Obituaries Australia

It is with great regret we have to announce the death of Mr. Edward Rowland Edkins, late of Mount Cornish, who passed away at his residence in Burwood, near Sydney, on Monday last. It was known for some time that Mr. Edkins had been suffering from weakness of the heart, and his family were extremely anxious on his account. He was unable to attend the show meeting in Longreach through sickness, but at the Land Court in Barcaldine, where he gave evidence on behalf of his Company, he appeared to be in good health and excellent spirits. On Thursday last an attack of dengue fever necessitated him leaving the office and returning home. From this attack he never rallied. Mr. E. H. Edkins was in Sydney last week, but returned home on the Monday, and Messrs. Beresford and Boyd Edkins went down to Sydney, but too late to see their father before he died. The late Mr. Edkins' history is the history of this district, as he was among the first pioneers, if not the first, who brought stock on the western downs. He experienced all the dangers and vicissitudes of life in Northern Queensland when the black man far outnumbered the whites, and, with his devoted wife, faced undaunted the perils to which so many succumbed. As the country became more civilised Mr. Edkins added to his responsibilities, as manager of a large property, the duties which are demanded from all prominent men. At different times he filled all the highest positions on the Divisional Boards, Hospital Committees, and Pastoral Associations. His home at Mount Cornish, was far famed for the hospitality of host and hostess, and he was the friend and mentor of all who sought his friendship and advice. He was fair and just in all his dealings with those he employed and with those who transacted business with him. His death leaves a void not easily filled, but he left to the country the legacy of a well brought up family of sons and daughters, all of whom are worthy of their distinguished and honored parents.