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Frederick Turnbull (1847–1929)

The death occurred at Ulmarra recently of Mr. Frederick Turnbull, the sole surviving son of the late Mr. George Turnbull, of Portland Head. Deceased, who was 82 years of age, spent his early life in the Hawkesbury district, and subsequently went to the Richmond River, where he was engaged for some years in the cedar industry. He settled in Ulmarra about 55 years ago, and married Miss Emma Allen, daughter of the late Mr. Charles Allen, of Richmond.

In his pioneering days, the late Mr. Turnbull suffered many adversities, and when maize-growing was the chief industry of the Clarence River district, he pulled corn when the water was up to his axle tree. For his maize he received 1/3 per bushel.

Deceased took an early interest in public affairs, and was an alderman in the Ulmarra Council for 15 years, finally retiring in 1897. He was, for many years, chairman of the Works Committee, and earned a reputation for being fearless and straightforward. He was a staunch co-operationist. On several occasions Mr. Turnbull was Mayor of Ulmarra, and showed that he possessed courage and decision and most of these qualities which go to make a leader of men.

Agricultural societies furnished the late Mr. Turnbull with one of his greatest interests in life. He was president of the Ulmarra Agricultural Society on several occasions and was one of that gallant and enthusiastic band of supporters, who helped to pull the society through those years of adversity, when it looked like going out of existence. His association with the Maclean Agricultural Society was unique, in so far as he acted as a judge at the Maclean Shows for 21 successive years. At the end of that term, the Maclean Society, under the presidency of Mr. S. A. J. Small, presented him with a gold-mounted (inscribed) walking stick. On three occasions he was a judge for the Royal Agricultural Society, and he acted as judge at many country shows.

The deceased, who was an official and loyal supporter of the local Methodist Church, closely identified himself with the various branches of Church work. He gave freely to any deserving cause, and was always most liberal in his views. He also took a keen interest in sport. Despite his 82 years his brain was very keen. He was able regularly to drive into Ulmarra to transact his business and attend committee meetings, although of late years he had been somewhat handicapped owing to leg trouble. The late Mr. Turnbull was that fine combination of public man and leader, and although his most active days were long past, his death will be keenly felt in the public life of Ulmarra.

The interment took place at the Methodist cemetery, at Ulmarra, there being a large and representative gathering of mourners. The Rev. G. A. Little, who performed the last sad rites, referred to Mr. Turnbull's useful and beautiful life, both in regard to his public and Church activities, and in his home, saying that his life was an example which others might well follow.

The late Mr. Turnbull, who was predeceased by his wife seven years ago, is survived by seven children, five sons and two daughters. The sons are Charles (Ulmarra), Garnet (Ulmarra), Hilton (Sydney), Fred (Laidley, Qld.), and Harold (North Sydney), and the daughters Stella (Ulmarra), and Mrs. W. J. Roberts (North Sydney).

Original publication

Citation details

'Turnbull, Frederick (1847–1929)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/turnbull-frederick-17246/text29030, accessed 29 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

8 January, 1847
Ebenezer, New South Wales, Australia

Death

26 October, 1929 (aged 82)
Ulmarra, New South Wales, Australia

Religious Influence

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.

Occupation
Workplaces