Obituaries Australia

By the death of the late Mr. William Nowland, there passed away a stalwart scion of the sturdy race of pioneers who, so to speak, subdued the wilderness and founded settlement throughout Australia. In relating their reminiscences of the early history of the Upper Hunter old residents have much to say about the doings of the Nowland family, the members of which held prominent positions here over half a century ago, references having been made to one of them in a well-known book that purports to be a record of the old families of New South Wales. In his young days the late Mr. William Nowland was the champion horseman of the district, and many citizens whose looks are now thoroughly grey, are accustomed to relate anecdotes of his splendid physique, fine appearance, and peerless equestrianism during the years of his early manhood when the dress of an Australian horseman was as picturesque, and graceful as it was convenient and suitable for the well-being of its wearer. The subject of this brief sketch was as generous as he was fearless, and farmers who are now venerable, on "looking backward" say that 10 or more years ago no resident of Muswellbrook ever required a horse or a bullock while William Nowland was able to supply them. In recent years he lived in comparative retirement, and although upwards of 60 years of age enjoyed good health until a few months age, when he was stricken with the ailment that proved fatal to him. He was kindly natured to the end, and generally respected throughout the district. He leaves a wife and grown-up family to mourn their loss.

The funeral of the deceased took place on Friday morning at 10 o'clock, and, notwithstanding the early hour, was well attended. The interment was in the Church of England Cemetery, and the burial rites were conducted by the Rev. R. V. Noake.