"THE BATTLE OF ENFIELD'"
The late 1920s in Adelaide
The city of Adelaide was founded in 1836 and was designed by Colonel William Light. By the end of 1836, South Australia's population was estimated at 839 people. (Bound for South Australia n.d.)
South Australia's first murder occurred in June 1837, at Victor Harbor, when a whaler by the name of John Driscoll was murdered by an Aboriginal man called Reppindjeri.
The South Australia Police Force was established on the 28th day of April 1838. It was under the command of Inspector Henry Inman and comprised just 10 Mounted Constables and 10 Foot Constables. The Force was formed in response to concerns about felons entering the colony of South Australia from adjoining colonies. (SA Police Historical Society 2026)
In 1840, construction commenced on Adelaide Gaol. In November 1849, while the gaol was still under construction, the first public hanging took place. (Adelaide Gaol n.d.)
By 1920, Adelaide's population had reached 43,164 people. During the period of the 'Roaring Twenties' Adelaide had a vibrant nightlife with people flocking to dance halls such as the Floating Palais on the Torrens River and the Palais de Danse on North Terrace. Motor vehicles were becoming more popular, and all of the central roads in the city were sealed with bitumen. (Adelaide History Hub 2024) (Bring Adelaide's history to colour n.d.)
Above: Hindley Street in the 1920s. Image c/o State Library South Australia [B 4475]
The prosperous years were, however, coming to an end. By 1929, Adelaide was approaching the Great Depression.
A dangerous time in the police
Policing has always been, and continues to be a dangerous profession. But the period from the mid 1920s to the mid 1930s, was a particularly dangerous time for police in South Australia.
Seven South Australian police officers were killed in the line of duty during that time. Although there were no more police killed than in other decades, there were numerous dangerous armed confrontations between police and armed offenders.
Seven South Australian police officers were killed in the line of duty during that time. Although there were no more police killed than in other decades, there were numerous dangerous armed confrontations between police and armed offenders.
The Battle of Enfield
On the morning of Friday, the 18th day of July 1930, four prisoners escaped from Yatala Labour Prison after threatening two prison guards whilst armed with firearms. They escaped in a stolen car that had been hidden near the quarry in which they had been working. The escape culminated in a shootout with police that resulted in the death of 2 of the escapees, 2 police officers being injured, and 2 civilians also being injured.
Although this dramatic incident is often referred to as 'The Battle of Enfield', none of the series of events actually occurred at Enfield.
The incident commenced at the prison at Northfield with the violent escape of the 4 escapees. They were pursued by police into the Adelaide Hills whilst driving a Whippet car and were lost near Summertown. The escapees were then sighted by police in the northeastern suburbs of Adelaide, where a pursuit took place, and shots were fired. The stolen vehicle was pursued to the suburb of Nailsworth, where a further shootout took place with Police.
Two of the escapees then commandeered a lorry at gunpoint and were involved in a further firefight with police and, in the process, were shot dead. The third escapee was taken into custody at gunpoint, while the fourth escaped.
That fourth escapee was later captured without incident, dressed as a female.
In the late 1930s, it was described as Australia's most sensational prison break.
The incident commenced at the prison at Northfield with the violent escape of the 4 escapees. They were pursued by police into the Adelaide Hills whilst driving a Whippet car and were lost near Summertown. The escapees were then sighted by police in the northeastern suburbs of Adelaide, where a pursuit took place, and shots were fired. The stolen vehicle was pursued to the suburb of Nailsworth, where a further shootout took place with Police.
Two of the escapees then commandeered a lorry at gunpoint and were involved in a further firefight with police and, in the process, were shot dead. The third escapee was taken into custody at gunpoint, while the fourth escaped.
That fourth escapee was later captured without incident, dressed as a female.
In the late 1930s, it was described as Australia's most sensational prison break.
Who were the prisoners involved in the escape?
The prisoners were Arthur Harold Harrison, aged 27, John Eustace Newchurch, aged 27, Joseph Dawson, aged 27, and William Henry Hayes, aged 32. (1930 Two Armed Convicts) (1930 Why William Hayes Escaped)
Arthur Harold Harrison
On the 6th day of December 1929, Arthur Harold Harrison was found guilty before a jury of burglary and larceny. On the 20th day of December 1929, he was sentenced by the Honorable Mr Justice Piper to a term of imprisonment of 3 years' hard labor. (1930 Observer) (1930 Two Armed Convicts) (SA Police 1930)
Above: Image c/o State Records of South Australia
John Eustace Newchurch
John Eustace Newchurch had previously escaped from custody at Yatala on the 26th January 1930, with another man, Francis John Wood. Newchurch was captured the following day. (1930 Observer)
Above: John Newchurch. Image c/o The News, Fri 18 Jul 1930, Trove
On the 3rd day of March 1930, Newchurch pleaded guilty to a charge of Larceny and not guilty to a charge of escaping from legal custody. On the 6th day of March 1930, he altered his plea to guilty. On the 17th day of March 1930, before Honourable Mr Justice Richards, Newchurch was sentenced to 6 calendar months' imprisonment for escaping, and one year's imprisonment for Larceny. (1930 Observer) (1930 Two Armed Convicts) (SA Police 1930)
Joseph Dawson
Joseph Dawson was serving a sentence of 8 years' imprisonment for robbery under arms. (1930 Observer)
Above: Joseph Dawson. Image c/o the Observer, Adelaide, Thu 24 Jul 1930. Image c/o Trove
William Henry Hayes
Hayes was serving a sentence of 8 years' imprisonment for robbery under arms and a further 2 years for receiving stolen property. (1930 Observer)
Yatala Labour Prison
Yatala Labour Prison is located in the inner northern suburb of Northfield, South Australia. It continues to operate in South Australia, housing male-only high- to medium-security prisoners. (Services 2021)
Yatala was originally called The Stockade and the Dry Creek Labour Prison. It was established in 1854. (Services 2021) (State 2023)
Above: Yatala Labour Prison, c. 1929. Image c/o State Library South Australia [BRG 397/2/56/2]
Prison guard Berg threatened with frearms
Harrison, Newchurch, Dawson, and Hayes, were among a gang of 27 prisoners working in No. 1 quarry on the extreme eastern side of the prison. They were marched from the prison at about 8.15 a.m. arriving at the quarry about 8.45 a.m. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
August Berg was a prison guard at Yatala Labor Prison. He provided a statement to Police in which he stated at about 9.00 a.m. on the 18th day of July 1930, he was in charge of No. 1 gang in No. 1 quarry at the prison. He saw the prisoner Dawson running up the side of the quarry adjacent to No. 4 outpost and ordered him to stop. He stated that immediately the prisoners Hayes and Harrison, who were armed with guns, ordered him to keep quiet or they would shoot him. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Above: August Berg. Image c/o The News, Fri 18 Jul 1930. Trove
He ordered Hayes and Harrison to put their firearms down, but they told him to keep quiet or they would shoot him. Berg stated that Harrison then left, but Hayes kept him covered with a firearm, threatening to shoot him if he raised an alarm. Berg stated that Hayes then ran off up the side of the quarry. He then raised the alarm. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Berg stated that he then saw Newchurch, Dawes, Hayes and Harrison with prison guard Strawson outside the prison enclosure. He states that he then heard the sound of a bullet passing through the air and saw a motor car drive away. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Prison guard Strawson taken hostage
Edwin Thomas Strawson was a prison guard at Yatala. He provided a statement to Police, in which he stated he was on No. 2 outpost when Harrison and Dawson came up from behind in his sentry box, armed with firearms. They ordered him to drop his firearm and made threats which included 'I'll blow your bloody head off.' (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Strawson stated they took his rifle and then ordered him down to the creek and through the barbed wire floodgates. He states that Hayes fired his rifle into the quarry. Strawson stated that Dawson then drove a motor vehicle out of Westphal Quarries along a rarely used road on the prison's eastern boundary. Strawson had been ordered to stand on the running board with his hands up. It is believed they did this to shield them from the possible gunfire of other prison guards. (1930 Observer) (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Strawson stated they took his rifle and then ordered him down to the creek and through the barbed wire floodgates. He states that Hayes fired his rifle into the quarry. Strawson stated that Dawson then drove a motor vehicle out of Westphal Quarries along a rarely used road on the prison's eastern boundary. Strawson had been ordered to stand on the running board with his hands up. It is believed they did this to shield them from the possible gunfire of other prison guards. (1930 Observer) (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
The escapees drove to Junction Road and turned east toward the Main North East Road. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Upon reaching the road, Strawson states that Hayes said, 'We have everything to gain and nothing to lose.' Stawson believed that Hayes wanted to 'finish him off.' Harrison, however, prevented Hayes from shooting him. After travelling for about a mile, Strawson states he was told to jump off the vehicle while it was still moving. Strawson did so, and was uninjured. He was then picked up by the Superintendent. (1930 Two Armed Escaped Convicts) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
The get away car
The vehicle used by the escapees was a Whippet. They were a small vehicle manufactured by a USA company, Willys-Overland Motors. (Wikipedia 2026)
Above: the stolen Whippet car. Observer, Thu 24 Jul 1930. Image c/o Trove
The blue coloured Whippet had been stolen from a garage at Rose Terrace, Wayville, between 10.00 p.m. on Thursday the 17th day of July and 7.00 a.m. on Friday the 18th day of July 1930. The vehicle's owner was Mr. J. Jackett. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Above: Rose Terrace, Wayville. Image from 1936 Gregory's Street Directory. Image c/o State Library South Australia
The vehicle had been hidden in the quarry on the property of Mr. C.J. Westphal. It was visible from the road but was hidden from the prison guards by a large boxthorn bush. From the tracks made by the Whippet, it was apparent that the vehicle was driven to and hidden in the quarry shortly before daybreak on the morning of the escape. Wheeltracks at the scene indicated that the vehicle had been turned around and left in a position to be driven away. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Above: The scene of the escape. The Register, Sat Jul 19, 1930. Image c/o Trove
The tracks of the car showed that before entering the quarry, it crossed Junction Road (now known as Grand Junction Road) and across to Williams Road (now Fosters Road). Heavy rain had fallen that night, and it was asserted that had the Whippet been parked in the quarry all night, the tracks would have been washed away. It was presumed that the Whippet had been parked in the quarry not long before the escape, and that a second vehicle had been used to drive away in. (Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Headed to the Adelaide Hills
After prison guard Strawson was ordered off the running boards of the vehicle, the escapees travelled up Hope Valley Road to Gorge Road. Two men working on Hope Valley Road reported that the car almost overturned due to its manner of driving. They were closely pursued by Detectives through Highbury, Paracombe and Tweedvale, to Summertown in the Adelaide Hills, where the vehicle was lost. (1930 Observer) (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Later that morning, Police received information that the escapees in the stolen vehicle had been sighted at Summertown in the Adelaide Hills. Mr. R.E. Matthews, who operated the Summertown store, stated that the vehicle pulled up between his store and the hotel. One male alighted from the vehicle and entered the store, asking Mrs. Matthews where the local member of Parliament lived. The men in the vehicle then drove off. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Above: Map showing the location of Summertown in the Adelaide Hills, Map c/o Google Maps
Constable H.V. Armstrong spoke with Mr Matthews and instructed him not to supply petrol to any travellers in a blue sedan. He conducted a search of the area, but failed to locate the men or the vehicle. Detective Correll and other police officers also conducted a search of the area but did not locate the Whippet. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts)
Above: part of an article from The News, Fri 18 Jul 1930. Image c/o Trove
Shots fired at Police
The four men then drove back into the city. Constable William Lancelot Dohoney of Payneham Police Station was travelling along Wellington Road, Payneham, when he sighted the blue Whippet travelling towards him. Constable Dohoney stated that he recognised one of the occupants as Newchurch, seated in the back seat. He followed the car onto Nelson Street and then Payneham Road. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Above: The route of the Whippet vehicle when first sighted by Constable Dohoney. Image c/o 1937 Fullers Street Directory
Constable Dohoney stated that he drove down Albert Street and came out onto Payneham Road near Payne's Chaff Mill and saw the blue car travelling towards him in the direction of Adelaide. As the car passed him he confirmed that Newchurch was in the vehicle. (South Australia Police 1930)
Constable Dohoney states that he followed the vehicle, which increased its speed to about 'forty miles an hour ', and when hear the Avenues Hotel, the vehicle turned onto Walkerville Road. Dohoney went to the St Peters Police Station and collected Foot Constables Hughes and Hull, and headed in the direction the blue vehicle was last seen. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Dohoney, Hughes, and Hull drove along Walkerville Road and as they passed the Walkerville Bridge they sighted the car on Stephen Terrace passing the Walkerville School. (South Australia Police 1930)
Above: Map showing the Walkerville Bridge and Stephen Street. Image c/o 1937 Fullers Street Directory
They followed the car into California Street, Nailsworth. When they were in close proximity to the vehicle, Foot Constable Hull called on the vehicle to stop. It continued along California Street, at which time Hughes fired a shot. Newchurch then pointed a firearm in the direction of the police car and fired several shots. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Constable Mohoney stated that at least four shots struck the police vehicle and resulted in a punctured tyre on the rear of the police car. However, the police continued to pursue the escapees on California Street until the escapees crashed the car into a fence on California Street. This resulted in a flat tyre on their vehicle, but they continued until crashing into a fence on Main North Road. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
The four escapees alighted from the car and ran through the home of Mrs. H Mattiske and over a fence into the Nailsworth Primary School. Constable Dohoney stated that Newchurch fired at him from a rifle. One of the school rooms was peppered with bullets which contained two school boys. Fortunately, the majority of the school children were at sports at the time at Prospect Oval. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
In July 1930, a letter was received by Mr Slee of Kimba from his daughter who was a student at Nailsworth School. In the letter she stated "The convicts were in the school-yard and bullets were flying everywhere. All the children went upstairs and locked the entrance to the staircase...." (1930 Escaped Convicts)
Constable Dohoney stated that he was then confronted by Newchurch and Dawson. Newchurch stated "Stand back you bloody fucking bastard. I will blow your fucking guts out ' and he then fired two more shots in the direction of Constable Dohoney. Newchurch and Dawson were then joined by Hayes and Harrison and they ran to the school gate where they stopped. Dawson then turned to face Constable Dohoney and fired a shot from a sawn-off shotgun. This was followed by another shot fired by Newchurch. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Constable Dohoney stated the four men then crossed Thomas Street and went into the shed on Gill's property where they jumped onto a truck. Constable Dohoney states that further shots were fired at him. He stated that he saw other police in the vicinity and heard 'a lot of shooting'. He then saw two of the escapees on the truck travelling south towards Adelaide, with Police following, shooting at the men. He saw Newchurch fall from the truck and Harrison, who appeared to be dead. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Headed off in three different directions
The four men then split up, with Hayes jumping a fence and heading towards California Street, while Newchurch and Harrison ran in the opposite direction into the backyard of a home occupied by Mr John Edward Gill at 2 Thomas Street, Nailsworth. (1930 Observer)
Hayes leaves on a bicycle
Hayes gave evidence that after the car crashed at Nailsworth, he ran down a lane and jumped about 8 to 10 fences. He stated that he reached a house with a shed in the backyard, and that the shed contained a bicycle. He gave evidence that he rode away on the bicycle. (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Escapees attempt to start a car
The escapees attempted to leave the area in a car. Mrs Gill left her home and walked to her car and was confronted by Newchurch armed with a gun. Fortunately, they caused her no harm, alighted from the car and ran to a lorry behind Mr Gill's workshop. (1930 Observer)
Mr. Gill shot and wounded
Mr. John Edward Gill of 2 Thomas Street, Nailsworth, provided a statement to the police. He stated that at about 2.00 p.m. he was at his home in Thomas Street, Nailsworth, when he heard on the 'wireless' the reports of the escapees. He stated that he went to the door on the western side of his home and saw people running along Thomas Street towards Main North Road. Gill stated that he followed the people along Thomas Street and then towards his plumbing business on Main North Road. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Gill further stated that when he reached his business, he saw some men at his lorry attempting to start it. One of the men had a sawn-off shotgun. He realised something was wrong and grappled with the armed male and then had another firearm pointed at him by another male believed to be Newchurch. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Gill states that he let go of the gun and retreated to the gate at the side of the shop on Main North Road. He then heard a gunshot and 'felt a jar' on his left heel. He returned to his home in Thomas Street and found that he was bleeding. Gill states he bathed his foot and later mentioned to police that he had a hole in the heel of his foot. Gill states that a pellet was removed from his heel by Dr Dunstan at St John's Private Hospital, Wilcox Street, Prospect. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Gill further stated that when he reached his business, he saw some men at his lorry attempting to start it. One of the men had a sawn-off shotgun. He realised something was wrong and grappled with the armed male and then had another firearm pointed at him by another male believed to be Newchurch. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Gill states that he let go of the gun and retreated to the gate at the side of the shop on Main North Road. He then heard a gunshot and 'felt a jar' on his left heel. He returned to his home in Thomas Street and found that he was bleeding. Gill states he bathed his foot and later mentioned to police that he had a hole in the heel of his foot. Gill states that a pellet was removed from his heel by Dr Dunstan at St John's Private Hospital, Wilcox Street, Prospect. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
The men drove out of Gill's workshop, carrying away a heavy workbench attached to it. They crashed the lorry through a fence, with the lorry stalling in a lane beside Mr Gill's house. Harrison and Newchurch then ran from the lorry. (1930 Observer)
Attempted murder of Plain Clothes Constable Delderfield
Whilst in the yard of Mr. Gill, the three men were confronted by Detective Sergeant McMahon, Detective Trestrail, and Detective Delderfield. Police exchanged gunfire with the three escapees. (1930 Observer)
Driver of 'Lorry' taken hostage
Newchurch and Harrison then forced a lorry being driven along Main North Road to stop. The truck belonged to the District Council of Prospect and was loaded with screenings. It was being driven by Mr William Ross Menadue, of 3 First Avenue, Sefton Park. The lorry contained one passenger, Mr Thomas James. (1930 Observer) (South Australia Police 1930)
Menadue provided a statement to police. He stated that at about 2.30 p.m. he was driving the lorry south on Main North Road, Prospect, and as he approached Gill's Plumber's shop he saw several people and motor cars congregated in the vicinity of Gill's shop. He stated at the same time he heard reports of firearms and when in front of Gill's shop he heard someone call out 'Here they come.' (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Menadue stated he then saw two men run out of the side entrance of Gill's yard carrying firearms. He stated the men climbed up into the lorry and Newchurch placed his gun towards his ribs and stated, "We are escaped convicts.' Newchurch then pointed his gun at Menadue's head and said "I will shoot you if you don't drive on, drive like hell, or I will blow your brains out." (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Menadue states that the men fired several shots at the police and the police were firing back. Menadue then grappled with Newchurch while he was reloading his firearm. Menadue states he then jumped off the lorry and crouched down. He then received gunshot wounds to his right leg and the top of his head from shots fired by the police. He was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital for treatment. (1930 Observer) (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Above: the Lorry used by the escapees. Image c/o the Observer, Thu 24 Jul 1930. Image c/o Trove
Shootout - Harrison & Newchurch killed
Several Motor Traffic Constables (MTC's) with a motorcycle and sidecar were dispatched to the area.
This included MTC William Clift Chambers who was in company with MTC Thomas Cooper, MTC Albert William Jonathan Thompson who was in company with MTC Ernest Budgen, MTC Frank Varley in company with MTC Percy Edgumbe Holloway, and MTC William Roy Denison in company with MTC Waters. (South Australia Police 1930)
MTC Chambers stated he was riding a police motorcycle with MTC Cooper in the sidecar. MTC Chambers stated that as he arrived in Thomas Street, he heard the discharging of a 12-gauge shotgun, a rifle and other smaller calibre firearms. He then saw the lorry and Menadue crouching down with an obvious wound to his head. The lorry drove off, and a gun was discharged from the front of the lorry. MTC Chambers stated that he jumped onto a police motorcycle and gave chase with MTC Thompson. (South Australia Police 1930)
MTC Chambers stated that as they approached the rear of the lorry, Newchurch fired a shotgun in their direction. Chambers states he then fired a shot from his automatic pistol which smashed the windscreen of the lorry. He further stated that he fired a further six shots into the cowl of the lorry.
MTC Chambers states that there were several other MTCs around the lorry and multiple shots were being fired by police at the lorry. Constable Denison, in company with MTC Walters, passed the lorry, driving in front of it and forcing it to a stop. MTC Holloway jumped onto the rear of the lorry
Motor Traffic Constable Albert William Jonathan Thompson was with Motor Traffic Constable Budgen. They observed Newchurch menacing the driver with a sawn-off shotgun. They levelled their police pistols and ordered Harrison and Newchurch to stop. The escapees then fired at police, who took cover and returned fire.
MTC Thompson ran towards the Adelaide Meat Store and was fired upon by Newchurch, which shattered the front window of the shop. It was reported that more than 20 bullets penetrated the window of the meat store, where several people had taken refuge. (1930 Observer)
MTC Thompson ran towards the Adelaide Meat Store and was fired upon by Newchurch, which shattered the front window of the shop. It was reported that more than 20 bullets penetrated the window of the meat store, where several people had taken refuge. (1930 Observer)
Motor Traffic Constable Varley, riding a police motorcycle and sidecar outfit with MTC Holloway in the sidecar, had been sent to the area. They were fired upon by Newchurch with police returning fire. MTC Varley was struck in the knee.
The stolen lorry belonging to the Prospect Council was driven down Main North Road towards Adelaide by Harrison. Newchurch was seated alongside of him.
MTC Holloway climbed onto the rear of the lorry while it was still moving, and climbed over the screenings. Holloway pointed his pistol at Harrison and ordered him to stop. Harrison was armed with a sawn-off shotgun and disregarded the police order and discharged his firearm. Holloway then discharged his police pistol, which struck Harrison.
Holloway then turned towards Newchurch, who pointed a rifle at him. Holloway then discharged his police firearm.
MTC Dennison then climbed onto the lorry and brought it to a stop.
Holloway then turned towards Newchurch, who pointed a rifle at him. Holloway then discharged his police firearm.
MTC Dennison then climbed onto the lorry and brought it to a stop.
The Adelaide Meat Store, the location where Harrison and Newchurch were shot. The Register, Sat July 19, 1930. Image c/o Trove
Wounding of Constable Ruwoldt
During the shootout in the vicinity of the Adelaide Meat Store, Motor Traffic Constable Walter Ludwig Ruwoldt was struck by bullets in the arms and wrist. About 7 pellets lodged in his leather coat. (1930 Two Armed Convicts Shot Dead)
Capture of Dawson
Dawson was in the sights of the rifles of Constables Budgeon and Lee, and as a result he surrendered, throwing down his gun. He was found in possession of a belt containing 40 rounds of ammunition and a file. (1930 Observer)
Dawson punched
As Dawson was being escorted to a police vehicle, a civilian rushed up and struck Dawson. (1930 Attempted Murder)
Harrison and Newchurch taken to the morgue
Detective Frederick William Ferguson, stationed at Adelaide, stated that at about 2.30 p.m. he saw both of the deceased lying on the footpath on Main North Road, Enfield. He conveyed them in the police van to the Adelaide Hospital, where they were declared deceased. They were then taken to the City Morgue. Detective Ferguson states that he conducted a search of both deceased and found 20 cartridges on Newchurch and 17 cartridges in Harrison's pockets. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Sightings of Hayes in the northeast suburbs
Late on Friday afternoon, at about 5.00 p.m. a report was received that a man had been seen leaving a vacant house in California Street, Prospect, armed with a firearm. Police conducted a search of the area but did not locate anyone. (1930 Observer)
Later that afternoon, reports were received that a man carrying a sawn-off shotgun had been seen at Paynenham and St Peters. A police search again failed to locate anyone. (1930 Observer)
That evening, police received information that Hayes was at various houses in the West End of Adelaide. Several searches were carried out until he was found in Wright Street. (1930 Observer)
Later that afternoon, reports were received that a man carrying a sawn-off shotgun had been seen at Paynenham and St Peters. A police search again failed to locate anyone. (1930 Observer)
That evening, police received information that Hayes was at various houses in the West End of Adelaide. Several searches were carried out until he was found in Wright Street. (1930 Observer)
Hayes captured dressed as a woman
At about 9.30 p.m. on Friday evening, William Hayes was captured in a house in Chatham Street, off Wright Street, Adelaide. Detectives Copp, Bourke, Lindsay, and Plain Clothes Constable Phin surrounded the house and, upon entering, found Hayes reclining on a bed, smoking. He was arrested without a struggle. (1930 Observer) (SA Police Gazette Jul 1930)
Hayes was disguised as a woman and had his face powdered. The Observer newspaper reported on the 'scantiness of his clothing.' (1930 Observer)
As he was being handcuffed by Detective Phinn, it is reported that Hayes said, 'It is your win this time, boys.' He was then taken to the City Watchhouse. (1930 Observer)
Hayes was disguised as a woman and had his face powdered. The Observer newspaper reported on the 'scantiness of his clothing.' (1930 Observer)
As he was being handcuffed by Detective Phinn, it is reported that Hayes said, 'It is your win this time, boys.' He was then taken to the City Watchhouse. (1930 Observer)
Above: part of an article from the Observer, Adelaide, Thu 24 Jul 1930. Image c/o Trove
Whilst being charged at the City Watchhouse, Hayes abused the police for 'treating a member of the fair sex with rank discourtesy' and stated, 'Remember, I'm a woman, boys.' (1930 Observer)
Above: Item from the SA Police Gazette, Aug 13, 1930
Arrest of harbourer
Later that evening, Detectives Copp, Bourke, and Lindsay, and Plain Clothes Constable Phin, returned to the house and arrested a male, Frederick Carl 'Charles' Goetsch, 42 years old, for harbouring Hayes. As Police arrived, it was alleged that the male was attempting to dispose of a sawn-off shotgun that Hayes had had earlier in the day. (1930 Observer) (1930 Why William Hayes Escaped) (SA Police Gazette Jul 1930)
Above: Entry in the South Australia Police Gazette, July 30, 1930
Lingerie in court
Hayes was brought before the Adelaide Police Court on Saturday the 19th day of July 1930. Although this was a serious occasion, Hayes, with his face painted, grinned as he walked into the courtroom. Laughter then broke out in the courtroom when his attire became apparent. Hayes was wearing pale coloured stockings and no shoes, and a white straw hat that was ornamented with blossoms. He wore a black braided coat, and beneath he wore a thin frock of white material with grey stripes, with a low-cut neck. (1930 Observer)
The dress he was wearing was not long enough to cover the lingerie he was wearing beneath. The court orderly was forced to suppress laughter at the sight of Hayes' pink garters and undergarments. (1930 Observer)
The dress he was wearing was not long enough to cover the lingerie he was wearing beneath. The court orderly was forced to suppress laughter at the sight of Hayes' pink garters and undergarments. (1930 Observer)
Dawson, however, was wearing drab prison garb. Both he and Hayes were remanded. (1930 Observer)
Charles Goetsch also appeared and was remanded until Wednesday 23rd July 1930, and was allowed bail on a bond of £100 and two sureties of £50. (1930 Observer)
Charles Goetsch also appeared and was remanded until Wednesday 23rd July 1930, and was allowed bail on a bond of £100 and two sureties of £50. (1930 Observer)
Post Mortems
On the 19th day of July 1930, a post-mortem examination was conducted on Harrison at the City Morgue, Adelaide, by Arthur Francis Lynch, a Legally Qualified Medical Practitioner. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Dr Lynch found that Harrison's upper lip was split and there was a perforating wound 'about three-quarters of an inch long in the midline of the front of chest between the first and second ribs'. He found a punctured wound on the outside of the left hip and inner side of the left thigh. He also found two small perforating wounds on the back, one at the point of the right shoulder blade, and another in the small of the back. There was another perforating wound in the rear of the right calf, from which a bullet was recovered. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Dr Lynch also found that both sides of the chest cavities contained a large quantity of blood. He found perforating wounds in the upper lobes of each of Harrison's lungs, and that the great vessel leading from the heart was perforated. (South Australia Police 1930)
He concluded that 'death was due to the ijuries - bullet wounds of lungs and large blood vessels causing large haemorrhages'. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
On the 19th day of July 1930, a post-mortem examination was also conducted on Newchurch by Dr. Lynch at the City Morgue, Adelaide. He found a small perforation on the outer side of the right upper arm extending into the chest. He found that both sides of the chest cavity contained a large quantity of blood due to perforating wounds of both lungs and large blood vessels of the heart. (South Australia Police 1930)
Dr Lynch reported that there was a perforating wound in the right side of the chest on its inner surface, with a corresponding wound on the inside of the left chest wall. (South Australia Police 1930)
Dr Lynch concluded that a bullet had entered through the right upper arm, passing through both lungs and blood vessels of the heart, and had buried itself in the muscles covering the left chest wall. His opinion was that death was caused by the injuries described. (SA Police 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Why did Hayes escape?
Hayes, Dawson, and Goetsch appeared in the Adelaide Police Court on Wednesday, the 23rd day of July 1930, before Mr. E.M. Sabine Police Magistrate. Evidence was given that en route to the Watch House, Hayes had stated his reason for escaping from Yatala was to 'give the place a little publicity.' (1930 Why William Hayes Escaped)
He stated that he wanted to show the public 'the dreadful manner in which prisoners are being treated.'
Funeral of Harrison & Newchurch
On Monday afternoon, the 21st day of July 1930, Harrison and Newchurch were buried at West Terrace Cemetery, Adelaide in adjoining graves. Rev. A.E. Kain, Anglican Chaplain from the prison, officiated. (1930 The News)
Above: Article from The News, Mon 21 Jul 1930. Image c/o Trove
Above: at the West Terrace Cemetery. The Observer, Thu 24 July 1930. Image c/o Trove
Commital proceedings
On Wednesday, the 23rd day of July 1930, committal proceedings commenced in the Adelaide Police Court against William Henry Hayes and Joseph Dawson. They were each committed for trial on a charge of having escaped from Yatala Prison. Charles Goestch also appeared, committed ona charge of having harboured Hayes knowing that he had escaped. (1930 Haves Says) (SA Police Gazette Jul 1930)
They were also charged with attempted murder, but they were remanded on those charges until the 31st day of July 1930, due to one of the principal witnesses being ill. (1930 Haves Says)
Dawson was the first to be charged. He listened intently to proceedings and clasped his hands. (1930 Have Says)
Hayes and Goetsch then appeared in the dock. Hayes asked for a paper and pencil. He also demanded on several occasions to tell the court why he had escaped. The Magistrate became quite agitated with Hayes and told him that he was not interested. (1930 Have Says)
Evidence was given by prison guards August Berg and Edwin Thomas Strawson. Motor Traffic Constable F.H. Lee also gave evidence on the arrest of Hayes. Plain Clothes Constable A.A. Phin gave evidence that Hayes had stated his reason for escaping was that he wanted to 'show the dreadful manner in which prisoners are being treated' at Yatala. (1930 Have Says)
Amy Johnson, an Aboriginal woman, gave evidence that at about 5.30 p.m. on the 18th day of July, she went to Carl Goetsch's home in Chatham Street. Johnson gave evidence that she saw Hayes in the house dressed as a woman, and she saw prison clothes being burnt in the house. (1930 Have Says)
Police report
Detective Sergeant McMahon, Detective Trestrail, and Plainclothes Constable V.V. Kennedy prepared a report on the circumstances of the deaths. (1930 The News)
Prison enquiry
Mr H.E Whittle, the Controller of Prisons, conducted an enquiry into the escape. (1930 Observer)
At the time of the escape, Yatala housed about 298 prisoners. Records indicated that the daily average was 213 prisoners and that more than 50% of those at Yatala were born outside of South Australia. (1930 Observer)
The smuggling of the stolen car and firearms onto prison property was not the first time that dangerous items had been brought into Yatala. During the preceding Annual Report, it was revealed that a large parcel of gelignite with detonators had been smuggled into the prison in a bag of chips. (1930 Observer)
Inquest
During the 1930s in South Australia, a coronial inquest was an official judicial investigation into the cause and circumstances of a death. Coronial inquests were not criminal trials. Their purpose was to establish who died, how they died, when and where they died, and whether the circumstances of the death required further action.
Police reported all deaths to the Coroner, and it was following an examination of the police information that the Coroner decided whether a formal inquest was required. (State 2023)
Police reported all deaths to the Coroner, and it was following an examination of the police information that the Coroner decided whether a formal inquest was required. (State 2023)
Unfortunately, inquest files in South Australia for the period 1877 to 1930 were authorised for pulping during the Second World War as part of the war effort. Paper was a valuable wartime resource, and governments were under pressure to conserve resources and recover waste paper. (State 2023)
On Thursday, the 31st day of July 1930, an inquest was held into the death of Harrison. The report tendered to the Coroner was prepared by Plain Clothes Constable Victor Valentine Kennedy on the 22nd day of July 1930. He held the position of Constable to the City Coroner and had been a policeman for about 18 years. Kennedy had been appointed the President of the South Australia Police Association in January 1929. (South Australia Police 1930)
Above: Constable Kennedy. Image c/o The News, Fri 11 Jan 1929. Image c/o Trove
The inquest was held in the Industrial Court, King WIlliam Street, Adelaide, before Mr Henry Mortimer Muirhead, S.M. Mr William Charles Gillespie from the Crown Law Department appeared in court to assist the Coroner. Detective Harold Strangway of the Criminal Investigation Branch appeared on behalf of the police force. (1930 Death of Convict) (1930 Yatala Escapees) (South Australia Police 1930) (State Library n.d.)
Above: Henry Muirhead. Image c/o State Library South Australia [B 6856]
Several police officers gave evidence, including Constable Dohoney, Motor Traffic Constable Albert W.J. Thompson, and Motor Traffic Constable W.C. Chambers. (1930 Death of Convict)
Prison guards August Berg and Edwin Strawson also gave evidence. William Menadue gave evidence with Mr Muirhead congratulating him on the part he played, stating that he kept his nerve and displayed courage. (1930 Death of Convict)
Dr Arthur Francis Lynch of Brighton gave evidence that he performed a postmortem examination of the body of Harrison. He stated that death was due to injuries and bullet wounds in a lung and large blood vessels, causing haemorrhage. He stated that 5 bullets had struck Harrison. (1930 Death of Convict)
Prison guards August Berg and Edwin Strawson also gave evidence. William Menadue gave evidence with Mr Muirhead congratulating him on the part he played, stating that he kept his nerve and displayed courage. (1930 Death of Convict)
Dr Arthur Francis Lynch of Brighton gave evidence that he performed a postmortem examination of the body of Harrison. He stated that death was due to injuries and bullet wounds in a lung and large blood vessels, causing haemorrhage. He stated that 5 bullets had struck Harrison. (1930 Death of Convict)
Mr Muirhead stated that the evidence showed that Constables Hughes, Thompson, Chambers, Budgen, Cooper, Walters, and Holloway fired one or more shots during the incident. However, the evidence did not enable him to establish who had fired the fatal shot. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch)
The Coroner stated that Harrison maliciously, violently and feloniously resisted the constables and was killed in the struggle. He stated that Harrison's duty was to surrender himself quietly to justice and that he had ample opportunities of doing so. Mr Muirhead stated that Newchurch exhibited a careless disregard for the life and safety of police and private individuals. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch)
Mr Murihead returned a finding that the killing of Harrison was justifiable homicide. (1930 Yatala Escapees)
The inquest then followed into the death of John Eustace Newchurch. It was held on Friday, the 1st day of August 1930, before Mr Muirhead. Present in the court was the grandfather of Newchurch, Mr Alfred Spender of Point McLeay Mission Station. Mr K.J. Healy of the Crown Law Department appeared to assist the Coroner. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Dr. Lynch gave evidence that in his opinion, Newchurch had his right arm in a semi-raised position at the time of being shot. There was some evidence to suggest that after Harrison had been shot dead, Newchurch indicated he wished to surrender. Police who were close to Newchurch refrained from shooting, but Police to the rear of the lorry could not see or hear what was occurring. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch)
The Coroner gave evidence that Newchurch sustained one wound and that most likely caused rapid death. He found that Newchurch came to his death from injuries caused by a bullet fired by either Constable Thompson, Chambers, Budgen, Cooper, Walters, or Holloway. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch)
The Coroner gave evidence that Newchurch sustained one wound and that most likely caused rapid death. He found that Newchurch came to his death from injuries caused by a bullet fired by either Constable Thompson, Chambers, Budgen, Cooper, Walters, or Holloway. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch)
Mr Muirhead returned a finding that the killing of Harrison was, in the circumstances described in evidence, homicide for the advancement of public justice. (1930 Inquest on Newchurch) (1930 The Yatala Sensation)
Mr Muirhead paid tribute to the courage and discretion of the police officers involved in the shooting. (1930 Yatala Escapees)
Above: article from The Kadina and Wallaroo Times, Sat 2 Aug 1930. Image c/o Trove
Above: Item from the SA Police Gazette, 6th August 1930
Above: Item from the SA Police Gazette, 6th August 1930
Adelaide Police Court appearance
On the day of August 1930, Hayes and Dawson appeared in the Adelaide Police Court. The Police Prosecutor was Mr Lenthall. Neither man was represented by counsel, and they conducted cross-examination of several witnesses including Constable Hull and Constable Delderfield. (1930 Hayes and Dawson for Trial)
Hayes also asked the Magistrate if he could place an advertisement in a newspaper seeking a man who he had spoken to in Chapel Street on the afternoon of the incident. The Magistrate asked Hayes to get a friend to place the advertisement for half a crown. Hayes replied, stating he had no friends and had no half-crowns. (1930 Hayes and Dawson for Trial)
Hayes also asked the Magistrate if he could place an advertisement in a newspaper seeking a man who he had spoken to in Chapel Street on the afternoon of the incident. The Magistrate asked Hayes to get a friend to place the advertisement for half a crown. Hayes replied, stating he had no friends and had no half-crowns. (1930 Hayes and Dawson for Trial)
Arraignment
On Monday, the 1st day of September 1930, Hayes and Dawson were charged in the Criminal Court before Mr Justice Piper with having escaped lawful custody from Yatala Labor Prison. Dawson pleaded guilty, while Hayes pleaded not guilty. Both men denied a charge of having shot at Constable Delderfield with intent to murder him, and to the second charge of having shot at Delderfield with intent to prevent lawful apprehension. Both men were remanded. (1930 Hayes denies escape)
The trial commences
The trial for Hayes and Dawson commenced on Tuesday, the 14th day of October 1930, in the Criminal Court before Mr Justice Piper and a jury. The Crown Prosecutor was Mr Chamberlain. Mr C.A. Sandery, Public Solicitor, appeared for Hayes. Mr N.A. Webb appeared for Dawson. They were charged with shooting with intent to murder Constable William James Delderfield to prevent lawful apprehension (1930 A Week in the courts)
Above: The Judge and jury at the scene at Nailsworth. Image c/o The News, Tue 14 Oct 1930.
Police evidence
Constable Dohoney gave evidence that he had sighted the stolen car and recognised one of the occupants as Newchurch. He stated that he went to St Peters Police Station, where he obtained reinforcements and then pursued the vehicle to Nailsworth. He states the vehicle crashed and he was threatened by Newchurch, who was in possession of a firearm. Constable Dohoney states he was then shot at by Newchurch. (1930 A week in the courts)
Detective Sergeant McMahon gave evidence that he observed Newchurch, Hayes, and Dawson at the rear of Mr Gill's house at Nailsworth. He stated that Newchurch was armed with a rifle, while Hayes and Dawson were armed with sawn-off shotguns. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
He further stated that he identified himself as Police and told them to put their hands up. He states that Newchurch raised his firearm and fired in his direction and Detective Trestrail and Constable Delderfield. He stated that Dawes and Hayes also fired in their direction, with a bullet striking a brick wall about a foot from where they were standing. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Plain clothes Constable Phin gave evidence of a conversation he had with Hayes at the City Watchhouse. Phin stated that Hayes commented that he was at Enfield, but when the shooting commenced, he jumped several fences and 'grabbed a bike and got away while the going was good.' He denied shooting at any anyone. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
A joy ride
Hayes gave evidence that at the time the car crashed at Nailsworth, Dawson was driving the vehicle, while Harrison was in the front passenger seat. Hayes stated he was seated in the back seat. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Above: part of an article from The Advertiser, Thu 16 Oct 1930. Image c/o Trove
Hayes was cross-examined by Mr Chamberlain and gave evidence that he did not fire shots at anyone. He stated the only shot he fired during the incident was from a .303 rifle outside the prison reserve into the creek. He admitted to suggesting putting a shot into prison guard Strawson whilst he was on the running board of the stolen car. But he stated he did not mean it, and said he just said it to keep him quiet. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denis Guilt)
Hayes gave evidence that when the shots were being fired at the car, he was on the floor and, to the best of his knowledge, no person fired shots from the car at police. He stated that when the car was abandoned, he took one of the sawn-off firearms. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Hayes denied that he had been seen in the schoolyard at Nailsworth, and he also denied ever being in the yard of Mr Gill. He stated that the evidence of police officers McMahon, Delderfield and Trestrail that he had fired at them, was not true. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Hayes stated that he became aware of the escape about 2 days prior. He states that they received possession of the sawn-off firearms about 5 minutes before escaping, and they retrieved them from underneath a pile of stones. He stated he did not want to comment on who had left the firearms there. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Hayes stated:
"I am not prepared to name anyone. I am in prison, and I do not want to put anyone else in."
"I am not prepared to name anyone. I am in prison, and I do not want to put anyone else in."
Hayes stated that they spent about one hour at Norwood while Newchurch removed the chains on his legs. Hayes further stated that he went into a hotel and purchased 2 bottles of wine. From Norwood, they travelled to Chatham Street in the West End, where he changed into a blue coat, blue trousers and a hat. (1930 A wek in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Hayes stated that as long as they were not returning to gaol he did not care and it was more of a 'joy ride than anything.' (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
He stated that after the Whippet crashed at Nailsworth, he jumped out and ran down a lane and then jumped about eight to ten fences before reaching a shed. He stated that the shed contained a bicycle which he fled on. He stated that he rode into the top end of Rundle Street and then the East-End Market. He travelled through side streets and onto Angas Street past the police station and the Supreme Court until reaching Chatham Street. He stated he was arrested there later that evening. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Above: an estimate of the alleged route taken by Hayes on the bicycle through the Adelaide CBD. Image c/o 1937 Gregory's Street Directory
Hayes told the court that he was being persecuted. He handed the Judge several documents and asked that consideration be given to the documents and that His Honour should extend any possible lenience. Hayes stated that if charges were made by prisoners at Yatala, they were not taken notice of and there was no place to submit any grievance. (1930 A week in the courts)
I meant to miss
Joseph Dawson also gave evidence and admitted to being with Harrison and Newchurch in the grounds of the Nailsworth School. He further stated that he was with Harrison and Newchurch at the rear of Mr Gill's premises when police officers McMahon, Trestrail, and another man, when shots were exchanged. He stated that Hayes was not with them following the car crash. Dawson admitted firing a gun but not at anybody and that he fired with the intention of missing. (1930 A week in the courts) (1930 Hayes Denies Guilt)
Injuries received at age 15
Mr. Webb, acting for Dawson, told the court that when Dawson was aged 15, he was a member of the gun crew of a transport and received injuries as a result of an explosion of a shell. He also informed the court that alcohol had been left in the quarry with the hidden guns and ammunition, and that Hayes and Dawson had been consuming the alcohol. (1930 A week in the courts)
Hayes and Dawson sentenced
Hayes and Dawson were convicted in the Criminal Court of having shot at the police to prevent arrest. They were sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment with hard labor. They were also sentenced to 2 years' imprisonment for the escape from Yatala. The sentence was to be concurrent with the 8 years they were serving for robbery under arms. (1930 Sequel to Yatala Escape) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1930)
Goetsch receives a fine
Mr Chamberlain for the Crown outlined the details of the charge against Goetsch. He stated that following the escape, Hayes went to Goetsch's house. He stated that Plain Clothes Constable Phin observed Goetsch hand a swan-off shotgun to another man, telling him to 'dump it.' (1930 A week in the courts)
Mr M.R. Kriewaldt acting for Goetsch submitted a preliminaryt obsection to the jusidction of the court, stated that the offence was a simple on and should be tried summarily. (1930 A week in the courts)
On Friday the 17th day of October 1930, Frederick Carl 'Charles' Goetsch appeared in the Criminal Court, charged with harbouring Hayes. A verdict of guilty was returned by the jury, and he was fined by His Honour £25. Goetsch stated in the dock that he did not know of the presence of Hayes in his house until the arrest and did not know up to that time that Hayes had escaped from Yatala. (1930 Goetsch Fined)
Above: article from the Observer, Adelaide, Thu 23 Oct 1930. Image c/o Trove
On Monday, the 17th day of November 1930, Goetsch appeared in the Full Court to show cause why a warrant of execution should not be issued against goods and chattels belonging to him. Goetsch stated that he had been out of work and could not pay the amount. The Court directed that the warrant should be issued unless Goetsch paid the money in the meantime. (1930 Harboured Hayes)
Enquiry held
Following the escape, guards at Yatala claimed they were undermanned and that escapes were to be expected. It was reported that many in South Australia were not happy with the penal system in the state. Calls were made for a need of board of criminologists and psychologists to make recommendations re treatment of prisoners, and that internal reforms were necessary. (1930 Yatala Investigations)
A prominent police officer stated:
"If the number of guards could be increased on each gang harbouring dangerous men, particularly when they were working outside, much of this disastrous business would probably be avoided." (1930 Observer)
"If the number of guards could be increased on each gang harbouring dangerous men, particularly when they were working outside, much of this disastrous business would probably be avoided." (1930 Observer)
An inquiry into the conditions at Yatala was authorised by the Government. (1930 Yatala Labor Prison)
In August 1930, Mr George Steele, the former Inspector-General of Penal Establishments in New South Wales, was appointed by the Chief Secretary, Hon J. Jelley, to investigate the administration of Yatala Labor Prison. (1930 Yatala Enquiry)
Above: Article from The News, Mon 18 Aug 1930.
In September 1930, Steel submitted his report to the Chief Secretary Jelly. It contained criticism of the discipline among both the guards at Yatala and the prisoners. Steele made a number of recommendations. Steele stated that the buildings at Yatala had been erected without proper regard for supervision. He recommended extensive alterations, including additional wire fencing for the quarries. (1930 More Discipline Needed)
Above: part of an article from The Advertiser, Wed 24 Sept 1930. Image c/o Trove
Bert Edwards comments in Parliament
Albert Augustine 'Bert' Edwards was born on the 6th day of November 1888, in the West End of Adelaide. (Edgar 1981)
Above: Bert Edwards. Image c/o Wikipedia
From 1914 to 1931, Edwards held Grey Ward in the Adelaide City Council for the Labor Party, and from 1917 to 1931, he was a member for Adelaide in the House of Assembly. (Edgar 1981)
Edwards antagonised the police after making comments in Parliament where he was critical of the shooting of Harrison and Newchurch. (Edgar 1981)
In 1931, he was arrested for having committed an unnatural offence on a youth. Later that year, in February 1931, he appeared in the Criminal Court before the Chief Justice, Sir George Murray. Edwards was found guilty by a ten-to-two majority verdict of the jury. He was sentenced to five years' imprisonment with hard labour. (1931 The Register)
Above: part of an article from The Register, Wed 18 Feb 1931. Image c/o Trove
The Judge's Associate said:
"Have you anything to say why the sentence of the court should not be passed upon you?"
"Have you anything to say why the sentence of the court should not be passed upon you?"
Edwards replied:
"Yes......I am innocent of the crime......I found every excuse made for the Crown witnesses while my witnesses were discredited apparently because they had the courage to give evidence which supported my defence.'
"Yes......I am innocent of the crime......I found every excuse made for the Crown witnesses while my witnesses were discredited apparently because they had the courage to give evidence which supported my defence.'
Chief Justice Murray replied and stated that Edwards had been found guilty of 'one of the most detestable crimes in the whole of the criminal calendar.' He commented that Edwards had attacked his character and stated that he had never before heard in a courtroom such a speech made by a convicted person and stated 'I hope I shall not hear another like it.' (1931 The Register)
Edwards lodged three appeals, including one to the High Court. However, the appeals were unsuccessful. Edwards was released from custody in 1933. (Edgar 1981)
King's Police Medals issued
On Monday, the 27th day of April 1931, the Governor, Sir Alexander Hore-Ruthven, presented the King's Police Medal to five of the police officers involved in the incident. The recipients were Foot Constable William Lancelot Dohoney, Motor Traffic Constable Frederick Hector Lee, Motor Traffic Constable John Albert Robertson, Motor Traffic Constable William Roy Denison, Motor Traffic Constable Russell Sylvester Moore Walters, and Motor Traffic Constable Percy Edcumbe Holloway. (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded) (SA Police Gazette 1931)
Above: part of an article from the Advertiser and Register, Tue 28 Apr 1931. Image c/o Trove
Constable Beatty was also issued the King's Police Medal for pursuing a suspect in Adelaide and was shot at. The bullet struck his whistle in his pocket, likely saving his life. (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
Above:. Left to right: Constable Beatty, Constable Dohoney, MTC Lee, MTC Lee, MTC Robertson, MTC Dennison, MTC Waters, & MTC Holloway. Image c/o The Chronicle, Thu 30 Apr 1931.
The ceremony took place at the Parade Ground and was preceded by a parade of about 200 Foot Constables under Inspector McGrath, 50 troopers under Inspector Johns, and 30 motor traffic men. The Commissioner of Police, Brigadier General R.L. Leane, greeted Lord Baden-Powell and the Governor. They then inspected the forces, followed by the Minister of Local Government, Mr Jelley, the Attorney General, Mr Denny and the Commissioner of Public Works Mr McInnes. (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
Above: Alexander Hore-Ruthven. Image c/o Wikipedia
The Lord Mayor, Mr Glover, the Naval Commandant Commander Loudoun-Shand, and the Base Commandant Brigadier Cass were also in attendance. (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
Several hundred spectators listened to Inspector G.E. Horseman detail the acts for which the medals were awarded to the police officers. The Governor stated that the King's Police Medal was only issued sparingly and only in cases of conspicuous gallantry. Only about 30 of the medals were awarded each year to police forces in the British Empire. (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
Above: The King's Police Medal. Image c/o Hsq7278 Wikipedia
Lord Baden-Powell congratulated the men and then addressed other police in attendance. He stated:
"Your comrades whose bravery has been recognised were not picked men. They were men from here and there who showed great bravery when they got their chance. If that chance had come to any others of you, you would have done the same." (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
"Your comrades whose bravery has been recognised were not picked men. They were men from here and there who showed great bravery when they got their chance. If that chance had come to any others of you, you would have done the same." (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
Above: Lord Baden-Powell. Image c/o WIkipedia
The Attorney General, Mr Denny stated that such deeds as were being commended were worthy to rank with those of the Anzacs. He stated that when anarchists and others who assailed law and order were in personal danger themselves, the first person to whom they fled for protection was a Constable. (1931 Police Bravery Rewarded)
The Police Gazette recorded that the King's Police Medal was awarded to the Constables for 'conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty....in following and arresting four escaped convicts who were well armed and who fired continuously at the Police whilst being pursued. (SA Police Gazette 1931)
Police Gazette, Wed Feb 18, 1931. Image c/o Trove
August Berg
August Berg was born in 1874 in Sweden. He was the first of seven children to Augustus Ernest Joseph Berg and Charlotta Augusta Berg nee Anderson. (ancestry 2016)
August came to Australia with his parents in 1877. (ancestry 2016)
In 1895, he married Ida Pearl Burton, at Broken Hill, New South Wales. They had five children. (ancestry 2016)
Above: August Berg, c. 1914. Image c/o ancestry.com.au
Ida died in November 1975, at Nailsworth, South Australia, aged 80 years. (ancestry 2016)
He died on the 18th day of February 1959, at Eastwood, South Australia, aged 85 years. (ancestry 2016) (Genealogy SA n.d.)
August is buried at the Cheltenham Cemetery, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
Edwin Tom Strawson
Edwin Tom Strawson was born in 1899 in Bexley, Kent, England. His parents were Tom Cozens Strawson and Florence Strawson. Edwin's father was a farmer and butcher. Edwin was baptised on the 6th day of August 1899, in Christ Church, Bexley. (ancestry 2016) (Genealogy SA n.d.)
In 1914, he enlisted with the Royal Field Artillery. He served with the Royal Field Artillery Territorial Force. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. (ancestry 2016)
In 1921 Edwin married Emma Elizabeth Shackleton in Dartford, Kent, England. Emma was born in c. 1899. (ancestry 2016)
The couple lived in Bexley, Kent, England. Edwin was a farmer. (ancestry 2016)
When they were both aged 22 years, Edwin and his wife Emma emigrated to South Australia in 1921 aboard the SS Berrima. They departed the Port of London on the 25th day of August 1921, and arrived in Adelaide on the 11th day of October 1921. (ancestry 2016) (Genealogy SA n.d.)
After arriving in South Australia, the couple settled at Prospect.
Their daughter Betty Lavinia Strawson was born in 1925 at Berklea Private Hospital, Prospect, South Australia. She attended Prospect Primary School. (1925 Family Notices) (Genealogy SA n.d.)
By 1936, they were living at Stockade Reserve and Edwin was working at Yatala Labour Prison as a prison guard. (ancestry 2016)
In November 1945, Edwin and Emma were divorced. Emma remarried in December 1946. (Genealogy SA)
Edwin lived at Malvern, South Australia. (Genealogy SA n.d.)
He died on the 21st day of April 1977, aged 78 years. He was cremated at Centennial Park, South Australia on the 22nd day of April 1977. (ancestry 2016) (Genalogy SA n.d.)
John Edward Gill
John Edward Gill was born on the 18th day of November October 1878 at Kensington, London, England. He was the fourth of five children to Richard Gill and Elisabeth Gill nee Wood. John was baptised on the 26th day of January 1879. (ancestry 2016)
In ??? John emigrated to Australia.
On the 7th day of February 1906, John married Clara Adele Kate 'Kitty' Devonshire at St Peters, South Australia. They had three children: John and Noel in 1912, and Ronald in 1917. (ancestry 2016)
John was a plumber and had a plumbing business on Main North Road in close proximity to his home in Thomas Street, Nailsworth.
John died on the 18th day of August 1948 at his home at 2 Thomas Street, Nailsworth, aged 69 years. (ancestry 2016)
Above: article from The News, Fri Aug 20, 1948. Image c/o newspapers.com
John is buried at the Nailsworth Cemetery. (ancestry 2016)
William Ross Menadue
William Ross Menadue was born on the 4th day of September 1887, at Prospect, South Australia. His parents were High Menadue and Jane Menadue nee Wilson. (ancestry 2016)
On the 3rd day of June 1916, he married Gertrude Annie Rhodes. (ancestry 2016)
He died on the 8th day of June 1955, at Enfield, South Australia, aged 67 years. (ancestry 2016)
He is buried at the Enfield Cemetery, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
William Lancelot Dohoney
William Lancelot Dohoney was born on the 18th day of November 1902 at Highbury, South Australia. He was the fifth of eight children to William Dohoney and Alice Dohoney nee McEwin. (ancestry 2016)
In 1930 he was awarded the King's Police Medal.
On the 27th day of October 1934, he married Eveleen Mavis Coney at Maylands Church of Christ, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
He died on the 23rd day of December 1989, at Craigmore, South Australia, aged 87 years. (ancestry 2016)
Dohoney was cremated at the Enfield Memorial Park. His ashes were handed back to the family. (Find a Grave 2019)
Albert William Jonathon Thompson
Thompson was one of the Motor Traffic Constables who were involved in a firefight with the escapees at Nailsworth.
Albert William Jonathon Thompson was born on the 21st day of June 1902, at Port Gawler, South Australia. He was the eighth of nine children to William George Thompson and Mary Hannah Thompson nee Wright. (ancestry 2016)
On the 22nd day of July 1925, he married Maimee Louisa Minnie Shepard in the Methodist Church, Pirie Street, Adelaide. (ancestry 2016)
They had two children. (ancestry 2016)
They had two children. (ancestry 2016)
Above: Albert Thompson. Image c/o Ancestry.com.au
Albert died on the 20th day of September 1988, at Adelaide, South Australia, aged 86 years. (ancestry 2016)
He was cremated at Centennial Park, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
He was cremated at Centennial Park, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
William Clift Chambers
Chambers was one of the Motor Traffic Constables who were involved in a firefight with the escapees at Nailsworth.
William Clift Chambers was born on the 9th day of September 1893 at Kadina, South Australia. He was the fourth of eight children to Henry Chambers and Ellen Louisa Clift nee Chambers.
Above: William Clift Chambers. Image c/o ancestry.com.au
He was employed as a miner and was a member of the Kadina Rifle Club. (ancestry 2016)
At age 21, on the 6th day of September 1915, at Adelaide, William enlisted with the Australian Imperial Force. At the time of joining the AIF, he was described as being 5 feet 7 inches tall, 162 lbs, of fair complexion, with blue eyes, and dark brown hair. (ancestry 2016)
William embarked on the 22nd day of November 1915 aboard the HMAT with the 6th Field Artillery Brigade. He joined the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force in December 1915, and in March 1916 he joined the British Expeditionary Force. (Australian Soldiers n.d.)
He was awarded the Military Medal in June 1917 and the bar to the Military Medal in October 1917. In that same month, William was promoted to Bombardier. In October, he went on leave and failed to return in time and was charged with being Absent Without Leave and received a penalty of 3 days. This did not affect his career, and in December 1917 he was promoted to Tempy Corporal, and in January 1918 he was promoted to the rank of Corporal. In August 1918 he was admitted to hospital and diagnosed with Disorderly Action of the Heart, and was returned to England. He was discharged on the 19th day of May 1919. (ancestry 2016) (Australian Soldiers n.d.)
On the 29th day of October 1919, he married Lily Irene Fosbrook Exelby in the Methodist Church, Victoria Square, Kadina, South Australia. (ancestry 2016) (Australian Soldiers n.d.)
They had three children: Reginald Clift in 1920; Joan Annie in 1922; and Bruce Franklin in 1925. (ancestry 2016)
They had three children: Reginald Clift in 1920; Joan Annie in 1922; and Bruce Franklin in 1925. (ancestry 2016)
Chambers died on the 2nd day of November 1973, at Adelaide, South Australia, aged 80 years. (ancestry 2016) (Australian Soldiers n.d.)
He is buried at Centennial Park Cemetery, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
Ernest Budgen
Budgen was one of the Motor Traffic Constables who were involved in a firefight with the escapees at Nailsworth.
Ernest Budgen was born on the 23rd day of June 1904 at Walthamstow, Essex, England. (ancestry 2016) (Find a Grave 2019)
On the 20th day of June 1925, he married Eva Eileen Bridges at the Presbyterian Manse, Goodwood, S.A. They had one child. (ancestry 2016) (Find a Grave 2019)
Above: Ernest Budgen. Image c/o National Archives of Australia
In February 1930, Constable Budgen was awarded the King's Police Medal by the Governor, Sir Alexander Hore Ruthven. It was in recognition of his fearless discharge of duty at the imminent risk of death when Constable Holman was shot dead in Grenfell Street. (1930 Fearless Discharge of Duty)
On the 12th day of September 1941, he enlisted with the Australian Military Forces. He served with the 2/9 Austr Armd. Regt. He was discharged on the 4th day of January 1946. (National Archives of Australia 2019)
On Saturday, the 27th day of September 1941, a presentation was made to Constable Budgen at the Mount Gambier Police Station. Members of the local police station and the courthouse farewelled Constable Budgen, who had enlisted with the AIF. Inspector G.E. McDonald made a presentation on behalf of all those present. He praised Constable Budgen for the fine way he had carried out his police duties at Mount Gambier. (1941 The Border Watch)
Above: Article from The Border Watch, Sat 27 Sept 1941. Image c/o Trove
Ernest died on the 29th day of August 1984, at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, South Australia, aged 80 years. (ancestry 2016) (Find a Grave 2019)
He was cremated at Centennial Park, South Australia. (Find a grave 2019)
Thomas Cooper
Cooper was one of the Motor Traffic Constables who were involved in a firefight with the escapees at Nailsworth.
On the 8th day of February 1927, he was appointed to the Foot Police on probation. (SA Police Mar 1927)
Russell Sylvester Moore Walters
Walters was one of the Motor Traffic Constables who were involved in a firefight with the escapees at Nailsworth.
Russell Sylvester Moore Walters was born on the 25th day of April 1902, at Suttontown, South Australia. He was the eighth of eleven children to George Henry Walters and Bridget Theresa Walters nee McDonough. (ancestry 2016)
On the 31st day of March 1928, he married Gladys May Sweetapple at the Baptist Manse, Goodwood, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
They were divorced in 1945. (1945 Law Courts)
He died on the 6th day of December 1965, at Clovelly Park, South Australia, aged 63 years. (ancestry 2016)
Walters is buried at Centennial Park, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
Walter Ludwig Ruwoldt
Ruwoldt was a Motor Traffic Constable who was shot during the incident at Nailsworth.
Above: Walter Ruwoldt. Image c/o The News, Thu 12 Oct 1933. Trove
Walter Ludwig Ruwoldt was born on the 16th day of August 1905 at Mount Gambier, South Australia. He was the first of three children to August Martin Carl Ruwoldt and Clara Marie Ruwoldt nee Gladigau. (ancestry 2016)
On the 16th day of April 1928, he was appointed to the Foot Branch on probation. (SA Police Gazette Jul 1928)
On the 21st day of September 1929, he married Jean Stewart at Unley, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
Their daughter, Isabel Jean Marie was born in March 1930, just a few months before the 1930 shootout with the escapees. (ancestry 2016)
Their daughter, Isabel Jean Marie was born in March 1930, just a few months before the 1930 shootout with the escapees. (ancestry 2016)
In 1933, Ruwoldt was awarded the Royal Humane Society Medal by the Governor for having pursued and attempted to stop a bolting horse at Walkerville. (1933 Bravery Awards)
Above: recipients of the Royal Humane Society's medal showing Constable Ruwoldt. Image c/o The News Thu 12 Oct 1933
Ruwoldt died on the 27th day of December 1973, aged 68 years. (ancestry 2016)
He is buried at Centennial Park Cemetery, South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
Detective Sergeant Michael Joseph McMahon
Michael Joseph McMahon was born in 1876 in County Clare, Ireland.
He emigrated to Australia in 1887. Following his arrival in Australia, he joined the railways. In 1904, he joined the South Australia Police Force.
In 1916, he joined the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB). (1941 Death of Mr M.J. McMahon)
He emigrated to Australia in 1887. Following his arrival in Australia, he joined the railways. In 1904, he joined the South Australia Police Force.
In 1916, he joined the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB). (1941 Death of Mr M.J. McMahon)
On the 8th day of April 1907, he married Margaret Mary Shanahan in St Paul's Retreat, South Australia. (Genealogy SA 2026)
In 1934, he was appointed at the rank of Inspector. At this time, he had 19 honourable mentions and 2 special mentions.
In 1937, he retired from the South Australia Police Force. Following his retirement, he was appointed Inspector of the Betting Control Board.
In 1939, he received the King's Police Medal, the highest award of the South Australia Police Force. (1941 Death of Mr M.J. McMahon)
In 1937, he retired from the South Australia Police Force. Following his retirement, he was appointed Inspector of the Betting Control Board.
In 1939, he received the King's Police Medal, the highest award of the South Australia Police Force. (1941 Death of Mr M.J. McMahon)
McMahon died on the 1st day of November 1941, aged 65 years.
At the time of his death, Brigadier-General Leane stated:
"I could not have wished for a more efficient or loyal officer. A most successful detective......He was held in high esteem not only among all members of the force, but my members of the Beeting Board..." (1941 Death of Mr M.J. McMahon)
At the time of his death, Brigadier-General Leane stated:
"I could not have wished for a more efficient or loyal officer. A most successful detective......He was held in high esteem not only among all members of the force, but my members of the Beeting Board..." (1941 Death of Mr M.J. McMahon)
Above: Article from The Advertiser, Mon 3 Nov 1941. Image c/o Trove
He is buried at the West Terrace Cemetery, South Australia. (Findagrave 2016)
His wife, Margaret Mary died on the 30th day of July 1950 at the Calgary Hospital. (Family Notices 2026)
Detective Sydney James Trestrail
Detective Trestrail was fired upon by the escapees at Nailsworth.
Sydney James Trestrail was born on the 9th day of January 1886, at Clare, South Australia. His parents were Stephen Trestrail and Rachel Peel Trestrail nee Curtis. (ancestry 2016) (1936 Det-Sergt Trestrail dead)
Trestrail joined the South Australia Police in January 1908. He was initially attached to the metropolitan uniform branch and was then sent to Port Pirie, where he performed plainclothes work for about four years before returning to Adelaide. (1936 Det-Sergt Trestrail dead)
On the 1st day of July 1912, he married Edith Watherston at Torrensville, South Australia. They had two children. (ancestry 2016)
In July 1917, he was promoted to the rank of Second Class Detective. (SA Police Gazette Jul 1917)
Trestrail was specially selected for important political investigations. In 1920 he was a member of the Royal bodyguard to His Majesty the King on his visit to Australia. He was often selected to perform confidential work. He was promoted to the rank of Detective Sergeant in the late 1920s and on the 1st day of July 1935 was appointed the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Investigation Branch (C.I.B.) He was the first Secretary of the South Australian Police Association. His hobbies including rearing poultry and his field dogs. (1936 Det-Sergt Trestrail dead)
Trestrail had been in poor health for a number of years, and was ill for several weeks prior to his death on the 24th day of May 1936, at the Memorial Hospital, Adelaide, aged 50 years. (ancestry 2016) (1936 Det-Sergt Trestrail dead)
Above: article from The Advertiser, Mon 25 May 1936. Image c/o Trove
Trestrail's funeral left his home at Fourth Street, Magill. The pallbearers were the Commissioner's orderly, Constable Kirk, Constable Griffen of the CIB records office; the Chief of the CIB Inspector McMahon; Detective Sergeant Walters; the President of the Police Association Detect;ve Burke; and the Officer in Charge of the Records Branch Sergeant Paddick. (1936 Det-Sergt Trestrail dead) (1936 Tribute to Det-Sgt Trestrail)
He is buried at the Magill General Cemetery, South Australia. (ancestry 2016) (1936 Det-Sergt Trestrail dead)
Percy Edgcumbe Holloway
Percy Edgcumbe Holloway was born on the 4th day of June 1894, in Brockhurst, Hampshire, England. He with fifth and final child of Robert Holloway and Emma Frances Holloway nee Vinson. He was baptised on the 27th day of June 1894 at St Johns Church, Portsea, Southampton, England. (ancestry 2016)
As a young man he was employed as a clerk. (ancestry 2016)
At age 19, Percy emigrated to South Australia. He departed the Port of London on the 10th day of October 1913 aboard the Orama. He arrived in Adelaide on the 15th day of November 1913. (ancestry 2016)
On the 19th day of August 1914, he enlisted with the Australian Imperial Force. (ancestry 2016)
On the 11th day of July 1916, he married Dorothy Florinda Louisa Whitchelo in St Nicholas Church, Plumstead, London, England. They had one child. Dorothy died in October 1918. (ancestry 2016)
On the 15th day of March 1920, he married Mabel Delicate in St Aidens Church, Marden, South Australia. THey had three children. (ancestry 2016)
On the 1st day of March 1921, he was appointed as a member of the South Australia Police. (ancestry 2016)
Above: Percy Holloway. Image c/o The News, Mon 24 Sept 1934
Holloway served on the executive of the South Australian Police Association. (1943 Alleged Stabbing of Policeman)
On Easter Monday 1934, Holloway and Constable Pitt were involved in an altercation with two men outside of the Eagle On The Hill Hotel. One of the men, Hector Joseph Myren of Parkside, subsequently sued Holloway for £99 damages. The matter was heard in the Adelaide Local Court before Mr S.D. Ronald S.M. Holloway defended the claim and said that any action he took was in self-defence. (1934 Struck in Defence)
Above: part of an article from The News, Mon 24 Sept 1934. Image c/o Trove
On Thursday, the 6th day of December 1934, Magistrate Ronald found that Constable Holloway had, under the circumstances, used unreasonable force and gave judgment of £25 damages in favour of Hector Myren. (1934 Constable to Pay)
On the 10th day of February 1943, Holloway was stabbed in the stomach on duty at the City Watchhouse. An American soldier was arrested, and the charges were later dismissed for want of prosecution. The soldier was handed over to American Army guards. (1943 Alleged Stabbing of Policeman) (1943 Army to Handle US Soldier)
Percy died on the 30th day of July 1972 at the Ross Robertson Memorial Home at Victor Harbor, South Australia, aged 78 years. (ancestry 2016)
William James Delderfield
William James Delderfield was born on the 6th day of February 1901, in London, England. (ancestry 2016)
He joined the South Australia Police on the 1st day of April 1922. (Tasmania Police 2020)
Above: Constable Delderfield. Image c/o The News, Sat 19 Jul 1930, Trove
On Saturday the 1st day of November 1930, at Parkside
In December 1930, the Government decided not to proceed with the murder charge against Delderfield. Attorney General Denny made the announcement following recommendations from the Crown Prosecutor and the Crown Solicitor that there were no grounds on which prosecution could be justified. (1930 Murder Charge Dropped)
In December 1930, the Government decided not to proceed with the murder charge against Delderfield. Attorney General Denny made the announcement following recommendations from the Crown Prosecutor and the Crown Solicitor that there were no grounds on which prosecution could be justified. (1930 Murder Charge Dropped)
Above: Article from The Register News, Fri 5 Dec 1930. Image c/o Trove
Denny stated:
"Delderfield has been charged with murder for having done no other than his duty, and I can only think that the Coroner was under a misapprehension when he committed him for trial." (1930 Murder Charge Dropped)
"Delderfield has been charged with murder for having done no other than his duty, and I can only think that the Coroner was under a misapprehension when he committed him for trial." (1930 Murder Charge Dropped)
Above: Attorney General Denny. Image c/o Wikipedia
He married Ruvi Fredricka Walter on the 16th day of July 1925 in Adelaide. (Genealogy SA n.d.)
He was made First Grade Sergeant by 1943 and was attached to the Motor Traffic Police. Between July 1943 and July 1948, he was promoted to Inspector 3rd grade and then Inspector 2nd grade and developed a specialty in the Police Communications Section. He resigned from the South Australia Police Force in 1949. (RPA Tasmania 2020)
Delderfield became the Deputy Commissioner of Tasmania Police on the 1st day of December 1949. He was appointed as Police Commissioner on the 1st day of January 1953 and continued in that role until the 25th day of September 1965. (Tasmania Police 2020)
He died on the 3rd day of October 1990 in Hobart, Tasmania, aged 89 years. (ancestry 2016)
William Henry Hayes
William Henry Hayes was born on the 9th day of July 1894 c. 1898 in England. (1926 Joy Rider Gaoled) (1930 Why William Hayes Escaped) (1947 Set Fire To Furniture) (1953 Record of man bad] (SA Police Gazette Supplement July 1925) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1926) (SA Police Gazette Supplement Jan 1927) (SA Police Gazette May 1927) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1928) (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929)
Above: William Henry Hayes, SA Police Gazette Supplement, January 1926
Hayes was described as being 5 feet 10 1/2 inches tall, medium build, fair to fresh complexion, brown to dark brown hair, and grey eyes. (SA Police Gazette Supplement July 1925) (SA Police Gazette Supplement Jan 1927) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1926) (SA Police Gazette May 1927) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1928) (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929)
Hayes occupation included labourer, barman, and waterside worker. (1925 In The Courts) (1926 Joy Rider Gaoled) (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts) (1930 Why William Hayes Escaped) (1947 Set Fire To Furniture)
Hayes was a violent offender with a criminal history including stealing motor cars, unlawful possession, shop break and larceny, and robbery under arms.
Hayes served with the mercantile marine and the navy. (1936 Sensational Yatala Gaol Break)
Hayes emigrated to Australia in c. 1922. (1947 Set Fire To Furniture)
In ??? Hayes married Amelia Ellen Waters at ??? Amelia was born c. 1902. (1929 Alleged Robberies) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929)
1921 breach of the Lottery and Gaming Acts. (SA Police Gazette Sep 1921)
On the 19th day of March 1925, £28 belonging to Thomas Deagan Coward, the Licencee of the Prince Alfred Hotel, was stolen. (1925 In The Courts)
On Monday, the 23rd day of March 1925, Detectives Slade, Strangway, and Gill, and Plain Clothes Constable Slater, arrested Hayes for the theft at the Prince Alfred Hotel. (SA Police Gazette Apr 1925)
He appeared before the Adelaide Police Court before Mr E.M. Sabine Police Magistrate and was remanded until Friday. Bail was allowed in a personal bond of £50 and a surety of £50. (1925 Theft Of Money)
He appeared before the Adelaide Police Court before Mr E.M. Sabine Police Magistrate and was remanded until Friday. Bail was allowed in a personal bond of £50 and a surety of £50. (1925 Theft Of Money)
On Monday, the 4th day of May 1925, Hayes appeared before Justice Angas Parsons and a jury in the Supreme Court, Adelaide. Hayes was not represented by counsel. He was acquitted of larceny. (SA Police Gazette Jun 1925) (SA Police Gazette Supplement July 1925)
Upon discharging Hayes, Justice Angas Parsons made the following comment:
"In spite of the evidence of two witnesses who testified that you stole the money, the jury has seen fit to bring in a verdict of not guilty. I entirely disagree with the verdict. You are discharged.' (1925 In The Courts)
"In spite of the evidence of two witnesses who testified that you stole the money, the jury has seen fit to bring in a verdict of not guilty. I entirely disagree with the verdict. You are discharged.' (1925 In The Courts)
Above: Sir Herbert Angas Parsons. Image c/o Wikipedia
In August 1926, Hayes, aged 29, was arrested by Plain Clothes Constables Donnellan and McGrath, and Foot Constable Hancock, for unlawfully using a motor car, the property of Cresco Fertilisers Limited. (1926 Joy Rider Gaoled) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
The vehicle was parked in Currie Street, Adelaide at about 1.30 p.m. on the 7th day of August by Mr G.R. Wallace. He returned at 10.30 p.m. to find the car missing. Later that night, Foot Constable N.W. Hancock saw Hayes and two other men, Leonard Joseph Coghlan and Leonard Maloney, get out of the car at St Vincent Street, Port Adelaide. They did not satisfactorily answer his questions, and the three men were arrested and escorted to the Port Adelaide Police Station with other police officers. (1926 Imprisonment for Joy Riding) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
The vehicle was parked in Currie Street, Adelaide at about 1.30 p.m. on the 7th day of August by Mr G.R. Wallace. He returned at 10.30 p.m. to find the car missing. Later that night, Foot Constable N.W. Hancock saw Hayes and two other men, Leonard Joseph Coghlan and Leonard Maloney, get out of the car at St Vincent Street, Port Adelaide. They did not satisfactorily answer his questions, and the three men were arrested and escorted to the Port Adelaide Police Station with other police officers. (1926 Imprisonment for Joy Riding) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
On Monday, the 9th day of August 1926, Hayes appeared before Mr G.W. Halcombe, S.M. at the Port Adelaide Police Court. He pleaded not guilty to stealing the motor car belonging to Cresco Fertilisers. Inspector J.E. Noblet prosecuted. It was alleged that about four gallons of petrol had been used and it was estimated the vehicle had travelled about 60 miles. (1926 Imprisonment for Joy Riding) (1926 Joy Rider Gaoled)
Hayes denied travelling 60 miles in the vehicle. He stated that he took the car from Adelaide to Port Adelaide and then to Outer Harbor and back to Port Adelaide. He claimed that at the Port Adelaide billiard saloon he picked up two men 'the worse for liquor.' He stated that he did not know the car was stolen and stated he had been drinking and did not have a clear recollection of the events. Hayes was sentenced to one month's imprisonment. The charges against Maloney and Coghlin. (1926 Imprisonment for Joy Riding) (1926 Joy Rider Gaoled) (SA Police Gazette Supplement Jan 1927) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1926)
Hayes denied travelling 60 miles in the vehicle. He stated that he took the car from Adelaide to Port Adelaide and then to Outer Harbor and back to Port Adelaide. He claimed that at the Port Adelaide billiard saloon he picked up two men 'the worse for liquor.' He stated that he did not know the car was stolen and stated he had been drinking and did not have a clear recollection of the events. Hayes was sentenced to one month's imprisonment. The charges against Maloney and Coghlin. (1926 Imprisonment for Joy Riding) (1926 Joy Rider Gaoled) (SA Police Gazette Supplement Jan 1927) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1926)
Above: Item from the Port Adelaide News, Fri 13 Aug 1926. Image c/o Trove
Hayes had only been out of prison for 6 months before coming under the attention of police once again.
Between Friday the 28th day of January and Saturday the 29th day of January 1927, Mr Harold Leslie Tucker's jewellery shop on Commercial Road, Port Augusta, was broken into. The glass on the front door had been smashed, and a quantity of wristwatches and other jewellery valued at £25 had been stolen. (1927 Business Premises Burgled) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1927)
Police undertook enquiries and found the stolen property aboard the sailing ship Grace Hawar, which berthed at the wharf. Mounted Constable Lucas and Foot Constable Dunn arrested Hayes, who had signed up a few days earlier as a member of the ship's crew. (1927 Business Premises Burgled) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1927)
On the 29th day of January 1927, Hayes appeared before Messrs. W.A.B. Litchfield and J. Holdsworth, JPs in the local Police Court at Port Augusta. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months' imprisonment. (1927 Business Premises Burgled)
Between Friday the 28th day of January and Saturday the 29th day of January 1927, Mr Harold Leslie Tucker's jewellery shop on Commercial Road, Port Augusta, was broken into. The glass on the front door had been smashed, and a quantity of wristwatches and other jewellery valued at £25 had been stolen. (1927 Business Premises Burgled) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1927)
Police undertook enquiries and found the stolen property aboard the sailing ship Grace Hawar, which berthed at the wharf. Mounted Constable Lucas and Foot Constable Dunn arrested Hayes, who had signed up a few days earlier as a member of the ship's crew. (1927 Business Premises Burgled) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1927)
On the 29th day of January 1927, Hayes appeared before Messrs. W.A.B. Litchfield and J. Holdsworth, JPs in the local Police Court at Port Augusta. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months' imprisonment. (1927 Business Premises Burgled)
Above: Article from The Transcontinental, Fri 4 Feb 1927. Image c/o Trove
Hayes was released from custody on the 31st day of May 1927. (SA Police Gazette May 1927)
Hayes had only been a free man for a short time, until the 20th day of June 1927, when he was arrested by Mounted Constable Jackson for unlawfully using a motor car, the property of Dorothea Gladys Jeanetta Clift, at Ardrossan. (SA Police Gazette Jun 1927)
Mr Andrew Clift left his Overland car opposite the Ardrossan Institute on the evening of Saturday, the 18th day of June 1927. He later found that it had been stolen. (1927 In The Courts)
Hayes appeared before Mr A. J. Jarret at the Ardrossan Court on Monday the 20th day of June 1927. He was fined £20, in default 2 months' imprisonment. (1927 In The Courts) (SA Police Gazette Jun 1927)
Just one month later, Hayes was in trouble with the police once again.
A robbery was reported from the 285-mile camp along the East-West Railway Line, north of Port Augusta, with money being stolen from a boarding house. Detective Dayman and Mounted Constable Claxton conducted enquiries and arrested Hayes. (1927 Port Pirie)
He was charged before Mr W, H. Atkins, and Hayes was committed for trial at the next sessions of the Circuit Court. (1927 Port Pirie)
A robbery was reported from the 285-mile camp along the East-West Railway Line, north of Port Augusta, with money being stolen from a boarding house. Detective Dayman and Mounted Constable Claxton conducted enquiries and arrested Hayes. (1927 Port Pirie)
He was charged before Mr W, H. Atkins, and Hayes was committed for trial at the next sessions of the Circuit Court. (1927 Port Pirie)
On Friday, the 5th day of August 1927, Hayes was tried at the Port Augusta Circuit Court before Mr Justice Angas Parsons. He pleaded not guilty. After a full day's evidence, the jury returned a verdict of guilty, with a recommendation to mercy. Hayes was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment with hard labour. (1927 Port Augusta Circuit Court)
Hayes was tried in the Port Augusta Circuit Court, on the 28th day of July 1927. He was sentenced to 11 months' imprisonment hard labor. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1928)
On the 17th day of March 1928, Hayes was released from the Yatala Labor Prison. (SA Police Gazette Feb 1928)
On the 18th day of April 1928, Hayes was arrested by Detectives Correll, Harris, and Francis, and Plain Clothes Constables McGrath and Lindsay, for being idle and disorderly at Adelaide. This charge was withdrawn in December 1929. (SA Police Gazette Apr 1928) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929)
On Thursday, the 19th day of April, 1928, Hayes was arrested for illegally using a motor vehicle, the property of Leonard A.R. Selway. (1928 Car Illegally Used) (SA Police Gazette May 1928)
Mr Selway left his car in front of the Eagle Hotel in Hindley Street, Adelaide on Thursday evening. When he returned he found that the car had been stolen. Later that night, the vehicle was recovered with £7 damage. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Mr Selway left his car in front of the Eagle Hotel in Hindley Street, Adelaide on Thursday evening. When he returned he found that the car had been stolen. Later that night, the vehicle was recovered with £7 damage. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
At about midnight, Motor Traffic Constables McConnell and Marr were travelling along Montefiore Road, North Adelaide, near the rear of Adelaide Oval. They saw the stolen car being driven on a flat tyre. They observed that there was a male driver and a male passenger. They called on the driver of the vehicle to stop. The passenger jumped out of the car and ran into a park near the oval. The driver ran off towards the Morphett Street Bridge. Both Constables gave chase on foot, with Constable Marr apprehending Hayes. The second male could not be found. (1928 Car Illegally Used) (SA Police Gazette May 1928)
A search of the stolen car at the City Watchhouse revealed an amount of suspected stolen property. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
On Tuesday, the 24th day of April 1928, Hayes appeared before Mr W.J. Hinde S.M. in No. 2 Adelaide Police Court. Detective Bond prosecuted. Hayes pleaded not guilty and conducted his own defence. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Hayes stated that he could not have stolen the car as he did not leave his home until 9.00 p.m. that night. He further stated that after drinking a bottle of wine with a friend, he walked over the Morphett Street Bridge when he saw a car approaching. He heard a bang and observed a flat front tyre on the car. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Hayes stated he spoke with the driver, who offered him a lift. He stated that after a short time, the police pulled alongside them and threatened to shoot if they did not stop. Hayes stated the driver stopped and ran off, and he decided to do the same, but stopped of his own accord as he had done nothing wrong. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Hayes stated that he could not have stolen the car as he did not leave his home until 9.00 p.m. that night. He further stated that after drinking a bottle of wine with a friend, he walked over the Morphett Street Bridge when he saw a car approaching. He heard a bang and observed a flat front tyre on the car. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Hayes stated he spoke with the driver, who offered him a lift. He stated that after a short time, the police pulled alongside them and threatened to shoot if they did not stop. Hayes stated the driver stopped and ran off, and he decided to do the same, but stopped of his own accord as he had done nothing wrong. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Detective Bond informed the court of Haye's previous criminal history and asked for the maximum penalty, which was 12 months' imprisonment. Hayes was found guilty and gaoled for 12 months. (1928 Car Illegally Used)
Hayes was then charged with the break-in at the shop on Prospect Road, Prospect. Motor Traffic Constables McConnell and Marr gave evidence that the property located in the stolen car had been stolen during the break-in. Hayes reserved his defence and was committed for trial. (1928 Car Illegally Used) (SA Police Gazette May 1928)
On the 27th day of April 1928, Hayes was arrested by Plain Clothes Constable McConnell and Motor Traffic Constable Marr, for unlawfully using a motor car, the property of Leonard Albert Roy Selway, at Adelaide. He received 12 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette May 1928)
Hayes was released from custody on the 19th day of October 1929. (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929)
On the evening of the 8th day of November 1929, Mr Herbert George Barnard was at his furniture shop in Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide. He walked to one of his main doors and saw two men approaching from across Hindmarsh Square. One of the males, who was later identified as Hayes, asked Barnard if he was too late to do some business. Hayes asked for a perambulator, and as they walked into a dark section of the basement, he was struck on the back of the head. (1929 Battered Shopman)
Barnard, bleeding heavily, struggled with Hayes and as a result, he ripped a piece from Hayes' trousers. Hayes then left the business and met up with the other male, who then walked away. Barnard then attended the Adelaide Hospital for treatment. (1929 Batter Shopman)
It was later found that Hayes had struck Barnard with a piece of piping wrapped in a black sock. (1929 Battered Shopman)
It was later found that Hayes had struck Barnard with a piece of piping wrapped in a black sock. (1929 Battered Shopman)
Just 8 days later, Hayes was involved in another violent incident in which shots were fired.
On the 16th day of November 1929, two masked men with black handkerchiefs covering their faces and armed with revolvers entered the shop of George Etrelezis, a cafe proprietor, Chapman Building, Bank Street, Adelaide.
One of the offenders held up the proprietor armed with a revolver, while the other stole £12 in bank notes and silver. Both men decamped and were chased by Etrelezis. The proprietor of a nearby fish shop attempted to stop the men. One of the males pointed a revolver at him and continued running.
Upon approaching North Terrace, one man fired two shots, and both men turned to run west on North Terrace, and they were lost sight of near the Morphett Street bridge. (SA Police Gazette Nov 1929)
On the 16th day of November 1929, two masked men with black handkerchiefs covering their faces and armed with revolvers entered the shop of George Etrelezis, a cafe proprietor, Chapman Building, Bank Street, Adelaide.
One of the offenders held up the proprietor armed with a revolver, while the other stole £12 in bank notes and silver. Both men decamped and were chased by Etrelezis. The proprietor of a nearby fish shop attempted to stop the men. One of the males pointed a revolver at him and continued running.
Upon approaching North Terrace, one man fired two shots, and both men turned to run west on North Terrace, and they were lost sight of near the Morphett Street bridge. (SA Police Gazette Nov 1929)
Above: Article from The Register News, Mon 18 Nov 1929. Image c/o Trove
On Thursday, the 21st day of November 1929, the Eudunda Farmers' Co-operative Society Limited at Lameroo was broken into. Haberdashery and various other property to the value of £200 was stolen. (1929 House Raided)
Police suspected that a vehicle had been used by the offenders. A car was found abandoned at Brinkley, near Murray Bridge, which was believed to be involved in the offence. Police suspected that the offenders had then travelled to Adelaide by bus. (1929 House Raided)
On Friday, the 29th day of November 1929, Detectives conducted a search of a house at Alberton and arrested two men. (1929 House Raided)
Later that day, Detectives Trestrail, Strangway and Walters, and Plain Clothes Constables Trezona and Miller, raided a house in East Street, Brompton and located several men and women inside. Hayes was seen to place his hand in his pocket and then produced a revolver. Detective Strangway then threw himself on top of the man and wrestled the firearm from his hand. The revolver was found to be fully loaded and that portions of the bullets had been cut off and the tops split with a knife. It was alleged in court that Hayes said 'A man ought to blow your head off.' (1929 Alleged Robberies) (1929 House Raided)
Later that day, Detectives Trestrail, Strangway and Walters, and Plain Clothes Constables Trezona and Miller, raided a house in East Street, Brompton and located several men and women inside. Hayes was seen to place his hand in his pocket and then produced a revolver. Detective Strangway then threw himself on top of the man and wrestled the firearm from his hand. The revolver was found to be fully loaded and that portions of the bullets had been cut off and the tops split with a knife. It was alleged in court that Hayes said 'A man ought to blow your head off.' (1929 Alleged Robberies) (1929 House Raided)
Several of the occupants armed themselves with bottles and it appeared that an altercation would take place. As a result, the Detectives were forced to draw their revolvers.
Three men and a women were arrested at the house and a large amount of stolen property was seized. (1929 House Raided)
Three men and a women were arrested at the house and a large amount of stolen property was seized. (1929 House Raided)
Above: part of an article from The Advertiser, Sat 30 Nov 1929. Image c/o Trove
They were taken to the City Watchhouse, where William Hayes was charged with shop breaking and larceny. Charles James Englebrecht was charged with unlawful possession of a quantity of cigarettes and tobacco. Amelia Ellen Hayes was charged with unlawful possession of a quantity of dress material. Frederick Arthur Schultz was charged with unlawful possession of dress materials. Lionel Montmorency Martin and Joseph Dawson were charged with having insufficient lawful means of support. (1929 House Raided) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929)
On Saturday, the 30th day of November 1929, Hayes and the other accused appeared in the Adelaide Police Court before Mr. H. M. Muirhead, S.M. Hayes did not plead on the shopbreaking count, but he did plead guilty to possession of an unregistered revolver. (1929 Alleged Robberies)
Hayes gave evidence that he had the bullets for a few years and that he used them for dogs or rabbits. He stated that he had sawn them down in length because they were too long for the revolver. He stated 'A man would to be a fool to use a thing like that at a man.' (1929 Alleged Robberies)
The magistrate, Mr. Muirhead examined the revolver and the bullets and stated he did not know if Hayes account was correct. However, he did state that if the bullets were much longer they would not fit the weapon. (1929 Alleged Robberies)
Mr L. Bond, Assistant Police Prosecutor, applied for a remand of all of the accused to allow police to undertake further enquiries. Amelia Hayes was granted bail with two sureties. Her husband, however, William Hayes was not granted bail. He and Joseph Dawson were charged by Detectives Trestrail, Walters and Strangway and Plain Clothes Constable Trezona with the robbery under arms of George Etrelizis. Hayes was further charged with maliciously wounding Mr Herbert Barnard with a piece of gas piping on the 8th day of November. (1929 Alleged Robberies)
On Monday, the 9th day of December 1929, Hayes, Joseph Dawson, Amelia Hayes, and Frederick Schultz, appeared before Mr C.E. Tucker at the Adelaide Watchhouse. They were remanded to Lameroo on charges of breaking into Eudunda Farms Co-operative Society. Detective Strangway and Plain Clothes Constable Miller escorted the accused to Lameroo by train. (1929 Early Court)
On Saturday, the 3rd day of March 1930, Hayes and Joseph Dawson appeared before Mr Justice Napier at the Criminal Court, Adelaide. Both accused had denied a charge of having, while armed with a revolver, robbed George Etrelezis at Adelaide. However, they were found guilty by the jury on a majority verdict of ten against two. (1930 The Advertiser)
A nolle prosequi was entered regarding a charge of wounding with intent and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was sentenced to 8 years' imprisonment with hard labor for robbery under arms. (1930 The Advertiser) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1930)
He was also found guilty of shopbreaking and larceny, and receiving, relating to the break-in at the Eudunda Co-operative Society at Lameroo. He received a further 2 years' imprisonment hard labor, with the sentences to run concurrently. (1930 The Advertiser) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1930)
He was also found guilty of shopbreaking and larceny, and receiving, relating to the break-in at the Eudunda Co-operative Society at Lameroo. He received a further 2 years' imprisonment hard labor, with the sentences to run concurrently. (1930 The Advertiser) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1930)
In October 1929, the Chief Justice had commented on the prevalence of firearm crime in South Australia. He issued a warning that in such cases, the courts had the power to impose whippings unless a sufficient reason existed for making an exception. (1930 The Advertiser)
In sentencing Hayes and Dawson, Justice Napier considered imposing a whipping. Dawson had submitted a statement suggesting that a whipping was not a suitable punishment. Justice Napier considered it would be unjust to distinguish between the two accused, and as such a whipping was not imposed. (1930 The Advertiser)
Both Hayes and Dawson lodged applications seeking leave for an extension of time within which to appeal against the verdict. (1930 The Advertiser)
Above: part of an article from The Advertiser, Mon 3 Mar 1930. Image c/o Trove
In May 1932, Hayes was again in the newspapers. This time for something less dramatic than shooting at police. He made a doll's house in his cell at Yatala using a penknife and three-ply wood, and arranged for it to be sent to the Children's Hospital. (1932 The News)
In a letter addressed to the lay superintendent of the Adelaide Children's Hospital, Hayes wrote:
"Kindly accept the model house forwarded by me. It is the result of four months' night work, wherein the main tool is a penknife, saws being unthought of, or even a hammer. This work I do with the kind permission ot the controller and officers of this institution."
(1932 The News)
Above: Article from The News, Wed 25 May 1932. Image c/o Trove
On Monday, the 30th day of November 1936, Hayes appealed against his sentence. Hayes was not present in court, nor was he represented. Mr R.R. Chamberlain was the Crown Prosecutor. Hayes' grounds of appeal were that he had been in complete ignorance of the Criminal Appeals Act until it was recently explained to him. He also claimed that the sentence was excessive when compared to similar crimes. Hayes also stated that he had not been given sufficient time to produce his previous good conduct in the British military. Mr Justice Richards, Mr Justice Cleland and Mr Acting Justice Reed dismissed the application. (1936 Gaol Escapee's Appeal) (1936 Sensational Yatala Gaol Break)
Hayes was released from custody in 1940. (1953 Prison term cut)
In August 1943, Hayes was found guilty of stealing the carcase of a pig, nine and a half hams, and a piece of beef valued at £9. The items were stolen from Back's butcher shop at Cook's Hill. When arrested, he was intoxicated and was dragging the pig along the footpath. Hayes was fined £5 or 10 days' imprisonment. (1943 Meat Theft)
Above: article from the Maitland Mercury, Tue 24 Aug 1943. Image c/o Trove
Hayes married Clara May Vial on the 10th day of June 1944, at Stockton, New South Wales. Clara was born on the 13th day of July 1925, in Newcastle. (1947 Set Fire To Furniture) (ancestry 2016)
They separated due to Hayes ill treatment of Clara. (1947 Set Fire To Furniture)
On ANZAC Day on the 25th day of April 1947, Clara refused to return to Hayes. Hayes stated 'If I cannot return to the home I will either smash it up or burn it with you in it.' The following night, she alleged that Hayes walked into the kitchen and punched her which resulted in her jaw being dislocated. He then struck her about her body and she was thrown against the wall. (1947 Set Fire To Furniture)
On the 28th day of April 1947, a fire occurred at Cooks Hill, New South Wales. At about 1.10 a.m. his wife Clara saw Hayes strike a match and throw it down, resulting in a burst of flame. Clara ran upstairs calling for help. Mr Lawson who resided in the building, ran downstairs and extinguished the flames. Seven other people were in the building at the time. (1947 Pretty Stiff Sentence) (1947 Set Fire To Furniture)
On Wednesday, the 4th day of June 1947, Hayes appeared at Newcastle Sessions before Judge Nield. Mr L.C. Hutchinson was the Crown Prosecutor. Hayes conducted his own defence. Clara Hayes gave evidence that she found a bottle containing kerosene in the premises. A fire officer provided evidence that there was a strong smell of kerosene on the premises. After 45 minutes' deliberation, the jury found Hayes guilty. He was sentenced to 5 years' imprisonment. After being sentenced by the Judge, Hayes commented, 'You have given me a pretty stiff sentence. Can I appeal?' Judge Nield replied, 'You have that right.' (1947 Set Fire To Furniture)
Above: part of an article from the Newcastle Morning Herald, Wed 4 Jun 1947. Image c/o Trove
In March 1949, Clara Hayes appeared in the Divorce Court represented by Mr A.A. Johnson. She gave evidence that three weeks after their marriage, her husband asked her to make the residential out in his name. She refused, and a series of assaults and ill treatment followed. She also gave evidence that he had attempted to burn down her residence and had been sentenced to five years' imprisonment. She was granted a decree nisi on the ground of constructive desertion. (Newspapers.com 2019)
Hayes was released from prison in ???
On Tuesday, the 23rd day of June 1953, Hayes was committed for trial by Mr Clarke Police Magistrate, in the Adelaide Police Court. He was charged with breaking into the home of Ivor Claxton at Broadview, with intent to steal on the 13th day of June 1953. (1953 Committed for trial)
The Police Prosecutor, Inspector O'Sullivan stated that a neighbour had seen Hayes in the vicinity of the house when the occupant left. Police then found Hayes inside the house, standing by an open drawer with a kitbag in hand. Hayes was refused bail. (1953 Committed for trial)
The Police Prosecutor, Inspector O'Sullivan stated that a neighbour had seen Hayes in the vicinity of the house when the occupant left. Police then found Hayes inside the house, standing by an open drawer with a kitbag in hand. Hayes was refused bail. (1953 Committed for trial)
Above: Article from The News, Tue 23 Jun 1953. Image c/o Trove
Hayes appeared in the Criminal Court on Thursday, the 9th day of July 1953, before Mr Justice Abbott. Mr W.A.N. Wells of the Crown Law Department prosecuted. After retiring for 20 minutes, the jury returned a verdict of guilty. Justice Abbott commented 'You've got a very bad record.' Hayes told the jury that he had a bad heart and had been told by a doctor he may only have one year to live. Justice Abbott remanded Hayes for sentence. (1953 Record of Man bad]
Above: Article from The News Thu 9 Jul 1953. Image c/o Trove
On Friday the 17th day of July 1953, Hayes was sentenced to five years imprisonment.
Hayes appeared in the Court of Criminal Appeal on Wednesday, the 12th day of August 1953, before Chief Justice Sir Mellis Napier. Hayes asked for the court to accept that since his release from prison in South Australia in 1940, his record was not as bad as it appeared. Hayes stated he did not have much longer to live but went on to state that he was not looking for sympathy. His sentence of five years was reduced by two years. (1953 Prison term cut)
Above: Article from The News, Wed 12 Aug 1953. Image c/o Trove
Hayes died (1956 - aged 58)
released ? in 1956
released ? in 1956
1982 - 84
1992 - 94
1992 - 94
Joseph Markham Dawson
Joseph Markham Dawson was born c. 1903/1904 in New South Wales. England??? (SA Police Gazette Dec 1927) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1928) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1940) (1944 8 Years Gaol)
Dawson had several aliases, including Keighan, Lawson, Avery, and Lynch. (SA Police Gazette Supplement Oct 1927) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1927) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1928) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1928) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1930) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1940) (SA Police Gazette Jun 1943) (SA Police Gazette Feb 1944)
He was described as 5 feet 6 & 1/2 inches tall, medium build, medium to fresh complexion, dark brown hair, with hazel eyes. He was recorded as having a pug nose (been broken). (SA Police Gazette Suplement Oct 1927) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1928) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1940) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1944)
Above: Joseph Dawson. Image c/o SA Police Gazette 1927
Dawson's occupations included motor driver, laborer, and sheet metal worker. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts) (1930 Why William Hayes Escaped) (1944 8 Years Gaol) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1940) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1944)
In 1919, Dawson was convicted in Thames Police Court for stealing. (1927 Motor Illegally Used)
Dawson emigrated to Australia in ???
Dawson's first criminal offence occurred in February 1926, when he was aged 22. He had recently arrived in South Australia from Victoria. (1926 Without Support)
On Monday, the 15th day of February 1926, he was arrested by Detectives Ferguson and Correll for being Idle and Disorderly and larceny. (1926 Without Support)
The offence of Idle and Disorderly was contained in the Police Act 1916. Any person convicted of this offence was liable to imprisonment, with or without hard labor, for any period not exceeding two months. Section 66 had three parts. Subsection (a) related to those who had no visible means of support or insufficient lawful means of support. Subsection (b) related to those who were found lodging or wandering in company with 'any of the aboriginal natives of Australia.' Subsection (c) related to those who wandered abroad, or from house to house or placing themselves in public places. This included those who begged or gathered alms (Police Act 1916)
The offence of Idle and Disorderly was contained in the Police Act 1916. Any person convicted of this offence was liable to imprisonment, with or without hard labor, for any period not exceeding two months. Section 66 had three parts. Subsection (a) related to those who had no visible means of support or insufficient lawful means of support. Subsection (b) related to those who were found lodging or wandering in company with 'any of the aboriginal natives of Australia.' Subsection (c) related to those who wandered abroad, or from house to house or placing themselves in public places. This included those who begged or gathered alms (Police Act 1916)
That day, Dawson appeared in the Adelaide Police Court before Mr Ernest Maurice Sabine, Police Magistrate, and was sentenced to 2 months' imprisonment. However, the warrant was withheld, and he was given an opportunity to find work. (1926 Lost His Chance) (1926 Without Support)
Above: Article from The News, Mon 15 Feb 1926. Image c/o Trove
The following day, on the night of Tuesday, the 16th day of February 1926, a roll of notes comprising £21 was placed on the ledge of the ticket box by an employee of the Majestic Theatre. She was called by a male from behind her, and when she turned back around, she found the notes had been stolen. (1926 Theft from Theatre)
Above: the Majestic Theatre, c.1936. Image c/o State Library South Australia [B 64055]
That evening, a taxi from the Yellow Taxi Cab Company, driven by Ronald Arthur Hamilton, was engaged to drive Hayes and two other men, McNamara and ???, to Waterfall Gully. Upon reaching their destination, the men were unable to gain entrance to the hotel. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Dawson then instructed the taxi driver to drive him to the city. Upon reaching the corner of Gilles Street and Hutt Street, Dawson ordered the taxi driver to stop, at which time there was an argument concerning the amount of the taxi fare. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Constable Cain arrived on the scene, and whilst the taxi driver, Hamilton, was explaining to him what had occurred, Dawson kicked him in the groin. A struggle then ensued between Hayes and Constable Cain. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Dawson was arrested and, together with the other two men and Constable Cain, was driven to the City Watchhouse in the taxi. Dawson was charged with the theft of the money from the Majestic Theatre. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Dawson then instructed the taxi driver to drive him to the city. Upon reaching the corner of Gilles Street and Hutt Street, Dawson ordered the taxi driver to stop, at which time there was an argument concerning the amount of the taxi fare. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Constable Cain arrived on the scene, and whilst the taxi driver, Hamilton, was explaining to him what had occurred, Dawson kicked him in the groin. A struggle then ensued between Hayes and Constable Cain. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Dawson was arrested and, together with the other two men and Constable Cain, was driven to the City Watchhouse in the taxi. Dawson was charged with the theft of the money from the Majestic Theatre. (1926 Alleged Assault)
Hamilton suffered from an inflamed appendix, and as a result of the assault, underwent surgery. He was a patient in hospital for three weeks and was absent from his job for seven weeks. (1926 Alleged Assault)
On Wednesday, the 17th day of February 1926, Dawson appeared in the Adelaide Police Court before Mr E.M. Sabine, Police Magistrate. Detective Sergeant Allchurch, the Police Prosecutor, made an application to the court that a warrant for two months' imprisonment should be issued. This was granted. (1926 Lost His Chance)
Above: Magistrate Sabine. Image c/o State Library South Australia
Dawson was also charged with having been drunk on Tuesday, the 16th day of February. Detective Sergeant Allchuch informed the court that a report had been received from a man who claimed to have been robbed by Dawson at Waterfall Gully. However, that male did not wish to take police action as he was too drunk at the time of the offence to know exactly what happened. Dawson stated to the court that if given the opportunity, he would leave Adelaide by train, as he had sufficient money to do so. Magistrate Sabine, however, refused to give Dawson another chance, and he was imprisoned for 2 months. (1926 Lost His Chance)
Above: Article from The News, Wed 17 Feb 1926. Image c/o Trove
On Thursday, the 18th day of February 1926, Dawson again appeared before Mr E.M. Sabine, Police Magistrate, in the Adelaide Police Court, charged with having stolen the money from the Majestic Theatre. Detective Sergeant Allchurch, the police prosecutor, asked for a remand until the 25th day of February. (1926 A Charge of Theft)
On Thursday, the 25th day of February 1926, Dawson was brought before Mr L.H. Haslam, S.M. at the Adelaide Police Court, on a charge of stealing £5, the property of Majestic Amusements Limited at Adelaide. Dawson pleaded not guilty. Detective Sergeant Allchurch was the police prosecutor. (1926 Theft From Theatre)
A taxi driver gave evidence that three men hired his taxi on the 17th day of February 1926 and that one of the males said 'I went the whizz on the ticket box at Majestic last night. I got 25 pound and gave a friend six.' (1926 Theft From Theatre)
Detective McMahon gave evidence that he arrested Dawson and upon searching him at the City Watchhouse he found £5 in his possession. (1926 Theft from Theatre)
Dawson was found guilty and was sentenced to 3 months' imprisonment. He served that time in Yatala Labor Prison. (1926 Theft From Theatre)
A taxi driver gave evidence that three men hired his taxi on the 17th day of February 1926 and that one of the males said 'I went the whizz on the ticket box at Majestic last night. I got 25 pound and gave a friend six.' (1926 Theft From Theatre)
Detective McMahon gave evidence that he arrested Dawson and upon searching him at the City Watchhouse he found £5 in his possession. (1926 Theft from Theatre)
Dawson was found guilty and was sentenced to 3 months' imprisonment. He served that time in Yatala Labor Prison. (1926 Theft From Theatre)
On the 3rd day of May 1926, Dawson was convicted in the Supreme Court, Adelaide, of grievous bodily harm on Ronald Hamilton, and was sentenced to two years' imprisonment with hard labour. His release date was the 10th day of September 1927. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927) (SA Police Gazette Supplement Oct 1927)
Only a few months after being released from prison, Dawson was again in trouble with the police.
Plain Clothes Constable Evans saw Dawson sit on the running board of a car in Grote Street, Adelaide. When the car commenced to move, Constable Evans intervened and asked Dawson what he was doing. Dawson told Constable Evans to go away. Dawson was arrested by Detective Dayman, Plain Clothes Constable Evans, and Foot Constables McKenzie and Ratcliff. (1927 Motor Illegally Used) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1927)
Plain Clothes Constable Evans saw Dawson sit on the running board of a car in Grote Street, Adelaide. When the car commenced to move, Constable Evans intervened and asked Dawson what he was doing. Dawson told Constable Evans to go away. Dawson was arrested by Detective Dayman, Plain Clothes Constable Evans, and Foot Constables McKenzie and Ratcliff. (1927 Motor Illegally Used) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1927)
On Tuesday, the 13th day of December 1927, Dawson appeared before Mr E.M. Sabine, Police Magistrate in No. 1 Adelaide Police Court. Mr H. Allchurch was the Police Prosecutor. Dawson pleaded guilty to using the car without the consent of its owner, William George Nelson of Hilton. He was sentenced to 3 months' imprisonment with hard labor. (1927 Motor Illegally Used) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1927) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1928)
Above: article from The News, Tue 13 Dec 1927. Image c/o Trove
On the 14th day of February 1928, Dawson was released from custody. (SA Police Gazette Jan 1928)
On the evening of the 14th day of March 1928, Mr Donaldson David Gilson left his car in Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide. When he returned, he found the car had been stolen. (1928 Unlawful Use of Car)
Overnight, the Rosella Preserving and Manufacturing Company at North Terrace, Kent Town, was broken into, and a safe had been blown open. Despite all their hard work, only a small amount of money was obtained. A tyre lever from Mr Gilson's stolen car was found at the scene. The offenders had also feasted on a tin of plum pudding at the scene. (1928 Safe Blown Open) (1928 Unlawful Use of Car)
Above: Article from The Register, Fri 16 Mar 1928. Image c/o Trove
During the early hours of the 15th day of March 1928, Foot Constable Golding sighted five men in the stolen car near the OG Hotel at Gaza. He believed their behaviour was suspicious, so he spoke with the hotel licensee. A search was made, and three men were found in an outbuilding. Constable Golding recognised them as three of the men he had seen in the stolen car. (1928 Unlawful use of Car)
The men were asked by police why they were in the outbuilding. Dawson replied that there had 'been a bit of a stoush.' They were arrested by Detectives Dayman and Copp, Plain Clothes Constables Grow and Bourke, and Foot Constable Golding. (1928 A Remand Granted) (1928 Unlawful use of Car) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1928)
On Saturday the 17th day of March 1928, Dawson and Dignon appeared in the Adelaide Police Court before Mr. H.M. Muirhead, S.M. The two accused were remanded until Wednesday and were allowed bail in a personal bond and one surety. (1928 A Remand Granted)
On Tuesday, the 27th day of March 1928, Dawson, Herman Andrew Dignon and Richard James Slee appeared before Police Magistrate Sabine in No. 1 Adelaide Police Court in relation to the unlawful use of the motor car belonging to Gilson. The police prosecutor was Sergeant H. Allchurch.
After evidence had been presented by several witnesses, each of the accused was found guilty and was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette Apr 1928)
After evidence had been presented by several witnesses, each of the accused was found guilty and was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette Apr 1928)
Dawson's cycle of being imprisoned, released, and reoffending continued following his release from prison in ???
In January 1929, Dawson was arrested for unlawfully using a motor car, the property of Doris Winifred Smith, at Glenelg. (SA Police Gazette Jan 1929)
On the 8th day of January 1929, he was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette Jan 1929)
On the 8th day of January 1929, he was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette Jan 1929)
In October 1929, Dawson was released from custody. (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929)
On the 16th day of November 1929, Dawson, in company with Hayes, committed an armed robbery at the shop of George Etrelezis in Bank Street, Adelaide. (SA Police Gazette Nov 1929)
In December 1930, Dawson was apprehended for the break-in at Eudunda Farmers Co-Operative Society Ltd at Lameroo. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1929)
In December 1930, Dawson was convicted of escaping legal custody and shooting with intent to evade lawful arrest. He was sentenced to 2 years and 15 years' hard labor respectively. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1930)
Dawson was released from prison on the 9th day of January 1941. (1944 8 Years Gaol) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1940) (Genealogy SA n.d.)
On the 3rd day of April 1943, John William Swanson was robbed of £123 and a money bag. He was knocked out by violent blows to the head. (1943 Process Worker)
In May 1943, Dawson appeared in the Supreme Court, Adelaide, regarding the alleged robbery of Swanson. He was acquitted. (SA Police Gazette Jun 1943)
At the time, Dawson was recorded as a labourer and was living at 339 Gilles Street, Adelaide. (SA Police Gazette Jan 1944)
Above: 339 Gilles Street, Adelaide. Image c/o Google Maps
At about 1.00 p.m. on the 23rd day of December 1943, Abraham Palmer was assaulted and robbed by two men of his leather wallet and its contents in a lavatory at the rear of the Stag Hotel, Rundle Street, Adelaide. One man, Francis Crawford, was arrested, but the second male, Joseph Dawson, was not immediately located. He was described as a 'dangerous criminal.' and that 'care should be exercised in apprehending him.' (SA Police Gazette Jan 1944)
Above: Item from the Police Gazette, Wed Jan 5, 1944.
Dawson was arrested by Inspector Duthie, Detective Sergeants Gill and Walters, Detectives McGrath, Packham, Leane, and Harvey, Constables Gullidge and Draper. (SA Police Gazette Feb 1944)
Dawson was a sheet metal worker and was living at Gilles Street, Adelaide. (1944 8 years Gaol)
On Thursday, the 24th day of February 1944, Dawson appeared unrepresented before Mr Justice Mayo in the Criminal Court, Adelaide. Justice Mayo spoke of Dawson's bad record and stated that Dawson had above-average intelligence, but had shown himself to be brutal and callous. (1944 8 Years Gaol) (1944 Supreme)
Dawson pleaded for lenience, with Justice Mayo commenting, 'I cannot regard you as other than a dangerous man.' He went on to say, 'I have carefully considered your plea for leniency, and do not intend to impose a sentence destructive of any hope you have for the future. But the sentence cannot possibly be light.' (1944 8 Years Gaol) (1944 Supreme)
He was found guilty of robbery with violence and was sentenced to 8 years' imprisonment. (1944 8 Years Gaol) (SA Police Gazette Mar 1940)
Dawson's co-accused, Francis Crawford, was sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment and ordered to enter into a bond of £50 with a surety of £50 to be of good behaviour and abstain from alcohol for 2 years after serving his sentence. (1944 8 Years Gaol)
Above: article from The News, Thu 24 Feb 1944. Image c/o Trove
Dawson was released from custody in 1952.
Joseph Dawson died ???
1983 - 80
1993 - 90
2003 - 100
1983 - 80
1993 - 90
2003 - 100
John Eustace Newchurch
John Eustace Newchurch was born in 1903 at Point McLeay, South Australia. It appears that his birth was not registered. His mother was Ethel Williams. During his life he used the alias of Jack Williams. (1929 Smart Police Work) (Genealogy SA n.d.) (SA Police Gazette Jul 1929)
Point McLeay Mission, c. 1926. Image c/o State Library South Australia []B 3804]
Newchurch's occupations included teamster. (1930 Two Escaped Armed Convicts) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1929)
Newchurch was described as 5 feet 7 tall, with black hair, dark eyes, a squat nose, a large mouth, and an oval chin. He was recorded as having a scar on his left forearm and a large burn scar over his left knee. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1926) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1929)
Between the 2nd day of August and the 3rd day of August 1925, the storeroom of George Arthur Diment at Port Victoria was 'feloniously entered' and various property was stolen, including 10s and 15s on 3d and 6d pieces, a Perdriau motor car tube, and a steel punch. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1925) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1925)
On Tuesday, the 8th day of September 1925, the shop of Mr Bernard Richard Hasting at South Kilkerran was broken into. Entry had been gained by a window, with a plate of glass being removed in pieces. An attempt had been made to gain entry through the galvanised iron wall, by cutting a hole in one of the sheets. However, the wall was lined with wood inside, and the attempt to gain entry was unsuccessful. (1925 The Mailtand Watch)
Goods and cash from the till to the value of about £40 were stolen. A pile of boots and shows were on the floor, and the drapery counter had been ransacked. Goods stolen included three complete outfits for men, comprising suits, hats, shirts, silk socks, and shoes. (1925 The Maitland Watch)
Above: Article from The Mailtand Watch, Fri 11 Sept 1925. Image c/o Trove
On Thursday, the 24th day of September 1925, Newchurch and two other males, John Howard Sansbury, and Jack Johnson Newchurch, were arrested at the Point Pearce Mission Station for breaking into the store at South Kilkerran. Mounted Constables Johnson and Edington and Detective White from Adelaide were the arresting officers. (SA Police Gazette Oct 1925) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1925)
They were brought before the Maitland Police Court on Friday the 25th day of September 1925. They pleaded guilty and were committed for sentence at the next Supreme Court sittings.
Newchurch and one of the males were also charged with breaking and entering the premises of Mr. Diment at Port Victoria. They both pleaded guilty. (1925 Police Court)
Newchurch and one of the males were also charged with breaking and entering the premises of Mr. Diment at Port Victoria. They both pleaded guilty. (1925 Police Court)
Above: Article from The Mailtand Watch, Fri 2 Oct 1925. Image c/o Trove
On the 2nd day of November 1925, Newchurch was tried at the Supreme Court, Adelaide, and convicted of 2 counts of Shop break and Larceny. He was sentenced to 1 year & 7 months hard labour on each count. (1925 The Maitland Watch) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1926) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1926)
Above: Article from The Maitland Watch, Fri 6 Nov 1925. Image c/o Trove
Newchurch was released from custody in December 1926. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1926)
On the 24th day of April 1927, Newchurch was arrested by Mounted Constable Gordon for shopbreaking and larceny on Walter Carl Gann at Iron Knob. (SA Police Gazette May 1927)
On the 26th day of July 1927, Newchurch was convicted in the Circuit Court, Gladstone by Mr Justice Angas Parsons, for shop breaking and larceny. He received one year and nine months' imprisonment hard labour. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927) (SA Police Gaztte Apr 1929)
Newchurch was released from custody in April 1929. (SA Police Gazette Apr 1929)
On the evening of Saturday, the 6th day of July 1929, a breakin occurred on the store of Mr A. Najjar at Barmera. The back door had been forced in and the contents of the till were stolen. Mr Najjar was away in Adelaide at the time on a business trip. His shop adjoined the Barmera Bakery, and whilst Mr Najjar was absent, his shop was being managed by a bakery assistant. They locked up the shop at 1.00 p.m. and on Sunday morning an employee found the shop had been broken into. (1929 Robbery at Barmera) (1929 Smart Police Work)
Above: Advertisement for Najjar's store. Image c/o Murray Pioneer and Australian River Record, Fri 10 Feb 1928
Newchurch was arrested by Mounted Constable Kelleher for the unlawful possession of £12 3s, stolen from Najjar's store. MC Kelleher conducted a search of Newchurch's tent and asked him to get out of his bed. Newchurch failed to comply and a struggle took place, during which Newchurch threw a parcel out of the tent. It was found to contain the money. Newchurch told Police that he had found the money near the bakery. Newchurch initially provided his name as Jack Williams, but eventually admitted his true identity. (1929 Smart Police Work) (SA Police Gazette Jul 1929)
Newchurch appeared on the Police Court at Barmera on Thursday, the 11th day of July 1929, before Messrs. Appleton and Shillabeer, Justices of the Peace. Newchurch pleaded guilty, and he was sentenced to the maximum penalty allowed by the law, two years' imprisonment with hard labour. Mr Appleton commented on the lengthy criminal record of Newchurch and stated that they could not extend any leniency to him. He stated that Newchurch had launched on a career of lawlessness and they considered a light sentence would be wasted. (1929 Smart Police Work) (SA Police Gazette Jul 1929)
Above: part of an article from the Murray Pioneer and Australian River Record, Fri 19 Jul 1929. Image c/o Trove
On Tuesday the 28th day of January 1930, Newchurch and Francis John Wood escaped from Yatala Labour Prison. They had been among a group of prisoners working in a quarry. It is believed they hid in a creek near the quarry and then made their escape. (1930 The Chronicle)
Above: part of an article from The Chronicle, Thu 30 Jan 1930. Image c/o Trove
In February 1930, Newchurch and John Francis Wood were arrested by Sergeant Redpath and Mounted Constables Merrett and Armitage near Milang for escaping from Yatala. They were also charged with stealing a motor car belonging to Arthur William Mack at Glen Osmond, and for unlawfully using a motor car the property of Charles Hank at Campbelltown. (SA Police Gazette Feb 1930)
On Monday the 3rd day of March February 1930, Newchurch and Wood were charged on remand in the Adelaide Police Court before Mr E.M. Sabine Police Magistrate, with having escaped from Yatala. Both Newchurch and Wood admitted to stealing the motor vehicle from Glen Osmond. They were committed to the Supreme Court on those charges. (1930 Wood and Newchurch)
They both pleaded guilty to illegally using the vehicle stolen from Campbelltown and they were each sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette Feb 1930) (1930 Wood and Newchurch)
They both pleaded guilty to illegally using the vehicle stolen from Campbelltown and they were each sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment. (SA Police Gazette Feb 1930) (1930 Wood and Newchurch)
On the 17th day of March 1930, at the Criminal Court Adelaide, before Honourable Mr Justice Richards, Newchurch was sentenced to 6 calendar months' imprisonment for escaping, and one year's imprisonment for Larceny. (1930 Criminal Sittings) (South Australia Police 1930)
Justice Richards. Image c/o State Library of South Australia
Above: Item from the SA Police Gazette, 7th May 1930.
Two days after his death, Mrs Edwards of Point Pearce Mission Station, Port Victoria, spoke with The Mail newspaper. She stated that after Newchurch had recently been convicted, a senior Aboriginal from the mission station urged him to 'turn over a new leaf.' (1930 God Knows how I will finish)
Newchurch replied: "I cannot go straight, no matter what I do. God knows how I will finish up." (1930 God Knows how I will finish)
Newchurch is buried at the West Terrace Cemetery. (Genelaogy SA n.d.)
Arthur Harold Harrison
Harrold Arthur Harrison @ Arthur Harold Harrison was born on the 14th day of April 1903 in Redruth, South Australia. His parents were John Harrison and Alice Harrison nee Allen. During his life, Harrison also used the alias of Mick. (1926 Illegal Possession of a Lamb) (Ancestry 2016) (Genealogy SA n.d.) (SA Police Gazette Supplement 1927)
His place of birth, Redruth, is located near the historic mining town of Burra in the midnorth region of South Australia, about 178 km north of the city of Adelaide.
Above: Arthur Harrison. Image c/o SA Police Gazette, 5 Oct 1927.
Harrison was described as 5 feet 9 1/2 inches tall, medium build, medium to sallow complexion, with light brown hair and grey eyes. (SA Police Gazette Supplement 1927) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1928) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1929)
His occupation included rabbit trapper. (1039 Two Escaped Armed Convicts) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1928)
Harrison was a career criminal with a history of breaking and dishonesty-related offences. He spent significant periods in custody from the age of 20 in 1923 until he died in 1930.
His first brush with the law came in September 1923, when at age 20, he was arrested by Mounted Constables Johns and Fox for unlawful possession of a lady's gold watch, the property of L.S. Gruhl of Clare. (SA Police Gazette Sep 1923)
Harrison had worked for Mrs Gruhl about 2 & 1/2 years previously, and her watch disappeared at the time he stopped working for her. He was spoken to by police leaving the pictures on Saturday the 8th day of September and was found in possession of the watch. (1923 Burra Record)
Harrison appeared at the Redruth Police Court on Monday the 10th day of September 2923 before Messrs Radford and Marston, Justices of the Peace. Harrison pleaded guilty. The two JPs took into account that he was under 18 years of age when the offence of larceny had occurred. They decided to give him 'another chance ', and he was fined £5. (1923 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1923)
Harrison had worked for Mrs Gruhl about 2 & 1/2 years previously, and her watch disappeared at the time he stopped working for her. He was spoken to by police leaving the pictures on Saturday the 8th day of September and was found in possession of the watch. (1923 Burra Record)
Harrison appeared at the Redruth Police Court on Monday the 10th day of September 2923 before Messrs Radford and Marston, Justices of the Peace. Harrison pleaded guilty. The two JPs took into account that he was under 18 years of age when the offence of larceny had occurred. They decided to give him 'another chance ', and he was fined £5. (1923 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1923)
Above: article from the Burra Record, Wed 12 Sept 1923. Image c/o Trove
Harrison's second arrest and first term of imprisonment came in August 1926 when he was aged 23.
On Sunday the 8th day of August 1926, Sergeant Johns in company with Mounted Constables Gearing and Hornibrook, attended at a camp on Hogback Station, east of Burra, regarding a report of the killing of a lamb. Harrison and his father were arrested. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
On Monday the 9th day of August 1926, Harrison appeared at the Redruth Court before the Mayor and E.J. Harris Esq J.P, charged with unlawful possession of the skin of a lamb and of 18 pieces of the carcass. His father, John Harrison, was also charged with aiding and abetting his son. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927)
Young Harrison admitted to the police that he had shot the sheep, but claimed it was shot by mistake and that he was aiming at a kangaroo. They were both sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment in Adelaide Gaol. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927)
On Sunday the 8th day of August 1926, Sergeant Johns in company with Mounted Constables Gearing and Hornibrook, attended at a camp on Hogback Station, east of Burra, regarding a report of the killing of a lamb. Harrison and his father were arrested. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
On Monday the 9th day of August 1926, Harrison appeared at the Redruth Court before the Mayor and E.J. Harris Esq J.P, charged with unlawful possession of the skin of a lamb and of 18 pieces of the carcass. His father, John Harrison, was also charged with aiding and abetting his son. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927)
Young Harrison admitted to the police that he had shot the sheep, but claimed it was shot by mistake and that he was aiming at a kangaroo. They were both sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment in Adelaide Gaol. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927)
Above: part of an article from the Burra Record, Wed 11 Aug 1926. Image c/o Trove
Following sentence, Arthur Harrison was then charged with having 'burglariously entered' the Burra Military Depot between the 26th day of February and the 18th day of April 1926, and therein stolen a rifle and an overcoat valued at £12. It was alleged by Sergeant John Harrison that a rifle with the same number as that missing was found in Harrison's effects. The hearing was adjourned for 2 weeks. (1926 Burra Record) (SA Police Gazette Jun 1926)
To be sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment for a relatively trifling offence is today quite astounding.
Above: Adelaide Gaol, c. 1929. Image c/o State Library of South Australia (BRG 397/2/88/3]
On the 23rd day of August 1926, Harrison, aged 23 years, was charged at the Redruth Police Court with breaking and entering the military depot, Kooringa, and was committed for sentence. He pleaded guilty and was committed for sentence at the next sittings of the Supreme Court. Harrison was placed in a cell at the Redruth Police Station and escaped overnight. The cell door had been wrenched off from the outside. (1926 Redruth Court) (1930 Observer) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
Sergeant Johns later gave evidence that he had checked on Harrison on 2 occasions and that he was only dressed in his underpants, shirt and socks. At 5.10 a.m. he found the cell door open with the padlock on the ground in front of the door, and Harrison missing. (1926 Redruth Court)
It was believed by Police that Harrison had been assisted by William George Lines. It was further suspected that they were in possession of a stolen Nash motor vehicle, which had been stolen from the garage at the Burra Hotel overnight. That vehicle was subsequently seen about 60 miles east of Kooringa in the early hours of the morning. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1926)
Above: Item from the SA Police Gazette, Aug 25, 1926.
On the afternoon of Thursday, the 26th day of August 1926, Harrison and Lines were arrested by the Silverton Police at Torrawangie, north of Broken Hill in New South Wales. They were making their way to Queensland on the travelling stock route. (1926 The Register) (SA Police Gazette Sep 1926)
Above: article from The Register, Thu 26 Aug 1926. Image c/o Trove
Harrison and Lines had driven almost 500 km from Burra, where they stole the vehicle, to where they were apprehended. This was all on dirt roads in remote parts of South Australia and New South Wales.
On the 6th day of September 1926, at the Supreme Court, Adelaide, Harrison was convicted of shop breaking & larceny, larceny, and escaping from lawful custody. He was sentenced to 18 months, 12 months, and 6 months' hard labour respectively. (SA Police Gazette Nov 1926) (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927) (SA Police Gazette Supplement 1927)
After serving 11 months in prison, Harrison was released from custody on the 27th day of August 1927, on probation, with his sentence expiring on the 28th day of September 1928. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1927)
On the 10th day of October 1927, he was arrested by Sergeant McDonald and Mounted Constables Thorpe, Geering and Pyne for unlawfully using a Vauxhall motor car, the property of Captain E.D.A. Bagot, near Burra. He was fined £20, costs 15s, and damages £10, in default 6 months' imprisonment. He was further charged with the unlawful possession of a pair of gloves and a camera, the property of J.P. Gillespie at Aberdeen, Burra. He was sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment, the sentences to be concurrent. (SA Police Gazette Oct 1927) (SA Police Gazette Dec 1928)
Harrison was released from custody on the 14th day of December 1928. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1928)
On the 12th day of January 1929, a wheel rim was stolen from a Ford motor car at Mount Bryan, the property of Harold Francis Fellenberry. (SA Police Gazette Jan 1929)
On the 9th day of March 1929, he was arrested by Sergeant McDonald and Mounted Constables Geering and Webster, for unlawful possession of a lamp reflector, lens, rim and car battery, the property of Horace James, at Aberdeen. He was fined £5 and costs 15s. and in default 2 months' imprisonment. He was further charged with a breach of Section 175 of the Licensing Acts. He was tried at Redruth. (SA Police Gazette Mar 1929)
On the 18th day of March 1929, two bags of chaff were stolen from the premises of Sara and Co at Aberdeen. Later that day, Sergeant McDonald and Mounted Constable Geoffrey Webster attended Harrison's home address and located the two bags of chaff. Harrison was arrested for larceny. (1929 Burra Local Court) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1929)
He was tried at Burra on the 26th day of March 1929 and sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment hard labor. (1929 Burra Local Court) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1929)
He was tried at Burra on the 26th day of March 1929 and sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment hard labor. (1929 Burra Local Court) (SA Police Gazette Apr 1929)
Harrison was released on the 7th day of August 1929. (SA Police Gazette Aug 1929)
In September 1929, Harrison was arrested by Sergeant McDonald and M.C.s Geeing and Webster for unlawful possession of a tin of motor spirit. He was fined £3 and costs 15s in default one month's imprisonment. He was further charged with a breach of the Firearms Registration Act at Redruth and fined £1 and costs 15s, in default one month's imprisonment. He was tried at Burra on the 6th day of September 1929. (SA Police Gazette Sep 1929)
larceny from Drew and Crewe Pty Ltd. (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929)
On the 9th day of October 1929, the Parkside Hotel on Glen Osmond Road was broken into. The hotel keeper, Mr. Thomas John Foreman informed police that one keg and five gallons of beer valued at £2 3s had been stolen. (1929 Series of Charges)
On the 10th day of October 1929, Horace DeLaine of Enfield had various property stolen including a motor rim, tyre and tube valued at £2 10. (1929 Series of Charges)
Harrison was arrested for the Parkside Hotel break-in and the Enfield theft by Detectives Lindsay, Grow, Evans, and Herman, and charged with burglary and larceny. (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929)
Above: Item from the SA Police Gazette, 30 Oct 1929.
On Thursday, the 24th day of October 1929, Harrison appeared in the Adelaide Police Court before Mr W.J. Hinde S.M. He had been found guilty the day prior of the larceny of nine prize fowls valued at £9, at Pooraka, the property of James Ernest Eisele. He was ordered 12 months' imprisonment. He was further sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment for the unlawful possession on the 12th day of October at Farrell's Flats of two overcoats the property of Frederick Thomas Blencowe and Adolph John Rasmus. He was also found guilty of the unlawful possession of 33 rabbit traps. He received 12 months' imprisonment. Eight further charges of stealing poultry, five of larceny and four of garage breaking were not proceeding with. (1929 Series of Charges) (SA Police Gazette Oct 1929)
Additionally, he was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment for the theft of the property belonging to Horace DeLaine at Enfield. He was then committed for trial on a charge of having 'burglariously broken into' the Parkside Hotel on the 9th day of October. (1929 Series of Charges)
Additionally, he was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment for the theft of the property belonging to Horace DeLaine at Enfield. He was then committed for trial on a charge of having 'burglariously broken into' the Parkside Hotel on the 9th day of October. (1929 Series of Charges)
Above: Article from The Advertiser Fri 25 Oct 1929. Image c/o Trove
On Friday, the 6th day of December 1929, Harrison and his accomplice, Allen Edward Ellis, appeared before Mr Justice Piper and jurors in the Criminal Court, Adelaide. They were accused of having broken into the Parkside Hotel owned by Thomas John Forearman on the 9th day of October 1929 and stealing one keg and five gallons of beer valued at £2 3s. (1929 Nearly Drowned)
Detective Grow gave evidence that he searched a house in Adelaide and found an empty 5-gallon keg in a room occupied by Harrison, who admitted to the break-in and theft. Ellis stated that they cut some pipes on a barrel and were 'nearly drowned with beer.' (1929 Nearly Drowned)
Detective Grow gave evidence that he searched a house in Adelaide and found an empty 5-gallon keg in a room occupied by Harrison, who admitted to the break-in and theft. Ellis stated that they cut some pipes on a barrel and were 'nearly drowned with beer.' (1929 Nearly Drowned)
Above: part of an article from The News, Fri 6 Dec 1929. Image c/o Trove
Harrison and Ellis were found guilty of burglary and larceny and were remanded for sentence. On the 20th day of December 1929, Harrison was sentenced by the Honorable Mr Justice Piper to a term of imprisonment of 3 years' hard labor, to be served concurrently with sentences already being served. (1930 Observer) (1930 Two Armed Convicts) (SA Police 1930) (SA Police Gazette Jan 1930) (South Australia Police 1930)
Harrison was shot and killed by Police on the 18th day of July 1930, after escaping custody. He was just 27 years old.
Harrison is buried at the West Terrace Cemetery. (Genealogy SA n.d.)
Frederick Carl Goetsch
Frederick Carl Goetsch was born in 1888.
He had several alias including Charles Goetsch, Carl Goetsch, and Karl Goetsch. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1930)
He had several alias including Charles Goetsch, Carl Goetsch, and Karl Goetsch. (SA Police Gazette Dec 1930)
On the 9th day of March 1932, he married Dorothy Magneta Augusta Natts in South Australia. (ancestry 2016)
He died on the 27th day of June 1979.
He is buried at West Terrace Cemetery South Australia. (findagrave 2019)
He is buried at West Terrace Cemetery South Australia. (findagrave 2019)
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