Obituaries Australia

News was received in Northam this week of the death in London on the 14th inst, of Mr. George Dudley Drake-Brockman, of "Beechborough," Northam. He leaves a widow and two children—a boy aged 15 now attending the Scotch College, and a little girl of 4. Mrs. Brockman and her daughter had accompanied Mr. Brockman to England. He also leaves a brother, Mr. Howden Drake-Brockman, of Corunna Downs Station, and a large number of relatives in all parts of the State. His mother was the sister of Sir Edward Stone, whilst his wife was the daughter of Mr. Edward Whitfield, of the Moore River.

The deceased gentleman was only 44 years of age. He was born and educated in England. Many years ago, in company with his brother he took up the Corunna Downs Station, 20 miles from Marble Bar, and in developing that property he spent the last 20 years of his life. He faced many hardships and dangers at the hands of natives, being speared on more than one occasion. By dint of hard work and enterprise he amassed some money, and about four years ago he went to Northam and purchased "Beechborough" and settled down to enjoy the fruits of his arduous life.

In July of last year whilst on a visit to his station Mr. Brockman was troubled by an irritation in the neck. He attributed it to a swelling of the glands, and for some time after his return did not deem it necessary to seek medical aid. In September he consulted Dr. Frost, of Northam, who, after observing the case, urged him to see Dr. Newton, of Perth. Dr. Newton declared an operation necessary, but on further examination it was found that it was too late to do anything, and Mr. Brockman's life was despaired of. As a last resort he left for London at the beginning of the year and consulted five of the leading specialists. They agreed that an operation was out of the question, and started treatment with X-rays. This, however, proved unavailing, and Mr. Brockman died.