The impact of the Great War on small towns

LOCAL historian Tony Ford visited Heathcote Library last week to share his research about the First World War and its impact on small country towns such as Heathcote.

Attendees enjoyed an informal discussion and learnt about a role played by McIvor Times

“There were plenty of early enlistments and townsfolk often gave soldiers a great send-off,” said Mr Ford.

“Many community organisations rallied behind the war effort and new organisations were also formed.

“The Heathcote Ladies Patriotic Guild was established by local women and worked hard to provide comforts via the Red Cross to those overseas.”

Mr Ford said the Australian Imperial Force was made up entirely of volunteers and after substantial losses at Gallipoli and on the Western Front more volunteers were needed.

“After many unsuccessful initiatives, the government held two referendums trying to get the power to be able to conscript and send people overseas.

“Like last year’s referendum, these were contentious and there was great opposition to the proposal from within Heathcote.

“The McIvor Times was unusual amongst country newspapers in that it prominently supported the NO campaign through its stories and editorial.

“In the entire Echuca electoral division of the day, which overall voted YES, Heathcote had the highest percentage of NO votes (62 per cent), of any of the 26 subdivisions.

“In March 1918, the community made special presentations to Mr E A Johnson and Mr D W Dobbin, proprietors of the McIvor Times.

“Both received wallets with cash donations enclosed in recognition of their services.”

Mr Ford said the only official role women could play in the war was as nurses in the Australian Army Nursing Service.

“By the end of the war nearly 3000 had enlisted and over 2000 had served overseas.

“On the home front, women in small towns played an important role in fundraising and making things such as scarves to send overseas.

“These were appreciated by the troops in the freezing winters.

“Through these efforts the women learnt important skills which helped them take a more significant part in community affairs in the years to come.”

Members of the clergy often had to deliver tragic news to families on too many occasions.

“Towns like Heathcote with populations of 1000-1500 often lost over 30 young men and women,” said Mr Ford.

“Many others returned physically and/or mentally wounded or ill.

“Communities did what they could, and former soldiers also gained comfort from newly established RSL Clubs.”

Participant, Fiona Hanlon, said she thoroughly enjoyed the talk and learning about the impact on Heathcote.

“Tony really brought history to life,” she said.

“It was stimulating and very entertaining.”