Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Son of William MANN and Clara Elizabeth nee FOX, Dartford, Kent, England

Immigrated to Australia 5.5.1910.

Cannon Valley Fatality – death of Gordon Mann. “Proserpine Guardian”

Quite a gloom was cast over the community on Sunday afternoon when it became known that Gordon Mann, who was in company with others enjoying themselves at Mast Beach, near Cannon Valley, had been stung by a Portugese Man O War and had almost immediately succumbed. First aid was rendered and everything possible was done for the sufferer but without avail, he having lapsed into unconsciousness. The body was conveyed to his home, whilst Mr Hallam was dispatched to town for Dr. Turnbull, who immediately left for Mr Mann’s residence, but on arrival the doctor found that death had take place some hours previously. The deceased, who was 36 years of age, was born at Gravesend, and he was the youngest son of Mr & Mrs William Mann, who reside at Dartford, Kent, England. The late Gordon Mann arrived in Queensland 13 years ago & he worked for a short period in the Mackay & Ayr districts & about 10 years ago he came to Proserpine & commenced farming at Conway. In 1915 he enlisted for active service in the Great War, & for 4 years he did his bit in helping to keep the grand old Union Jack flying. While home in England on furlough in 1918 deceased was married. He returned to Proserpine with his wife in 1919 & commenced farming at Cannon Valley where he was making good progress. In August of last year his brother Frank, with his wife, arrived from England with the intension of going into partnership with the deceased & all arrangements in that direction were completed. Deceased was accorded a military funeral which left the hospital on Monday afternoon at 5 o’clock. The coffin was draped with the Union Jack & the Returned Soldiers marched, while the band played the “Dead March” en route to the cemetery. At the graveside the Oddfellows service was read by Mr Geo. Griffin, whilst the Church of England burial service was conducted by the Rev. Michael. Mr C. Neilson sounded “The Last Post” over the grave. Deceased was respected by all whom he came in contact with. Our sympathy goes out to the bereaved ones in the sad loss they have sustained under such tragic circumstances.

This is the third death that has taken place at Cannon Valley, under similar circumstances, during the past 12 years, & those who visit the seaside should realise the danger the exists in bathing in the open sea