Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Son of William James Cree and Martha Ann Cree, of Maryborough, Queensland.

PROUDLY AND LOVINGLY REMEMBERED R.I.P.

It is with deep regret that we announce the death of Gordon James, only son of Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Cree, of 39 Adelaide Lane, Maryborough, at the age of 23 years.  From information received from the naval authorities, it appears that Abel Seaman Cree was accicentally drowned whilst on active servcie with the Royal Australian Auxiliary Fleet.

Gordon Cree was born in Maryborough, and was educated at the Christian Brothers' School.  After leaving school, he was employed by Mr. J. Lewis, draper of Adelaide Street, Maryborough, and whilst there made a very wide circle of friends.  Since early youth he had a love of the sea, and was keenly interested in sailing and rowing.  He was bow of the Novice fours, which won the Malvern Star Cup at the Maryborough Rowing Club regatta in 1937.  At the outbreak of war, he joined up with the local Coastal patrol, under the command of Captain Gray.  He endeavoured to join the Royal Australian Navy, but owing to bad eyesight was rejected from that branch of the service.  He was determined, however, to go to sea, and some three years ago first sailed before the mast in such well known merchant navy steamers as the Canonbar, Alagna and Bundaleer.  At the time of his death he was quartermaster of a ship of the Royal Australian Auxiliary Fleet.

The late Gordon Cree was an Australian boy of whom his parents must indeed be proud.  His manly qualities and gentlemanly characteristics won for him many personal friends in a large part of Australia.  The keeness he displayed in his calling had ensured for him a promising future, and very sincere regret is felt at his untimely passing:

"Here he lies where he longed to be - Home is the hunter, home from the hill - And the Sailor home from the sea."