne, Cottesloe), Ivy (Mrs. Hobbs, deceased), Beatrice, Elsie
(Mrs. Minchin, Carnarvon), Valen-tine (Mrs. Heydon, Claremont), Hilda (Mrs.Wright, Busselton),
and Jack; aged 42 years.
FROOME (nee Deacon, late Sister, R.R.C).— On June 3, Dora, loving sister-in-law and sisterof Mr.
and Mrs. Arthur, 188 Aberdeen-street, West Perth; on active service four years.
Peacefully sleeping.
THE LATE MRS. FROOME who was formerly Sister Deacon,
Royal Red Cross, Imperial Army. She was the fifth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Deacon, of Loch-street, Claremont, and received her nursing training at the Sittingbourne Hospital and the Shoreditch Infirmary (England), where she was the gold-medallist for her final year. She came to Western Australia in 1913, and followed her profession here until the outbreak of war, when she went to England, and was accepted for duty with Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service. Sister Deacon served with this unit at the military hospital at Sutton-Veny (England), and at Salonika. Here she was taken ill, and was invalided to Malta. While travelling there the vessel was torpedoed. From Malta she was sent to London, where again she nursed in various military hospitals until 1919. After her return to the State she nursed at Blackboy Hill during the outbreak of pneumonic influenza. For her services during the war Sister Deacon was decorated with the Royal Red Cross by His Majesty the King, at Buckingham Palace.
In 1919 Sister Deacon married Mr. John Froome, who, with his son Peter, is left to mourn their loss.
The Daily News Friday 08 June 1928 page 8
DEACON, Zaida
Sister
Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service Born 03 July 1877 in Co Wesford, Ireland Trained at Heath Hospital 1903 - 1906 Private Nursing since 1906 Enlisted 24 August 1915 - was residing at 'The Grove' Killiney Co. Dublin, Ireland Nearest Relative was Miss DEACON of 101 Grafton Street, Co. Dublin, Ireland Served as Sister and Acting Matron at York Military Hospital (England) from 05 July 1915 Awarded Royal Red Cross 2nd Class 03 June 1916 Embarked for Salonika 19 March 1918 Served in Salonika and Army of Black Sea from 26 August 1915 to 22nd December 1920 'Sister Z Deacon has served under us for a period of 5 months. She has been Sister-in-Charge of the Officers Pavillion "B Section' Professional ability is up to standard of work. Administrative capacity & power of initiative fair. She is able to instruct and train orderlies. She has no special professional qualifications. She is most kind and attentive to the patients and spares herself no trouble in making them comfortable and happy. She iz zealous, reliable and punctual and her influences generally in both wards and quarters is for good. She has not acted in a higher rank that which she as present holds.' Arrived back in UK from No 82 General Hospital Constantinople for demobilisation 15 December 1920 Demobilised 22 December 1920 Resided at Elleralie Park Ave., Sandymount, Dublin in April 1920 Lost all her possessions (other than her RCC) in 1932 and was writing to QAIMNSR for particulars of Service. Residing at 'St. Andrews' 173 Power Street, Hawthorn, Vic. in March 1932 Died 12 June 1939 at Hawthorn, Vic. Resided Hawthorn, Vic. Buried Sheep Hills Cemetery |
SISTER ZAIDA DEACON
The death occurred yesterday at her residence in Hawthorn of Sister Zaida Deacon daughter of the late Mr and Mrs John Deacon, of Askinfarney, County Wexford, Ireland. Sister Deacon was a member of the Queen Alexandria Nursing Service, and served with the AIF in France. She was decorated with the Royal Red Cross.
Arrangements for the funeral which will be to the Sheep Hills Cemetery tomorrow are in the hands of T. Renton Oakleigh.
The Argus Tuesday 13 June 1939 page 2
The death occurred yesterday at her residence in Hawthorn of Sister Zaida Deacon daughter of the late Mr and Mrs John Deacon, of Askinfarney, County Wexford, Ireland. Sister Deacon was a member of the Queen Alexandria Nursing Service, and served with the AIF in France. She was decorated with the Royal Red Cross.
Arrangements for the funeral which will be to the Sheep Hills Cemetery tomorrow are in the hands of T. Renton Oakleigh.
The Argus Tuesday 13 June 1939 page 2

Awarded Royal Red Cross 2nd Class
London Gazette 03 June 1916
London Gazette 03 June 1916
DEAKIN, Elsie Longmore
Sister
AANS
Born in 1881 in Emerald Hill, Vic
Daughter of Thomas Henry DEAKIN and Janet nee LONGMORE
Age 35 years
Enlisted 10 May 1915
Duty with No 5 AGH till embarkation
Embarked 22 August 1916 in Melbourne per “Mooltan”
Brief service in India and then France
Serious injury to left ankle on duty in France February 1918
Invalided to England for duty, unsuitable for active nursing
Returned to Australia 25 February 1919 per “Balmoral Castle” On Duty
Appointment terminated 09 June 1919 Medically Unfit to continue
Died 14 October 1969 in Elsternwick, Vic.
Formerly of Elwood, Vic.
Punch Thursday 31 August 1916 page 21
Punch Thursday 17 February 1916 page 17
AANS
Born in 1881 in Emerald Hill, Vic
Daughter of Thomas Henry DEAKIN and Janet nee LONGMORE
Age 35 years
Enlisted 10 May 1915
Duty with No 5 AGH till embarkation
Embarked 22 August 1916 in Melbourne per “Mooltan”
Brief service in India and then France
Serious injury to left ankle on duty in France February 1918
Invalided to England for duty, unsuitable for active nursing
Returned to Australia 25 February 1919 per “Balmoral Castle” On Duty
Appointment terminated 09 June 1919 Medically Unfit to continue
Died 14 October 1969 in Elsternwick, Vic.
Formerly of Elwood, Vic.
Punch Thursday 31 August 1916 page 21
Punch Thursday 17 February 1916 page 17
DEANE, Emily (Lily)
Staff Nurse
AANS Born 08 February 1891 in Townsville, Qld. Daughter of George DEANE and Harriett nee DEANE Age 26 years Enlisted 14 June 1917 Embarked 15 September 1917 per “Ayreshire” Service in Egypt Contracted Influenza October 1918 Returned to Australia 10 July 1919 per “Oxfordshire” Discharged as medically unfit 17 September 1919 Did not marry Died 1972 in Penrith, NSW Photograph ancestry.com.au |
DEANE, Olivia May
Staff Nurse
AANS No5 Section Sea Transport Staff Born 04 January 1886 at Balaklava, SA Daughter of Allen Wiles DEANE and Sarah Hannah fmly WILLIAMS nee MARRIOTT Sister of Mrs. D BALD Age 29 years Training Port Augusta Hospital Enlisted 20 November 1916 at Keswick Embarked 25 November 1916 in Sydney per “Beltana” Transport duty from England to Australia Ships “Orvietto” “Beltana” “Gaika” “Borda” Duty in England between transports Contracted Influenza October 1918 Returned to Australia per “Suevic” Appointment terminated 28 June 1919 Married Keith Laverty SOMMERVILLE Died December 1976 in Heidelberg, Vic. Cremated 14 December 1976 Springvale Botanical Cemetery and the remains scattered within the cemetery RSL Virtual Wall |
DEERE, Frances Mary

Staff Nurse/Sister
AANS
Born 06 May 1878 at Strathalbyn, SA
Daughter of William Arthur DEERE and Grace Emily nee BILLSBOROUGH
Age 35 years
Training Adelaide Hospital
Enlisted 25 November 1914 in Ismalia, Egypt
Embarked 28 November 1914 per “Kyarra”
Contracted Measles and Pneumonia on board, seriously ill.
Invalided to Australia 18 July 1915 per “Kyarra”
Re-embarked 12 November 1915 per “Orsova”
Promoted to Sister 01 December 1915
Service in Egypt, then France
Unfitted for service in France invalided to England for duty
Returned to Australia 02 June 1919 per “Orontes”
Discharged as medically unfit 02 June 1919
Died 05 June 1954
Did not marry
Died 23 October 1953 at Repatriation Hospital, Daw Park, SA
Aged 76 years
Resided Glenelg, SA
Buried West Terrace Cemetery Kendrew Oval Row 8 site 56
Read more here
AANS
Born 06 May 1878 at Strathalbyn, SA
Daughter of William Arthur DEERE and Grace Emily nee BILLSBOROUGH
Age 35 years
Training Adelaide Hospital
Enlisted 25 November 1914 in Ismalia, Egypt
Embarked 28 November 1914 per “Kyarra”
Contracted Measles and Pneumonia on board, seriously ill.
Invalided to Australia 18 July 1915 per “Kyarra”
Re-embarked 12 November 1915 per “Orsova”
Promoted to Sister 01 December 1915
Service in Egypt, then France
Unfitted for service in France invalided to England for duty
Returned to Australia 02 June 1919 per “Orontes”
Discharged as medically unfit 02 June 1919
Died 05 June 1954
Did not marry
Died 23 October 1953 at Repatriation Hospital, Daw Park, SA
Aged 76 years
Resided Glenelg, SA
Buried West Terrace Cemetery Kendrew Oval Row 8 site 56
Read more here
DeGARIS, Mary

Doctor
Scottish Women's Hospitals
Born 1881 in Charlton, Vic.
Daughter of Elisha De GARIS and Elizabeth nee BUNCLE
"After practising in Melbourne she became Resident Surgeon at the Tibooburra Hospital, New South Wales. She met Colin Thomson, a farmer, and they became engaged in July 1914. On the outbreak of war, she offered her services to the Australian Army who rejected her – only nurses could enlist. Her fiancée, however, enlisted, travelling to Egypt, Gallipoli and France. De Garis travelled to London independently; on 4 August 1916 Thomson was killed at Pozieres.
Soon after, De Garis joined the Scottish Women’s Hospitals, an organisation that offered female staffed, medical units to the Imperial allies. With the America Unit, based in Ostrovo, Macedonia, under the Serbian army, De Garis was Chief Medical Officer of the 200 bed tent hospital for 12 months. In winter it snowed and malaria was endemic. Her leadership style was authoritarian and some staff criticised her for not being consultative. She wrote, however, that she did not need an advisory committee and that she felt a heavy responsibility for her staff .
In September 1918, on her mother’s death, De Garis resigned and returned to Melbourne, arriving in February 1919. For her war service she was awarded the medal of St Sava, 3rd class, by the Serbian Government, and two service medals from the British Government, but nothing from Australia."
Read more here
http://scottishwomenshospitals.co.uk/women/
A book about her life is available here
Scottish Women's Hospitals
Born 1881 in Charlton, Vic.
Daughter of Elisha De GARIS and Elizabeth nee BUNCLE
"After practising in Melbourne she became Resident Surgeon at the Tibooburra Hospital, New South Wales. She met Colin Thomson, a farmer, and they became engaged in July 1914. On the outbreak of war, she offered her services to the Australian Army who rejected her – only nurses could enlist. Her fiancée, however, enlisted, travelling to Egypt, Gallipoli and France. De Garis travelled to London independently; on 4 August 1916 Thomson was killed at Pozieres.
Soon after, De Garis joined the Scottish Women’s Hospitals, an organisation that offered female staffed, medical units to the Imperial allies. With the America Unit, based in Ostrovo, Macedonia, under the Serbian army, De Garis was Chief Medical Officer of the 200 bed tent hospital for 12 months. In winter it snowed and malaria was endemic. Her leadership style was authoritarian and some staff criticised her for not being consultative. She wrote, however, that she did not need an advisory committee and that she felt a heavy responsibility for her staff .
In September 1918, on her mother’s death, De Garis resigned and returned to Melbourne, arriving in February 1919. For her war service she was awarded the medal of St Sava, 3rd class, by the Serbian Government, and two service medals from the British Government, but nothing from Australia."
Read more here
http://scottishwomenshospitals.co.uk/women/
A book about her life is available here
DELAHENTY/DELAHUNTY, Margaret
Staff Nurse
AANS Born 1892 in Warmambool, Vic. Daughter of John Herbert DELAHENTY and Margaret nee AHEARN Age 25 years Enlisted 06 June 1917 Embarked 12 June 1917 in Melbourne per “Mooltan” Service Salonika and England Returned to Australia 11 May 1919 per “Borda” On Duty Appointment terminated 13 August 1919 Did not marry Died 29 June 1950 in Fitzroy, Vic. Buried Eastern Cemetery, Geelong EAS-RC-40-807-481 |

Mentioned in despatches
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 6 October 1919
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 1467, position 29
Date of London Gazette: 5 June 1919
Location in London Gazette: Page 7228, position 2
Mentioned in Depatches Lieutenant-General Sir G F Milne KCB KCMG
For services rendered in Salonika October 1918 to March 1919
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 6 October 1919
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 1467, position 29
Date of London Gazette: 5 June 1919
Location in London Gazette: Page 7228, position 2
Mentioned in Depatches Lieutenant-General Sir G F Milne KCB KCMG
For services rendered in Salonika October 1918 to March 1919
DELANY, Ivy Vera
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born 12 December 1890 at Horsham, Vic.
Daughter of Edward DELANY and Mary Ann nee HEALY
Age 28 years
Enlisted 26 May 1917
Embarked 12 June 1917 in Melbourne per “Mooltan”
Service Salonika
Continued Enteritis caused by Dysentery December 1917
Invalided to Australia 30 March 1918 per “Wiltshire”
Re-embarked 17 September 1918 in Sydney per “Kanowna” as Ship’s Staff
Service in England
Returned to Australia 07 May 1919 per “Kanowna”
Appointment terminated 07 April 1919
Married James Norman MORISON 14 December 1921 in Adelaide, SA
Died 20 March 1984
Resided Box Hill, Vic.
Cremated Springvale Botanical Cemetery and remains scattered within the cemetery
AANS
Born 12 December 1890 at Horsham, Vic.
Daughter of Edward DELANY and Mary Ann nee HEALY
Age 28 years
Enlisted 26 May 1917
Embarked 12 June 1917 in Melbourne per “Mooltan”
Service Salonika
Continued Enteritis caused by Dysentery December 1917
Invalided to Australia 30 March 1918 per “Wiltshire”
Re-embarked 17 September 1918 in Sydney per “Kanowna” as Ship’s Staff
Service in England
Returned to Australia 07 May 1919 per “Kanowna”
Appointment terminated 07 April 1919
Married James Norman MORISON 14 December 1921 in Adelaide, SA
Died 20 March 1984
Resided Box Hill, Vic.
Cremated Springvale Botanical Cemetery and remains scattered within the cemetery
DEMENT, Ethel Maud
Sister
AANS Born 1882 in Christchurch, New Zealand Daughter of George David DEMENT and Mary Ellen nee HILL Niece to M A DEMENT of Nelson, NZ Age 32 years Enlisted 01 April 1915 Embarked 13 April 1915 per “Kyarra” Service Egypt on the field in France Contracted Trench Fever 1916 Promoted to Sister 03 April 1917 Attended training course in Massage in UK 1.4.19 to 30.9.19 Returned to Australia 09 December 1919 per “Borda” On Duty Discharged as medically unfit 19 April 1920 Married William THOMAS in 1925 Died in New Zealand in 1960 |

Mentioned in Despatches
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 24 October 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 2057, position 58
Date of London Gazette: 28 May 1918
Location in London Gazette: Page 6203, position 128
Special mention in Sir Douglas Haig’s Despatch of 07 April 1818
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 24 October 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 2057, position 58
Date of London Gazette: 28 May 1918
Location in London Gazette: Page 6203, position 128
Special mention in Sir Douglas Haig’s Despatch of 07 April 1818

Awarded Royal Red Cross (2nd Class)
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 15 September 1919
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 1372, position 6
Date of London Gazette: 3 June 1919
Location in London Gazette: Page 6842, position 2
"For untiring devotion to duty both at the Base and at a C.C.S. This lady was specially recommended for her good work while attached to an Imperial Unit in the Front Area. "
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 15 September 1919
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 1372, position 6
Date of London Gazette: 3 June 1919
Location in London Gazette: Page 6842, position 2
"For untiring devotion to duty both at the Base and at a C.C.S. This lady was specially recommended for her good work while attached to an Imperial Unit in the Front Area. "
DENNIS, Laura
Sister
AANS
Born 1883 in Sedbergh, Yorkshire, England
Daughter of Thomas DENNIS and Elizabeth Ann nee DUGDALE
Sister of Henrietta BENNETT
Age 32 years
Enlisted 19 October 1915
Transport duty per “Kanowna” till September 1916
Embarked 16 September 1916 per “Karoola”
Service in India
Trans-shipped to Australia via England
Re-embarked in Sydney 09 June 1917 per Mooltan
Service in Salonika
Returned to Australia 30 August 1918 per “Wiltshire” On Duty
Resigned 22 October 1918 due to Marriage, W.W. Bruce – Dpt. of Mines NSW
AANS
Born 1883 in Sedbergh, Yorkshire, England
Daughter of Thomas DENNIS and Elizabeth Ann nee DUGDALE
Sister of Henrietta BENNETT
Age 32 years
Enlisted 19 October 1915
Transport duty per “Kanowna” till September 1916
Embarked 16 September 1916 per “Karoola”
Service in India
Trans-shipped to Australia via England
Re-embarked in Sydney 09 June 1917 per Mooltan
Service in Salonika
Returned to Australia 30 August 1918 per “Wiltshire” On Duty
Resigned 22 October 1918 due to Marriage, W.W. Bruce – Dpt. of Mines NSW
DENNIS, Lillian Beatrice
Sister
AANS Born 1885 at Red Hill, Brisbane, Qld. Daughter of Alfred DENNIS and Elizabeth nee HUMPHREYS Of 'Greylands' Hart Road, Indooroopilly, Brisbane Enlisted 25 August 1916 Embarked 16 September 1916 Served for 2 1/2 years in India, part of the time in Bombay and Poona and six months in England. Appointment terminated 18 November 1919 Matron of the Anzac Hostel, Kangaroo Point, Queensland in the 1930s. Married George McIVER 11 September 1948 Died 06 December 1968 in Qld. Buried Mt. Thompson Memorial Gardens Columbarium 12 Section 17 |
DENSON, Irene May
Sister
Queen Alexandria's Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve
Born possibly in Hong Kong
Daughter of Henry Edward and Eleanor North DENSON
Resided 'Levra' Suburban Road, South Perth, WA
Embarked from Australia 18 December 1915 i
Arrived in UK 10 February 1916
NOK listed as Mrs. F E HAROLD (Aunt) of Cowper Lodge, Church Path, Deal
Posted to 26 General Hospital 03 April 1916
Posted to Abbeville, France 13 February 1917
Posted to 47 Casualty Clearing Station 15 February 1917
Posted to 26 General Hospital 19 March 1917
Mentioned in despatches
Awarded Royal Red Cross 2nd Class (for services in France)
Posted to 12th Stationary Hospital 05 March 1918
Posted to 6 Casualty Clearing Station 08 March 1918
Posted to 10 Stationary Hospital 17 April 1918
Served at No 8 General Hospital 01 June 1918 - 08 November 1918 and 10 February 1919 - 03 April 1919
'An excellent Ward Sister - professional abilities above the average and a good Ward Manager. Very kind to her patients and gets on well with her fellow workers.'
Admitted to hospital with Influenza 26 February 1919
Transferred awaiting embarkation to Lord Derby War Hospital, Warrington, England
Cessation of duty 30 April 1919
Embarked for Australia 04 June 1919 per 'Bremen'
Appointment terminated 10 June 1919 (Demobilized)
Married Gerald WHITTINGTON in Reigate, Surrey, England in 1920
Died in Surrey in 1967
Sister I. M. Denson, A.T.N.A., has been appointed to the Queen Alexandra Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve. After a training in the Warneclife War Hospital, Sheffield, she will be stationed somewhere in France.
The West Australian Saturday 1 April 1916 page 8
Sister I. M. Denson, Q.A.I.M.N.S.R., has recovered from a slight attack of bronchitis, and has resumed her duties as Charge Sister at No. 26 General Hospital, France.
Western Mail Friday 17 November 1916 page 32
AN ENGAGEMENT.
Old Carnarvonites will be interested in the following announcement which appeared on the Perth "Daily News," Of May 16: The engagement is announced of Sister Irene May Denson, Q.A.I.M.N.S.R., now on active service in France, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Denson, of South Perth, to Lieutenant Clive William Firth, South Staffordshire Regiment, of Kenwood Park, Sheffield England.
Northern Times Saturday 02 June 1917 page 2
Queen Alexandria's Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve
Born possibly in Hong Kong
Daughter of Henry Edward and Eleanor North DENSON
Resided 'Levra' Suburban Road, South Perth, WA
Embarked from Australia 18 December 1915 i
Arrived in UK 10 February 1916
NOK listed as Mrs. F E HAROLD (Aunt) of Cowper Lodge, Church Path, Deal
Posted to 26 General Hospital 03 April 1916
Posted to Abbeville, France 13 February 1917
Posted to 47 Casualty Clearing Station 15 February 1917
Posted to 26 General Hospital 19 March 1917
Mentioned in despatches
Awarded Royal Red Cross 2nd Class (for services in France)
Posted to 12th Stationary Hospital 05 March 1918
Posted to 6 Casualty Clearing Station 08 March 1918
Posted to 10 Stationary Hospital 17 April 1918
Served at No 8 General Hospital 01 June 1918 - 08 November 1918 and 10 February 1919 - 03 April 1919
'An excellent Ward Sister - professional abilities above the average and a good Ward Manager. Very kind to her patients and gets on well with her fellow workers.'
Admitted to hospital with Influenza 26 February 1919
Transferred awaiting embarkation to Lord Derby War Hospital, Warrington, England
Cessation of duty 30 April 1919
Embarked for Australia 04 June 1919 per 'Bremen'
Appointment terminated 10 June 1919 (Demobilized)
Married Gerald WHITTINGTON in Reigate, Surrey, England in 1920
Died in Surrey in 1967
Sister I. M. Denson, A.T.N.A., has been appointed to the Queen Alexandra Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve. After a training in the Warneclife War Hospital, Sheffield, she will be stationed somewhere in France.
The West Australian Saturday 1 April 1916 page 8
Sister I. M. Denson, Q.A.I.M.N.S.R., has recovered from a slight attack of bronchitis, and has resumed her duties as Charge Sister at No. 26 General Hospital, France.
Western Mail Friday 17 November 1916 page 32
AN ENGAGEMENT.
Old Carnarvonites will be interested in the following announcement which appeared on the Perth "Daily News," Of May 16: The engagement is announced of Sister Irene May Denson, Q.A.I.M.N.S.R., now on active service in France, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Denson, of South Perth, to Lieutenant Clive William Firth, South Staffordshire Regiment, of Kenwood Park, Sheffield England.
Northern Times Saturday 02 June 1917 page 2

Awarded Royal Red Cross 2nd Class
For services in France
For services in France

Mentioned in Despatches
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 18 April 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 845, position 97
Date of London Gazette: 28 December 1917
Location in London Gazette: Page 13568, position 119
Date of Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: 18 April 1918
Location in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette: Page 845, position 97
Date of London Gazette: 28 December 1917
Location in London Gazette: Page 13568, position 119
Many of her friends here will be interested to hear that Sister Ida Denson, Q A.I.N R. (Queen Alexandria Imperial Nursing Reserve), has had the distinction of being mentioned in despatches; thus adding to the distinctions already won by our nurses. Certainly Australia may be justly very proud of her nurses.
Western Mail Friday 15 March 1918 page 39
Embarked for Australia 04 June 1919 per 'Bremen' for Fremantle
Charge-Sister I. M. Denson, Q.A.I.M.N.S.R, who left W.A. on December 24, 1915, on nursing service abroad, is returning to Perth by the Bremen, having been prevented at the last moment from sailing with her friend, Nurse M. Ward, who arrived on Saturday by the Osterley. Sister Denson, it will be remembered, was invested with the Royal Red Cross by His Majesty the King at Buckingham Palace on May 23.
The Daily News Monday 30 June 1919 page 3
Western Mail Friday 15 March 1918 page 39
Embarked for Australia 04 June 1919 per 'Bremen' for Fremantle
Charge-Sister I. M. Denson, Q.A.I.M.N.S.R, who left W.A. on December 24, 1915, on nursing service abroad, is returning to Perth by the Bremen, having been prevented at the last moment from sailing with her friend, Nurse M. Ward, who arrived on Saturday by the Osterley. Sister Denson, it will be remembered, was invested with the Royal Red Cross by His Majesty the King at Buckingham Palace on May 23.
The Daily News Monday 30 June 1919 page 3
DERRER, Mary Jane
Sister
AANS Born 03 February 1892 near Mackay, Qld. Daughter of Gottfried DERRER and Josephine nee WANNMEISTER Sister to Mrs. Anna Waters of Mackay, Qld Age 24 years Enlisted 30 May 1915 - 12 July Embarked 14 July 1915 Service in Egypt, England and on the field in France Returned to Australia 01 September 1917 per “Beltana” On Duty Appointment terminated 28 December 1917 Re-enlisted 25 March 1918 Embarked 09 November 1918 Service in India Promoted to Sister 25 September 1918 Returned to Australia 09 November 1919 per “Kashgar” Appointment terminated 27 January 1920 After a short period nursing at the Kangaroo Point Military Hospital and Stanthorpe, she returned to Mackay and nursed at the Lister Private Hospital. Married Dr. Gallagher (widower with 2 young children) in 1922. They had 3 more children. In 1968 the family moved to Brisbane. Died 1986 aged 93 years www.awm.gov.au P00156.013 |
DERRER, Rosine
Sister
AANS
Born 1885 at Mackay, Qld.
Daughter of Gottfried DERRER and Sophie nee WANNMISTER
Sister of Mrs. J R WATERS
Age 29 years
Enlisted 25 August 1916 in Brisbane, Qld.
Embarked 16 September 1916 in Sydney per “Karmala”
Service in India and England
Promoted to Sister 16 September 1918
Returned to Australia 21 July 1919 per “Katoomba” On Duty
Appointment terminated 10 November 1919
Married James Arthur BENNET in 1925
Died 1975
AANS
Born 1885 at Mackay, Qld.
Daughter of Gottfried DERRER and Sophie nee WANNMISTER
Sister of Mrs. J R WATERS
Age 29 years
Enlisted 25 August 1916 in Brisbane, Qld.
Embarked 16 September 1916 in Sydney per “Karmala”
Service in India and England
Promoted to Sister 16 September 1918
Returned to Australia 21 July 1919 per “Katoomba” On Duty
Appointment terminated 10 November 1919
Married James Arthur BENNET in 1925
Died 1975
DESAILLY, Ida Vera
Sister
AANS
Born 1889 at Hughenden, Qld.
Daughter of George DESAILLY and Laura Ida nee LUPTON
Age 27 years
Enlisted 25 August 1915
Embarked 26 December 1916 in Melbourne per “Mooltan”
Service in India
Promoted to Sister 26 December 1918
Returned to Australia 13 April 1919 per “Eastern”
Discharged as medically unfit 05 December 1919
Married Francis Albert FURNEAUX in 1933
Died 1971 at Armadale, Vic.
AANS
Born 1889 at Hughenden, Qld.
Daughter of George DESAILLY and Laura Ida nee LUPTON
Age 27 years
Enlisted 25 August 1915
Embarked 26 December 1916 in Melbourne per “Mooltan”
Service in India
Promoted to Sister 26 December 1918
Returned to Australia 13 April 1919 per “Eastern”
Discharged as medically unfit 05 December 1919
Married Francis Albert FURNEAUX in 1933
Died 1971 at Armadale, Vic.
DESPARD, Charlotte Letitia
Staff Nurse
Queen Alexandra Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve
WO 399/2197
Born 1872 at Mortlake, Vic.
Daughter of Samuel DESPARD and Ann nee GROGAN
Embarked for Egypt 15 May 1915 per 'Mooltan'
Served in Egypt
Embarked for Australia 01 August 1917
Did not marry
Died 31 August 1945 in Perth, WA.
Aged 73 years
Resided Leederville, WA
Buried Karrakatta Cemetery Roman Catholic SC 0199 - site expired
Queen Alexandra Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve
WO 399/2197
Born 1872 at Mortlake, Vic.
Daughter of Samuel DESPARD and Ann nee GROGAN
Embarked for Egypt 15 May 1915 per 'Mooltan'
Served in Egypt
Embarked for Australia 01 August 1917
Did not marry
Died 31 August 1945 in Perth, WA.
Aged 73 years
Resided Leederville, WA
Buried Karrakatta Cemetery Roman Catholic SC 0199 - site expired
Writing from No. 16 General Hospital, Alexandria, Sister Despard gives her experiences on arrival at that far-away spot. "I said in my previous note that 1 had arrived in the land of the living (and in view of the crowds here and the bustle I think I'd have been nearer the mark if I had said "land of the swarming"). It was a bit of a disappointment not getting to England first, but we were wanted in Alexandria, so were pulled off at Suez on a hot morning, so hot that I fancy Old Nick must have had a spring-cleaning and left his windows open to air his abode. We were turned off a boat to catch an early train so said the powers that be. Evidently the train changed its mind about being early, and left at 1.30 p.m, so that gave us six hours to sit in the compartments and stew. To add insult to injury, we got no breakfast. But these little things make one feel alive. We got to Alexandria about
7.45 p.m. -a real day out. I may not go into particulars about the hospital, etc. Suffice it to say I am in charge of a surgical ward of about 60 beds, and I like it greatly. Haven't seen a single journalist since I arrived. Have had some days at a charming place at Aboukir (we are really well looked after, and have each in our turn got à time there). The house is lent by an Englishman to the Red Cross Society, and they have turned it into a rest-house for sick and tired nursing sisters. It is quite close to the waters of Aboukir Bay, and there is a house-boat fitted up with every comfort; also rowing and sailing boats and men (Arabs) to wait on the sisters-so it's just Paradise. There are a couple of old forts very interesting for the part they have played in history, whilst just five miles from here is Nelson's Island, near which "the famous naval battle of Aboukir Bay was fought over a hundred years ago. I am in the best of health."
Sunday Times Sunday 29 August 1915 page 9s
7.45 p.m. -a real day out. I may not go into particulars about the hospital, etc. Suffice it to say I am in charge of a surgical ward of about 60 beds, and I like it greatly. Haven't seen a single journalist since I arrived. Have had some days at a charming place at Aboukir (we are really well looked after, and have each in our turn got à time there). The house is lent by an Englishman to the Red Cross Society, and they have turned it into a rest-house for sick and tired nursing sisters. It is quite close to the waters of Aboukir Bay, and there is a house-boat fitted up with every comfort; also rowing and sailing boats and men (Arabs) to wait on the sisters-so it's just Paradise. There are a couple of old forts very interesting for the part they have played in history, whilst just five miles from here is Nelson's Island, near which "the famous naval battle of Aboukir Bay was fought over a hundred years ago. I am in the best of health."
Sunday Times Sunday 29 August 1915 page 9s
By the last mail Sister Despard, who was matron of the Toodyay, Beverley and Greenbushes hospital for some years in succession, wrote, to a friend from the Colchester Hospital, England, where she has been resting for a few weeks. Her first engagement was in the 15th General Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt. Then she was in a hospital ship for two months, running to Malta and Alexandria from the Dardanelles. Among the first patients she nursed on this ship was Billy Hampshire, whose wife, Matron Hampshire, succeeded Sister Despard at the Toodyay Hospital. Writing of the Australians, she says: "I shall never forget them coming on to the ship. Some of them had been in the trenches for months, and their uniforms were torn and faded almost 'white with the sun's rays. They were ill and footsore, but they came on with their heads held high. I used to feel I wanted, to cheer them. They just loved to have one of their own nurses." Sister Despard caught malaria on a trip to the Dardanelles and was invalided home to Essex, she is now recovered and expects to be detailed for duty "somewhere in France or Egypt" shortly.
Goomalling-Dowerin Mail Friday 31 December 1915 page 2
Goomalling-Dowerin Mail Friday 31 December 1915 page 2
Nurse Despard, who has returned to Greenbushes Hospital to resume her former duties, after active service and her very trying experience on board the ill fated S. S. Mongolia, which was mined recently by the Germans,and Pte Mclndoe, were introduced to the assemblage by Mr J. Lindsay,t he chairman of the Greenbushes Road Board, who said, 'It affords me the greatest pleasure to be here tonight to welcome home Nurse Despard and Pte Mclndoe, who, with other brave nurses and soldiers, are, and have been, the means of keeping the glorious British flag ever on top upon the battlefields of Europe. 'He hoped that the shields would prove a grateful memento from the townspeople of Greenbushes, to be handed down to their next of kin, who would be ever proud of their achievements. Nurse Despard was received with prolonged applause. Mr Chas. Cooper, chairman of the Hospital Committee, briefly returned thanks to the Welcome Home Soldiers' Association, for their gift to Nurse Despard, and said he felt sure she would cherish it.
Bunbury Herald Saturday 02 March 1918 page 5
Bunbury Herald Saturday 02 March 1918 page 5
DEVER, Elizabeth Agnes
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born 19 October 1886 at Stanthorpe, Qld.
Daughter of Patrick and Mary DEVER
Age 29 years
Enlisted 13 June 1916
Embarked 11 May 1917 in Melbourne per “Shropshire” Nursing Staff
Service to No 2 Section Transport Staff
Ships “Ulysses” “Nestor” “Demosthenes” “Euripides”
Duty in England between transports
Appointment terminated by Austhorities13 October 1917
Re-enlisted 08 November 1917
Embarked 30 January 1918 per “Melusia”
Service Rabaul, New Guinea
Promoted to Sister in Charge 08 February 1918
Returned to Australia 14 January 1919 per “Mawata”
Appointment terminated 10 February 1919
Married Norman Prain SMALL in 1919
Died 14 September 1937 in Burwood, NSW
Late of Concord West, NSW
AANS
Born 19 October 1886 at Stanthorpe, Qld.
Daughter of Patrick and Mary DEVER
Age 29 years
Enlisted 13 June 1916
Embarked 11 May 1917 in Melbourne per “Shropshire” Nursing Staff
Service to No 2 Section Transport Staff
Ships “Ulysses” “Nestor” “Demosthenes” “Euripides”
Duty in England between transports
Appointment terminated by Austhorities13 October 1917
Re-enlisted 08 November 1917
Embarked 30 January 1918 per “Melusia”
Service Rabaul, New Guinea
Promoted to Sister in Charge 08 February 1918
Returned to Australia 14 January 1919 per “Mawata”
Appointment terminated 10 February 1919
Married Norman Prain SMALL in 1919
Died 14 September 1937 in Burwood, NSW
Late of Concord West, NSW
CASE OF SISTER DEEVER.
We referred last week briefly to the case of a nurse who was abruptly discharged, apparently as a result of a protest made by her in regard to certain happenings at Rabaul. Her name - Sister Deever. The following are some of the circumstances regarding her case which have been communicated to us by various informants.
In January fast SHE WAS PRACTICALLY 'SHANGHAIED' AWAY FROM RABAUL AND DISCHARGED on the ground that her services were 'no longer required'— after four years of war nursing. The only excuse for this abrupt high-handed action which can suggest itself to those acquainted with the facts is that she refused to attend a dinner at Government House on the ground that A WOMAN OF GOOD MORAL CHARACTER COULD NOT AFFORD TO IDENTIFY HERSELF WITH THE INCIDENTS THAT WERE DAILY AND NIGHTLY TAKING PLACE at the Governor's residence.
TOLD TO CLEAR OUT.
Some weeks previously, Sister Deever has accepted two invitations to the Vice-Regal mansion, but she was not encouraged by what she saw and heard to repeat the experiences. When she received the third invitation, she point blank refused to go near Government House, with the result that she was curtly notified to get on board the Mawatta (a cargo ship) and clear out.
A STAND-UP FIGHT.
Many of the men who have been in Rabaul will, we are informed, remember the OPEN STAND-UP FIGHT ON THE LAWN OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE BETWEEN HIS EXCELLENCY BRIGADIER - GENERAL JOHNSTON, AND HIS AIDE, LIEUT. GWYNNE, M.C., which culminated in the parties to the fight rolling down a grassed terrace locked in each other's embrace. The incident, which was witnessed by a large number of natives and soldiers, was followed by the hasty departure of the aide for Sydney. This was one of many disgraceful incidents which are reported to have occurred at Rabaul. We hope to refer to other matters in subsequent issues. It gives us no pleasure to give currency to stories which may asperse the character or criticise the conduct of officers or officials of the Government,against who we bear not the slightest malice. But we have thought it our duty, after careful enquiry from many sources, to record some of the Incidents brought to our notice, in the public interest, in the hope that they will be held to justify our demand for an immediate Inquiry. Any soldiers or civilians who are acquainted with the facts will assist this inquiry and the reform which must follow by communicating to us, personally or by letter, any pertinent information in their possession. They may rely on their confidence being absolutely respected.
The Mirror Sunday 16 March 1919 page 8
We referred last week briefly to the case of a nurse who was abruptly discharged, apparently as a result of a protest made by her in regard to certain happenings at Rabaul. Her name - Sister Deever. The following are some of the circumstances regarding her case which have been communicated to us by various informants.
In January fast SHE WAS PRACTICALLY 'SHANGHAIED' AWAY FROM RABAUL AND DISCHARGED on the ground that her services were 'no longer required'— after four years of war nursing. The only excuse for this abrupt high-handed action which can suggest itself to those acquainted with the facts is that she refused to attend a dinner at Government House on the ground that A WOMAN OF GOOD MORAL CHARACTER COULD NOT AFFORD TO IDENTIFY HERSELF WITH THE INCIDENTS THAT WERE DAILY AND NIGHTLY TAKING PLACE at the Governor's residence.
TOLD TO CLEAR OUT.
Some weeks previously, Sister Deever has accepted two invitations to the Vice-Regal mansion, but she was not encouraged by what she saw and heard to repeat the experiences. When she received the third invitation, she point blank refused to go near Government House, with the result that she was curtly notified to get on board the Mawatta (a cargo ship) and clear out.
A STAND-UP FIGHT.
Many of the men who have been in Rabaul will, we are informed, remember the OPEN STAND-UP FIGHT ON THE LAWN OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE BETWEEN HIS EXCELLENCY BRIGADIER - GENERAL JOHNSTON, AND HIS AIDE, LIEUT. GWYNNE, M.C., which culminated in the parties to the fight rolling down a grassed terrace locked in each other's embrace. The incident, which was witnessed by a large number of natives and soldiers, was followed by the hasty departure of the aide for Sydney. This was one of many disgraceful incidents which are reported to have occurred at Rabaul. We hope to refer to other matters in subsequent issues. It gives us no pleasure to give currency to stories which may asperse the character or criticise the conduct of officers or officials of the Government,against who we bear not the slightest malice. But we have thought it our duty, after careful enquiry from many sources, to record some of the Incidents brought to our notice, in the public interest, in the hope that they will be held to justify our demand for an immediate Inquiry. Any soldiers or civilians who are acquainted with the facts will assist this inquiry and the reform which must follow by communicating to us, personally or by letter, any pertinent information in their possession. They may rely on their confidence being absolutely respected.
The Mirror Sunday 16 March 1919 page 8
DEVINE, Kathleen M J
Staff Nurse
AANS Born Kathleen Mary Josephine DEVINE in 1884 in Geelong, Vic. Daughter of Anthony DEVINE and Julia nee MADDEN Sister to Maysie DEVINE - AANS Age 30 years Enlisted 08 June 1917 Embarked 30 June 1917 in Melbourne per “Somali” Service in India and Hospital Ship “Ellora” Returned to Australia 13 April 1919 per “Eastern” On Duty Appointment Terminated 22 June 1919 Did not marry Died 02 November 1947 at Barwon Heads, Vic. Resided Barwon Heads, Vic. Occupation at the time of death Infant Welfare Nurse Interred Eastern Cemetery, Geelong, Vic. EAS-RC-40-807-314 Photograph courtesy of Cheryl Baulch |
DEVINE, Maysie
Staff Nurse
AANS
Born Mary DEVINE, 1894 in Geelong, Vic.
Daughter of Anthony DEVINE and Julia nee MADDENSister to Kathleen DEVINE – AANS
Age 24 years
Training St Vincents Hospital
Enlisted 18 June 1917
Embarked 30 June 1917 per “Somali”
Service in India
Resigned Appointment 15 November 1918 due to Marriage
Married 16 November 1918 in England to Dr. W.L. O'NEILL
Lived many years in England
Returned to Australia
Died 1966 in Heidelberg, Vic.
AANS
Born Mary DEVINE, 1894 in Geelong, Vic.
Daughter of Anthony DEVINE and Julia nee MADDENSister to Kathleen DEVINE – AANS
Age 24 years
Training St Vincents Hospital
Enlisted 18 June 1917
Embarked 30 June 1917 per “Somali”
Service in India
Resigned Appointment 15 November 1918 due to Marriage
Married 16 November 1918 in England to Dr. W.L. O'NEILL
Lived many years in England
Returned to Australia
Died 1966 in Heidelberg, Vic.
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P07133.004
P07133.004