Love is in the air? or wishful thinking on my part!

Thursday Oct 13^th 1932:

Had to have the usual clean up this morning which is always necessary when I have been away for any length of time. Had ‘smoko’ down at Cronin’s. Spent the afternoon reading and writing and then called on Dr in connection with hospital business. After tea went up to hospital. Home again and more writing.

Friday Oct 14^th 1932:

Was up before the sun this morning and had the car greased and oiled before breakfast. Had several other jobs to d on it and it was nearly lunch time when I had the car ready for the road. Had very little time left then to complete monthly a/c’s and mission report and other writing but did it all by 4 pm. Packed my port then, rolled my swag and went for my passengers. Picked up both ‘Mrs Reillys’ and Jack Logan and left to at 7.15 pm.

( Both ‘Mrs Reilly’s’ ? Maybe Mrs Reilly and another un-named female? Maybe Eileen McAllan? My mother to be. know for sure there was only one Mrs Reilly in Camooweal and several Miss Reilly’s.) Car gave a bit of trouble for awhile but finished well reaching Avon at 7.15 pm. The folk here had kindly waited tea for us and we were all very hungry. Weather had suddenly become cold and showery. Quite a crowd here when we all got together. I felt too tired to stay up for long so Mrs Spratt kindly fixed the hot shower for me which was great, after which was soon lost in slumber.

Saturday Oct 15^th 1932:

Light rain fell last night and this morning it looked as if ‘big mob rain might jump up’ at any minute. Light sprinkles were all we experienced however. Were on the road soon after sunrise, Spratts coming along with a load in their car. Stopped for awhile at the Rankine and exchanging a few passengers continued on to Alexandria. Car gave a bit of trouble through a block in petrol pipes somewhere but managed to reach the homestead without having to locate the block. Brunette and Alroy people already here and after lunch the interstate tennis match was put on resulting in a win for Qld by 3 games. After tea we all played clock golf (?) on the lawn and then I retired leaving the others to continue their fun and frolic.

Sunday Oct 16^th 1932:

After lunch today the various parties commenced their homeward journeys and by sundown the last of the departing guests said their fond farewells. ( My mother, Eileen McAllan lived on McArthur River Station in N.T so it is possible she had been visiting Camooweal – and my father! – and would have left as mentioned with others to return to her home.) I then went out with Bill to one of the bores taking the pumper home. Came back and had some long discussions before retiring.

Monday Oct 17^th 1932:
Spent the morning in looking over the car and remedying any noticeable faults. Felt very lazy after lunch so went to sleep. Played tennis after ‘smoko’. A gin with a badly smashed thumb done in fighting was brought up for my inspection. ( Dr Kettle?) It is a fearful sight and green . I cleaned it up and dressed it during which operation the gin nearly went out to it. I then decided to take her into Camooweal after tea but rain came and so I could not. Staunton’s 3 lorries arrived about 8 pm. Retired early.

Tuesday Oct 18^th 1932:

Rain continued until after ‘smoko’ in the afternoon. Stayed inside and read and wrote most of the time. Got cleaned and went around and called on all the hands about the place. Dressed the gin’s thumb again and as she felt a bit better decided to send her in to Dr on one of the lorries.

Wednesday Oct 19^th 1932:

Got the car ready and loaded up and after ‘smoko; with Mrs Reilly, ( Only one Mrs Reilly this time?) Mrs Johnson, Pat and Cay on board left for Alroy. Had a blow out a few miles along the road and still have not remedied petrol blockage. Reached Alroy for lunch. Took the car down to the shed and spent the afternoon working on it. Found a bad leak in radiator and had to take all radiator off. Did not finish. After tea read for awhile and retired.

Thursday Oct 20^th 1932:

Put in an hour on the car before breakfast which was on at 7 am. Left it then and put my essential requirements together and in Schmidt’s Hudson 8. Six of us and a big load then left for Rockhampton Downs. Stopped with the stock camp for awhile and also at No 14. Had a yarn and left reading. Reached ‘Rocky’ for lunch. Just as soon drive the Ford. Talked for quite awhile. Had a swim in the tank. George not home. Had some music before retiring. Friday Oct 21^st 1932:

More hot weather and today heavy clouds gave promise of good storms falling. Got the kiddies together at Rocky this morning and gave them their S.S lesson which they seemed to enjoy very much. Mrs Easy had the baby wireless going this morning and listened in and could hear Anderson from Cloncurry very clearly. (How things change with time! ) Packed up after lunch and returned to Alroy. Called around at the bore where the stock camp was and as they had just killed one had grilled bones for tea. Called again on old Frank Grteen and hd a good yarn to him. Reached Alroy at 9pm. At midnight we caught the edge of a good storm but all we got was wind.

Saturday Oct 22^nd 1932:

Got to work on the car again this morning and by lunchtime had everything together again. Ivan greatly assisted me. After ‘smoko’ all the folk left for Brunette the Hudson going first and I brought up the rear. 3 miles out I had tube trouble again so I did not see the others until I reached Brunette after dark. They had kindly kept tea for me. We had a ping pong tournament then before all retired. A terribly hot night.

Sunday Oct 23^rd 1932:

A fearfully hot day. Too hot to do anything. Folk here are all R.C’s and very nice. Late in the afternoon we all drove out 3 miles and had a cool of in one of the dams, a bonza swimming hole. I had a read after tea while the others played cards.

Monday Oct 24^th 1932:

Spent the morning on the car and in talking to the men about the place. Changed the tyres and tubes about on the car and put the bad tube into the spare tyre. Cay Johnson drove over from Alexandria 60 miles this morning and on his way home again, 30 miles out found that Crows Nest bore with a big mob of cattle on it had broken down, so had to come back to Brunette to tell them and then set out again for home. I left after lunch for Anthony’s Lagoon. Called on an old German pumper on the way who was very stern and abrupt at first but thawed afterwards and showed it by remarking ‘I will put the b…… pot on’ and so we had a drink of tea together. Reached Anthony’s alright and pulled up at the store for awhile and then went across to the Police Station and invited myself to stay there. Had some music after tea.

Tuesday Oct 25^th 1932:

Had half an inch of rain last night with the result it was too muddy to move about this morning so stayed inside and read all the latest papers about a month old. Set to work on the spare tube after dinner and spent the whole afternoon in trying to mend it but was unable to get it to hold for more than a couple of hours, so will have to

travel without a spare. After tea went over for a while to the store.

Wednesday Oct 26^th 1932:

Called over at the Cattle station homestead this morning, after which went north down to Malapunyah Springs, 90 miles into the real ‘never never’. ( No name for property? This may well have been McArthur River Station where my mother lived as it was close to Mallapunyah Springs ) Awful roads for most of the way, but reached there safely in the afternoon. One family of 12 lives here; kiddies very shy and nervous. They are getting a very nice garden going and plenty of nice spring water to use, the father is white but mother a quarter caste abo! The kiddies are all very fair. Gave them some pamphlets after tea. Had a light storm just as we were about to retire. Had a good feed here of bananas and paw paws, pulled straight from the trees.

Thursday Oct 27^th 1932:

Got the kiddies together this morning and gave them pictures and books and tried to talk to them but they were too shy to do much with. Have broken the ice however. Left during the morning and found the ground very heavy in places where storms fell yesterday. Did not get bogged however and reached Anthony’s in the afternoon. Went over to the store after tea and had a little service during which I baptised Biondi’s latest.

Friday October 28^th 1932:

Drove down to the aerodrome this morning and met Alf when he told me about Mavis Wilson having her scalp torn off while being shown over Mt Isa mines. A terrible thing and felt very much off after hearing about it. Spent some time over at the cattle station

( McArthur River? ) with the manager and then across to the store where I had lunch. Picked up a passenger and left for Brunette. Had another cup of tea with the German pumper and reached Brunette at 5 pm. Very hot so decided to cool off in the dam with the others. Played ping pong for awhile after tea.

It takes all sorts!

Friday Sept 16^th 1932:

Had further hospital business to attend to today in connection with resignation of present nurse. Got some mail away but not as much as wanted to. Visited the hospital at night and Dr like a sulky child will not speak now.

Saturday Sept 17^th 1932:

Carted a lot of rubbish away this morning and was then called to go around and see Nora Faser, a half caste, who is very sick. She was inclined to favor a trip into Mt Isa to the hospital there but I managed to persuade to stay here and go into our own hospital. Took her up before lunch. Paid a visit in the afternoon to the township on the creek. Four families down there. Mobs of kids. Got them all to promise to come to S.S and promised to call for them in the morning. Took one of the womenfolk to the maternity ward. Paid a couple of other visits. Played tennis, went to the P.O for tea. Listened to the wireless. Home. ( In those days the wireless was quite treat and I remember my father telling me how he enjoyed listening to test cricket on a station wireless at times.)

Sunday Sept 18^th 1932:

Collected 6 children off the river for S.S this morning and had a good attendance all round. Went down to the bore in the afternoon taking a few kiddies with me. Had a very disappointing attendance at Church at night.

Tuesday Sept 20^th 1932:

An awful windy dusty day. Jack and self put in a full day setting pout the improved court, watering and rolling both courts and marking both. Both look very nice now. Played before tea. Was told about a very sick man down on the creek, so went down during the afternoon and took him to hospital. Have a very sore eye and the wind and dust of today did not improve matters.

Wednesday Sept 20^th 1932:

Did some writing and reading at home. Visited school for R.I. Also hospital and othert homes in town. Was given a party at one of the homes. All in my honor. Very nice it was too.

Thursday Sept 22^nd 1932:

Have very sore feet at present. A sort of eczema and went to hospital this morning. Dr seems as if bent on getting his revenge as he ordered the very strongest iodine to be painted all over. Terribly sore and on top of it I foolishly went and played tennis. Could hardly walk afterwards. Went to P.O for tea and argued and listened to wireless afterwards. Very pleased when able to retire.

Friday Sept 23^rd 1932:

Paid another visit to the hospital this morning and went through some more torture. Feet ached all day. Heard that visitors were making a surprise visit at night so did some extra cleaning up. Got some airmail away and did other writing. Left tennis alone today. Called on Broady in connection with hospital business. Two ladies came up for the evening and were decent visitors as they set to work and did some cooking which we all enjoyed very much at supper time. ( Being 2 un-named ladies – he usually names his visitors - and a surprise visit – she would have had to travel from her home north on McArthur River Station - I am wondering if one of the ladies was my future mother? It would make a nice story! )

Saturday Sept 24^th 1932:

Did not feel like doing anything at all after leaving the hospital, and in fact did not do much except lie down. Tom Lewis called after lunch and asked me to go down and take his mother to the hospital as she was very sick. I don’t think however she is as sick as she makes out. Called down at Watson’s for awhile, also at Cronin’s and then had a look at the tennis players. Meeting at night.

Sunday Sept 25^th 1932:

Went to the hospital before Sunday School and then down to the river and collected my half dozen kiddies from there. Had a great crowd out for the school numbering 47. They took some handling though. Spent most of the afternoon at home in preparation for evening service. Went down for awhile to Watsons. Had 25 out at the evening service after which went across to Reilly’s for awhile. Had supper and then home to bed. Weather very hot.

Monday Sept 26^th 1932:

Having to be cook is a big nuisance as it breaks into too much of the morning with the result that nothing much gets done. Let them have another go at my feet this morning. Did some reading for awhile and writing. Heat and flies are very trying. Played some tennis. Went to Booths to tea and stayed for the remainder of the evening.

Tuesday Sept 27^th 1932:

Again at the hospital and are somewhat better. Called at a few places around the town. Visited school for R.I. Played tennis. Called at Darcys after tea. ( THE Darceys ? As mentioned by me previously , the Darcy clan became very wealthy in later years and acknowledged the support they had over many years from the Inland Mission. )

Wednesday Sept 28^th 1932:

Started on my Aug a/c’s and returns today. Paid up all round and finished all returns. Played a couple of sets of tennis. Had tea at hotel. Went down to Watsons for awhile. Hot and muggy day. Might get a drop of rain. Constable Prior arrived in town with his bride and her daughter. Father Kinnane arrived by plane.

Thursday Sept 29^th 1932:

A wonderful thing happened early this morning, before daybreak, one point of rain fell. There was a good deal of thunder and lightning too. Did some writing this morning and before I got cleaned after lunch had a visit from Father Kinnane. A very decent chap, elderly and a sick man. Comes from Albury and is out in this country for his health. Had the two girls over for their teachers lessons after which I went down to Watsons an fixed up the papers for Heather’s admission into the Wilson Ophthalmic hostel. Played some tennis and after tea called at Dawsons and Watsons. Got our ordinary mail today being two days behind time. Had letters from Don and Colin both roaring me up for my neglect in writing, which I certainly deserved. ( Assume these are his mates from Victoria. ) Colin sent a snap of his wedding and he certainly looked very happy and also Florrie.

Friday Sept 30^th 1932:

The weather is continuing very hot and muggy bit no further rain. The wind has increased in force and it looks as if we are in for some rough weather. Managed to get some writing done and played some tennis in the cool of the evening.

Saturday Oct 1^st 1932:

The wind has increased in force and is now blowing incessantly. Busy with mail this morning. Jack Logan and self put in some work on the tennis court with water and roller. A car load of tennis players arrived after tea from Isa and were given an evening in the hall.

Sunday Oct 2^nd 1932:

S.School and evening service.

Evidentally sitting in the sun watchi8g tennis being played was too much for the majority. Mt Isa players defeated, returned home after tea.

Monday Oct 3^rd 1932:

Jobs to do on car and visiting.

Weather is continuing very hot and the signs indicate storms approaching but such signs out here are not trustworthy.

Tuesday Oct 4^th 1932:

Had the car greased and oiled before breakfast this morning and got all my ‘plant’ ready for the road. Ordinary mail got in today on time. Collected parcels and mail and lft at 3.30 pm. had a good run as far as Avon and stopped. Got cleaned up, lovely shower and plenty of water. After tea we went up to the quarters and had a talk with the folk there.

Wednesday Oct 5^th 1932:

Was saved using my car today by accompanying Mr Spratt on his round of the bores. Saw all the pumpers, had a yarn to each and left them all some reading matter. Stayed another night at Avon. Constable Smythe and his wife arrived at tea time. Looked at the boys Sunday School work while here as they do the correspondence work.

Thursday Oct 6^th 1932:

Went on today, Dennis and wife accompanying me in their own car. Had a good run to Soudain where stopped for awhile. The cook is a rather hard case, good chap at heart though. Had a drink of tea. Went on then to Rankine. Had a late lunch at Lloyds. Got cleaned up. Water in the river here that low it is nearly mud. Had a round of golf with Dennis. Tea at the Police Station. Talked afterwards. Back to Lloyds and bed.

Friday Oct 7^th 1932:

Played the gramaphone after breakfast for the two little girls and gave them some Sunday School work and enrolled them in the correspondence S.S. Collected all the mail and came back to Soudain. Had lunch here and a very interesting talk with the cook. On to Avon and after a drink of tea at the quarters came into Camooweal just in time to catch the air m il but not to write any myself. Visited a few places after tea.

Saturday Oct 8^th 1932:

Cleaning, visiting, tennis.

Called down at Pedwells.

Sunday Oct 9^th 1932:

Had the usual nice number of kiddies out at S.S this morning and the work here is now going along nicely. After S.S called up at the hospital and collected Mrs Lobby and baby and took them home: a bough shed and tent on the river. Had a quiet afternoon at home. A few visitors. ( Un-named female friends again? ) A fair gathering attended the evening service. Had supper at Reilly’s and home to bed.

Monday Oct 10^th 1932:

Got the car ready for the road and at 9 am collected all passengers and luggage and left for Mt Isa. Had a decent run in calling at all places along the way. Reached Isa at 5.30 pm. Very dusty and appreciated a bath when I got there. Called up at hospital after tea and saw jim Maynard and Mrs Clancey. Took three little girls to Smiths afterwards.

Tuesday Oct 11^th 1932:

Mended a puncture after breakfast and then called for Mrs Watson, Heather and Ivy Darcy, taking them to the train and seeing them safely away. Called around at Moore’s and found the Young family from Cloncurry there. After lunch put car in garage and gave a hand to get ut the torque tube. Went then and did all my shopping and had tea. Went up to the hospital and saw Dr afterwards. Came back to garage and worked on car until 12.30 am when it was finished.

Wednesday Oct 12^th 1932:

Loaded the car up and left Isa at 1.30 am, came out 20 miles and camped for 2 hours. Went on then and had breakfast at 9 am with council men. Stayed for awhile at Dallings and old Jim and reached home at 2 pm. had a sleep and then into business. Hospital meeting at night.

.....and there's more.....

Monday August 1^st 1932:

( This day of writing is not Aug 1^st but September 21^st so there will be many omissions in the doings of the months showing plainly the evil results of neglect.)

had a meeting of the musical society tonight.

Aug 2^nd – Aug 6^th 1932:

Started on the fence and bored all the posts for the wire. Visited the hospital, school and around the town. Reading, writing. Fixed a new fron spring in the car and am now driving instead of walking. Had the two girls over for their Sunday School lesson today.

Sunday Aug 7^th 1932:

Sunday School and Church as oper usual. Nice gatherings at both. Had a quiet time at home in the afternoon, a real, Sunday afternoon rest. The death occurred at the hospital of an old chap of the west known as Dick Tumbler. A mental case.

Monday Aug 8^th 1932:

Conducted the funeral this morning. Had our usual meeting at night of the musical society. “ Plenty wind been jump up all day.”

Aug 9^th – Aug 13^th 1932:

Had Mr Quinn at home this week so got him helping me put up the wire and netting on the fence. Finished it off alright and then I built a permanent fowl yard. Got the posts out on then Rocklands run. Attended the hospital meeting on Wednesday and was elected President of the committee.

Sunday Aug 14^th 1932:

Had all the kiddies out at Sunday School this morning in spite of the cold strong south east blowing. Also had a fair number out at the evening service. Had two men at te service at night, a big thing for Camooweal.

Aug 15^th – Aug 20^th 1932:

Camooweal’s big week: Carnival Week. A big crowd in town from Tuesday until Saturday. There was hall decorating done and a big jon it was too. A lot of tennis played. Racing on Thursday and Friday. Cricket on Saturday and dancing every night. A very decent crowd in town, everybody quite enjoyed themselves.

Sunday Aug 21^st 1932:

Although tired all the kiddies were out in the morning as h would not miss Sunday School. Acted the part of the good Samaritan and after lunch drove a crowd who had broken down out to Gallipoli stn so as to be there for work in the morning.

Aug 22^nd – Aug 28^th 1932:

Had a trip to Undilla this week taking Mrs Miller home. The council men started on the kausline pit at the hospital and gave me some work to do in connection with it. Visited the school for religious instruction and hospital and other places in town. Played some tennis. Sunday School and church service.

Aug 29^th – Sept 3^rd 1932:

Did some work this week on the car fixing the radiator, front engine support and a few other small jobs. Got Falconer to do the soldering on the radiator. Visited School for R.I.

Sunday September 4^th 1932:

Sunday School and church service both well attended today. Very encouraging. Had several kiddies up here during afternoon.

Monday Sept 5^th 1932:

Jack Logan and self started today at work on old tennis court. Had promises of help from several others and only promises. Dusty work and strong wind blowing. Ladies living close by looked after us with refreshments.

Tuesday Sept 6^th 1932:

Another day for the two of us on the court and no outside help. Went to a party at night given in honor of one of our little girls who is going away for an extended holiday.

Wednesday September 7^th 1932:

And still we look in vain for the promised help. Finished the rough part of the work and with plenty of watering and rolling the court should come up alright. Suppose we will have to do it though.

Thursday Sept 8^th 1932:

Got the car ready for the road and taking Rhoda and Kath left for Mt Isa. Called at all the camps and homes en route and reached Isa at 5.30 pm. Took the girls to the hotel and then went down and ‘dug in’ at the McIntosh house. Went to the pictures at night. Friday Sept 9^th 1932:

A busy day with no time for spells. Most of the morning at the mines. Did a lot of business for self and others.

Sunday Sept 11^th 1932:

Had dinner and left for Camooweal. Arrived home at 8.30 pm. had a bath, some tea and retired.

Monday Sept 12^th 1932:

Had a clean up[ at the ranch today. Trying to infuse a little tennis enthusiasm into the local players as shortly a team from Mt Isa will be paying us a visit. Went down with Norman to the ‘Don for tea, after which got into the hospital business and did not arrive home until 2 am.

Wednesday September 14^th 1932:

At home among books and papers. Busy getting readu for hospital meeting at night. Had visitors for awhile during afternoon. Long meting at night . Rather stormy as complaint against Dr.

Thursday Sept 15^th 1932:

Had the task today of going into the complaint against Dr. Had to see several people and then after lunch called a meeting of available numbers of committee. Two hours solid warfare between Dr and self. My ruling in the end was not acceptable to Dr who plainly and with hostility showed his resentment. I did not like the job but it had to be done. Cooled down after the meeting and then forgot everything on the tennis court.

Hens

Thursday July 28^th 1932:

Did some work at home this morning and a bit of writing. Had 13 hens sent in for my use today so had to erect a temporary yard for them. Should soon have a supply of eggs now.

Friday July 29^th 1932:

………..Went down after tea and collcted the ‘head man’ for the fowl yard. ( A rooster? )

Saturday July 30^th 1932:

…….Had a wedding in the afternoon, when Jack and Allie decided to take the big step together.

Out west.

Wednesday June 29^th 1932:
Visited over at the station this morning and listened for awhile to a lot of anti-Christian rot from old Greg Watson. Called at the hotel and saw the folk there. Left after lunch and pulled in at Carringtons. Called at both homes. Put on the pictures after tea, after which got the gramaphone out and had sacred and other music.

Thursday june 30^th 1932:

Had a quiet morning amongst young and old. Talks and Sunday School work. Left books, papers etc. Watched some young horses being branded after lunch and thehn went on to Donaldsons and stayed the night.

Friday July 1^st 1932:

Left after breakfast and called in at Mullers, Smiths and Clarkes, reaching Burketown at sundown. Had a lot of trouble with tubes which delayed me. Shot a turkey when nearing Burketown. Decided to stay at my usual ‘home’, the police station. Rev Wilson from Mornington Island mission station also here. Went across to Shadforths after tea.

Saturday July 2^nd 1932:

Went around some of the folk today and let them know I had arrived. Later in the afternoon went up and had some cricket and tennis. Decided today that tomorrow I will go down on the ‘Porpoise’ into the mouth of the river and meet the Wandana that comes around from Brisbane.

Sunday July 3^rd 1932:

Went down with Rev Wilson this morning and with others embarked on our trip on the Porpoise. Followed the winding of the river for 40 miles and at dusk anchored at the mouth of the river. All retired early.

Monday July 4^th 1932:

Got up and cooked the breakfast this morning and did not poison anyone. Four of us then got into the small boat and pulled up one of the salt arms but got no fish. Came back for lunch and then went out again, round on to the open sea front. No sandy beach only mud. Caught a stingaree but no fish. Wandana anchored outside the mouth just at sundown.

Tuesday July 5^th 1932:

Had fish for breakfast but not what we caught. Wandana came alongside just as we finished. Spent the morning watching the loading being transferred from one hold to the other. Noosa came up during the morning and took aboard her load. Went fishing again but only caught a shark. Had all meals on the Wandana. Captain a decent chap.

Wednesday July 6^th 1932:

Wandana steamed out on the tick of 8 this morning. Noosa anchored a bit away and we started back. Had a shot at an alligator on the way up but only frightened him. Arrived at the wharf at 2.30 pm. Had old Prof Watson on, a childish old fool in lots of ways. Called on some of the folk.

Friday July 8^th 1932:

Did some writing and reading this morning and after dinner went out to Murrays. An old chap died in the hospital today. Went up to see him yesterday but he was too far gone to talk or take notice.

Saturday July 9^th 1932:

Buried the old chap this morning and went out after lunch with the sergeant and had some rifle and revolver practice. Had some cricket and after tea had a pleasant social gathering in the hall.

Tuesday July 12^th 1932:

Taking Mrs Hosier and Mrs Stewart and Cameron left Burketown this morning. Calledf at Escot and stayed awhile. Had dinner on the road. Pulled in at ‘Turn-off’ and decided to remain. The owner out here at present. Had some music after tea.

Wednesday July 13^th 1932:

Gave the two kiddies a Bible talk this morning, after which all of us went across the river and admired the scenery. Went on after lunch. Road now very sandy and rough in parts. Car went well. Lost te road in one part in the long grass but picked it up after awhile. Only Mrs Irwin at home at west Moreland. Shortl;y after dark reached Wollogorang and gave old Mac a surprise. Only himself and the cook at the homestead. Sat up talking until 1.30 am.

Thursday July 14^th 1932:

Stayed the day with Mac. Did a few jobs on the car this morning and wandered around during the afternoon. Had some music after tea. Masterton the cook an interesting character.

Friday July 15^th 1932:

Found an old chap very sick a couple of miles up the river whom blacks had brought in. A serious hospital case so put him on the car and started back. Had lunch atWestmoreland and reached Turn-off late in the afternoon. The patient was too sick to travel further today so decided to stay here for the night.

Saturday July 16^th 1932:

Got away this morning and got in to Burketown at lunch time. Took the sick man to hospital and he is very sick. Had a wedding after lunch of two half castes, in which was visible English, Chinese and Aboriginal blood. Went on then to Lorraine calling at Augustus on the way.

Sunday July 17^th 1932:

Introduced myself to the folk here, being my first visit down this way. Nice people all round. Joined in their cricket in the afternoon. Came back to Augustus at night.

Monday July 18^th 1932:

Returned to Burketown this morning and arranged for service at night. Visited the school for religious instruction. Most of the folk were at the service.

Tuesday July 19^th 1932:

Left Burketown this morning and after calling at all places en route, reached Donaldsons after tea. Had a small service during which I baptized the baby.

Wednesday July 20^th 1932:

Went on and kept going until I reached Riversleigh. Had a service here and ten the latest arrival was baptized. I had a say in the name too, giving her my favourite: Eileen.

( This is the first mention of his future wife’s name although there has been no reference to meeting her previously or a visit to McArthur River Station which her father managed. )

Thursday July 21^st 1932:

Went on this morning and after calling at the Springs, Herbertvale and Gallipoli reached Camooweal shortly after dark. Had a puncture a mile out of town too. Brought a turkey home.

Friday July 22^nd 1932:

The home has a very neglected appearance. Cleaned up inside today and did some writing. Attended annual general meeting of the hospital at night. Elected to position of Chairman.

Sunday July 24^th 1932:

( Olive’s birthday)….( My father’s sister)

Had a big roll up at S.S this morning and spent a quiet afternoon at home and a fair number out at night service.

Man of many talents

Friday June 10^th 1932:

Have been thinking that a spell out of Camooweal will be very acceptable so started today to get ready for a bit of patrol work. Found there is much to do one way or another. A lot of writing to do, accounts to settle, work to be done on the car. The end of the day found me far from ready.

Monday June 13^th 1932:

Busy day today with final preparations for the projected tour. It is marvelous what a lot is discovered needs doing when you begin to look around. The mail came in late this evening, well before time.

Tuesday June 14^TH 1932:

Loaded up this morning and was soon ready for the road but had to wait to collect the mail bags of the folk who I will be calling on. Left Camooweal at 3.30 pm and after a good run over a rather rough road reached Moorestone homestead just at sundown. Folk here had just started dinner. Good grass all out this way. O’Shannessey River provides great scenery and is bounded by giant gum trees. A different atmosphere altogether prevails here and the night although cold was wonderful under the benediction of a full moon. Very nice folk here and we had pictures this evening.

Wednesday June 15^th 1932:

Had an interesting day at the homestead wandering around among the men and talking with them all. Bill Fernie told me some interesting tales of the early days among the wild blacks. Mr McFarlane and self spent an hour fishing before tea but did no good.

Thursday June 16^th 1932:

Moved on today and after traveling 30 miles over rather rough roads came to Undilla homestead. Stayed the day here and joined in the work of the day amongst the horses and cattle and had a quiet evening with pictures and a talk.

Friday June 17^th 1932:

Left Undilla this morning and 10 miles along the road had trouble with one of the tubes and so had to put on the spare. Had lunch at Thorntonia after which saw a bit of rough riding. Went on and picked up an old German chap walking along the road. He said that this country ‘good’ when he came to it 30 years ago but now ‘close up finish’. Left him to camp at the Lily water hole while I went in to Riversleigh arriving just after dark.

Saturday June 18^th 1932:

Had an exciting day with Mr Foster in the hills on Riversleigh among the wild cattle. Rode about 30 miles and saw cattle thrown from horse back. Had an encounter with about 20 real outlaws ( cattle! ) in a pocket of the hills resulting ib two being shot. Wondered a couple of times if I had left all my affairs in order. Gave the blacks and whites an evening on the screen after tea.

Sunday June 19^th 1932:

The wind blew around all corners today and it was cold. So much so that after breakfast I got back under the blankets and stayed there for the morning. ( I know where my intolerance of the cold comes from. ) Got the kiddies together after lunch and gave them a Sunday School lesson. At night with the aid of the gramaphone had a song service, singing a number of the old hymns and before retiring had family prayers.

Monday June 20^th 1932:

Had some jobs to do on the car which kept me busy for the greater part of the day. Soldered the petrol tank, adjusted the timing and repaired the tubes. Drove out to the river before tea and helped water an old chaps garden, on account of the owner being away.

Tuesday June 21^st 1931:

Decided today to go out with Mr Foster for a few days mustering. Helped get everything ready and with 12 riding horses, 4 pack horses and 4 black boys rode out after lunch. Ran into some brumbies during the afternoon and shot two of them. Made camp at Brenda Creek. Had tea and rolled out swags, kicked off boots and leggings and soon was asleep.

Wednesday June 22^nd 1932:

Left the camp at Brenda today and went out 12 miles and mustered around Police Creek well and shifted cattle along to the Junction and then back to camp. Rather tired when reached camp.

Thursday June 23^rd 1932:

Shifted camp today and went back to police Ck well, mustered more cattle, took them to Junction and rode on and camped at Lily.

Friday June 24^th 1932:

Went out brumby shooting this morning and got 2. Do not ,like it. Met the mailman and Mr Foster went on to Gregory with him. I came on back to the station with the camp. Had five days growth of beard on but was too cold to shave so left it on.

Saturday June 25^th 1932:

Got back into the car today and there certainly is a difference in the speed and comfort to that of the horse. Pulled in to a drovers camp along the road and stayed for awhile and about 5 pm arrived at Gregory. Pulled up at Police Station. Only wife home. Constable and two others away in car and two days overdue in returning. Decided to go along the road and see if any break downs were delaying. Wife accompanied me. Drove 20 miles but no sign so returned and an hour later the party returned. Camped at Police Station.

Sunday June 26^th 1932:

Went out 12 miles and had the morning at a drovers camp. After lunch called on Mrs Barrett at the hotel and had tea there. Had a good song service at night at Police Station with aid of gramaphone and cornet. Retired late.

Monday June 27^th 1932:

Discovered this morning that it was necessary to return to Riversleigh on account of death of a black gin and sickness of another. Thought it probable would have to take sick gin to hospital. Constable and another chap came with me. On arrival found that sick gin improved, crisis passed, and dead one buried. Constable made enquiries while I fished. Spent a quiet evening with the gramaphone until time to retire.

Tuesday June 28^th 1932:

Returned to the Gregory today and on the way pulled in for lunch to the river and fished, catching nothing. Called in at Barretts and stayed for awhile, when on leaving Charlie presented us with 3 nice Rock-cod. Stayed another night at the Police Station.

More challenges.

Sunday May 22^nd 1932:

Starting two young girls off as Kindergarten teachers this morning and feel sure they will do well. Not a great many at S.S on account of the cold and mud. In spite of my lack of faith, there was a nice roll up at the service at night.

Monday May 23^rd – Wednesday 28th 1932:

( Visiting, showing pictures at night.)

Wednesday May 29^th 1932:

Started today to put new linings on the brake pads. Took car to Wilsons to do the job. Had meeting at night to form local Amateur dramatic musical society.

Sunday May 29^th 1932:

Had our usual number at S. S this morning and after lunch left for Mt Isa with four passengers on board. Stopped at several places on the way in and reached Mt isa at 10.45 pm. Deposited passengers and camped myself by the car.

Monday May 30^th 1932:

A busy morning taking patients to hospital and interviewing others already there. Attended conference of hospital and council delegates during afternoon and evening.

Wednesday June 1^st 1932:

Up and had breakfast in the dark and called for T Cronin at 6.45 am and he was still in bed. Left Isa at 7.15 am. 5 miles out found a crowd in a car stranded on account of all their tyres down. Loaned them oone to get into town. Pulled in at Yelvertoft, had lunch and stayed for a couple of hours. Called on old Jim at the ‘Dip’ and the camp of the council men on the road. Car developed a bad knock and frightened us but stopped after awhile. Got home at 6m pm. Attended meeting of A D & M Society.

Thursday June 2^nd 1932:

Started on car today to discover reason for yesterday’s disturbance and found a small stud having dropped out, the cause of it all. Started on a couple of other jobs while car to pieces.

Friday June 3^rd 1932:

“ God Save the King” ( King’s birthday holiday? )

Saturday June 4^th 1932:

Have another boarder now. Sid Day is here so as to be able to attend school. Made a place for his clothes out of petrol cases this morning and 2 sand trays for S.S. A young Chinaman in the town caused a disturbance by going off his head and wanted to hold conversation with two other chaps and myself. We got him to hospital where Dr quietened him and he is normal tonight.

Sunday june 5^th 1932:

A nice number at S.S this morning and with the addition of the 2 Kindergarten teachers, everything went very well. Rev Torlach of the Bush Brotherhood arrived today and held service at night. I did some visiting during the afternoon.

Monday June 6^th 1932:

Held a big town picnic today at Nowranie and most of the local folk went down and all spent an enjoyable day.

Friday June 10^th 1932:

Have been thinking that a spell out of Camooweal will be very acceptable so started today to get ready for a bit of patrol work. Found there is much to do one way or another. A lot of writing to do, accounts to settle, work to be done on the car. The end of the day found me far from ready.