A second time within the last few days Bourke has witnessed the solemn pageantry of a funeral. On Saturday last Mr. [James Benjamin] Sibraa [Sibrey] of Coolyarbor, died somewhat unexpectedly. For some time past deceased had been suffering from rheumatism, but there was every reason to anticipate his ultimate recovery. On the day mentioned, however, he became suddenly worse and expired during the afternoon, the complaint apparently extending to the heart. The news was received with general regret, Mr Sibraa being well-known for his quiet, genial and straight forward qualities. Prayers were offered on his behalf at the Catholic Church (of which he was a member) on Sunday. The funeral took place about 10 a.m. on Monday, the Rev. P. D. Treacy conducting the service; the first part of which was delivered before starting for the cemetery and the remainder at the grave. Besides the members of Mr Sibraa's family the funeral was attended by a large number of residents and friends, business places generally closing as a mark of respect. The funeral service was rendered in a most impressive manner by the officiating clergyman.
The late Mr. Sibraa had been in the district for a number of years, forming his late home at Goolyabor, on the Wanaaring road, about four years ago, taking advantage of the homestead leasing provisions of the Land Act. He leaves a fairly large family, but several of which are grown up, two of his daughters (Mrs. Connell of this town and Mrs. G. Harden junr., of Cato Creek, Brewarrina) being married.
'Sibrey, James Benjamin (1841–1892)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/sibrey-james-benjamin-24436/text33164, accessed 14 October 2024.
16 February,
1841
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory,
Australia
14 May,
1892
(aged 51)
Bourke,
New South Wales,
Australia
Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.