Edwin TIVEY CB, CMG, DSO, MID,

TIVEY, Edwin

Service Numbers: Commissioned Officer, Officer
Enlisted: 22 July 1915
Last Rank: Major General
Last Unit: 8th Infantry Brigade Headquarters
Born: Inglewood, Victoria, Australia , 19 September 1866
Home Town: Malvern, Stonnington, Victoria
Schooling: All Saints Grammar, St Kilda and Wesley College, Melbourne. Victoria, Australia
Occupation: Stockbroker
Died: Natural Causes, Toorak, Victoria, Australia, 19 May 1947, aged 80 years
Cemetery: Brighton General Cemetery, Victoria
Church of England Y 1113
Memorials: Inglewood War Memorial, Inglewood War Memorial, Malvern St George's Anglican Church Honour Roll
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Boer War Service

1 Oct 1899: Involvement Australian and Colonial Military Forces - Boer War Contingents, Captain, Commissioned Officer, Victorian Imperial Bushmen, Murray p259
1 Oct 1899: Involvement Major, 2nd Battalion, Australian Commonwealth Horse
1 May 1900: Embarked Australian and Colonial Military Forces - Boer War Contingents, Captain, 4th Victorian Imperial Bushman, Embarked on the Victorian
25 Mar 1901: Honoured Companion of the Distinguished Service Order, The award announced in the London Gazette, 25/3/1901. ************** The following is a copy of a column order referring to the event, issued by Lieutenant-Colonel the hon. Arthur Heniker, First Coldstream Guards: – “Phillipstown, 14th February, 1901 – The O.C. (officer commanding) column has great pleasure in expressing his appreciation of the excellent work carried out by C Squadron V.I.R., under command of Captain Tivey, on the 12th inst. Captain Tivey, by his well timed advance and skillful handling of his small force, prevented a greatly superior number of the enemy from occupying a position which forms the key to Phillipstown, and forced them to evacuate the town, with loss. The way in which the whole operation was executed speaks very well for the good training and discipline of the V.I.R.”
12 Feb 1902: Embarked Australian and Colonial Military Forces - Boer War Contingents, Major, 2nd Battalion, Australian Commonwealth Horse, Embarked on the St Andrew

World War 1 Service

22 Jul 1915: Enlisted AIF WW1, Colonel, Officer, 8th Infantry Brigade Headquarters
10 Nov 1915: Involvement Colonel, 8th Infantry Brigade Headquarters, --- :embarkation_roll: roll_number: '7' embarkation_place: Melbourne embarkation_ship: HMAT Ascanius embarkation_ship_number: A11 public_note: ''
10 Nov 1915: Embarked Colonel, 8th Infantry Brigade Headquarters, HMAT Ascanius, Melbourne
2 Dec 1916: Wounded AIF WW1, Slight, remained on duty.
3 Jun 1917: Honoured Companion of the Order of the Bath
22 Oct 1917: Wounded AIF WW1, Received a shell wound in the right arm whilst on top of the Brigade HQ Pill Box, Westhoek Ridge, Belgium.
23 May 1918: Wounded AIF WW1, Gassed.
1 Jan 1919: Honoured Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George
18 Jul 1919: Involvement AIF WW1, Major General
16 Feb 1920: Discharged AIF WW1

Help us honour Edwin Tivey's service by contributing information, stories, and images so that they can be preserved for future generations.

Biography contributed by Geoffrey Gillon

Edwin Tivey was the  fourth surviving child of Joseph Tivey, an English-born storekeeper who had arrived in Australia in 1848 at the age of 14, and his wife Margaret, née Hayes, from Tasmania. Edwin was educated at All Saints Grammar School, St Kilda, and at Wesley College, Melbourne, where he rowed bow in the second crew of 1882. 'No scholastic genius', he eschewed university to return to Inglewood as an accountant. He was commissioned lieutenant in the Inglewood detachment of the Victorian Rangers in 1889 and promoted captain in 1891. Townsfolk elected him to the Inglewood Borough Council on which he served for five years from 1894. In 1899 he became a founder and first president of the local branch of the Australian Natives' Association.

On 26 September 1906 he married Annie Bird Robb (d.1921) at the Presbyterian Church, Toorak. A captain in the new 9th Light Horse Regiment of the Victorian militia, in 1906 Tivey was appointed brigade major in the Victorian 3rd Light Horse Brigade and in 1911 as lieutenant-colonel became its commander. He received the Volunteer Officer's Decoration in 1910.

By the commencement of World War I Tivey was a successful stockbroker and temporary colonel commanding the Victorian 5th L.H.B. He was promoted colonel in January 1915 and was commandant of the officers' school at Broadmeadows. 'Of neat build, middle height, crisp appearance, he looks every inch a soldier', observed Melbourne Punch.

Tivey was appointed temporary brigadier general in February 1916 and in June his brigade left with the Australian 5th Division for France. It went into action at the battle of Fromelles and continued to fight on the Western Front until the war's end. In December 1916 Tivey was wounded in action but remained on duty. For brief periods in 1917 and 1918 he temporarily commanded the 5th Division when Major General (Sir) Talbot Hobbs was absent. Tivey was again wounded at Westhoek Ridge, Belgium, in October 1917 and was gassed in May 1918. In the great allied offensive of 8 August 1918 his brigade captured 831 prisoners and 85 machine-guns. During the war he was mentioned in dispatches six times; he was appointed C.B. in 1917 and C.M.G. in January 1919.

In May 1900 Tivey volunteered for service in South Africa and joined the Victorian 4th Imperial Continent as a captain. Tivey served widely in South Africa. When the First World War broke out, Tivey was Commanding Officer of the 3rd Light Horse Brigade, but he was not appointed to the AIF until July 1915, when he took command of the newly formed 8th Brigade, in whose recruitment he played a leading part. Tivey is mentioned in the history books , as a result of 8th Brigade deploying to the Suez Canal by train, while other units of 4th and 5th Australian Divisions marched for three days across blisteringly hot deserts. Henceforth, 8th Brigade were stigmatised as 'Tiveys Chocs', chocolate soldiers who looked good but could not take the heat. Tivey was twice wounded and gassed once during the war and was six times mentioned in despatches. Tivey returned to Australia in July 1919 where his appointment to the AIF was terminated on 16 February 1920. For his services, and the achievements of his men, on the Western Front, Tivey had been mentioned in dispatches twice during 1918 and again on 16 March 1919, bringing his total to six, and made a Companion of St Michael and St George (CMG) in the 1919 New Year's list. 

From 1920 Tivey lived in a small mansion, Nauroy, Kooyong Road, Toorak, and worshipped at nearby St John's Anglican Church. He was an honorary colonel in the Victorian mounted rifles from 1928 and, from 1932, in the Victorian 32nd Battalion.

Tivey died at his Toorak home on 19 May 1947 and was buried with full military honours by the bishop of Geelong in Brighton cemetery, Melbourne. His estate was sworn for probate at £75,303, the principal beneficiary being his daughter Violet. His son Major Edwin Peter Tivey had died as an Italian prisoner of war in 1943.

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Biography contributed by Heather Ford

Edwin Tivey was born on the 19th September 1866 at Inglewood, Vic (reg. 21860) – the son of Joseph and Margaret (nee HAYES) TIVEY, who had married in Victoria in 1854.  Joseph, a leading Inglewood Merchant, was also Mayor of Inglewood in 1869, 1873, 1877 and 1893.  He died whilst in office in June 1893, age 59, and his son Samuel replaced him.  Samuel also took over the running of ‘Nimmitabel,’ the family home that Joseph had had built in 1881.  Margaret died on the 22nd August 1918, age 84, and they are both buried in the family vault at Inglewood Cemetery.

Siblings:  Samuel b.1855 Prahran – d.1931;  Joseph Arthur 1856-1931, marr. Mary FREEMAN 27/9/1883; Ellen Maria b.1858 Inkerman – d.1863 Dunolly, age 5;  [following all born Inglewood]  Walter b.1860;  Emily Phoebe 1862-1863 (16M);  William 1865-1952;  Mabel 1871-15/12/1957;  Maud Margaret 1872-1943, marr. Fred S ERWIN 1903;  Hilda 1875-1966, marr. Wm Hy WHYTE 27/5/1896.  [also May, living Inglewood 1918]

Religion:  Church of England

Education:  Inglewood State School; All Saints’ Grammar School; Wesley College

Occupations:  Accountant; Stock and Sharebroker (Member of the Melbourne Stock Exchange for 43 years); Soldier

*Borough Councillor, Inglewood [Elected 1894 – resigned 1900 to take up position as Senior Captain of the Imperial Bushmen’s Corps]

*Member of the Australian Native’s Association, and the first president of the Inglewood Branch.  [President in 1900 before going to war]

*Member of the Victorian Rangers

*Officer of the Light Horse, Militia [from the end of the Boer War to the outbreak of WW1]

 

Boer War Service: 1900-1902

*1900: Captain, Squadron Leader – 4th Victorian Imperial Bushmen (Regt).  Sailed for Sth Africa on the Victorian 1/5/1900.  Whilst in command of C Squadron, V.I.R., Capt Tivey was awarded the D.S.O. for the defence of Phillipstown on the 12/2/1901.  Left Sth Africa in July 1901 for a trip to England, and returned to Australia on the ss Oroya in December 1901.

*1902: Major, 2nd in Command – 2nd Australian Commonwealth Horse.  Sailed for Sth Africa for the second time on the St Andrew in February 1902, and returned to Australia on the Norfolk in July 1902

 

Married:  Annie Bird ROBB on the 26th September 1906 at Scots’ Church, Toorak (reg. 5952R).  The daughter of John and Elizabeth (nee Stranger) ROBB, Annie born 4/11/1873, died 7/7/1921 at Armadale, age 47 and is buried at Brighton Cemetery

Children (2):

1. Violet, born 17th August 1907 at Armadale, died 5th August 1975, Melbourne, age 69, and is buried at Brighton Cemetery

2. Edwin Peter, born 10th March 1909 at Malvern – WW2: Enlist: 17/5/1940 Caulfield; Service No. VX15648 – died whilst a P.O.W., in an Italian Hospital on the 26th March 1943, of wounds received at El Alamein and is buried in the Allied Military Cemetery, Bari, Italy.  Rank:  Major; Posting: 2/23 Aust Infantry Battalion.

 

WW1 Service:

Rank: Major General, CB, DSO, VD, CMG  [Temp Brig. General 3/2/1916; Temp Maj. General 28/11/1918; Hon Maj Gen 10/5/1919]

Commands: 8th Infantry Brigade, Head-quarters Staff and 5th Australian Division

Date of Appointment: 22nd July 1915, age 48 – to Command the 8th Infantry Brigade

Sailed: 10th November 1915 on board the HMAT A11 Ascanius – disembarking at Suez on the 7th December

Granted Temporary rank of Brigadier General 3/2/1916 Ismailia

Embarked on the 16th June 1916 at Alexandria on the Tunisian – disembarking Marseilles, France 23/6/1916

Wounded 2/12/1916 – slight, remained at duty

Assumed temporary command of the 5th Australian Division 29/1/1917.  Leave to England 6/2/17 – 17/2/17.  Resumed duty with the 8th Brigade 18/2/17.  Temporary command of the 5th Division 27/5/1917.

Award of Companion of the most Honorable Order of the Bath (CB) 3/6/17

Rejoined 8th Brigade and proceeded on Leave to England 10/6/17 – returning to Brigade 21/6/17.  Temporary command of 5th Division 22/8/17 – 1/9/17.

Wounded for the 2nd time 22/10/1917 Westhoek Ridge, Belgium – shell wound in the right arm whilst on top of the Brigade HQ Pill Box.  He walked to the Dressing Station, and was then transferred through the hospital system: 3rd Fld Amb – 17th CCS – 20th Amb Train – admitted to the 14th General Hospital, Boulogne 23/10/1917, before being transferred to England per the HS St Andrew on the 24/10/17 where he was admitted to the 3rd London General Hospital.  Transferred to the 6th Auxiliary Hospital, Moreton Gardens 1/11/17.

Discharged from hospital and returned to France 10/12/1917, rejoining the 8th Brigade 11/12/17.  Temporary command of the 5th Division 21/12/17 to the 10/1/1918.  Temporary command of the 5th Division 18/5/1918 – 25/5/18.

Wounded for the 3rd time 23/5/1918 – Gassed – suffered sore eyes and throat (Tonsillitis) – treated at the 14th Australian Field Ambulance before being discharged back to duty the same day

Temporary command of the 5th Division 7/6/18 – 15/6/18.  UK Leave 29/6/1918 – 13/7/1918.  Temporary command of the 5th Division 8/9/18 – 28/9/18.  UK Leave 29/10/1918.  Temporary command of the 5th Division 28/11/1918, and to be temporary Major General whilst so employed.

Award of CMG 1/1/1919.  Mentioned in Despatches 6 times during 1916 to 1919.  [MID: 13/11/16; 9/4/17; 7/11/17 (for period 26/2 – 21/9/17); 7/7/18; 11/1/19 (for period 25/2 – 17/9/18); 16/3/19]

Marked for return to Australia 10/5/19 and returned to England 16/5/19.  Admitted 3rd London General Hospital 27/5/19 – 3/6/19 (NYD).

Embarked for Return to Australia: 18th July 1919, on the board the Orsova, arriving 4/9/1919

[See Medical reports dated 13/11/1919 (p.38) and 17/12/19 (p.54) – advised to lessen night work and speeches]

Appointment Terminated: 16th February 1920

 

Other Detail:  Edwin stood 5ft 7in tall, with blue eyes, fair hair and a fair complexion.

Resident of “Hyde”, Huntingtower Road, Malvern at time of enlistment WW1

Resident of “Nauroy”, 159 Kooyong Road, Toorak at the time of his death

The Inglewood War Memorial was dedicated by Maj. Gen. E. Tivey on the 28th of December 1921.

Commander of the 2nd Cavalry Division (1921 – 1926)

 

Edwin died on the 19th of May 1947 at his home in Toorak at the of age 80 (reg. 4859).  His funeral took place the following day, Tuesday 20th May at the Brighton Cemetery, with senior officers from both the First and Second World Wars in attendance.

 

**********

Inglewood Fire Brigade (by D.M. Puckey): p.46.  (Period 1897-9) – “Captain Edward [sic] Tivey of the Inglewood Rangers took the members for drill and spanner drill, and the result was immediately noticeable in the brigade’s sharper movements.”

P51. 27/1/1901 – “It was decided to hold drill each Mon, Wed and Fri evening – Sergeant Major Edward (sic) Tivey offered to assist.”

 

Bendigo Advertiser, 23/9/1899:  VOLUNTEERS FROM INGLEWOOD, INGLEWOOD, 22ND SEPTEMBER.  Captain Tivey, of the local section Victorian Rangers, has received a general order from Headquarters Commanding Officers to furnish a return of the men who are willing to do service in South Africa.  He himself has already signed the List.

Bendigo Advertiser (Vic), Thur 26 Apr 1900 (p.2):  DEPARTURE OF CAPTAIN TIVEY.  Inglewood, 25th April.  Last evening Captain Tivey, who is going to South Africa with the Imperial Australian Regiment as senior captain, returned to Inglewood by the last train.  He was met at the station by a large gathering, who extended him a hearty welcome.  He then proceeded to the Town Hall, where the local branch of the A.N.A. was holding its fortnightly meeting.  As soon as he entered the members rose and cheered heartily, and afterwards sang “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”  Captain Tivey being the first president of the local branch of the A.N.A., and as he still holds that position the branch granted him leave until the end of his term, which expires about the middle of next month.  This morning the Borough Council, of which he was a member for some years, held a special meeting for the purpose of wishing him God speed....

The Age (Melb, Vic), Mon 20 May 1901 (p.4):  ABOUT PEOPLE.  Just recently it was intimated that Captain Edwin Tivey, of Inglewood, now serving in South Africa with the V.I.R., had been made a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for a gallant defence of Phillipstown.  The following is a copy of a column order referring to the event, issued by Lieutenant-Colonel the hon. Arthur Heniker, First Coldstream Guards: – “Phillipstown, 14th February, 1901 – The O.C. (officer commanding) column has great pleasure in expressing his appreciation of the excellent work carried out by C Squadron V.I.R., under command of Captain Tivey, on the 12th inst. Captain Tivey, by his well timed advance and skillful handling of his small force, prevented a greatly superior number of the enemy from occupying a position which forms the key to Phillipstown, and forced them to evacuate the town, with loss.  The way in which the whole operation was executed speaks very well for the good training and discipline of the V.I.R.”

Bendigo Advertiser (Vic), Thur 19 Dec 1901 (p.2):  CAPTAIN TIVEY.  Captain Tivey, D.S.O., who since leaving South Africa, has been for a trip to England, returned to Melbourne by the Oroya yesterday.  He is expected to reach Inglewood to-day by the night train.  On Friday evening he is to be tendered a smoke night in the Town Hall by the local branch of the A.N.A., and the Inglewood section of F Company Victorian Rangers.  The affair promises to be a great success.  All the returned soldiers from this town and district are to be invited.

Bendigo Advertiser (Vic), Tue 21 Jan 1902 (p.2):  MAJOR TIVEY, D.S.O.  Inglewood, 20th January.  Major Tivey, D.S.O., has again shown his loyalty by volunteering for active service in South Africa so soon after returning from the seat of war.  His friends knew that he would be off again as soon as the opportunity arrived, and when it was decided to send a Federal Contingent he was one of the first to send in his name.  The intelligence received on Saturday that he had been appointed major and second in command to the Second Battalion of that contingent, was welcomed with pleasure here, as it was felt that he would do honor to the position, and merit the confidence reposed in him.

Leader (Melb, Vic), Sat 29 Sept 1906 (p.38):  WEDDINGS.  TIVEY – ROBB.  A pretty wedding was celebrated very quietly on Wednesday afternoon between Major Edwin Tivey, D.S.O., and Miss Annie B. Robb.  The wedding was celebrated at the Scots’ Church, Toorak, which was effectively decorated with white flowers and greenery by the girl friends of the bride.  Mr Arthur Robb gave away his sister, who was prettily gowned in a walking dress of cream voile, a leghorn hat with a large plume completing her costume.  Major Tivey earned his D.S.O. in South Africa, where he served with the Victorian Imperial bushmen.  Only relations and intimate friends were present at the wedding.  The bride travelled in a coat and skirt of navy blue tweed, her blue straw hat being trimmed with cornflowers.  Both the bride and bridegroom were the recipients of many handsome presents.

 

The ARGUS, Wednesday, April 1, 1911, page 21:  NAVAL AND MILITARY.  EASTER ENCAMPMENTS.  KILMORE ARRANGEMENTS. .....  Colonel D. M. McLeish, officer commanding the 3rd Light Horse Brigade, is one of the officers affected by the new retiring regulations.  He has notified headquarters that he will not attend the Kilmore camp. Major E. Tivey is next in seniority in the brigade, and, probably, he will take command in camp. He will shortly be promoted to be Lieut- Colonel, having already passed the qualifying examination. Later he may be appointed to the permanent command of the brigade.

Inglewood Advertiser, 13/10/1914:  The Commonwealth Government has offered a third contingent for the war, and the offer has been accepted.  The new force, which will be raised at once, will be nearly 2000 men and horses.  The "Age" says:- There are indications that the brigade will be commanded by Colonel Tivey, D.S.O., V.D., who led a squadron in the South African war, and who is one of the most dashing of light horse leaders."

Inglewood Advertiser, 3/11/1914:  In connection with military changes recently made, Lieutenant-Colonel E. Tivey, 5th Light Horse Brigade, has been appointed temporarily to the Administrative and Instructional Staff, Victorian District, at a salary of £500 a year.

The Argus, Sat 24 Jul 1915:  THE NEW BRIGADE.  OFFICERS APPOINTED.  COLONEL TIVEY TO COMMAND.  Appointments were made at a special meeting of the Federal Executive Council yesterday of officers of the 8th Infantry Brigade, which, in accordance with Australia’s offer to the Imperial authorities, is being organized for active service.  The command of the brigade has been given to Colonel E. Tivey, D.S.O., V.D., who is at present in command of the 5th Light Horse Brigade, and for the past nine months has been chief instructing officer at the officer’s school of instruction, Broadmeadows.

Inglewood Advertiser, 27/7/1915:  The many friends of Colonel E. Tivey, D.S.O., V.D., will notice with pleasure his appointment to the charge of the 8th Infantry Brigade being formed for service abroad.  Colonel Tivey, who gained his earliest military experience in Inglewood and served with distinction in the Boer war, is a highly capable officer, and the opinion is general that his appointment to this important command is a worthy one.

Inglewood Advertiser, 30/7/1915:  A.N.A.  The fortnightly A.N.A. meeting, held on Tuesday evening, was well attended. .....  The action of the president and secretary in wiring congratulations to Colonel E. Tivey on his appointment to the command of the 8th Australian Infantry Brigade was approved and supported, Colonel Tivey having been the first president of the branch.  ………………..

Inglewood Advertiser, 10/8/1915:  Forming a Brigade.  COLONEL TIVEY'S COMMAND – BACK TO BROADMEADOWS.  It is expected by Colonel E. Tivey, commander of the 8th Infantry Brigade now being mobilised, that Victoria's quota, a battalion and a half, of 1500 men, will be transferred from the Seymour and Flemington camps this week.  Colonel Tivey will take an early opportunity of visiting Queensland and the other States to inspect the remainder of his brigade.  The New South Wales Battalion is commanded by Lieut-Colonel D.M.R. Coghill.

Thorough musketry training will be given the brigade, this being considered of the first importance by Colonel Tivey, whose experience in the South African war convinced him of the great utility of accurate rifle shooting.  He will not, it is understood, advise the issue of telescopic sights, but if the men care to equip themselves with these aids to sniping, no objection will be offered.

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"Punch" of the 5th inst., under the heading of "People We Know," gives the following interesting particulars of Colonel Tivey's career:-

Lieutenant-Colonel Edwin Tivey, D.S.O., V.D., was well qualified both by personality and experience for the onerous post.  And it was onerous.  He has had to curb personal desire, and prepare others for active service.  He had to see men of markedly inferior military ability forestall him in high command in the fighting lines.  He has done it well.  He has merited a great opportunity, and he has been given it, in the command of the new brigade which has just been accepted for active service abroad.  Tivey does not belong to the "Feet."  He is a cavalryman.  He is just the right figure for a Light-Horseman.  But horses are of no use in trenches.  So Tivey has had to come to ground.  But the personality and executive ability which carried him to the command of the 5th Light Horse Brigade will not be wasted in his new environment.  The new Brigadier is not a showman.  Probably few people outside the officer's mess know anything of him.  But his regiment swears by him, and the magic letters D.S.O. in the Army Lists bear witness to excellent, indeed brilliant service on the African veldt, where few reputations were made and many marred; and where special mention from the great Kitchener made an officer envied amongst men.  As a soldier he has made good.  The surprise is that such a veteran was not selected for executive command before.  Those who know him predict that his brigade will get much fighting.  The brigade thinks itself lucky to get Tivey.

Edwin Tivey is a Victorian.  Forty nine years of age, of neat build, middle height, crisp appearance, he looks every inch a soldier.  Even in the War of the Eleven Nations appearance goes for something.  Tivey trained in a good school.  He is another of the long roll of Wesley College boys who have stepped forward more than once to do battle for their country.  …………………………………………………  Tivey passed his early days in the St Kilda road Academy.  But the metropolis held no charms for his youthful ambitions.  He was no scholastic genius, seeking the cloisters of the University as the "ultimares."  To his boyish thoughts a business career appealed most.  So that we find him, prior to the outbreak of the South African War, enjoying a pleasant enough existence in the practice of his profession of accountant in the country town of Inglewood.  He had at an early age heard the call of the trumpet.  When only twenty three he commenced his military career by accepting a commission in the Victorian Rangers, a bush force which furnished many hardy horsemen and crack shots for service against our present day brothers-in-arms of the Transvaal.

The Empire had long been a stranger to the exhilarating potion of war.  And the obstinacy of an embittered Dutchman found it totally unprepared for the ordeal.  The first shame-faced acceptance by the War Office of Australia's proffered assistance was soon echoed by a call for more of the men who could shoot and ride.  Tivey at that time was Adjutant of his regiment of Rangers.  The chance of seeing some fighting was too great to be resisted.  He applied for commission in the Fourth Imperial Contingent forming in Melbourne in the early weeks of 1900.  With the curious intrigues that, in those halcyon days, formed the preliminary to regimental commissions, we have nothing to do.  To Colonel Tivey the present-day method of competitive examination at his Instructional School must seem a great contrast.  Sufficient it is to say that he surprised the cognoscenti by receiving the Senior Captaincy, and sailed for the front via Beira and Rhodesia.  He served for months on those "lines of communication" in Rhodesia that were the bane of many a brilliant soldier.  The volatile De Wet and the wily Botha, however, presented a tougher proposition than even Kitchener expected.  To combat their peripatetic forays he organised several hard-riding columns for his famous "Drives."  The following Christmas, therefore, found Tivey with his "C" squadron of Australians attached to the column of Colonel Henniker for service in the Cape Colony and the Free State.

The times called for men of dash and resource.  Tivey furnished both.  His wonderful forced march to Philipstown, with a mere handful of forty men, and a brilliant action against odds of eight to one, brought him the coveted D.S.O., and mention in dispatches.  Kitchener is said to be a judge of men.  What he thought of Tivey is set out in his despatch on the Philipstown fight:

"Captain Tivey, by his well timed advance and skilful handling of a small force, prevented greatly superior numbers of the enemy from occupying a position which forms the key to Philipstown, and forced them to evacuate the town with loss.  The whole operation speaks well for the good training and discipline of the regiment."

Many other fights came the way of the Australian Captain.  He got on the trail of De Wet, and followed a chase for fifteen days over 380 miles of veldt.  Not satisfied with one campaign, he transferred to the Commonwealth Horse as second in command, and with de Lisle engaged in several of the famous "drives," ending with the surrender of the beaten commandos.  Tivey was lucky enough to escape injury.  But this did not arise from any dislike for hot corners.  He remained with his regiment in Cape Colony, in the Free State and the Transvaal, until the end of the war.  Many men with less performances found their way home, and passed the rest of the war doing the heroic act.  Tivey is not that sort of man.  He went out to fight.  And fight he did while there was fighting to be done anywhere in Africa.  He received the Queen's medal with six clasps, and nobody merited it more.  On his return from the wars he found ample opportunity for the use of his experience.  The pipe and fireside held for him no lures.  Light Horse were to be the backbone of the Australian Military Forces, and the gallant captain was appointed to the 9th Regiment, subsequently attaining his majority.  Since 1911 he has been a Colonel.  The outbreak of the War of Nations found him still with his beloved cavalry in command of the Fifth Brigade.

One might have thought that such a lifetime of soldiering could only have been the lot of a professional soldier.  But Australia has given the lie to many cherished affections of the Old World.  And to none greater than that the militiaman is, after all, only an amateur.  In private life Edwin Tivey is a stockbroker.  Last August, with the instinct of the veteran, he jumped from the tape ticker and the joys of high 'change to the sterner pleasures of active service.  Now, stockbrokers are used to taking chances.  Tivey has taken chances, and he is a successful 'broker.  But he is going to "bear" a bigger stock at Gallipoli than he has ever covered yet.  Yet, if Tivey's luck holds, he will resume operations in Queen street with the same nonchalance as that which carried him into action.  If he chose to ruminate - probably he has never done such a thing - he can look back on many years of public service, no less useful in peace than in the ...... times of war.  As a borough councillar at Inglewood he was deservedly popular.  A wide outlook on life and a practical insight into public affairs made him a power at the council table.  No public movement in the district but had his enthusiastic assistance.  The name of Tivey on a bill head was a hall mark of success.  In these country towns they have a habit of loading much on willing shoulders.  But the appreciation of the residents was given full outlet on his departure for Africa.  The whole town accompanied him to the railway station, and appropriately farewelled him with much music after the manner of Britishers.  To a man of such qualities it is not surprising if the Hall of Debates call with an alluring tongue.  Tivey was not an orator, but he could put his points with clearness and emphasis.  He held for years the post of President of the A.N.A.  Had he chosen to have gone in for poitics, Tivey would have made his mark.  It is fortunate that such a man of action - a man accustomed to doing things and seeing things done, a man who radiates command - was spared the irksome trials and demoralising inactivities of a member of Parliament.  As an M.P. Tivey might have attained personal success.  As a soldier he is rendering his country the greatest service that can be the lot of any of its sons.  And, after all, as Blatchford says in one of his scourging essays:  "Politics do not matter much in times of peace, in time of war they hardly count at all."

 

The Argus, Sat 7 Aug 1915:  THE NEW BRIGADE.  TRAINING COMMENCED.  The organization of the 8th Brigade is now well in hand, and training has been commenced.  Colonel Tivey, who is in command, has established himself temporarily at the Victoria Barracks.  The 29th Battalion has been constituted from men in training at Seymour, and the men have gone into a separate camp on a site adjoining the Seymour camp.  The 31st battalion is to be composed of Victorians and Queenslanders, and the two companies of Victorians have been organized from men in training at Flemington.  Information which Colonel Tivey has received from the other States is to the effect that the other battalions are being raised there.  The Victorian companies will go into training at Broadmeadows as soon as the accommodation is available.  Colonel Tivey hopes that the whole brigade will be assembled for training at Broadmeadows before the time comes for it to leave Australia.

The Argus, Wed 11 Aug 1915:  COLONEL TIVEY’S BRIGADE.  REACH BROADMEADOWS ON THURSDAY.  On Thursday the first of Colonel Tivey’s brigade of 5,000 men will arrive at Broadmeadows.  They will be taken from the Seymour, and Show-grounds camps, and will find their new quarters very comfortable, for sufficient huts have been constructed for their use.  Other huts are being built, and the work of draining and perfecting the training-ground is well on the way to completion.  Probably not more than 2,000 men will form the nucleus of the Broadmeadows brigade, but, as the accommodation is extended, more men will be drafted there from Seymour and the Show-grounds.

The Argus, Thur 12 Aug 1915:  COLONEL TIVEY’S BRIGADE.  QUARTERS AT BROADMEADOWS.  The first batch of the men selected from those in training at Seymour and Flemington for inclusion in Colonel Tivey’s new brigade arrived at Broadmeadows yesterday to make preparations for the arrival of their comrades.  About 150 men came down from Seymour, and about 30 from Flemington.  The ground about the camp was heavy and muddy with rain, but the men found their new quarters, with the boarded huts, very comfortable, after sleeping on the ground.  “It is like a king’s palace,” said one of them, when asked if he had any complaints to make.  “You will not find any of us grumbling at the change.”  When all the men who are to be taken from Victoria for this new brigade are transferred to Broadmeadows they will total about 2,000.

Inglewood Advertiser, 26/10/1915:  Colonel E. Tivey, D.S.O.  VISIT TO INGLEWOOD.  Inglewood can justly claim distinction, as the "roll of honor" on our first page will show, in the matter of furnishing soldiers for the service of the Empire, but an additional lustre is shed by the further contribution of a commander.  The career of Colonel E. Tivey, D.S.O., is so well known to our readers that any extended reference to it would be superfluous.  Serving in the Boer war as captain, he returned with the Distinguished Service Order as a reward for skilled and gallant discharge of duty.  Continuing his association with the military profession, he was accorded deserved promotion.  On the outbreak of the present conflict he offered for active service, but it was ordained by the authorities that he should undertake important work in connection with the training and instruction of officers at home.  Now, however, he has been appointed to the command of the 8th Brigade, and it is in this responsible office that he will shortly sail for the front.  The arduous nature of his duties being a great strain, on Saturday he took the opportunity of visiting Inglewood to enjoy a brief rest from his labors.  On news of his visit being received, arrangements were put in hand by the Mayor for the holding of an informal reception, in order that the opportunity might be afforded Colonel Tivey's many friends of meeting him and wishing him God speed in his mission and a safe return.  The function was splendidly attended and was an unqualified success.  Among those present were Sergeant B.A. Saunders, Corporal D. Donaldson, and Privates R. Nixon, F. Donaldson, and D. Baker (home on final leave) O. Binger, J. Simons and other local soldiers.  Colonel Tivey's entrance was the signal for an outburst of cheering, and for several minutes there was a happy interchange of greetings.

Mayor presided, and in extending a welcome to the guest expressed the pleasure all felt at his attendance.  A great number present were his old school mates, and all had felt that they could not possibly let the occasion pass without wishing him God speed and good luck.  Some of those present had bade him farewell when he had left for South Africa.  He (the speaker) had not been in Inglewood at that time, but had always heard a very fine record of the Colonel, and was delighted that they had the opportunity of meeting him.  They congratulated him upon his important appointment, and hoped he would be spared to have a happy and cordial welcome home by the same friends as were assembled that evening.  (Applause and cheers for the guest.)

Mr J.C. Morrow stated that as one who had grown up with Colonel Tivey, and afterwards sat at the council table with him, he was very pleased to be present to join in congratulating him upon his command.  They had watched his military career from the time of his initiation in Inglewood and through the South African war, and were proud of his appointment to the 8th Brigade.  (Applause.)  He trusted he would return with all possible honors and success.

Cr F.E. Horan stated they were proud of their guest.  He was leaving them in a critical moment in the world's history, and it was pleasing to know he was leaving in command of the 8th Brigade.  He was leaving his mother and family to take up a most important duty.  Mrs Tivey was one of the mothers who had rendered Australia illustrious, and she would have not only the love of her own family but the veneration and sympathy of the entire community in her son's absence.  (Applause.)  Colonel Tivey was Colonel of his brigade, but he (the speaker), was sure that in his dealings with his men he would fully appreciate the expression, "comrades in arms."  (Applause.)  They trusted he would go through the campaign in safety, and would look to the time when they would hear of his return.

Mr H. Taysom also expressed his pleasure at having the opportunity to say farewell to the guest.  He had been present to farewell him when leaving for the Boer war, and had had the honor to preside at his welcome home.  In South Africa Colonel Tivey not only did honor to himself but to the town, and if the opportunity arose, and it would, as the war was far from an end, he knew he would carry out his duties faithfully and well and with honor and credit.  When the war was over he (the speaker) trusted they would have Colonel Tivey and all who had volunteered in the main hall, where all could attend and give them a fitting welcome.  Their guest was a busy man and needed rest, and his presence was a courtesy to the town.  They extended to him the right hand of good fellowship and trusted he would pass through the campaign with honor to himself and their town.

Mr S. Symonds endorsed.  Colonel Tivey's appointment to such a position was an honor to them and the town as well as to himself.  It seemed marvellous that he had kept himself in touch with military matters so as to be able to take up the position when the call came, and was a great proof of his loyalty.  He would be proud to carry his duties through, and his men would be proud to be with him.  He (the speaker) knew of the affection his men had for him in the South African campaign, and from what he had heard knew that the same kindly feeling was still held by those under him.  They trusted God would protect him and that he would return with honor and glory.  (Applause.)

Messrs A. Jennings, G. Nixon, S.F. Diddams, Cr Ham and Sergeant B. Saunders spoke in similar terms, all expressing the hearty wish that Colonel Tivey might be spared to return on the successful conclusion of his mission.

The Rev C.A. Grant, as representing Colonel Tivey's church, stated that added to the good wishes of the towns people would be the sustained prayers of the church.  They would pray, with his family, that he might return crowned with the laurels of victor.

Mr E. Windsor (Wycheproof), in endorsing, stated he had been on Colonel Tivey's right hand in South Africa on the occasion on which he had won the Distinguished Service Order.  His men were fortunate in having him to lead them, and he would find that wherever he went they would follow him.  (Applause.)  He trusted that on Colonel Tivey's return they would have occasion to salute him as Brigadier-General.  (Applause.)

On rising to respond Colonel Tivey was treated to a cordial reception.  He tendered his most sincere thanks for the honor done him and kind expressions of good will.  It was very gratifying to him, as a native of the town, to feel that he had the good will of the inhabitants.  He would carry with him the memory of that night, and it would be a great pleasure to him and strengthen him in the work he had to carry out.  He only hoped that in the day of trial he would prove worthy of the high trust placed in him and of the high opinion of his friends.  Inglewood and district had reason to be proud of its magnificent record in contributing some 200 volunteers for the army.  He regretted that some of these young men had fallen, but trusted that the others would survive and return.  He was sure all would like to take their place in the firing line if they could, but there was something those who could not go to the front could do.  Let them realise the fight was not for the people alone, but for Australia and the whole Empire.  Morale was a word frequently used in a military sense, and was a great factor in military operations.  If the morale of the people was good it would be reflected in the soldiers at the front.  They heard and met with expressions of pessimism.  He wanted Inglewood to set an example in combating this and refusing to "drop its bundle."  They had a big thing ahead of them, but were going to do it.  Personally he had no doubt as to what the end would be.  He hoped his brigade would do its utmost and deserve honor.  He was going to do his best, not only for himself and his men, but for the citizens of his native town.  He appreciated and valued the expressions uttered.  If spared to return nothing would please him better than to be welcomed by the people of Inglewood.  (Applause.)

The toast of "The Inglewood boys at home and at the front" was then proposed by the Mayor and enthusiastically honored.  Brief but suitable replies were made by Sergeant B.A. Saunders and Corporal D. Donaldson.  The health of the Mayor being cordially drunk, the gathering then dispersed.

Colonel Tivey returned to Melbourne yesterday afternoon, and was accorded an enthusiastic send off by a large number of townspeople who assembled at the station.

 

Inglewood Advertiser, 9/11/1915:  On Friday last 2400 members of the 8th Brigade, which is under the command of Colonel E. Tivey, marched through Melbourne.  The excellent appearance of the troops evoked the admiration of spectators, and Colonel Tivey was highly complimented upon the efficiency of his command.

Inglewood Advertiser, 12/11/1915:  Colonel E. Tivey, D.S.O., V.D., was farewelled by his fellow members of the Melbourne Stock Exchange on Monday, and presented with a match box and gold medal, suitably inscribed, a prismatic compass and bronze statuette.

Inglewood Advertiser, 16/11/1915:  The movement to present Colonel E. Tivey with a memento from the public of Inglewood was successfully carried through, and yesterday Mr D. Cooper, secretary to the fund, received the following wire in acknowledgement:- "Please convey my warmest thanks to Inglewood friends for flask, fountain pen and pipes, also kindest regards and good bye."

Inglewood Advertiser, 11/2/1916:  Colonel Edwin Tivey, who in private life is a member of the Stock Exchange of Melbourne, has written to the chairman (Mr W.J. Roberts), sending New Year greetings to his confreres.  He adds that he is well, and all - the 8th Infantry Brigade - are hard at work "in an intensely interesting part of this country" (Egypt).  This is evidently the local adaptation of the well worn phrase "somewhere in France."

Inglewood Advertiser, 5/5/1916:  In a recent letter to Mrs Tivey, senr., of "Nimitabel," Verdon street, Colonel Tivey made the pleasing statement that he had been promoted to the important rank of Brigadier General.  Such recognition of his ability is most gratifying, and reflects very great credit upon the distinguished soldier.  In a letter received by Mr Tivey this week he stated he was enjoying fairly good health, although the Egyptian climate was not all that could be desired.

Inglewood Advertiser, 16/5/1916:  By way of conveying to Brigadier-General E. Tivey, D.S.O., their congratulations upon his recent high attainment the local Red Cross ladies have decided upon presenting him with a scarf, knitted (we understand) in his old college (Wesley) colors.  Each lady who so desires may participate in the work, but must pay for the privilege an amount varying in accordance with the number of rows knitted, into the funds of the society.

Inglewood Advertiser, 30/6/1916: A cablegram, dated 23rd June, has been received from Brigadier-General Tivey stating that his command has arrived at Marseilles “safely; all well.”

Inglewood Advertiser, 15/8/1916:  Mrs Tivey, senr., of ‘Nimitabel’, Verdon Street, yesterday received a cable message from Brigadier-General Tivey, who is in France, to the effect that he is well.  This message gives an effective answer to the various rumors which have been in circulation of late.

Inglewood Advertiser, 26/9/1916 – From a letter from Pte J.H. Brownbill, dated Aug 7th, England:  We heard that Colonel Tivey's brigade had landed in England, and were stationed about 15 miles from us.  I wrote to Wes Graham, who is in Colonel Tivey's brigade, but I learnt after that the brigade left almost immediately for France, and so I got no reply.

The Gippsland Farmers’ Journal (Traralgon, Vic), Fri 10 Nov 1916 (p.4):  Cakes sent by Busy Bees.  ENJOYED BY MEN AT FRONT.  From Brigadier-General E. Tivey, 8th Infantry Brigade, A.I.F.  Miss Elsie Holmes, secretary of the Patriotic Bee of girls at the Port Melbourne works of Swallow and Ariell Ltd., has received the following letter: –

“I am writing to express my warmest thanks to the members of the Busy Bee for their contribution of 400 cakes to the men of the 8th Infantry Brigade.  Thirty-seven cakes have arrived, and every man of the 29th and 31st Battalions, Brigade Headquarters and machine gun Companies has received one.  The cakes were in excellent order, and much appreciated by the men in the trenches.  I hope that the kind hearted busy bee will receive many letters of thanks from the boys.”

Inglewood Advertiser, 12/12/1916:  Mrs E. Tivey, wife of Brigadier-General Tivey, at present on active service in France, received a cable message through the Defence department on Friday to the effect that her husband had been slightly wounded, but that he was able to remain on duty at the brigade headquarters.

Inglewood Advertiser, 22/12/1916:  Brigadier-General E. Tivey, D.S.O., V.D., commander of the 8th Infantry Brigade, A.I.F., who was recently slightly wounded, has resumed duty.

Inglewood Advertiser, 5/1/1917:  Mrs Tivey, senr., of “Nimitabel,” Verdon street, has received a cable from Brigadier-General E. Tivey conveying Xmas greetings to all friends.  It is pleasing to note that the soldier has gained the further distinction of being mentioned in despatches for his service in the field.

The Bendigo Independent (Vic), Thur 15 Feb 1917 (p.5):  ANZAC’S GOOD WORK.  GENERAL TIVEY’S PRAISE.  LONDON, Wednesday.  Brigadier-General E. Tivey, Commander of the 10th [sic] Australian Infantry Brigade, has arrived in London from the Somme.  Interviewed, he said: –

“I am inclined to take off my hat whenever I see an Australian soldier.  The men have shown marvelous endurance, patience, and pluck during the terrible winter.  The junior officers and men of the ranks have borne the heaviest burden, and nothing is too good to be said of them, either as fighters or workers.  Their heftiness has enabled them to shine out in trench digging, timbering, carrying up materials, and in fighting.  The so-called raids are really important operations.  The men have wrested trenches from the Germans and held on to them.

“The continuous process of pushing the Germans back is demoralizing them and heartening the British.  The systematic bombardment keeps the enemy on tenterhooks.  He does not know when to expect an attack.  The day I left, 70 prisoners were brought in.  They were pale, and poorer than the prisoners taken previously.  The Australians and the British treat their prisoners in the most kindly way, though they are unrelenting in actual combat.  The French are wonderful fighters, and are increasingly bitter.”

Geelong Advertiser (Vic), Tue 27 Feb 1917 (p.3):  GENERAL TIVEY’S SCARF.  The hon. secretary (Mrs Brew) of the 8th Brigade Comforts Committee, Geelong, received by last mail the following letter from Brigadier-General Tivey: – “Dear Madam, – I am pleased to inform you that the scarf knitted by the members and friends of the 8th Brigade Committee, Geelong, has at last arrived, and I desire to express my warmest thanks to all who helped to knit this token of appreciation, which I value very highly.  It will not only keep me warm in this cold climate, but will also be a memento of the kindness and good wishes of the relatives of the men of the 8th Brigade.”

Geelong Advertiser (Vic), Sat 17 Mar 1917 (p.3):  NEWS OF GEELONG AND DISTRICT SOLDIERS.  A letter from C.S.M. James B Brigden, who was for some time in the Geelong camp, and who is now serving in France, pays a pleasing tribute to Brigadier-General Tivey.  “I have never heard of a man so popular as our brigadier,” he says; “we are the keenest critics, yet what is said of Birdwood is true of Tivey.  I think Birdwood is all right also, but some of the boys are rather tired of being Anzacs, and of his alleged ambition for us to win the war ourselves.  There is never a whimper about Tivey.”

Inglewood Advertiser, 5/6/1917:  Among the King’s Birthday honors conferred for military service rendered is that of Companion of the Bath, awarded to Colonel E. Tivey, D.S.O., V.D.  The distinction marks another step in Colonel Tivey’s brilliant career, and is an evidence of his success as a brigade commander, in which capacity he left for the seat of war.  It is indeed pleasing that an Inglewood soldier should have won such recognition, and all will join in congratulating him and trusting that he may be long spared to enjoy it.

Inglewood Advertiser, 8/6/1917:  Members of the Stock Exchange of Melbourne on Tuesday decided to cable to France congratulating their fellow member, Brigadier-General E. Tivey, C.B., D.S.O., V.D., on his inclusion in the list of Australian soldiers on whom Birthday honors were conferred.  Referring to the distinction gained, Mr W.J. Roberts (chairman of the Bendigo Stock Exchange) said that their fellow-member had proved himself in South Africa, and had now “made good” in France.  He had brought further honor to the Stock Exchange, and the pleasure and pride of members would be expressed in the cable to be sent to him.

Inglewood Advertiser, 15/6/1917:  Inglewood Branch A.N.A.  The fortnightly meeting was held on Tuesday evening, ……………………  It was decided ………; that the congratulations of the branch upon his further distinction be conveyed to Colonel Tivey, C.B., D.S.O., V.D., who was the first branch president, …………….

Inglewood Advertiser, 28/8/1917:  Relatives of those in the 29th battalion of the 8th Infantry Brigade, will be pleased to know that a committee of ladies has been formed to provide comforts for the members of the brigade.  This committee is headed by the wife of Brigadier General Tivey, and their aim is to cable to England L100 per month to provide the comforts.  One of Melbourne’s leading citizens has donated L50 per month, providing the committee raises a similar amount.  The committee is issuing a magazine at 3d per month, and it is devoted to matters connected with the 8th Infantry Brigade.

Inglewood Advertiser, 14/9/1917:  Mrs Tivey, wife of Brigadier-General E. Tivey, D.S.O., C.B., is at present on a visit to her relatives in Inglewood.  Mrs Tivey, with other ladies, has recently undertaken the work of organizing a fund to supply comforts for the 8th Brigade, which is under Brigadier-General Tivey’s command.

Inglewood Advertiser, 18/9/1917:  Sportsmen’s Thousand Military Band.  VISIT TO INGELWOOD.  SEVEN RECRUITS OFFER FOR SERVICE.  The promised visit of the Sportsmen’s Thousand Military Band eventuated on Thursday last.  Great public interest had been aroused, ……………………  On Friday morning the band, in addition to playing in the streets and treating the inmates of the hospital to a short programme – a kindly act much appreciated – visited “Nimitabel,” Verdon street, as a compliment to Mrs Tivey, senr., mother of Brigadier-General E. Tivey, D.S.O., C.B. and Mrs Tivey, wife of the distinguished soldier, who is on a visit to Inglewood.  Here they were hospitably entertained.  .........

Inglewood Advertiser, 30/10/1917:  BRIGADIER-GENERAL E. TIVEY WOUNDED.  Word was received on Saturday that Brigadier-General E. Tivey, C.B., D.S.O., had been wounded in action in France.  The injury is a bullet wound in the arm, and it is a matter for congratulation that it is not more serious.  All will wish that the distinguished soldier may speedily recover in order that the forces under his command may not be long deprived of the benefits of his direction.

Inglewood Advertiser, 22/3/1918:  Unveiling of State School Honor Roll.  SUCCESSFUL GATHERING - CROWDED ATTENDANCE.  ........  On the list they had some names which had won great distinction.  At the top of the tree they had Brigadier-General Tivey, who had previously given his services to his country in the South African war, ………………………

Inglewood Advertiser, 16/4/1918:  Pithy Pars.  Anzac Committee paying a nice compliment to Brigadier-General E. Tivey, V.D., D.S.O., C.B., in getting buttons bearing his portrait for sale as souvenirs of the 24th.  It’s expected they’ll sell like hot cakes, too, as its not every town that can boast of such a distinguished soldier.

Inglewood Advertiser, 7/6/1918:  Word was received this week that Brigadier-General E. Tivey had been gassed.  It is understood that the injury is not severe.  All will trust that he will be able speedily to regain his command and give the cause for which he is fighting the benefit of his skill and experience.

Inglewood Advertiser, 8/11/1918:  Special Mention.  Mrs Tivey has been advised by the Defence department that Brigadier-General Tivey, C.B., D.S.O., has been mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s despatch of April 7 amongst those “deserving of special mention.”

Inglewood Advertiser, 13/12/1918:  Promotion.  Brigadier-General E. Tivey, C.B., D.S.O., who has been in charge of the 8th Infantry Brigade, has been promoted to the rank of Major-General, and placed in command of the 5th Division.  His friends are naturally pleased at his advancement, which has been well-earned.  At Tuesday’s meeting of the A.N.A., at which Major-General Tivey was the first president, it was decided that congratulations be forwarded him.

Inglewood Advertiser, 7/1/1919:  Pithy Pars  Among the recipients of New Year honors is Major-General E. Tivey, C.B., D.S.O., upon whom has been conferred the order of the Companion of St Michael and St George.

Port Melbourne Standard (Vic), Sat 1 Feb 1919 (p.2):  THE BREAKING OF THE HINDENBURG LINE.  The Part the 8th Played – General Tivey’s Appreciation.  No hotter effort in the breaking of the Hindenburg line was made by any other force than the push of the 8th Brigade.  Of B Co., 29th Batt., 8th Brigade, Pte John McPherson, son of Mr and Mrs W. McPherson, 66 Lyons-street, resting at a halting-place after that tremendous action, wrote his father and mother, Mr and Mrs W. McPherson, enclosing the order issued by General Tivey after the conflict.  The order reads:

SPECIAL ORDER by BRIGADIER-GENERAL TIVEY, C.B., D.S.O., V.D., COMMANDING 8th AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BRIGADE, Headquarters, 5th October 1918

I desire to convey to all ranks my appreciation of the magnificent work done by the brigade during the recent operations, which resulted in the breaking of the famous HINDENBERG Line.  You entered the battle at a most critical time, and, by your dash, skill, and initiative, carried out an advance which saved a very difficult situation.  For three days of hard fighting, under severe weather conditions, you displayed a spirit of courage and endurance beyond all praise, and you have added fresh laurels to the glorious record of the 8th Brigade.  E. Tivey, Brigadier-General, commanding 8th Aust. Infantry Brigade.

Inglewood Advertiser, 8/4/1919:  Army Appointment.  Major-General E. Tivey, C.M.G., C.B., D.S.O., .…………

Inglewood Advertiser, 15/8/1919:  Soldiers Returning.  Major-General E. Tivey, C.B., C.M.G., V.D., who left Australia in 1915, is returning on the Orsova, …………………

Inglewood Advertiser, 12/9/1919:  A Warm Welcome.  Major General Tivey, at Melbourne Stock Exchange on Monday, ………………

Inglewood Advertiser, 23/9/1919:  Distinguished Soldier Welcomed  (Maj. Gen Tivey)

 

The Argus, Fri 5 Sept 1919:  DISTINGUISHED OFFICERS.  Tribute to Men and Nurses.  Among the military officers who returned to Melbourne yesterday by the troopship Orsova were Major-General E. Tivey, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., Brigadier-General T. Griffiths, C.B.E., C.M.G., D.S.O., and Brigadier-General W.L.H. Burgess, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O.  All three officers had seen over four years service abroad, and had gained distinguished records.  When interviewed yesterday at his home in Malvern, Major-General Tivey declined to refer to his own achievements on Gallipoli and in France.  “Whatever success I have gained I attribute to the men whom I had the privilege of commanding,” he said.  “They were splendid – magnificent.  Those two words convey more than I could say regarding them if I spoke for a week.  The chivalrous conduct of the Australians in France and Belgium in the way they treated and carried the burdens of the refugees was alone sufficient to earn for them the undying gratitude of the people of those war-stricken countries.  That conduct was characteristic of the Australian boys throughout the war, whether it was behind the lines or in the trenches.”  General Tivey paid a tribute to the Australian Army Nursing Service, of which there were over 2,000 members at the front.  Throughout the war they had gained a splendid reputation, not only for their professional ability, but also for their fine womanly qualities. ..............

The Argus, Sat 6 Sept 1919 (p.18):  CAPTURE OF “BIG BERTHA”.  General Tivey Tells Story.  Members of the 8th Infantry Brigade Comforts Depot, and former members of the 29th, 30th, 31st, and 32nd Battlions, filled the Masonic Hall last evening to welcome home their former commander, Major-General Tivey, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D.  The proceedings were marked by great enthusiasm, and when General Tivey, in a brief speech, sketched the history of the brigade, his remarks were loudly cheered.  The controversy as to who captured the 11in field gun now in Sydney was disposed of by General Tivey, who said that it was taken by the infantry, principally of the 31st Battalion (Queensland and Victoria), while the engineers subsequently brought it to the rear under conditions which reflected great credit upon them.

The Argus, Tue 9 Sept 1919:  MAJOR-GENERAL TIVEY.  Stock Exchange Welcome.  Major-General Tivey received a hearty welcome home from his colleagues on the Stock Exchange of Melbourne at the Stock Exchange Club yesterday afternoon.  Mr. W.J. Roberts, who presided, and Messrs A.J. Noall and H.A. Austin Embling expressed members’ admiration of the services Major-General Tivey had rendered his country, and the work Mrs Tivey had done in support of the Soldier’s Comforts Fund.  In reply, Major-General Tivey, who was enthusiastically cheered by members, said that the knowledge of the work the Stock Exchange was doing throughout the war had greatly encouraged him.  The whole-hearted work of the men and women at home had helped in no small measure to bring the war to a successful termination.  Australia had gained something from the war that one hundred years of commercialism would not have obtained for her, and that was national character.  Australia had attained the status of a nation – (cheers) – and he hoped that future generations would treasure the heritage handed down to them by the soldiers.  Since his return he had been asked if the Australians had done as much as they were represented to have done.  His answer was: “Yes, they did more.” (Cheers)  He had come back a better Australian than ever he had been.  There was no place like Australia, and no place like home. (Cheers)

Geelong Advertiser (Vic), Thur 30 Oct 1919 (p.3):  MAJOR-GEN TIVEY WELCOMED.  GEELONG WORKERS THANKED.  “It is more than gratifying to me to be welcomed in this manner by the relatives of the men whom I had the honor to command,” said Major-General E. Tivey, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., when he rose to speak at the gathering of old 8th Infantry Brigade men and their friends at the Comunn Na Feinne Hall last night.  The General received an enthusiastic reception, and prior to, and after the set programme, he and Mrs Tivey moved amongst the guests and conversed freely. .......

The Argus, Mon 20 Sept 1920:  SOLDIERS’ MEMORIAL HALL.  Major-General Tivey on Disloyalty.  As a memorial to the 45 members of the congregation who died on active service, the adherents of St Thomas’s Church of England, Essendon, have decided to erect a hall, the foundation stone of which was laid on Saturday afternoon by Major-General Tivey.  The hall will consist of club and billiard rooms for young men, and will provide space for a Sunday kindergarten.  It will probably be finished before the end of the year, and is estimated to cost approximately 2,000 pounds.  Of this amount the committee already has about 1,400 pounds in hand, and an effort will be made to add to the fund by means of a fete in the adjoining Grammar School grounds on October 16.

Major-General Tivey, in whose honour a guard was provided by cadets, paid a tribute to Australian soldiers, and said that all true Australians must be amazed at the boldness with which the spectre of sedition and disloyalty was stalking abroad.  Such was the toleration of British communities that the vapourings of the disloyal were not likely to be checked.  Yet all felt the assurance that if it came to the point of defending the integrity of the Empire, and the honour of Australia, the true Australian spirit would emerge triumphant.  Other speakers included Dean Hart, on behalf of the diocese of Melbourne; Canon J.T. Baglin, vicar; Canon Hancock, a former vicar of the parish; the Mayor of Essendon (Councillor Royle), and Councillor Kinnear.

The Argus, Thur 4 Nov 1920:  EIGHTH INFANTRY BRIGADE SOCIAL.  About two hundred former members of the 8th Infantry Brigade, A.I.F., participated in the second annual smoke-night at the Town Hall yesterday, the units principally represented being the 29th and 31st Battalions.  Major-General Tivey presided, and other officers present were Colonel Duigan, Colonel McArthur, Major Tracy, and Captain McPherson.

 

The Australian (Melb, Vic), Sat 9 Jul 1921 (p.39):  SOCIAL NOTES.  The death of Mrs Edwin Tivey, wife of Major-General Tivey, will be deeply and sincerely mourned by her relatives and many friends.  About two months ago she underwent a severe operation, and up to July 2 was under treatment at a private hospital, and at times was in a critical condition.  It was considered advisable to move her to her own home on July 2; and she stood the journey wonderfully well, but two days later she became worse, and soon after midnight on July 7 she passed away quietly and peacefully.  Her death must be a great shock to many, for, until her operation, she always appeared to be both strong and healthy.  No doubt the anxiety and stress of war years undermined her constitution, for all through the years when her husband was on active service she did splendid patriotic work, and got together and worked for a very active comforts depot for his brigade (the 8th).  She was also an active worker for her church (St John’s, Toorak), and was a member of the guild committee.  Yet another branch of work which Mrs Tivey was actively interested in is that of the free kindergarten, and her bright personality and charm of manner were factors which did much to attract the active cooperation of others.  She was the youngest daughter of the late Mr and Mrs John Robb, and she leaves two children – a girl and a boy – the elder (Violet) being barely 14 years of age.

Table Talk (Melb, Vic), Thur 29 Dec 1921 (p.33):  SOCIAL.  On December 28 Major-General E. Tivey, an old Inglewood boy, will unveil the soldiers’ memorial monument.  I t is a massive structure containing forty tons of stone in 85 pieces.  Major Forrest is also to attend.  Altogether there are 220 names on it, and the soldier which forms the top is a particularly fine piece of sculpture in Carrara marble.  At night it is lit up with four electric lights, and is considered to be one of the best outside the metropolis.

 

The Argus (Melb, Vic), Fri 14 Mar 1924 (p.17):  COUNTRY NEWS.  The divisional commander of the Australian Light Horse, Major-General E. Tivey, inspected the troops in camp at the Bendigo racecourse on Thursday.  Major-General Tivey expressed satisfaction with his visit.  Lieut. Colonel Rankin is the officer in command at the camp.

The Argus, Thur 22 May 1924:  [Photograph, captioned:]  CAVALRY CHARGE WITH DRAWN SWORDS.  Riding knee to knee in a charge, officers of the Second Cavalry Division formed a gleaming line of steel with drawn swords as they swept across the parade-ground at Broadmeadows yesterday.  The cavalry division was only recently formed and its officers and staff are now receiving instruction under Colonel M. Farr.  Major-General E. Tivey inspected the troops yesterday.

The Argus, Tue 4 Nov 1924:  8th INFANTRY BRIGADE.  The annual smoke night of the 8th Infantry Brigade A.I.F. was held in the Manchester Unity Hall last night.  The commanding officer of the brigade (Major-General E. Tivey) presided.  The reunion was attended by more than 200 officers and men of the original unit.  After the toast of “Fallen Comrades,” proposed by Major-General Tivey, the men stood at “Attention” in impressive silence.  With reference to the proposal that the story of the Great War should be omitted from State school history text books, Major-General Tivey said he was glad, if only for the sake of the noble men he had led, that the authorities had decided to abandon it.  The annual meeting of the brigade will be held at 31 Queen street, Melbourne, on November 10.

The Argus, Thur 11 Mar 1926:  [Photograph of troops and horses, captioned:]  The first cavalry training camp of the year opened at Broadmeadows yesterday in charge of Major-General Tivey.  Troops from the Alexandra district detraining at Broadmeadows station.

The Argus, Fri 9 Apr 1926:  ANZAC DAY.  Major-General Tivey’s Message.  The secretary of the Anzac Day Appeal Committee (Mr S.E. Dunslow) has received the following message from Major-General E. Tivey:  “I have not forgotten how much Australia owes to the men of the Australian Imperial Forces.  The future safety and integrity of our native land depend on the Anzac spirit, the spirit of service and sacrifice, which should be preserved and handed down to future generations of Australians.  I think everyone should wear the token on Anzac Day, not only to commemorate a great era in our history, but also to help, in some measure, the good work of the Returned Soldiers’ League.”

News (Adelaide, SA), Mon 19 Jul 1926 (p.10):  HAS NOT FORGOTTEN.  Gen Tivey Praises Battalion.  An invitation to attend the annual reunion dinner of the 32nd Battalion to be held tonight, was extended to Major-Gen E. Tivey, C.B., C.M.G., D.SO., V.D., of Melbourne.  He was formerly in charge of the 8th Brigade, of which the battalion was a unit.  He has sent the following reply: – “I received your letter and regret that I am unable to accept the kind invitation.  I shall not be able to leave Melbourne at that time.  I would like you to convey a message to the boys, with my kindest regards and best wishes.

“I have not forgotten the gallant men who fought and died at Fromelles.  In the war no soldiers were given a harder task than the men of the 32nd Battalion, who fought through that night of carnage on the left flank of the 8th Brigade.  No men could have faced the ordeal with greater courage or braver hearts.  No battalion could have ended its fighting career with a more glorious and successful operation than the 32nd Battalion at the battle of the Hindenburg Line.”

Western Mail (Perth, WA), Thur 28 Jun 1934 (p.2):  Some “Tivey’s Chocs.”  Dear “Non-Com” – My fellow “ex-Choc,” “Marginata” (from whom, by the way, I am eagerly waiting to see more on this page) recently paid a splendid tribute to Brigadier-General Tivey.  I wish to go further, and to state that the officers of the 8th Brigade were, with few exceptions, a worthy “team” to serve under the Brig’s leadership.  ...........

 

The Age (Melb, Vic), Mon 10 May 1943 (p.3):  OBITUARY.  Major E.P. Tivey.  Word has been received in Melbourne of the death in a prisoner of war camp at Bari (Italy) of Major Edwin Peter Tivey, of Melbourne.  Major Tivey was the only son of Major-General Tivey, and was associated with his father in a stock-broking business in the city before the war.  He had a seat on the Melbourne Stock Exchange.  He was educated at Melbourne Grammar School, and held a commission in the Melbourne Scottish Regiment before the war.  He enlisted in 1940, and served with the A.I.F. at Tobruk for the full eight months of the famous siege, and was mentioned in dispatches there.  He was wounded in the battle of El Alamein, and taken prisoner.  Major Tivey, who was 34 years of age, was unmarried, and is survived by his father and his sister, Miss Violet Tivey, of Kooyong-road, Toorak.

 

The Sun, Tue May 20, 1947:  DEATHS.  TIVEY – On May 19, at his home 159 Kooyong-rd, Toorak, Edwin Tivey.  In his 81st year.  No flowers by request.

FUNERAL NOTICES.  TIVEY – The funeral of the late Major-General Edwin Tivey, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., will leave his home 159 Kooyong-rd, Toorak, THIS DAY (Tuesday) at 3p.m. for the Brighton Cemetery.  (With Military Honors).  A.A. Sleight Pty Ltd.

The Age (Melb, Vic), Tue 20 May 1947 (p.3):  GENERAL OF FIRST A.I.F.  Maj-Gen Tivey Dead at 80.  Commander of the 8th Infantry Brigade and the 5th Australian Division during the first world war, Major-General Edwin Tivey, 80 years, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., died yesterday.  After being educated at Wesley College, Major-General Tivey, when 34 years of age, served as a major in the South African war, and was awarded the D.S.O. and was twice mentioned in despatches.  In the 1914-18 war, in which he was wounded and gassed, he was awarded the C.B., and C.M.G. for meritorious service and was mentioned in despatches six times.  From 1921-26, he commanded the 2nd Cavalry Division, A.M.F.

Major-General Tivey is survived by a daughter.  His only son, who was wounded at El Alamein, died in hospital in Italy in March, 1943.  As a mark of respect to the late Major-General Tivey, the afternoon call of the Stock Exchange of Melbourne was adjourned for five minutes.  The chairman (Mr R.A. Rowe) paid a tribute to Major-General Tivey, who had been a member for 45 years.  The funeral, which will be conducted with military honors, will leave his home in Kooyong-road, Toorak, at 3 p.m. to-day for Brighton Cemetery.  The Bishop of Geelong (the Rev J. McKie) will officiate.  Funeral arrangements are in the hands of A.A. Sleight Pty. Ltd.

The Herald (Melb, Vic) Tue 20 May 1947 (p.8):  Maj-Gen Tivey’s Funeral.  Senior officers of the First and Second World Wars attended the funeral this afternoon of Major-General Edwin Tivey, who died at his Toorak home yesterday, aged 80.  The remains were taken to Brighton General Cemetery on a gun carriage.  Gen. Tivey’s sword, cap and decorations rested on the coffin.

Pall-bearers were the Lieut-Governor and Chief Justice (Lt-Gen. Sir Edmund Herring), Maj-Gens. Anderson, Bridgeford and Simpson, Brig. C.E. Pryor, Brig-Gen. J.C. Stewart and Cols. J. Crombie and J.W. McArthur.  Coffin-bearers included Mr R.G. Casey.  The funeral service was conducted by Bishop McKie and the returned soldiers’ ritual by Padre H. Hammond.  A.A. Sleight Pty. Ltd. had charge of the funeral arrangements.

Inglewood Advertiser, Mon May 26, 1947:  Personal. 
Major General Edwin Tivey, CB, CMG, DSO, VD, died at his home in Toorak last week at the age of 80 years.  He served in the South African war and was commander of the 8th infantry brigade and the 5th Australian Division during the 1914-18 war.  Major General Tivey, who was born at Inglewood, was a member of Melbourne Stock Exchange for 43 years.  He is survived by a daughter.  His only son, Major E.P. Tivey, died in hospital in Italy in March 1943, following injuries received at El Alamein.  His wife died some years ago.  As a tribute of respect the flag at Inglewood Town Hall was flown at half mast.

The Argus (Melb, Vic), Tue 2 Sept 1947 (p.15):  Maj-Gen Tivey left £75,302.  Major-General Edwin Tivey, stock and share broker, late of Nauroy, Kooyong rd, Toorak, who died on May 19,1947, aged 80, left under will dated August 31, 1944, and codicil, estate in Victoria valued at £75,302, comprising £14,322 realty and £60,980 personalty.  To his daughter, Violet Tivey, he bequeathed his jewellery, furniture, other articles, and motorcars.  He also left her a life interest in the residue of his estate and property in Kooyong rd free of all debts.  To Anna Gleeson, “if she is in my employ at my death, in recognition of her long and faithful service,” he bequeathed £100.  To Ray Ohrbom, his office manager, testator left his office furniture and effects, including his typewriter and safe, but not his cutler desk or office fittings.

 

Notes:

The 8th Brigade became known as “Tivey’s Chocs” – short for “Tivey’s Chocolate Soldiers” – it was originally a put-down - given when this highly drilled brigade arrived in Egypt after the Gallipoli campaign.  [A full explanation can be found in W.H. Downing’s “Digger Dialects”]

“Tivey’s Corner” is a crossroad near Fontaine-les-Cappy, which was named after the Brigadier General, after the 8th Brigade, captured the area.  https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/E05471/

The Australian War Memorial holds a photo of Brigadier General E. Tivey with (amongst others) the Australian Prime Minister, W.M. Hughes, during his visit to the front.  Dated 14th Sept 1918, Brie, France.

AWM also has other photos, as well as photos of son, E.P.

AWM holds diaries, letters and papers (including Boer War).

Tivey had a few souvenirs shipped home in 1919:  2 German Machine Guns, 1 German Trench Mortar and 1 large German Shell Case

A portrait of Maj Tivey was presented to the Inglewood Council in 1951 by his daughter Violet – which was hung in the Inglewood Town Hall.  It was damaged by vandals in 1962.

 

 

 

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