Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

"MR H. J. WELSH

Well-known business man and popular Digger of World War 1, Mr Hubert James Welsh, died in the District Hospital after a lengthy illness. General regret was expressed throughout the town and district at his death. He is thought to have been the first volunteer from Gladstone in the Great War. He was a native of Gladstone, being born on July 10, 1890, and the whole of his life was devoted to assisting fellow returned men and their organisations. He was a prominent member of Masonic lodges, being a member of Port Cur- tis Masonic Lodge, E.C. 2235, and the Royal Arch Chapter and Port Curtis Mark 882 lodges.

He was employed in the printing trade in his early years and held the position of compositor on the "Gladstone Observer" until last year when he set up business on his own account as Modern Printers. His son-in-law, Mr Colin Hesselwood, was his partner in this venture. Residents still remember his work and enthusiasm in organising patriotic functions during both wars. His wife, whom he met in England during World War 1, assisted him in this work, and also sang at many of the functions. He is survived by his wife two sons, Desmond and Norman, both in the R.A. Navy, and 3 daughters, Miriam (Mrs Hesselwood), Dorothy (Mrs G. Hanson) and Irene. The funeral took place from the Masonic Hall, Rev. G, D. Whitney officiating at the graveside..." - from the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin 14 Sep 1948 (nla.gov.au)