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Sybil Howy Irving (1897–1973)

Colonel Sybil Irving, the wartime head of the Australian Women's Army Service, died in Melbourne yesterday.

The 76-year-old colonel was described today as a "legendary figure in the Army".

In 1941 she was relieved of her executive office with the Red Cross to create and lead a women's army.

Colonel Irving was the daughter of the late General G. G. H. Irving, and was born at Victoria Barracks.

For many years she was secretary of the Girl Guides Association.

In later years she joined the Victorian Council on the Ageing and was largely responsible for establishing many elderly citizens clubs in Victoria.

Colonel Irving leaves a sister.

Original publication

Additional Resources

Citation details

'Irving, Sybil Howy (1897–1973)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/irving-sybil-howy-10591/text35226, accessed 19 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Sybil Irving, 1940s

Sybil Irving, 1940s

Australian War Memorial, 100430

Life Summary [details]

Birth

25 February, 1897
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Death

28 March, 1973 (aged 76)
South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Religious Influence

Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.

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