Obituaries Australia

William Hammond, n.d.

from Pastoral Review, May 1924

Reference was made in our last issue to the death in Sydney of Mr. William Hammond, of Afton Downs, Queensland, one of the best known of the old remaining "Westerners," where he had spent close on 40 years of his life.

Born in England, he first went to Hughenden in 1885 to Barenya Station, and later went to Afton Downs as overseer. When the manager of the latter property left, Mr. Norman Armytage appointed Mr. Hammond to the position. He carried on practically until the time of his death, and for a number of years was in partnership with Messrs. Armytage Bros. Mr. Hammond had a thorough grip of all sides of the pastoral industry, and for many years was chairman of the Flinders Shire Council. He left on a health trip to England last year, and was on his way home in February last when he was taken seriously ill in Sydney, and died there on the 18th.

The N.Q. Register says of him:—"As a manager he was exemplary, a master of detail, an admirable organiser, a rare disciplinarian, and a highly respected employer. Men stayed on 'Afton,' and when they learnt to understand 'the Boss' had a loyal affection for him. He was fair, just, and at the right time tolerant. Mr. Hammond knew and appreciated the old-time western workers. . . Gifted with originality of expression, clarity of thought, a cool head, and a fearless outlook, he was a doughty opponent in any public debate. He was so straight and above board that there was no room for subterfuge. In public and pastoral matters he was a tower of strength to the Hughenden district, for he had vision as well as courage, and the people respected him." Photo will appear next month.