Willam Guthrie

Porter, Cleaner, Fireman, Driver

Yass, Mittagong, Goulburn (Narromine)

 War Service record: NAA B2455, GUTHRIE, WJ (Service no. 25661)

NSWGR Employment Card: NSW Public RecordsStaff no (2^nd). 38838

Great niece: Kate Olsson

Granddaughter: Judith Guthrie

William Guthrie Biography

Joined NSWGR in 1912 when he was 19. Started as a junior porter at Yass, then worked as a gatekeeper at Mittagong. He resigned and then joined the Loco Dept at Goulburn in 1914 as a casual and then permanent engine cleaner. Enlisted 1916 with four others from Goulburn Railway. Served as a Driver in the Field Artillery in Belgium and France.  Promoted to Fireman while at war 6 August 1917. Resumed railway work at Goulburn after discharged in 1919. After 1920 moved to the Western Division and became an engine driver on the Peak-Hill-Narromine and Dubbo lines. After several moves (cartage paid by Railways), settled in Narromine. Retired in 1953 aged 60 (pension age 65)

Born 1893, near Goulburn. Family second generation on land at Big Hill. War service record shows that he was a qualified Fitter – probably completed training before seeking railway employment. He was 22 when he enlisted and single.  Gassed repeatedly in 1917 and wounded in the stomach 1918. Returned to the front each time. Discharged 1919 after hospitalization for haemorrhoids.  Married Mary Morrisey in 1922. Family included sons Victor and Norman. Died in 1957 aged 64, four years after his retirement

Played cricket for Railway Cricket Club. Cricket a theme in family.