Born – 16 January 1835 – Paderborn, Germany
Died – 16 September 1912 – Elwood

Gold prospector, drover, farmer and one of the last surviving members of the Burke and Wills Expedition to die.

When Burke set out from Cooper’s Creek with a bare 3 months supplies on his ‘dash’ to the Gulf of Carpentaria, he left William in charge of the camp.

After waiting more than four months, and with his own supplies running low, he finally decided to abandon the camp on 21 April 1861, leaving the “DIG” tree on Cooper’s Creek

Our Guest Speaker – Dr Douglas McCann gave a very informative talk which was enjoyed by all.

The plaque was unveiled by David Brahe, the great grandson of William

Refreshments were served on and around the verandah of the Lodge.

Diary Dates for 2024

4th August 2024 AGM – Murumbeena Bowls Club – 10 Blackwood St, Carnegie.  1.15 for a 1.30 start

Guest Speaker – Steve Mayes.

Steve Mayes whose interest in the Kelly saga, it was not until about 20 years ago that he discovered the connection between his Great Grand Father, and the Kelly Gang.

Steve will talk about his Great Grand Father, Joseph Ladd Mayes who was born in Ireland, he was a Victorian Policeman, for just on 40 years having many postings in country Victoria including Lancefield, Kyneton and Buninyong. During the Kelly outbreak, Joseph Mayes took part in the operations run by Superintendent Francis Hare. Joseph’s story is a fascinating one. There is a twist in this history, which concerns the Brighton Cemetery & World War 1 but he will leave that to his talk.

13th October 2024 – Odd Bod Walk

8th November  2024– Flag Commemoration – a further 50 flags will be placed at Service Person’s Graves

11th November 2024 – Remembrance Day Walk

8th December 2024 – Christmas Lunch in the Lodge at Brighton General Cemetery

Happenings at the Brighton Cemetery for 2025