Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Tom was the eldest of twelve children born to Mary and Arthur Northcott. He spent his childhood at Cygnet River, Kangaroo Island. After leaving school he was employed at the local newspaper office, The Courier, learning the trade of a compositor            (typesetter). Tom moved to Cowell to work in the office of The Tribune in August 1940.

Tom Northcott enlisted in the Australian Military Forces at Wayville in June 1942. Private Northcott embarked on the HMAS Katoomba from Melbourne to Pt Moresby, Papua New Guinea on 21st December 1942 (his 21st birthday). On the 7th of January 1943 he was injured in an army vehicle accident and was evacuated to Number 2/9 AGH suffering a fractured jaw and fractured skull. He died from his injuries the following day. Private Northcott is interred at the Bomana War Cemetery, Port Moresby.

According to an article in The Tribune published at the time, he was well regarded at Cowell.

Died of Injuries. (EP Tribune Thu 21 Jan 1943) 

"It was with sincere regret that word was received in Cowell on Wednesday that Pte L. C. (Tom) Northcott had died of injuries accidentally received on January 8th. whilst on active service.

The late Pte Northcott, who was 21 years of age, was born at Kingscote, Kangaroo Island. His father was a returned soldier of World War No 1, his two brothers are now serving in the forces. Tom commenced his profession as a compositor at the "Courier" office Kingscote, and in August 1940 joined the staff of The Tribune at Cowell, upon the enlistment for active service of Pte. W Reed. Although twice previously rejected he persisted and was finally accepted into the A.I.F of June last.

Possessed of a quiet, unassuming nature, Tom became very popular and made many friends during his two years' sojourn here. He was fond of sport and took an active part in cricket in particular. He was always well-behaved, conscientious and reliable, Besides his parents and other relatives of Kingscote, Tom leaves many sorrowing friends in Cowell."

Son of Arthur. Tom was employed by the Eyre's Peninsula Tribune when the newspaper was printed in Cowell. He came from Kangaroo Isalnd. Two of his brothers also enlisted.