mustering over 2010

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Way out west.

Tuesday April 10th 1930:

Left early this morning for Riversleigh, taking serum for inoculationg bullocks and other stuff they were wanting. Left Mr Foster in hospital. Took Gladys and Glen Reilly. Had ‘smoko’ at No 1 on Rocklands. A few miles further on had a blow out, a couple of the tyres not too good. My own stupidity, cost me a blow out in the spare when taking it off, so then had to mend the first blow out and then had no spare. Went back to No 21 but they had no tubes. Went on again and met young Naughton, owner of Riversleigh returning. A bit of a know-all. Made a great fuss about our tyres, reckoned we would never get there. Seemed very concerned about getting the serum there. Went on and pulled upnat Gallipoli station. While there Naughton returned and said he would take the things on and we had better return to Camooweal. Did not like his manner so in the end said we would go and he could follow if he liked. He liked and followed. Called in for a few minutes at Herbertvale. 10m miles on was the last we saw of Naughton Did not go back but kept going. Had some tea with Billy Walker at The Springs and went on to do the last 15 miles. Took some time to find the crossing at the Gregory. Eventually reached Riversleigh at 10 pm. All in bed. Got them out and soon found beds and into them. Gladys very pleased to be home.

Friday April 11th 1930:

Spent most of the morning getting the tyres patched up and greasing the car. Went down to the yards and watched the inoculating for a while. At lunch time Naughton arrived. He had had tyre trouble himself and a 5 mile walk. We had the laugh on him. Was not sorry for him. Had a sleep after lunch until smoko, then all boarded the car and went 3 miles down to the falls. Went fishing for half an hour with the boys and got seven between us, got 3 myself. Home for tea and had a musical evening on the gramaphone.

Saturday April 12th 1930:

Left Riversleigh at 9 am. Had ‘smoko’ at The Springs with Billy Walker and reached Herbertvale in time for lunch. Went on and called in at Gallipoli just as a cup of tea was on tap. Left there and reached Camooweal at 6 pm after a good run. Went up to Hospital and saw mMr Foster and gave him all the news. The country looks wonderfully well now. Plenty of grass and just about a plague of grasshoppers. Cattle are being mustered on all stations prior to being taken in hand by drovers.

Sunday April 13th 1930:

The usual Sabbath routine. Had Sunday School in the morning, a read and sleep in the afternoon and service at night. A nice number were out at the evening service. A very quiet day in the town, most of the folk remaining indoors. The Dr and Shire clerk left yesterday by plane for Kajabbi where there is an outbreak of typhoid.

Monday April 14th 1930:

Spent the morning in getting the car in running order for the road and the afternoon in doing all my ironing. Got the car loaded up and ready to start off in the morning. Did some writing at night.

Tuesday April 15th 1930:

Left Camooweal at 8 am en route for Anthony’s Lagoon 270 miles west. Reached Avon after a 2 hours run. The road very rough in places. Has leaving picked up a simple, harmless looking poor wretch who wants to reach Darwin. Goodness knows what he will do when he gets there if he ever does. Arrived at the rankine at 1 pm and pulled up at the Police Station and had lunch. Played a couple of games of billiards afterwards. Called over at the store and met there the folk from Alexandria and Brunette who had arrived a little time previously. Put oj another passenger here in the person of Mounted Constable Deviney and moved off. Had a good run to Alexandria , 42 miles, the road for the most part being fair. Arrived here right on ‘smoko’, showing great judgement and did justice to the dainty repast set for us by Miss Thorpe. Unloaded some goods I had for this station and at 4.30 left to do the 60 miles to Brunette. The first 20 miles was good but the last very rough owing to cattle traveling it in the wet weather. Reached here just as the book-keeper was preparing to eat on his own as the family was on the road behind us. Had an excellent tea and as the night was so cool with a fullmoon making traveling most pleasant we decided to keep going and reach Anthony’s Lagoon another 60 miles on. Left Brunette a little after 8 pm and had a great run to the first bore 17 miles out along a freshly fireploughed road. From here the road was very rough and traveling very slow. 20 miles out met Constable Hall from Anthony’s riding into Brunette to do business bt wireless. Had a yarn to him and went on. Eventually reached Anthony’s just on midnight. Pulled up at the Police Station and took charge in the absence of Constable Hall. Unrolled swags and were soon lost in slumber.

Wednesday April 16th 1930:

Did not arise very early but when Molly the gin ranfg the dressing bell (a cow bell) and a gfew minutes later the breakfast bell (a real one ) we soon tumbled out. Provisions are a bit low at present and Molly not expecting visitors had done no baking but had a good breakfast on porridge and scones and bread and jam. Went up and called on Mr Cotton and Mr Wilson at the cattle station homestead and then across to Mr Biondi at the Anthony’s Lagoon store.

Had lunch up at the cattle station ranch. Spent the afternoon attending to the needs of the bus. Cotton, Wilson, Deviney and self went for a swim in the lagoon before tea and very nice.

Molly gave us a good tea of corned beef and stewed fruit and custard. Ent up to the ‘Cotton’ ranch at night to ‘listen in’ (to the wireless is my guess) but were disappointed as she would not work. Anthony’s Lagoon is at present very up to date, comprising on one side of the creek a general store run by Mr Biondi, who in reality is Count Mario Charles Perifano Biondi of Italy and who during my stay here is to be married to an aboriginal half-catse by name, Queenie Cresswell. On the oyther side is the Police Station where is stationed mounted Constable Hall and further up the road is the homestead of the Anthony’s Lagoon Cattle station, where reside the manager Mr Cotton, Mr Wilson a pilot with a Moth, the property of the owners of the station, and not forgetting Mrs Murphy the cook. There are of course numerous blacks about the place.

Thursday April 17th 1930:

The mail plane arrived from Camooweal this morning , bearing all the latest news of the outside world. After a stay of 5 minutes it continued its flight to Daly Waters. Mr Cotton and M r Wilson hopped over by Moth to Brunette this morning to use the wireless over there. Mr Deviney and self went looking for ribbon stone until lunch time but did mot get a great deal that was much good. After lunch took Nipper the black tracker with me in the car and went out 4 miles where he said was plenty ribbon stone. Got a fair bit some good stuff amongst it. Called and saw Biondi and made all arrangement for the wedding in the evening. Deviney and self dined again this evening up at the station ranch. All went over to the wedding, where in the store, behind the counter amongst boxes, tins, cobwebs and dust an Italian count and an australian aboriginal half-caste were joined together in holy matrimony. The dusky bride wondered what was going to happen to her but came out very well with ‘I will’. The bridegroom in his grey flannel shirt and working trousers was in no ways flustered as he leaned with one elbow on the counter and his head supported in his hand. During the ceremony a one-eyed, fat, greasy dirty individual, who lives with Biondi and who evidentally was not impressed, leant across the counter and in an audible whisper asked Doug Cotton if he had any Elliman’s embrocation as he was suffering from rheumatism again. The bride was able to sign Queenie, although she printed it. When it was all over Queenie was dismissed with the injunction not to lose that, that she had on her finger and she wasted no time in fleeing. Thte the men celebrated the occasion in whiskey and lime juice. I thought of suggesting when the ceremony was over, thatv the 10 or 12 children should be brought in and baptized but deemed it neither appropriate nor advisable.

Monday, May 30, 2011

A sad return to Camooweal

Wednesday April 2nd 1930:

Spent the morning in gathering my belongings in readiness to be transferred to the car and removed to Camooweal. Was at Setters all the afternoon cutting sandwiches and getting things ready for the social at night. Said a few hasty farewells to one or two around the town. A social in the evening, held in the Church in honor of Rupert and myself brought a few out. Musical items, speeches, supper and games passed the time away. Yours truly was the recipient from the Church folk of a wallet and 6 pound ten shillings in notes, and from the chaps at Settlers where I ate, most of whom were present, of a xylonite shaving stand and brush. Very decent all round but none of which I deserved. At midnight Jim Boyd called around and inquired when I was leaving for Camooweal. He had started out earlier with some other chaps but through hitting a stump, the car was put out of operation and he had to have several stitches inserted in his head. He was very anxious to get to Camooweal early as he has a horse entered for the races, so we decided to lave right away and after packing up left at 1 am.

Thursday April 3rd 1930:

This all night driving is not too good. Twice I nearly went off and to ease things a bit I gave the wheel to Boyd for 20 miles and the other time I pulled up and had a half hour snooze. Just at daybreak we came to a camp of 5 lorries comprising 14 men. They were just about to breakfast so we joined them. It was cold and all of us were crowded around the fire. Eventually reached Camooweal at 9 am. Had a second breakfast. A fair number in town for the races. Got fixed up with a bed and room at the Cottage. Slept for the rest of the day and only showed out for tea.

Friday April 4th 1930:

Still feeling sleepy and dopey and loafed about most of the day. Went across to the course and saw one race and home again. In spite of crowd the town very orderly. About 11 pm a young chap, son of a station manager, aged 17, was found just outside the hotel with a bullet through his head and a rifle alongside him. He died at 3 am in the hospital. Evidentally suicide. The motive seems a mystery.

Saturday April 5th 1930:

Just about normal today. Started to straighten things out a bit. Conducted the burial service this afternoon. A big crowd followed: 14 cars. Probably the biggest ever followed the coffin to Camooweal cemetery. Most of the visitoras for the race have gone and the town quietens down once more.

Sunday April 6th 1930:

A very quiet day. All the folk are taking the opportunity of the Day of Rest to recover from the rush of the two days’ races. Went across to Sunday School this morning and arranged for service at night. At 6.30 however a storm visited us and made thiongs greasy and only a couple ventured out. After singing a few hymns we went home. Did not even take up a collection.

Monday April 7th 1930:

Ut the day in, in sorting out my things, making an rough bookcase and generally arranging my belongings so as I can get at everything. Did some writing and got a few letters away. Days are still warm but nights are getting cold and winter winds are commencing to blow. Three planes arrived this evening., bringing six chaps with them. The chaps are on holiday and intend doing a trip round Australia. They left Sydney on Thursday and expect to take 3 weeks to get round. The local plane belonging to Larkin Airways went out to Newcastle Waters to day and expects to return tomorrow.

Tuesday April 8th 1930:

Spent most of today in writing and getting business correspondence attended to. Mrs Lloyd and two children arrived in during small hours of the morning. The two girls are going to Charters Towers to college. Mrs Lloyd reports roads good now as far as the Rankine. The chaps’ planing’ Australia got away this morning.

Wednesday April 9th 1930:

Did the washing this morning and had quite a lot to do but managed it alright and did a little ironing this afternoon. Mr Foster from Riversleigh ahd been in with sore eyes but had to get out to see to cattle waiting to be inoculated and put on the road. His eyes too sore to see so I decided to drive him home in his own car, a Dodge 6. We left about 5 pm with Gladys his little girl who has also been in hospital. Only got about 15 miles out when Mt Foster became very sick and is eye terribly painful so we had to turn back and I took him straight to hospital. He was much easier later in the evening. The new doctor arrived today. A young chap from Sydney, Lane by name.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

A new face.

Sunday March 23rd 1930:

Too lazy to get up for breakfast. A big crowd out at Sunday School. Went down in the afternoonand yearned to Stan for a while. Had 18 out at service at night. Turned in early.

Monday March 24th 1930:

Had a letter today from Rev Rupert Hayes, stating he will arrive tomorrow instead of next Friday. Had a full day’s writing and got away quite a bit of official correspondence. Did some shopping for various folk at Camooweal.

Tuesday March 25th 1930:

Got things straightened up here a bit and helped G Moores remove himself and baggage from the premises. Did some visiting and paid all local accounts. Took the car to the garage to have a jumping second gear remedied. Got the loan of another car and at 4 pm went to the station and met Rev R Hayes. Transported him and his luggage on to the Church property. Seems a decent chap and ought to do well here. Introduced him to a few of my rough cobbers around the town.

Wednesday March 26th 1930:

A quiet day while ‘Rupert’ gets his bearings and finds out whether he will board at the hotel: batch here: sleep here and go to Settlers for meals or hotel for meals or return to Sydney. The garage people after taking the bus to pieces discovered that the part necessary was not in stock so I demanded an immediate reassembling.

Thursdy March 27th 1930:

Did the washing this morning and took me nearly all the morning. Had a big wash. 9 sheets, 3 singlets, 3 u’pants, 13 hankies, 9 pairs of socks, 3 towels, 2 pairs pyjamas, a pillow slip and 1 pair trousers. Took Rev Hayes visiting his flock and called on 5 families and had 2 affternoon teas. Was not hungry at tea time, although went through the full 3 course. Hayes has decided to ‘batch’ so went to all shops hoping to procure a primus but none in town.

Friday March 28th 1930:

Spent the morning in writing and settling accounts etc. Went across to the mines and showed ‘Rupert’ his way around over there. Nothing of a startling character happening.

Saturday March 29th 1930:

A quiet morning at home, reading and writing. Thought Rupert would like to see the Rifle Ck dam so went out in the afternoon taking Mrs Shaw with us. The Mt Isa branch of the R.S.S.I.L.A held their annual meeting and dinner this evening at one of the ranches at the mines. All the parsons were invited and all went. Permission was granted them to have liquor and 3 barrels and numerous crates arrived from Townsville. The thirst of the men after 6 months total abstinence was responsible for what happened. At half past eight half the men were not responsible and it was not possible to restore order and when we left at 10 pm it was practically a drunken orgy. A further instance of the demoralizing and degrading effect of strong drink. Many of the men were disgusted and ashamed of their cobbers.

Sunday March 30th 1930:

Rupert took aover today. I helped in the S.S but he took the service at night. Rather a hot day, so a few of us went down for a swim during the afternoon. Very nice too. Bailey has been plaguing me again of late about his wife. He now threatens to rid this fair country of a few of its inhabitants. All bluff in my opinion. ‘Wait and see’ he tells me. So I am waiting.

Monday March 31st 1930:

Decided to erect a bathroom for Rupert at back of Church so this morning went out into the bush and loaded the bus with a few saplings and brought them home. Went down the town and found Stan rather sick so sent him to bed and did his work for him, helping Tim Doyle stock take. Put in all day there. At night went to a meeting in order to from a Mt Isa Musical Society.

Tuesday April 1st 1930:

Not many fools about Mt Isa. Erected the bathroom today. Rather a noble edifice. Walls and door made of hessian. Somewhat transparent but well removed from the roads. At three o’clock the opening ceremony was performed when I pulled the rope and allowed the first showerful of water to descend. Rupert does not seem over fond of the water, as although his last ablutions took place on Friday he does not intend to enter the baptismal font until the morrow. Had another shower myself before retiring. Had another visit from Bailey at 11.30 pm. Pretended to slumber but availed me nothing.

Saturday March 22nd 1930:

Returned to Camooweal.( My reckoning tells me he returned to Mt Isa!) No passengers this trip. Went and called on one or two after returning. Rather tired after rough trip.

Sunday March 23rd 1930:

Too lazy to get up for breakfast. A big crowd out at Sunday School. Went down in the afternoonand yearned to Stan for a while. Had 18 out at service at night. Turned in early.

Monday March 24th 1930:

Had a letter today from Rev Rupert Hayes, stating he will arrive tomorrow instead of next Friday. Had a full day’s writing and got away quite a bit of official correspondence. Did some shopping for various folk at Camooweal.

Tuesday March 25th 1930:

Got things straightened up here a bit and helped G Moores remove himself and baggage from the premises. Did some visiting and paid all local accounts. Took the car to the garage to have a jumping second gear remedied. Got the loan of another car and at 4 pm went to the station and met Rev R Hayes. Transported him and his luggage on to the Church property. Seems a decent chap and ought to do well here. Introduced him to a few of my rough cobbers around the town.

Wednesday March 26th 1930:

A quiet day while ‘Rupert’ gets his bearings and finds out whether he will board at the hotel: batch here: sleep here and go to Settlers for meals or hotel for meals or return to Sydney. The garage people after taking the bus to pieces discovered that the part necessary was not in stock so I demanded an immediate reassembling.

Thursdy March 27th 1930:

Did the washing this morning and took me nearly all the morning. Had a big wash. 9 sheets, 3 singlets, 3 u’pants, 13 hankies, 9 pairs of socks, 3 towels, 2 pairs pyjamas, a pillow slip and 1 pair trousers. Took Rev Hayes visiting his flock and called on 5 families and had 2 affternoon teas. Was not hungry at tea time, although went through the full 3 course. Hayes has decided to ‘batch’ so went to all shops hoping to procure a primus but none in town.

Friday March 28th 1930:

Spent the morning in writing and settling accounts etc. Went across to the mines and showed ‘Rupert’ his way around over there. Nothing of a startling character happening.

Saturday March 29th 1930:

A quiet morning at home, reading and writing. Thought Rupert would like to see the Rifle Ck dam so went out in the afternoon taking Mrs Shaw with us. The Mt Isa branch of the R.S.S.I.L.A held their annual meeting and dinner this evening at one of the ranches at the mines. All the parsons were invited and all went. Permission was granted them to have liquor and 3 barrels and numerous crates arrived from Townsville. The thirst of the men after 6 months total abstinence was responsible for what happened. At half past eight half the men were not responsible and it was not possible to restore order and when we left at 10 pm it was practically a drunken orgy. A further instance of the demoralizing and degrading effect of strong drink. Many of the men were disgusted and ashamed of their cobbers.

Sunday March 30th 1930:

Rupert took aover today. I helped in the S.S but he took the service at night. Rather a hot day, so a few of us went down for a swim during the afternoon. Very nice too. Bailey has been plaguing me again of late about his wife. He now threatens to rid this fair country of a few of its inhabitants. All bluff in my opinion. ‘Wait and see’ he tells me. So I am waiting.

Monday March 31st 1930:

Decided to erect a bathroom for Rupert at back of Church so this morning went out into the bush and loaded the bus with a few saplings and brought them home. Went down the town and found Stan rather sick so sent him to bed and did his work for him, helping Tim Doyle stock take. Put in all day there. At night went to a meeting in order to from a Mt Isa Musical Society.

Tuesday April 1st 1930:

Not many fools about Mt Isa. Erected the bathroom today. Rather a noble edifice. Walls and door made of hessian. Somewhat transparent but well removed from the roads. At three o’clock the opening ceremony was performed when I pulled the rope and allowed the first showerful of water to descend. Rupert does not seem over fond of the water, as although his last ablutions took place on Friday he does not intend to enter the baptismal font until the morrow. Had another shower myself before retiring. Had another visit from Bailey at 11.30 pm. Pretended to slumber but availed me nothing.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Here, there and every where?

Sunday March 2nd 1930:

A dull wet morning but rain ceased during the afternoon. Still dull though and looks like more rain. In spite of the rain 12 children came out this morning for Sunday School. Spent the afternoon in writing and reading. The river is very high again today. Only 10 out at service at night. Did not expect that many as it was terrible dark and it is an awfully rough road into the Church. A young chap stayed after Church and yarned for a while.

Monday March 3rd 1930:

Still dull and cloudy but no rain to speak of. Called down the town and got the mail this morning and some shopping, made several calls including a sick one. Did some writing. Went across to the mines this afternoon. Had to walk as the crossing is a bit too rough yet to risk taking the bus over. Cars are going across but they are not benefiting by so doing. Called and arranged for a building in which to hold a fortnightly service and weekly Sunday School. Went up to the hospital with Norm Warren, met Matron and staff and ‘afternoontead’. After tea called omn a couple and then went with Stan to see an entertainment by the Musical Carlsons. A good 2 bob’s worth. A big ‘bustup’ at the eating house tonight, on account of the local school staff refusing to eat with the common herd of miners, parsons etc and so having a special table reserved. Several of the men have left and gone elsewhere. Was not there fortunately when the row was on but heard about it afterwards.

Tuesday March 4th 1930:

Did the washing this morning as today the sun shone forth in all its splendour and no sign of rain. Washed 14 hankies, 14 pairs of socks and they all want darning, several singlets etc, 4 shirts and 3 pairs of trousers. Went visiting this afternoon among the homes and camps. It is marvellous the way some families, always used to good houses, are existing now in the bag huts, which now is home for them. Called on about 8 families and found several children for Sunday School and perhaps a few adults for Church. Camooweal mail man got in today on horseback, after being over a week on the road. The lorry is broken down 20 miles out.

Wednesday Marh 5th 1930:

Weather warming up again but as yet no sign of further rains. The Ford service manager arrived last night and today I took the bus down and let him know a few things about it that want remedying. I am getting a new battery and a few repairs done, nothing serious, but getting them done while not having to pay. Called around on a Victorian family this evening. Fasham by name, related to people of same name in Barham N.S.W. He is a decent chap and an ex-Victorian policeman. Had a good yarn about that southern state. Plane came across today and went to Camooweal. Grounds all solid again after the rain.

Thursday March 6th 1930:

Getting back to summer and very nice too after the dull day. Plane came back this morning and returned to Camooweal this evening. Could not take out all the load yesterday. Had an afternoon off and with a couple of other chaps on a motor bike all went out 1 ½ miles and had a great swim and fool about. Very nice. Spent the evening down at the A.C?.B store tent with Tim Doyle, Scott Mckinley and Stan Pengally. Pineapple and hot …..? supper.

Friday March 7th 1930:

Rain all gone and weather warming up. Writing all the morning. In the afternoon went across to the mines and called oon several families. Arranged to have S.S across at no 3 ranch on Sunday morning. Went down and had a swim before tea. Did some reading at night. Saturday

March 8th 1930:

Was down in the garage all the morning. Having a new battery put in the bus and oiled and greased and cleaned the brute. Did the ironing this afternoon and then went for a swim. Went with Stan to the pictures at night. Sunday March 9th 1930:

Opened the Sunday School here this morning at 10 am and then left the 3 teachers to carry on and I went across to the mines. Was knocked back over there though as the ranch I was supposed to have was in the possession of the A.W.U for their meeting. So nothing doing. Went and saw Gray, the general manager about things and he promised to see that the place will be at my disposal every Sunday morning. Paid a visit to the hospital in the afternoon and had a talk to all the patients. A nice little crowd out at service at night, 25 in all. Went for a walk down the street before retiring.

Monday March 10th 1930:

Loaded up thte bus and then called and picked up Father O’Twomey and Matron Martin and at o9.15 am left for Camooweal. A hot day and a very rough road. Travelling not to pleasant. Pulled up at Johnsons yards, boiled the billy and lunch of Sao biscuits, sardines and a tin of pineapple. Had a bit of a spell and went on. Reached Camooweal at 5 pm. Longest time it has ever taken me to do the trip. After a clean up went to the hotel and had tea. Country looks wonderful after the rain. Green grass everywhere. Quite a few in town from the stations about.

Tuesday March 10th 1930:

Father had mass this morning and had his flock out. Spent the morning myself in packing my belongings ready to be transferred, somewhere, as in a few weeks a new doctor will be arriving. (Until now he had been residing in the doctor’s residence in Camooweal)

Rounded up my crowd this afternoon and went to the school for religious instruction. Father turned up too but could only muster 4 belonging to him. Had 25 out at service at night. Mosquitoes terribly bad and nobody could sit still.

Wednesday March 12th 1930:

Took my belongings this morning down to Reilly’s cottage and left them there for the time being. Got the bus ready for the road again. A baby born last night was baptised by Father this morning. Had lunch and taking Glen Reilly with us left for Mt Isa at 2 o’clock. Another rough trip but reached here at 9 pm. Delivered the passengers. Got cleaned, had some tea and went up the street and topped off with icecream and drinks.

Thursday March 13th 1930:

Had a bit of a clean up here and went down for the mail. Had a morning of reading letters and papers. Went across to the mines. Discovered that 2 other bodies claim the use of No 3 ranch for all day Sunday, so again cannot hold Sunday School or service over there. Drove Glen around the town this morning to do some shopping. Took her to Silver City at night.

Friday March 14th 1930:

Weather warming up, in fact it is hot. Did some reading and writing. Went out 20 miles to Rifle Ck, where big dam has been built to supply mines with water. Took Glen with me. Went down to Boyd’s at night.

Saturday March 15th 1930:

Lazy weather. Too hot. Called on a few around the town. Went out to the Irish sports for a while in the afternoon, nothing thrilling. Saw Irish program at Silver City at night.

Sunday March 16th 1930:

Still hot. Had Sunday SCVhool in the morning. A nice crowd of children came along. Had dinner down at Boyds. Called on a couple of folk in the afternoon. 15 out at service at night.

Monday March 17th 1930:

St Pat’s Day. No notice taken of it in the town except at one theatre ’Irish Hearts’ was screened. A lazy day. Writing and visiting.

Tuesday March 18th:

The usual quiet day. Nothing extraordinary happening. Heat brought up a storm in the evening and had about ½ an inch of rain.

Wednesday March 19th 1930:

Called at the school and had religious instruction. Did some writing. Called on a couple during the afternoon. Went over to the hospital. Went to Grand Irish Concert at night. Ook Geln. It was that grand that practically every artist was assisted in their items by the crowd and ironically cheered and encored and their hides were too thick to see that the crowd was making fools of them and they gave repeats every time. The opening was a chorus from the company. Do not know what it was they sang, but in the midst of the singing someone sang out ‘Hallelujah’ and from then on the wails, cat calls and remarks were varied and many. An audience out here is a tough proposition to appear before, but ‘the cream of Mt Isa talent’ were lacking this time both in talent and tact.

Thursday March 20th 1930:

Went out to Camooweal and took Glen back with me. A hot day. Rough traveling. Called in at Yelvertoft station for a while. Arrived Camooweal at 5 pm. Rather tired. After tea had a read and turned in.

Friday March 21st 1930:

Spent the morning on the car. Did some business in the afternoon and fixed up my things which removed for Dr’s quarters. Spent evening down at the Cottage. (I recently learned from the youngest Reilly daughter, who is now 93, that the Cottage was the name of their residence adjacent to the hotel – Reilly’s Hotel)

Thursday, May 26, 2011

More floods, funerals and a wedding.

Thursday Feb 13th 1930:

Another quiet day same as yesterday. Weather very hot. Major Jones, of the Larkin Airways arrived by plane from Melbourne today. Left Melbourne on Tuesday. He is going out to inspect the landings of Camooweal / Daly Waters route, which service is to commence next week.

Friday Feb 14th 1930:

Weather still hot and storm clouds working up. Called at the schjool this afternoon for religious instruction. Paid a visit to the hospital and went round the patients. Attended an evening in the hall in aid of the hospital. Quite a number in town today.

Saturday Feb 15th 1930:

Intended returning to Mt Isa today but a chap found drowned in the river, necessitated my remaining for the burial. The chap was elderly and went duck shooting. Evidentally went in after a duck and got tangled in the weeds and drowned. Buried him this evening. Two more planes arrived today both belonging to the Larkin airways. These are the two that are to remain here and carry on the Camooweal / Daly Waters service. Camooweal becoming quite important.

Sunday Feb 16th 1930:

Left for Isa this morning. Had some trouble in starting through water having got in with the Benzine. Brought a chap in with me. Ran into three decent storms toward this end but was not held up. Tried to cross the Leichardt but could not. Stuck in the sand for an hour and had to back out. Went right around a rough track and crossed in the town. Got everything ready for service at night and had 15 out. Storms about.

Monday Feb 17th 1930:

Collected a rather large mail. Spent the morning in getting water out of the bus. Had to take carburettor to pieces. Did some writing. Was called in to try and reconcile man and wife, the wife having left the husband and staying at another place across the road. Spent all the evening between the two.

Tuesday Feb 18th 1930:

Cleaning up at home here in the morning. Did some visiting in the afternoon and engaged again at night as last night. Some of the Alexandria people arrived in today.

Wednesday Feb 18th 1930:

Went to the school this morning for religious instruction. Business down the town. Had lunch at the hotel with Johnsons. Visiting during the afternoon and the night as previously.

Thursday Feb 20th 1930:

Visiting during the morning and had a funeral in the afternoon. A chap through scaffolding giving way fell down the main shaft 110 feet. His son was with him at the time. Paid a sick call at night.

Friday Feb 21st 1930:

Writing all the morning and visiting in the afternoon. Called on the happy couple but can do nothing. She will not return. Weather terribly hot and rain must be the outcome.

Saturday Feb 22nd 1930:

Received some mail this morning. Found Mick Hill and brought him here and together we pulled the bus to pieces and took off the housing of the tail shaft, as it is cracked in one place and needs oxywelding. Took it to the garage but they could not do it today. . Did some shopping and called on several, including chap whose wife has left him. Home to bed. Just got into bed when down came the rain and we had quite a decent fall.

Sunday Feb 23rd 1930:

Still terribly hot and close. The river is well up this morning and not able to be crossed. Had Sunday School with 15 attending. A lot absent through sickness and sore eyes. Terrible thunderstorms during the afternoon. Thought the Church had been struck by lightning during the storm. A goat, one of several sheltering at the side of the Church, was struck, so that was close enough for me. Rain held off so as we could jold service but only 15 came out. After Church went and paid a sick call.

Monday Feb 24th 1930:

Still very close weather and had several storms during the day. Feeling a bit off color, and spent most of the day at home lying down. Called on a couple of sick folk.

Tuesday Feb 25th 1930:

Storms continue and river has to be ferried in a horse and dray. Went on starvation diet today, had no breakfast or lunch and feel better this evening. Contracted a sore eye this morning, seems to be a touch of blight. Everyone has sickness of some sort in this place, so I am no exception. Did a lot of writing and reading.

Wednesday Feb 26th 1930:

And still it rains, seems as if the wet season has set in. Rain seems to be general too. Cloncurry is having it and since Staurday Camooweal has had seven inches. No plane out today, could not take off from Cloncurry. No word of the Camooweal mail lorry, so he must be held up somewhere. Started out to call on a few but rain sent me home. Called on a couple during the evening. One man attempted to cross the river last night and got into difficulties but managed to reach a tree in midstream and stayed there all night. Constable Locke sat on the bank and watched him lest he should fall in again. Went to school for religious instruction this morning.

Thursday Feb 27th 1930:

The sun shines no more and we are having real southern wet weather. Raining lightly all the time with occasional heavy downpours. The crossing is not possible for cars, the water being up to the floor of the drays. No airmail, no Camooweal mail. Went out and called on several this afternoon. Found a good Methodist and several more children for Sunday School. Eye very sore this evening, had it washed out and put some ointment in it and was in bed at 8 pm. Had a visit from Serg Landy just after retiring. A baby died across the river and they want me to go over in the morning.

Friday Feb 28th 1930:

It has got the habit and now is finding it hard to discontinue raining, no sign of stopping. We are not growling however as for years the country has never had rain such as this. Spent all the morning and portion of the afternoon in making arrangements for burial of baby. A sad case. A young couple, only a few weeks out from Townsville and their first and only child. No friends or relatives here and only their two selves at the graveside. Raining all the time. Was difficult to carry everything through nicely, on account of the river, as the coffin had to be brought to the other side, then brought across in a dray and put on a car this side. Then we had to follow suit. Was hard to take anything but a big lorry to carry the coffin on the other side, but at last minute managed to get a Chev utility.

Saturday March 1st 1930:

A big hole having been washed in the crossing yesterday, allowed the water to get away so was shallow enough for a car to cross over the space left. Thought I might go across as I wanted to go to the mines. Waited to see a few lorries go across and then decided to stay this side. The crossing is frightfully rough and several holes have been washed out. Two of the lorries had to be pulled out, one got right into the big hole and the water was washing over the back of it. A big crowd down all the morning watching the excitement. A light rain falling all the time. Took some snaps and hope they come out. Pedestrians had to ford the river just below the crossing, as the drays would not risk going across. A stream of people crossing and recrossing. Groups each side either removing or replacing shoes and stockings. One lady was carried across but missed getting a snap of it. One enterprising citizen has erected a rather flimsy swing bridge but it swings too much to be safe and those who venture, do so only on hands and knees. Cars and lorries are getting bogged regularly all around the town. Spent an hour this evening trying to pull one car out but no good, then 2 big lorries tried but they could not shift it, so the car remained in the mud. Had a quiet wedding this afternoon, a widow and widower. Half a dozen of us at thce breakfast, but a merry gathering. Was nearly drunk myself on black beer. Called on a wife-deserting husband before retiring.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

A flood and a funeral.

Saturday Feb 1st 1930:

Had a great day or rather afternoon 2 miles up the river with the Sunday School children. Glen Reilly and self gave them a bit of a treat. We spent the morning in getting things ready, cutting sandwiches etc and left after lunch. Had Reilly’s lorry which Miss Dooley Reilly drove and my bus. Both were well loaded with kiddies with a few grownups to help us look after the younger ones. Gave them buns and drinks when we arrived, 2 miles up the river. Had games etc and then took most of the children in swimming and they thoroughly enjoyed it. Got caught in a storm but all soon dried again. Had tea out there, then took them all for a drive and arrived home at 7 pm. All the kiddies reckoned they had a good time and so did we grownups. It was great to see the youngsters enjoying themselves as they get very few such outings.

Sunday Feb 2nd 1930:

Went across this morning and helped at the Sunday School. A nice crowd there and all very interested in their S.S work. Spent the afternoon at home, reading and preparing for service at night. Not a big crowd out at night but for all that had a nice service. A nice number of children there who now sing their own hymn by themselves. Went across and had supper at Reilly’s.

Monday Feb 3rd 1930;

Spent most the day in reading and writing and going over the car. Weather very hot and numerous storm clouds about. Am a bit dubious as to whether I will get through to Anthony’s on account of appearance of ‘big wet rain’.

Tuesday Feb 4th 1930:

My Dear mother’s birthday. 73? not out. (This is definitely incorrect as she was born in 1878, making her 52 on this birthday.)

Loaded up the car this morning with plenty of provisions, petrol etc and started west at 11 am. Took with me as a wet road guide and a ‘pusher’ a chap from here who is out on bail awaiting trial for the shooting of a black. We had a good run through to Avon Downs. With no trouble, although in places the road was boggy. Had lunch there and left about 2.30 pm for Rankine. The road now became very wet and soft and we started to cut a track and had now to pick our own road, on the high ridges. The six mile creek stopped us for a while and we had to go along a few miles to find a crossing. Here Renton proved his worth as he knows the country and was able to show me the best tracks around the bad parts. Crossing the 6 mile Renton took off his trousers and waded through and found a crossing and then I followed in the car. From here on it was mostly second and low gear work until we got into the desert and then the going was good. Lorne creek when we got to it looked impassable and we had to wander around to find a shallow crossing. Had picked up another chap at Avon so he was an additional help. Found a crossing at last, that was only 2 feet 6 inches deep so took a risk and plunged in. Did not reckon on the force of the current though and in midstream the car started to rise and turned her nose downstream. Beck jumped on the running board and the water washed in through the door and she settled down again. The engine stopped then and I thought it was all up but the age of miracles has not passed, as although with the force of the water, practically the whole of the engine was covered, when I pushed in the self starter she started and we got out. Renton standing on the opposite bank said that at one time the water was washing right over the bonnet, that however is probably well exaggerated. A few miles further on the country in front of us was one big swamp and we started on a long detour around it. On the way we dropped into a boggy patch and there stayed. The back of the bus nearly went out of sight. Had to unload and then off came shoes and socks and into the mud we went. Could not use the shovel as the mud stuck to it, so had to use our hands. Rigged up a Spanish windlass but the rope would not hold. Worked till dark and the car was still in the bog. Had some tea and rolled out our swags. Went to sleep with a coating of mud on us.

Wednesday Feb 5th 1930:

Up at daybreak and after an hours work got the bus out. Greatly relieved. Had some breakfast then. Moved off again and it took us five hours to do the next 15 miles. Arrived at Rankine at lunch time. Could not have got through without the two chaps I had on, to push. Had a shave, a shower and clean up here and felt much better. After lunch set off for Alexandria. Crossed the Rankine river and it took 3 hours to find a way round and through the next 2 miles, as over 2 inches of rain had fallen here the day previously. All 2nd gear work until we reached the Buchanan and in crossing it we were bogged and had to take off the load. Got through and went another 6 miles and decided to camp as it was about 11 pm, not a cloud in the sky and we felt safe enough and were only 7 miles from Alexandria.

Thursday Feb 6th 1930:

All were awakened in the small hours of the morning by thunder and a few drops of rain. Had only time to roll the swags and throw them on to the bus and crawl in ourselves, put up the side curtains and down it came. In a few moments there was a flood of water racing around us and before morning we had over 3 inches. The three of us sat huddled together trying to sleep until daybreak. Before we got out we opened a tin of salmon and made breakfast of dry bread and salmon. On surveying our position it was not very promising. Water as far as the eye could see. Tried to get through with the car but no good, had to leave it and making a swag of a dry change for the 3 of us, set out to walk the 6 miles to Alexandria. What a walk it was, with boots and socks off and trousers rolled up, wading through mud and water at times knee deep. Was just about done when we got in and the others were not far from being in the same condition as myself. Spent the rest of the day in recovering.

Friday Feb 7th 1930:

Mr Johnson got the horses in this morning and several of us rode out to the car taking 3 pack horses with us and brought in all the mail and goods I had on for the various station people. It took the horses all their time to get through the mud and slush that was everywhere. Spent the rest of the day in reading and yarning to the men on the place.

Saturday Feb 8th 1930:

Another lazy day. Reading most of the time. Intended going down with horses to pull the car in but the river came down and could not get the horses across. Had a game of golf between 3 holes, the only 3 on the course where we could walk.

Sunday Feb 9th 1930:

Ground dry enough this morning to get a car over it, so went down in the station Chev and drove mine back. Could not get any further out, on account of the Playford being a banker, so decided to return, as I have to be in Isa for next Sunday. Cleaned the car up and greased and oiled her and left after lunch. Had a good run through to the Rankine having only to find a way around a couple of bad patches and was only bogged once and that not badly. Did not stay long at the Rankine as decided to push on while the weather was fine. Crossed Lorne Ck alright this time and then had some tea. Off again and arrived at 6 mile Ck. In the dark it was a bit difficult to find a way round but successful in the end. They had had rain from here in to Avon just recently and made the going soft but in the small hours of Monday morning reached Avon and soon had the swag unrolled and was asleep.

Monday Feb 10th 1930:

Flies would not permit sleep after sunrise, so got up and shaved and cleaned and went down to the homestead for breakfast. Left soon after that and had a good run in to Camooweal. River was running again and had to go to the one mile to cross. Gave the car a good wash and clean up at the river, then cleaned up myself and had lunch. Had a lazy afternoon and evening.

Tuesday Feb 11th 1930:

Reading and writing most of the day. Took Glen with me in the afternoon and went down 10 miles to Beumonts selection. Had tea down there and spent the evening and came home. There has been plenty of rain all round lately but Camooweal has missed. We have not been able to get a mail through here for a fortnight. Mt Isa has been nearly flooded out again! Larry Doyle the stock inspector, a young chap, who often travelled with me, was drowned in there. He was out on horseback and trying to swim a flooded creek, got into difficulties and hitting his head against a log, had no hope of saving himself. A couple of chaps saw it happen but evidentally could not help at all. Practically everyone in Mt Isa, I believe, was at the funeral.

The wet season.

Sunday Jan 12th 1930:

Started Sunday School again this morning and had 19 children present and 3 teachers. Not bad for a start. Went out to Shermann’s to dinner and went to Reed’s home during the afternoon and baptised an infant ‘Thelma Gwendoline Shaw’. Had 15 out at the service at night, a bit of an improvement. Got ready for the road straight after service and moved off at 9.30 pm. Want to reach Anthony’s Lagoon this week and return if possible. Away ahead as I traveled the sky was terribly black, lit up frequently with flashes of lightning. I pushed on hoping to beat the rain but no luck. 60 miles out I ran into a sea of wate rand as I could not distinguish the road I was afraid to go on, so found a high piece of ground and pulled up. Had to rig the mosquito net as the varmints were numerous and vicious.

Monday Jan 13th 1930:

Up at daybreak and surveyed the country. Seemed to have rained inches. Moved off ploughing through mud and water. Often had to stop and walk on ahead through the mud and water to make sure there was something solid underneath for the car. Got into one bad hole but managed to get out without much trouble. Came up to two lorries, one being bogged. Stayed there until got lorry out and then all had breakfast together of sardines and biscuits. Put the chains on my bus then and went on. Had no further trouble. Came to Inca Creek and she had been a banker. Les Warren with his lorry had been waiting since 3 0’clock yesterday to get over. I waded through and found the water 3 inches above my knees, so reckoned I could cross. Gave it a try and got through. Waited there until Les got through safely, and then had a cup of tea and some brownie with an old chap camped by the road and on again. Reached Camooweal just after lunch. Discovered that no possible hope of getting to Anthony’s. A week too late as in the last couple of days rain had fallen in inches and many of the creeks were in flood. Had then a forced stay in Camooweal until Sunday morning the 19th when I left and returned to the Isa.

On Tuesday and Wednesday more rain fell and we had 109 points in Camooweal but up to 3 inches in some of the places around. Mt Isa in the 2 days had 5 inches and the Leichardt coming down divided the township from the mines and the railway from the P.O. Train went on without the mails. Even had to swim home from work. No hope of travelling for several days. The mail due in Camooweal on Wednesday did not get in until late Saturday night. Had a very quiet time myself for the week at Camooweal. The Georgina spreading over its banks gave us some good swimming.

Sunday Jan 19th 1930:

Left Camooweal at 8 am and had a good run through although the road badly cut up in parts and boggy in places. Pulled up and had lunch with the telegraph linesman who is out on his lonely job. 10 miles out from Isa met the Shermann family and friends and stopped to help them demolish a watermelon. Arrived here at 4 o’clock. Went to Shermann’s for tea. Weather very unsettled. Very stormy. 10 at the service. Dust storm visited us during service and there was a rush to close doors and windows. Then came the rain and could hardly make myself heard. Cut things very short. We only got the edge of the storm here but it seemed to be heavy a few miles away. Folk had to wait awhile before could proceed home.

Monday Jan 20th 1930:

Dear Gertie’s (sister) birthday and she is not married yet. Had to send her a telegram reminding her that time was flying fast away. Had a rather lazy day. Went across to the mines and paid a pastoral call on a Canadian lady. Also calling on her was a Unites States lady and an Australian, all who puff a good cigarette. After tea went for a run in the bus a couple of miles into the hills where I heard there was a good swimming hole. Found it and it looked nice. A few in swimming. Found also that either today or yesterday someone had been to the car and taken a fancy to my towel and togs. Hence the reason why I could not go in. Had a read before turning in.

Tuesday Jan 21st. Wednesday 22nd. Thursday 23rd 1930:

In Mt Isa and nothing of striking importance happening. Visiting and arranging for Sunday School and service. Had some swimming at the dam.

Friday Jan 24th 1930:

Loaded up the car, called and got ice and left Isa at 7 am. Had a good run to Camooweal, arriving there at 12.45. A big send-off party to Dr Pincus held at Reilly’s in the evening was much enjoyed by all.

Saturday Jan 25th 1930:

A quiet day doing nothing but writing and reading and called on a couple of folk. Would have returned to Isa today but roads not at all good for travelling.

Sunday Jan 26th 1930:

Let early and after a rather rough and in patches boggy run reached Isa at lunch time. After lunch, got cleaned up and everything ready for service at night, then went with a young chap to the dam where a swimming carnival in aid of the hospital was being held. Did not stay long but soon returned home. Had twenty out at service at night. The most yet. Weather still very hot and looks as if rain is about.

Monday Jan 27th 1930:

Sraightened things up during the morning as will be away for about 3 weeks and left for Camooweal after lunch . The road is getting badly cut up and in places very boggy. Had a chap with me wanting to get out of Isa. Reached Camooweal an hour after dark. Would have been in earlier only came across a lorry with a blow out so stopped and gave them a hand and had tea altogether.

Tuesday Jan 28th – Friday 31st 1930:

Four days in Camooweal. Reading and writing and visiting and doing a few odd jobs about the place. Rather a slow time though as there is not much chance here to do much.

Monday, May 23, 2011

The Isa and the 'Curry (Mt Isa and Cloncurry)

Wednesday Jan 1st 1930: NEW YEAR’S DAY.

A terrible start for the new year. Cleaned up my room for a start and then took the car down to the river to wash it. Had just finished the job, when the Avon car, a big Buick, driven by a foolish girl, crashed into the crossing, swamped everything with water and stayed in the middle. Had to back my bus in then and tow them out and up to town. Last night or early this morning had a similar experience. The Dr had taken the matron for a spin after the dance, out a couple of miles and in turning around, not watching what he was doing, backed into a bog. They had to walk in the two miles and then he came and roused me out to go out and tow him in. Had a sleep after lunch and then went across to the races. Frightfully tame, not even a ‘bookie’ present. Sat in the car and read a book while I was there. Only bit of excitement was when a jockey was bucked off. A big dance at night. Showed myself at the start and then went home for a sleep and went back in time for supper. Cannot realize though that Xmas and New Year has come and gone. Last New Year’s Day I was at Shelley Beach with the Caledonians. How different to this.

Thursday Jan 2nd 1930:

Had another go at the car this morning to find out the trouble with the lights but again unsuccessful. A crowd of us went out for a swim in the afternoon, all very nice. Went to a fool of an entertainment in the hall at night.

Friday Jan 3rd 1930:

Intended leaving early to reach Mt Isa by lunch but could not get away until after lunch. The road cut up a lot and traveling was slow. Took us 6 ½ hours to come in. Doyle the stock inspector traveling with me. Went around to Mrs Hanlon’s and had tea of fried eggs on toast and came home and turned in.

Saturday Jan 4th 1930:

Feeling fairly tired so did not rise until 8.30 am and so missed breakfast. Was not hungry however. After a clean up went across to the mines, intending to call on several but got to Templetons and got no further. Called on a few this side during the afternoon. After tea went to a strike meeting but it was very orderly and nothing happened. Met several and had a yarn, then 2 squashes and home to bed.

Sunday Jan 5th 1930:

A lazy day. Rather hot and terribly windy with the result that the whole town was lost in the dust. It tried to rain in the evening and we had a couple of showers but nothing more. Read and slept most of the day myself. Had service at night but only 11 came out. Did some writing before turning in.

Monday Jan 6th 1930:

Had a general clean up this morning and a burn of a lot of rubbish. Did a house to house visitation this afternoon and found everyone very nice. Visited 20 camps and homes and found 6 Methodists in all, 7 R.C’s, 4 C of E’s, and 3 Presby’s. A fair number of mixed marriages but am claiming all where there is a Methodist in the family. Not too sure that many are Church goers. Weather much cooler but still terribly windy.

Tuesday Jan 7th 1930:

Continued the good work of wandering among the folk, introducing myself and making the folk introduce themselves. Cannot altogether say I like doing the rounds in this manner but it has to be done I suppose. Heard various tales from the different ones of the general corruptness of the whole place and the evil living of different ones. All very interesting in its way. Mt Isa is not yet heaven on earth. Several additions to the police force have arrived in the place and the newspaper reports on the reign of fear and terror in this place are more alarming than truthful. The effects of the beer strike both for good and evil are nevertheless being felt.

Wednesday Jan 8th 1930:

Was up at 4 am. Far too early. Caught the train at 5 am for Cloncurry. A big number traveling. Had to sit up, no chance of going to sleep. An uneventful trip in. Arrived ‘curry at 12 noon. The all important pastor of the ‘curry, the very Rev C.Gribble B.A, with the broken down Oldsmobile car was there to meet me. The Parsonage in a state of total disorder, the carpenters being on the job repairing. Phillipson and Griffiths gave me a warm welcome and a cold lunch. Beckett’s budget was the tablecoth. Sh! May this not be heard at Conference. In fairness to brother Gribble he was not the offending party, not having had a bath for a couple of days, soon remedied the omission. Lazed around and before tea went and did some business down the street. Griffiths took me to pictures at night. Cecil had a mothers’ meeting.

Thursday Jan 9th 1930:

A full day’s washing and ironing. BothCecil and myself put through three weeks washing and hadf out over 3 big lines full. A great effort and worthy of much commendation, which we gave to ourselves. Our efforts brought forth various comments from neighbors, some kind, some unkind. At evening it was ‘every picture tells a story. Finished up in time to see one or two on important business, before going to the hotel for dinner. Called and saw a sick lady after dinner and another couple of folk. Finished up a bit of ironing before turning in.

Friday Jan 10th 1930:

The return trip to Mt isa. Only difference from the trip in being that my clothes were and myself were spotlessly clean, when I started. Went to Shermann’s for tea and stayed there for a while and then home? To bed?

Saturday Jan 11th 1930:

Did some writing and preparation for Sunday. Went to a strike meeting at night. A barber with a wife and five children, because on one occasion a picket was suspicious of his movements at the hotel, was declared black. Since that he has done no business. At the meeting he sent in a declaration protesting his innocence and a vote was taken as to whether the embargo would be removed. I with others voted in his favor but the committee who counted the upraised hands counted the majority against him. When a division was asked for it was not granted. Biddler and Wilson, cordial manufacturers were also put out of business through being declared black. Smith, one of the publicans, whose picture show has been blackened, opened again tonight and about 500 men went in and I believe about 70 attended. A hospital carnival across the river was not popular this night and very few were there. For a while I was there in case there was anything to do but soon came home.