Obituaries Australia

Mr. William Sands, the oldest auctioneer in the State, and Goulburn's oldest resident, died at his residence early this morning after an illness of about five weeks duration.

He was born at Glamorganshire, South Wales on October 8, 1836, and came to Australia with his parents when a boy. The family settled at Cambria Vale, near Murray's Flats, and his father also took up land near Gunning.

The late Mr. Sands married Miss Marcella Lynch Anderson, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Anderson, of, London, and later took up residence, at Cambria Villa, in Deccan street, which he built, and which is now occupied by Mr. Cecil Middleton.

About 50 years ago Mr. Sands opened business as a stock and station agent and auctioneer, in Montague-street, his sale yards being at the Argyle Yards at the rear of the old Argyle Inn. For many years he conducted sales at the yards and earned an enviable reputation for strict probity and honest dealing. He was well known and widely respected throughout the southern districts, and his death leaves a notable gap in the ranks of Australia's pioneers..

The late Mr. Sands was one of the foundation members of the Goulburn A. P. and H. Society, and attended the first show held on the present ground. He was also present at last year's show and held an unbroken record as a committeeman. Active to the last, he attended his office in Montagu, street until six weeks ago, when failing health compelled him to take to his bed.

His wife, one son and two daughters, predeceased him. He leaves three sons and five daughters: Mrs.  John Hain, Sydney; Miss A. E. Sands, Beppo-street; Mrs. J. B. Menzies, Roseville; Mrs. S. L. Furner, Manly; Mrs. H. V. Dixon,  of Hunters Hill; Mr. R. L. Sands, Cooma; Dr. S. A. Sands, Philadelphia, U.S.A.; and Mr. C. T. Sands, Goulburn.

The funeral will take place at the old Church of England cemetery at 2.30 tomorrow afternoon., leaving deceased's residence, "Marlyn," Beppo street.