Obituaries Australia

Mr. Augustine Ignatius Thomas Hewitt, who died at his home, Highfield, Glen Osmond, on Friday, was widely known and highly respected. He was born in Adelaide 52 years ago, and was educated at Christian Brothers' College. Subsequently he went with his father for a trip around the world. On his return he took up his residence at the home of his grandfather, the late Mr. Edward Drew, Highfield, and interested himself in electricity. He imported one of the first electric light plants used in the State (1898), and gave a public demonstration of its efficiency with a view to stimulating interest in the movement for the adoption of electricity in the metropolitan area. He also imported one of the first motor cars seen in Adelaide. When the goldfields of Western Australia were discovered, Mr. Hewitt and the late Capt. W. Harris (of Wallaroo Mines), Capt. Williams, and Mr. Herbert Fisher, tried their luck there, and among their successes was the unearthing of the "Joker Nugget." Mr. Hewitt did not long remain at the goldfields, and then, after having lived for two years at Perth, he returned to South Australia. In 1914 he obtained the certificate, and medallion of the St. John Ambulance Society, with a view to war service in first aid, but indifferent health prevented him from prosecuting his intention. His son, Mr. C. Austin Hewitt, enlisted and proceeded to Europe with the Flying Corps. The late Mr. Hewitt was a member of Tattersalls Club, the Commercial Travellers' Club, and the Adelaide Racing Club. He has left a widow (a daughter of the late Mr. C. Bradley, of Balhannah), one son (Mr. C. Austin Hewitt), and three daughters (Mrs. Kenihan, wife of Dr. R. L. Kenihan of Goodwood), and the Misses S. and M. Hewitt.