Thomas Michael Burke

M, #31951, b. 1870, d. 16 Feb 1949
Birth*1870 Ararat, VIC, Australia, #B12958/1870 (par William BURKE & Mary Ann FLORENCE) - as Thomas BURKE.1 
Marriage*25 Jul 1898 St Mary's RC Church, Ararat, VIC, Australia, #M4527/1898, Thos Mich BURKE & Margt Duggan BRADY.2
 
Marriage-Notice*10 Sep 1898 BURKE—BRADY.—On the 25th July, at St. Mary's R.C. Church, Ararat, by the Very Rev. R. Meade, Thomas Michael, second son of the late William Marcus Burke, of Norval, to Margaret Duggan, eldest daughter of Patrick Brady, Stragella, Ararat.3 
Note*bt 1899 - 1915 1 - #B15041/1899 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Marcus Patrick Antho BURKE, Birth registered at Ararat, Australia
2 - #B3011/1901 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Monica Mary BURKE, Birth registered at Essendon, Australia
3 - #B26001/1902 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Nelly Cicely Mary BURKE, Birth registered at Essendon, Australia - #D13613/1903 (Age 1) (par Thos Michl BURKE & Margt Duggan BRADY) - as Nellie BURKE, Death registered at Hawth, Australia
4 - #B26205/1904 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Thomas Myles BURKE, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Australia
5 - #B3887/1908 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Noel BURKE, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Vic, Australia
6 - #B19889/1909 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Paul BURKE, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Vic, Australia
7 - #B4476/1914 (par Thos Michl BOURKE & Margt Duggan BRADY) - as Sylvia Margt BOURKE, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Vic, Australia
8 - #B31172/1915 (par Thos Michael BOURKE & Margt Duggan BRADY) - as Adrian Jno BOURKE, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Vic, Australia.4 
Note2 Mar 1926 John Joseph Corrigan. Works for T.M. Burke, Real Estate in Brisbane. 
Death*16 Feb 1949 Armadale, VIC, Australia, #D2025/1949 (Age 78) (par William Morris BURKE & Mary Ann FLORENCE) - as Thomas Michael BURKE.5 
Death-Notice17 Feb 1949 BURKE. — On February 16, at his residence, 361 Dandenong road, Armadale, Thomas Michael Burke, beloved husband of Margaret Duggan, loved father of Marcus, Monica (Mrs. J. W. Byrne), Thomas, Noel, Paul, Sylvia (Mrs. G. G. Edgerton), and Adrian — Requiescat in pace.6 
Death-Notice17 Feb 1949 BURKE. — Solemn Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of the late Mr THOMAS MICHAEL BURKE will be celebrated at St. Patrick's Cathedral, East Melbourne, TOMORROW (Friday) at 10 a.m. The funeral will leave the church at the conclusion of Mass for the Melbourne Cemetery Carlton.
MULQUEEN S SONS PTY. LTD. FW1746.7 
Death-Notice*24 Feb 1949 BURKE.—On February 16, at his residence, 361 Dandenong-road, Armadale, Thomas Michael Burke, beloved husband of Margaret Duggan; loved father of Marcus, Monica (Mrs. J. W. Byrne), Thomas, Noel, Paul, Sylvia (Mrs. G. G. Edgerton) and Adrian.
Requiescat in pace.8 
Note1956 Death of wife: #D3206/1956 (Age 82) (par Patrick BRADY & Margaret Duggan OWENS) - as Margaret Duggan BURKE, born Horsham. Death registered at Armadale, Australia.9 

Electoral Rolls (Australia) and Census (UK/IRL)

DateAddressOccupation and other people at same address
1924347 Dandenong Road, Armadale, VIC, AustraliaOccupation: auctioneer.10

Newspaper-Articles

  • 12 May 1921: The Self-Determination for Ireland League
    of Australia. WEEKLY PROGRESS REPORT.
    On Sunday, May 8th, a largely attended meeting of delegates from all parts of Melbourne was held at the Cathedral Hall to consider further organisation of the League.
    The Provisional Executive was represented by the president, Dr. Baldwin; vice-president, Mr. T. M. Burke; treasurer, Mr. Pierce Cody, and the Rev. Dr. Collins. The Very Rev. Fr. Barry, Administrator of St. Patrick's Cathedral, Messrs. J. H. Scullin and Murphy, representing Ballarat, and Mr. Parker Moloney, M.H.R., were present, in addition to the ladies and gentlemen delegated to attend.
    After the president had opened the meeting, Mr. T. M. Burke outlined the methods to be adopted in organising branches, and urged the necessity for haste in undertaking this work.
    In doing this, he promised that the League, while standing firmly on its insistence on Ireland's right to selfdetermination, would be moderate in the expression of its views, and avoid, as far as possible, wounding the prejudices of others. He pointed out that the Premiers' Conference in June was fraught with possibilities, and that it was necessary that sympathisers with Ireland should voice their sentiments in such a manner as to reach the ears of those assembled in London.
    He urged that branches be immediately established in all centres.
    Mr. J. H. Scullin outlined the fine work accomplished in the Ballarat district, which is already well organised. Mr. Scullin strongly urged Irish sympathisers to make the utmost use of the occasion of the Premiers' Conference. He pointed out that although the conditions existing in Ireland were bad there was great hope for the future.
    With Mr. Burke, he insisted on the necessity of speeding up the Self-Determination movement.
    Mr. Parker Moloney, M.H.R., expressed his sympathy with the movement. During the course of a short speech he mentioned the activity of the League workers in New South Wales.
    All the speakers were frequently applauded.
    After the addresses, various questions in reference to organisation and other matters were asked and answered by members of the executive.
    The delegates were enthusiastic and anxious to extend the movement.
    It is believed that the result of this meeting will be an increased activity throughout the whole metropolitan area.
    It is suggested that those who are interested in the League and have friends in remote country districts shall write to their friends and ask them to co-operate in establishing branches.
    All information may be obtained from the League secretary, the Rialto, Collins-street.
    At a meeting of the ladies' central committee held on Monday, May 9th, it was decided to recommend the council to summon a meeting of ladies at the Cathedral Hall on Sunday, May 22nd, at 3 p.m.
    The recommendation was accepted by the council at its meeting on May 10th.
    The ladies' meeting will be open to all ladies who are anxious to understand more fully the objects of the League.
    Prominent members of the League will explain its scope of action and the best means of assisting in its development.
    The organiser and secretary was at Warrnambool on Sunday, May 8th, where he addressed a large and representative meeting.
    He visited Koroit on May 9th, and also Crossley and Illowa.
    He reports favourably of the Western District.
    A meeting to establish a branch in Glenhuntly will be held at the Glenhuntly Hall on Friday,
    May 13th, at 8 p.m. Mr. F. Brennan, M.H.R., and other gentlemen will speak.
    A branch will be formally established at Benalla on May 24 or 25. Mr. Parker Moloney, M.H.R., has consented to speak on behalf of the League.
    It is urgently necessary that means shall be taken to counteract anti-Irish propaganda, and it is urged that those who desire to see the case for Ireland presented to the public shall assist by contributing to the Propaganda Fund.11
  • 3 Sep 1925: T. M. BURKE.
    Stacking away a thousand a day has been the achievement and hobby of millionaire T. M. Burke during the past decade. And that's why, he now has more than a thousand-thousand sterling. Never before has an Australian been on the bread line at 45, and a millionaire at 55. T.M. is now five years past the half century, and owns up to having had little more capital than a lot of ambition during the early war days. In his case attainment has been the synonym of ambition, for today he owns and controls the biggest land-selling business in the world.
    Originally a Public Servant in the Railway branch, he quitted to found the Civil Service Co-operative Stores.
    But not till he put in his resignation did he realise that proverbial apathy of the Civil Servant is a reality. Politics lured him afterwards, and the 1 500 votes he polled in vain endeavour to unseat J. C Manifold at Wannon, was a great feat. For T.M. was a Labor candidate, whose personality — and oratory — must have told among the Western district pastoralists.12
  • 29 Nov 1934: DEATH of brother-in-law: BRADY.—On the 21st November, at private hospital, Melbourne, Archibald Brady, of St. Arnaud, son of the late Patrick and Margaret Brady, formerly of Hawthorn, loving brother of John, Edward, Margaret (Mrs. T. M. Burke), Nellie (Mrs. P. E. Madden), Mary, Alice and Kathleen; aged 67 years.
    Requiescat in pace.
    Interred Box Hill Cemetery on Wednesday, 21st inst., by Michael Mulqueen and Sons.13
  • 16 Feb 1949: T. M. Burke Dead
    Mr T. M. Burke, well-known businessman and sportsman, died at his home in Armadale last night. He was 78.
    Mr Burke was born at Ararat and educated at Ararat High School, in 1902 he became chief president of the Australian Natives' Association.
    As an estate agent he organised some of Victoria's biggest suburban land sale projects.
    He was a member of the Charities Board for several years, and was appointed Consul for Poland in 1933.
    Mr Burke was a member of the leading racing clubs. In Melbourne and, for some years, was President of the breeders, Owners and Trainers' Association. That association is now defunct.
    About 20 years ago he owned a large string of race-horses. He won a few important races, including the Newmarket Handicap and Standish Handicap, with Quintus, and the Grand National Hurdle at Flemington, with Coybeau.
    Other useful performers to carry his black and red colors were Bombard and Eldorado.
    He leaves a wife, five sons and two daughters.
    The funeral will be at Melbourne General Cemetery on Friday.14
  • 17 Feb 1949: Wide Interests of Late Mr. T. M. Burke
    Mr. Thomas Michael Burke, who died at his Armadale home on Tuesday night, had a long association with the business, consular and racing life of Melbourne.
    He was born at Ararat in 1870, and, after leaving the Ararat high school, entered the Victorian Railways, where he worked for 17 years in the clerical division.
    During this period he became keenly interested in public affairs and, after long association with the Australian Natives' Association, was elected chief president for 1902-03.
    Following a dispute with Sir Thomas Bent, then Minister for Railways, he left the service and became founder and manager, of the Civil Servants' Co-operative Stores in Flinders-street.
    In 1914 he turned to real estate and became managing director of T. M. Burke Pty. Ltd. in 1915.
    In the years following World War 1 he became one of the most influential figures in land development in most Australian capitals, as well as New Zealand.
    Charity Work
    Mr. Burke was a keen worker for charity and the Red Cross. He was appointed a member of the Charities Board in 1932 and was elected chairman for 1938-39. He also served as a councillor of the A.R.C.
    He was appointed consul for Poland in 1933 and held that office until his death. In 1942 he was created a C.M.G.
    Mr. Burke was a member of all Melbourne racing clubs and, ill the 1920's, his colors, black, red sash and cap, were prominent on most leading Australian courses.
    He won the Newmarket and Standish Handicaps with Quintus, Bombard and Eldorado were other good horses he owned.
    Mr. Burke was a generous donor to Roman Catholic organisations. He presented Studley Hall, a famous old mansion in Kew, to Xavier College as a preparatory school. Xavier in turn named the school Burke Hall.
    Mr. Burke leaves a widow, five sons and two daughters. The funeral will be at Melbourne General Cemetery on Friday.15

Citations

  1. [S26] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Births) (online) "#B12958/1870 (par William BURKE & Mary Ann FLORENCE) - as Thomas BURKE, Birth registered at Ararat, Australia."
  2. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "#M4527/1898, Thos Mich BURKE & Margt Duggan BRADY."
  3. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 10 Sep 1898, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9850840
  4. [S26] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Births) (online) "#B26205/1904 (par Thomas Michael BURKE & Margaret Duggan BRADY) - as Thomas Myles BURKE, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Australia."
  5. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D2025/1949 (Age 78) (par William Morris BURKE & Mary Ann FLORENCE) - as Thomas Michael BURKE, born Ararat. Death registered at Armadale, Australia."
  6. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 17 Feb 1949, p12
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/22707724
  7. [S14] Newspaper - The Herald (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 17 Feb 1949, p6
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/247714976
  8. [S14] Newspaper - Advocate (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 24 Feb 1949, p23
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/172502206
  9. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D3206/1956 (Age 82) (par Patrick BRADY & Margaret Duggan OWENS) - as Margaret Duggan BURKE, born Horsham. Death registered at Armadale, Australia."
  10. [S124] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1924 "with wife, and two children, Marcus, manager, Monica Mary, hd."
  11. [S14] Newspaper - Advocate (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 12 May 1921, p18
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/171058314
  12. [S14] Newspaper - The Gundagai Independent and Pastoral, Agricultural and Mining Advocate (NSW), Thu 3 Sep 1925, p4
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/121741603
  13. [S14] Newspaper - Advocate (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 29 Nov 1934, p21
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/171901978
  14. [S14] Newspaper - The Herald (Melbourne, Vic.), Wed 16 Feb 1949, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/247722208
  15. [S16] Newspaper - The Age (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 17 Feb 1949, p2
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/205362047
Last Edited16 Mar 2026

Arthur William Whittle

M, #31952, b. 8 Jul 1863
Birth*8 Jul 1863 Weymouth, Dorset, England.1 
Marriage*1883 Spouse: Maggie Strain. Sydney, NSW, Australia, #M1350/1883, Registration Place: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Margaret Strain & Arthur W Whittle.2
 

Citations

  1. [S65] Ancestry - various indices, Victoria, Australia, Divorce Records, 1860-1940
    Divorce: 1892/71 Petitioner: Arthur William Whittle. Spouse: Margaret Whittle.
  2. [S65] Ancestry - various indices, Australia, Marriage Index, 1788-1950
    #M1350/1883, Registration Place: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Margaret Strain & Arthur W Whittle, Marriage Date: 1883.
Last Edited16 Mar 2026

Charles Hill

M, #31961
Land-Berwick*10 Jul 1877 BER-Crown-19 part. Transfer from Alexander Crichton to Charles Hill. Piece of land 300 x 1000 ft. NE corner. - consideration £800.1 
Land-Berwick*21 Sep 1883 BER-Crown-19 part. Transfer from Charles Hill to James Richardson. Piece of land 300 x 1000 ft. NE corner - consideration £1000 - agreement for sale and purchase £50 on signing, balance by promissory note (paid 9 Apr 1891.)2 

Newspaper-Articles

  • 26 Sep 1883: THURSDAY, 27th SEPTEMBER BERWICK.
    JOSEPH CLARKE and Co. have been favored with instructions from Mr. Charles Hill, he having sold his business to Mr. J. Richardson, to sell by auction, at his premises, on the above date,
    9 saddle and harness horses
    3 do. mares with foals at foot and in foal to Disturbance, Glenmarkie and Starlight
    1 filly by Glenmarkie, 2 years
    2 cows in full milk
    5 springers
    15 fat pigs
    1 Berkshire boar
    20 couple fowls
    2 butchers' carts
    2 spring carls
    1 American waggon with tilt
    1 tip dray
    4 sets spring cart and dray harness
    4 saddles and bridles
    And numerous sundries.
    FURNITURE:
    Horsehair couch, 6 horsehair chairs, easy chair, round table, carpets, fender and fire irons, pictures, crockery, glassware, marble clock, 2 double iron bedsteads, washstand and ware, dressing tables, looking glasses, 2 chests drawers, 1 handsome bookcase, cupboard, sofa, kitchen utensils, &c.
    Sale at 11 o'clock sharp.
    Luncheon provided.3

Citations

  1. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP46049 - Conveyance 267.511.
  2. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP46049 - 311.872 Agreement for sale and purchase £1000. £50 on signing + balance by promissory notes; 368.57 Conveyance £1000.
  3. [S16] Newspaper - The Age (Melbourne, Vic.), Wed 26 Sep 1883, p2
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/202603516
Last Edited21 Mar 2026

Alan Gordon Miers1

M, #31962, b. 1905, d. 2 Oct 1955
Father*George Edwin Miers1 b. 1860, d. 24 Mar 1931
Mother*Beatrice Retchford1 b. 1870, d. 7 Apr 1950
Birth*1905 Woodville, SA, Australia.1 
Marriage* Spouse: Marie Annie Frances Retchford.
 
Death*2 Oct 1955 Hawthorn East, VIC, Australia, #D11395/1955 (Age 50) (par George Edwin MIERS & Beatrice RETCHFORD) - as Alan Gordon MIERS.1 
Death-Notice3 Oct 1955 MIERS. — On October 2 (suddenly), at his home, 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, Alan Gordon, beloved husband of Marie, loved father of Peggy (Mrs. Wilkinson), and Anne.
MIERS.—The Funeral of the late ALAN GORDON MIERS will leave his home, 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, TOMORROW (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m., and proceeding past the Masonic Temple, Launder street, Hawthorn, for the Spring Vale Crematorium.
LE PINE & SON- PTY. LTD., JB4148.
MIERS.—Lodge of Auburn, No. 475, A., F., and A. Masons of Vic-Brethren of the above Lodge are informed that the Funeral of our late esteemed Junior Warden, Bro. ALAN GORDON MIERS, will leave his home, 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, TOMORROW (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m., for the Spring Vale Crematorium.
C. E. PAGE. Wor. Master.
L. S. CURNOW. Secretary.
MIERS. — Amicitia Conclave, O.S.M. — Brethren of the above Lodge are informed that the Funeral of our late esteemed Bro. ALAN GORDON MIERS will leave his home, 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, TOMORROW (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m., for the Spring Vale Crematorium.
L. J. WRIGHT. Supreme Ruler.
N. S. MAIR. Sec.2 
Death-Notice*4 Oct 1955 MIERS.—Victoria Lodge of Instruction, No. 12. A., F, & A. Masons of Vic-Brethren of the above Lodge are informed that the Funeral of our late esteemed Bro. ALAN GORDON MIERS will leave his home, No. 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, THIS DAY (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m.. for the Spring Vale Crematorium.
J. POTTS, Lecture Master.
H. GROOM. Secretary.
MIERS.—Melbourne Rose Croix, No. 68.—Brethren or the above Lodge are informed that the Funeral of the late esteemed Brother ALAN MIERS will leave his home, 5 Currajong road. Hawthorn East, THIS DAY (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m., for the Spring Vale Crematorium.
MIERS.—Melbourne Morton Ray Rose Croix, No. 94.—Brethren of the above Lodge are informed that the Funeral of the late esteemed Brother, ALAN MIERS will leave his home, 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, THIS DAY (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m., for the Spring Vale Crematorium.
MIERS. — Lowrey Conclave. — Brethren of the above Lodge are informed that the Funeral of the late esteemed Brother ALAN MIERS will leave his home, 5 Currajong road, Hawthorn East, THIS DAY (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1 p.m., for the Spring Vale Crematorium.3 

Newspaper-Articles

  • 27 Jul 1929: MIERS (Frances Retchford).-On the 7th July, to Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Miers, of 137 Orange avenue, Mildura—a daughter (Beatrice Margaret). Marie Annie Frances Miers4

Citations

  1. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D11395/1955 (Age 50) (par George Edwin MIERS & Beatrice RETCHFORD) - as Alan Gordon MIERS, born Woodville, South Australia. Death registered at Hawthorn East, Australia."
  2. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Mon 3 Oct 1955, p11
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/71699031
  3. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Tue 4 Oct 1955, p19
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/71699281
  4. [S14] Newspaper - The Australasian (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 27 Jul 1929, p17
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/141396215
Last Edited22 Mar 2026

Dorothy Clemence Miers

F, #31963, b. 1900, d. 1976
Father*George Edwin Miers b. 1860, d. 24 Mar 1931
Mother*Beatrice Retchford b. 1870, d. 7 Apr 1950
Married NameDorothy Clemence Davison.1 
Birth*1900 SA, Australia. 
Marriage*3 Jan 1934 Spouse: John Leonard Davison. Methodist Church, Kew, VIC, Australia, #M3380/1934, Dorothy Clemence MIERS & Jno Leonard DAVISON.1
 
Marriage-Notice*5 Feb 1934 DAVISON—MIERS - On the 3rd January at Methodist Church, Highbury grove, Kew, by the Revs. H. J. Ham M. A. and A. P. Bladen, O.B.E. (Uncles of the bride), assisted by the Rev. J. W. Rowse, John Leonard, fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. D Davison, Rowsley, to Dorothy Clemence, only daughter of the late Mr. G. E. Miers and of Mrs. Miers, formerly of Aberbrothok, Beaconsfield.2 
Widow4 Oct 1941Dorothy Clemence Miers became a widow upon the death of her husband John Leonard Davison. 
Death*1976 Highett, VIC, Australia, #D21716/1976 (Age 76) (par George MIERS & Beatrice Unknown) - as Dorothy Clemence DAVISON.3 

Electoral Rolls (Australia) and Census (UK/IRL)

DateAddressOccupation and other people at same address
1939Aberbrothok, Payne's Road, Beaconsfield, VIC, AustraliaOccupation: home duties. With John Leonard Davison.4

Citations

  1. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "#M3380/1934, Dorothy Clemence MIERS & Jno Leonard DAVISON."
  2. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Mon 5 Feb 1934, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/11736102
  3. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D21716/1976 (Age 76) (par George MIERS & Beatrice Unknown) - as Dorothy Clemence DAVISON, Death registered at Highett, Australia."
  4. [S139] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1939 "Payne Road only in Dorothy's address."
Last Edited22 Mar 2026

John Leonard Davison

M, #31964, b. 1903, d. 4 Oct 1941
Probate (Will)* 328/888. John L Davison, Residence: Drouin, Occupation: Soldier, Drouin and AIF, Date Of Death: 4 Oct 1941, Date Of Grant: 9 Feb 1942.1 
Birth*1903 Baccus Marsh, VIC, Australia, #B7606/1903 (par David DAVISON & Margt PACE) - as Jno Leonard DAVISON.2 
Land-UBeac*18 Jul 1933 PAK- 4C.4D/LP6442, Payne Road. Transfer from Beatrice Miers to John Leonard Davison. JL Davison married Beatrice's daughter in January 1934. He sold the property to WE Grant, but at the time of Davison's death, there was still £475 owing. It was registered as a mortgage on the title.3 
Marriage*3 Jan 1934 Spouse: Dorothy Clemence Miers. Methodist Church, Kew, VIC, Australia, #M3380/1934, Dorothy Clemence MIERS & Jno Leonard DAVISON.4
 
Marriage-Notice*5 Feb 1934 DAVISON—MIERS - On the 3rd January at Methodist Church, Highbury grove, Kew, by the Revs. H. J. Ham M. A. and A. P. Bladen, O.B.E. (Uncles of the bride), assisted by the Rev. J. W. Rowse, John Leonard, fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. D Davison, Rowsley, to Dorothy Clemence, only daughter of the late Mr. G. E. Miers and of Mrs. Miers, formerly of Aberbrothok, Beaconsfield.5 
Land-UBeac*5 Oct 1939 PAK- 4C.4D/LP6442. Transfer from John Leonard Davison to William Eric Grant. 25a 0r 25p.6 
Death*4 Oct 1941 Tobruk. 

Electoral Rolls (Australia) and Census (UK/IRL)

DateAddressOccupation and other people at same address
1939Aberbrothok, Payne's Road, Beaconsfield, VIC, AustraliaOccupation: orchardist. With Dorothy Clemence Davison.7

Newspaper-Articles

  • 11 Oct 1941: SGT. LEN DAVISON PAYS THE SUPREME SACRIFICE.
    Our Rowsley Correspondent writes: It is with deep regret we learn that Sgt. Len Davison who was reported wounded and seriously ill earlier, had died of wounds on the 4th inst., at Tobruk. Sgt. Leonard John Davison was the fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. D. Davison, life-long residents of this district. He was born here 38 years ago and received his education at the Rowsley S.S. On leaving school he was employed for a time at "Greystones," but on the return of his three elder brothers who served in the Great War, he joined them and engaged in fruitgrowing at Nyah West. A great reader of history and exploration stories, it did not surprise when he decided to see more of the little known Far North. He worked his way through New South Wales, and Queensland and finally spent quite a long time in the Northern Territory on the vast cattle stations there. His eyes becoming affected he was obliged to come back again, and take over his block at Nyah West. Comparatively recently he sold out and went to live at Pakenham on an apple orchard and finally bought and operated a dairy farm at Drouin South. Whilst at Pakenham he married and his wife and two children now reside at Drouin. Enlisting in the A.I.F., he went overseas last November with the 2 /24th Battalion and soon saw service at Tobruk. A bomb dropped on a pillbox where he was serving a machine gun, and he received shrapnel wounds in the shoulder and leg early in May. He was in hospital for some time and when discharged was offered a staff job but preferred to go back to his comrades in the front line, being back only a very short time before receiving his second and fatal wound. He is the first local born soldier to have paid the supreme sacrifice in this war and the great sorrow which we feel brings home to us the bitter realities of war, the greatest of all human tragedies.
    To his wife, his little children, mother, father, brothers and sister, we offer our heartfelt sympathy. To his memory, a silent prayer; for one of the heroes of Tobruk.8
  • 15 Oct 1941: Former Beaconsfield Orchardist Fatally Wounded
    BEACONSFIELD residents will learn with sincere regret that Corporal J. L. Davison, who formerly was an orchardist in that district, has died of wounds overseas.
    Len, as he was more commonly known, sold his orchard about two years ago and left to take over a dairy farm in the Drouin West district. He and his wife (formerly Miss Dorothy Miers) left many firm friends behind them, and deep sympathy is felt for Mrs Davidson and her two little children.9

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), Probate and Administration Files (VPRS28) / Wills (VPRS7591)
    328/888. John L Davison, Residence: Drouin, Occupation: Soldier, Drouin and AIF, Date Of Death: 4 Oct 1941, Date Of Grant: 9 Feb 1942
    VPRS 28/P0003, 328/888; VPRS 7591/P0002, 328/888.
  2. [S26] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Births) (online) "#B7606/1903 (par David DAVISON & Margt PACE) - as Jno Leonard DAVISON, Birth registered at B Msh, Australia."
  3. [S66] Berwick Shire Rates, 1870-1965 1932/33. 1170 Miers Mrs GE, Beaconsfield, Orchardist. 25ac pt Lot 4, Paynes Pakenham NAV £54. Crossed out per 18/7/1933, now John Leonard Davison
    1933/34. 465 Davison John Leonard, Beaconsfield, Orchardist. 25ac Lot 3, Paynes, House, Pakenham NAV 54
    1934/35. 467 Davison John Leonard, Beaconsfield, Orchardist. 25ac Lot 3, Paynes Sub, House, Pakenham NAV 50
    1935/36. 465 Davison John Leonard, Beaconsfield, Orchardist. 25ac Lot 3, Paynes Sub, House, Pakenham NAV 50
    1936/37. 471 Davison John Leonard, Beaconsfield, Orchardist. 25ac Lot 3, Paynes Sub, House, Pakenham NAV 50.
  4. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "#M3380/1934, Dorothy Clemence MIERS & Jno Leonard DAVISON."
  5. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Mon 5 Feb 1934, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/11736102
  6. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 3906-118 - William Eric Grant of Beaconsfield Orchardist.
  7. [S139] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1939 "Payne Road only in Dorothy's address."
  8. [S14] Newspaper - Melton Express (Vic.), Sat 11 Oct 1941, p3
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/254751383
  9. [S218] Newspaper - The Dandenong Journal (Vic.), Wed 15 Oct 1941, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/214605464
Last Edited22 Mar 2026

Marie Annie Frances Retchford

F, #31965, b. 1903, d. 1988
Married NameMarie Annie Frances Miers. 
Birth*1903 Snapper Point, VIC, Australia, #B28753/1903 (par Harold RETCHFORD & Margt Frances WILKINSON) - as Francis Annie RETCHFORD.1 
Marriage* Spouse: Alan Gordon Miers.
 
Widow2 Oct 1955Marie Annie Frances Retchford became a widow upon the death of her husband Alan Gordon Miers.2 
Death*1988 Red Cliffs, VIC, Australia, #D17294/1988 (Age 84) (par Harold RETCHFORD & Margaret Frances WILKINSON) - as Marie Annie Frances MIERS.3 

Newspaper-Articles

  • 27 Jul 1929: MIERS (Frances Retchford).-On the 7th July, to Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Miers, of 137 Orange avenue, Mildura—a daughter (Beatrice Margaret). Alan Gordon Miers4

Citations

  1. [S26] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Births) (online) "#B28753/1903 (par Harold RETCHFORD & Margt Frances WILKINSON) - as Francis Annie RETCHFORD, Birth registered at Snapper Point, Australia."
  2. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D11395/1955 (Age 50) (par George Edwin MIERS & Beatrice RETCHFORD) - as Alan Gordon MIERS, born Woodville, South Australia. Death registered at Hawthorn East, Australia."
  3. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D17294/1988 (Age 84) (par Harold RETCHFORD & Margaret Frances WILKINSON) - as Marie Annie Frances MIERS, born Mornington. Death registered at Red Cliffs, Australia."
  4. [S14] Newspaper - The Australasian (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 27 Jul 1929, p17
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/141396215
Last Edited22 Mar 2026

Gordon Gray Skellington

M, #31966, b. Jun 1929, d. 25 Jan 2017
Father*George Herbert Godfrey Skellington
Mother*Helen Gray
Birth*Jun 1929 Ecclesall Bierlow, Yorkshire, England, Jun Q 1929 (Ecclesall Bierlow) 09c 716. As Gordon Gray Skellington.1 
Land-UBeac*20 Oct 1967 PAK LP6442 (Lot 4D pt) - 1TP754884, 80 Payne Road. Transfer from William Eric Grant to Gordon Gray Skellington. 8a 2r 2 6/10p.2 
Death*25 Jan 2017 Sheffield, Yorkshire, England. 
Death-Notice*31 Jan 2017 SKELLINGTON. — Gordon Gray. Died Sheffield, England Jan. 25, 2017 Aged 87 years Beloved son of Godfrey and Helen, cherished brother of Ailsa and John (dec.), Uncle of Ben, Helen and family. We loved you and you loved us.3 

Citations

  1. [S332] UK - General Register Office Indexes "Jun Q 1929 (Ecclesall Bierlow) 09c 716. As Gordon Gray Skellington."
  2. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 3906-118 - Gordon Gray Skellington of 28 Clarendon Road Fulwood Sheffield England Technical Representative and Ailsa Catherine Mary Mairs of 53 Melbourne Road Williamstown Married Woman - joint proprietors - C/T 8698-244.
  3. [S13] Newspaper - Herald Sun (Melbourne, Vic.), 31 Jan 2017
    online https://www.heraldsun.com.au/tributes/melbourne/
Last Edited22 Mar 2026

John Huntley Mairs

M, #31968, b. 7 May 1932, d. 10 Aug 2000
Birth*7 May 1932 
Marriage*1961 Spouse: Ailsa Catherine Mary Skellington. #M19933/1961, John Huntley MAIRS & Ailsa Catherine SKELLINGTON.1
 
Death*10 Aug 2000 VIC, Australia. 
Death-Notice*12 Aug 2000 MAIRS. - John Huntley. May 7, 1932 - Aug. 10, 2000 Loving husband of Ailsa and beloved son of David (Ley, dec.) and Winifred. Devoted father of Helen, father-in-law of Ben, adored Papa of Michelle, Claire and Arie. Fond brother of Betty andbrother-in-law of Gordon. Rest in peace.2 
Death-Notice14 Aug 2000 MAIRS. - John. Thank you for all the love and support you gave me and our family over the years. We will always remember you. God Bless Sweetheart. Love and prayers - Ailsa.3 

Newspaper-Articles

  • 29 Aug 2001: Death of mother: MAIRS (nee Still). - Winifred Victoria, on Aug. 28, 2001. Dearly beloved wife of David (dec.), dearly loved mother of John (dec.) and Betty, loved mother-in-law of Ailsa and Frank (dec.) Adored Nan of Helen and Ben and special great grandmother of Michelle, Claire and Arie John. Treasured memories4
  • 2 Nov 2017: Death of sister: WINSLOW. — Betty Lynette (Mairs) 31.1.30 - 29.10.17 Passed away peacefully after a short illness, aged 87. Wife of Lindsay (dec.) and Frank (dec.), dearly loved daughter of David (dec.) and Winifred (dec.), sister of John (dec.) and sister-in-law of Ailsa. Cherished Aunt, Great-Aunt and Member of the van der Merwe, Reid and Winslow families, Cousin and Friend to many.5

Citations

  1. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "#M19933/1961, John Huntley MAIRS & Ailsa Catherine SKELLINGTON."
  2. [S13] Newspaper - Herald Sun (Melbourne, Vic.), 12 Aug 2000
    online https://www.heraldsun.com.au/tributes/melbourne/
  3. [S13] Newspaper - Herald Sun (Melbourne, Vic.), 14 Aug 2000
    online https://www.heraldsun.com.au/tributes/melbourne/
  4. [S13] Newspaper - Herald Sun (Melbourne, Vic.), 29 Aug 2001
    online https://www.heraldsun.com.au/tributes/melbourne/
  5. [S13] Newspaper - Herald Sun (Melbourne, Vic.), 2 Nov 2017
    online https://www.heraldsun.com.au/tributes/melbourne/
Last Edited22 Mar 2026
 

NOTE

Some family sections show only the children who were associated with Upper Beaconsfield.

Some individuals may be featured because members of their family were associated with the Upper Beaconsfield area, even though they themselves never lived here.