Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Wilfred O'Brien




Wilfred O'Brien was born at Tallawang on 12 October 1896, the fourth child and third son of John Michael O'Brien and Julia (nee O'Connell). He attended school in Tallawang where his father was a teacher from 1886 to 1914. 
In 1913, Wilfred's older brother, Eugene O'Brien, was working as overseer at Goodaman (listed on Census) but he also ended up in Marrickville after their father John Michael O'Brien, got a teaching transfer after 28 years at Tallawang. Wilfred had a bank job lined up in Sydney but broke his arm so stayed with the O'Connell's at Goodiman while it mended. His brother Charles took the bank job.

Wilfred's Birth Certificate

Wilfred in 1913, aged about 17

Wilfred and dog. Axe in tree. Location and date unknown.

This appears to be Wilfred at Goodiman. Year unknown.

Wilfred with a young girl? But who?


As Eugene O'Connell had no children, Wilfred stayed on and helped at Goodaman, ultimately taking over management after Eugene's death in 1930.

It is not clear where or when Wilfred met Grace Morris but it was likely at a local concert or ball. Grace had moved to Mudgee to live in 1920 and she ran a business as a music and dance teacher. In August 1928, Grace and four of her students gave exhibitions of classical and national dancing at concerts in Gulgong and Birriwa. The following letter was written in 1928, after Wilfred and Grace had seen each other in Sydney. It was one of many letters that he sent over the next 7 years.

Mon 1st Oct 1928
Goodaman
My Dear Grace,
If not a pleasure, well I know it will be a surprise to you to get this note. Well I arrived back on the Sat. morning, wishing of course that I was back in Sydney etc. Found Mrs O’C – looking a wee bit thin I thought & certainly pleased to see me. Kath & Dad saw one off at Central, was disappointed that someone else wasn’t there, of course I was aware that that someone wouldn’t be, so I should not have been should I, but nevertheless was.
I’ve been pretty busy ever since I came home and have not had an opportunity to look you up. Of course you have been too I guess, but today is the 1st Oct and exams are done with by now for the year. I had a little scheme for Wed next but will not broach it now as I’m hors de combat. Have been in bed since last Friday night with the mumps (laughs). Was in G___ on Friday last, had a bit of a swelling on the jaw, went to quack, he told me to come home, go to bed and stay there until swelling does right down. Rather dangerous thing for men to have if they get a chill he informed me. My face is about the size of a ton pumpkin on one side, don’t know how much longer I’ll be down to it.
Started shearing a few sheep today but start the shearing proper on next Monday. I should be quite right by then. It’s a beggar lying here when things want doing but better to put in a few days and perhaps save a few weeks or more. I will have to try and arrange something after shearing, if I don’t happen to see you before, and you don’t object. Hope you had a nice weekend after I left the city, suppose it eclipsed all the time before for fun etc. I saw in the last G__ Advertiser that Mr Amies has resigned the editorship. Suppose he’ll be leaving Gulgong now.
I had better finish this surprise scrawl of __ or you will be wishing me, it and the mumps I don’t know where, so I desist and pray your pardon etc;
Your Wilfred

After Eugene O'Connell's death, Wilfred took over the running of Goodiman farm.

1930 – [PROBATE]
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES PROBATE JURISDICTION— In the Will of EUGENE O'CONNELL late of Goodiman Gulgong in the State of New South Wales Grazier deceased— APPLICATION will be made after fourteen days from the publication hereof that Probate of the Will of the above-named deceased may be granted to ROSINA O'CONNELL and WILFRED O'BRIEN the Executrix and Executor therein named ALL persons having any claim against the Estate of the abovenamed deceased are hereby required to send particulars thereof to the undersigned at whose offices all notices may be served— JAMES JOSEPH DOWD Solicitor Gulgong By his Agents C. M. Marsh & Harvey 28 Martin Place Sydney.
Source: MG – Thursday 16 October 1930

Wilfred's father, John Michael O'Brien, had been a teacher at various locations in NSW including Tallawang (west of Gulgong). Later on he lived in Marrickville, inner west Sydney. This newspaper mentions a visit from Marrickville to Goodiman in January. Wilfred's sister Kathleen visited in June of the same year.

1931 – [VISIT]
Mr J O’Brien, of Sydney, arrived in Gulgong last week to spend a holiday with his son, Mr W O’Brien, at Goodiman.
Source: Mudgee Guardian - Thursday 22 January 1931

1931 – [VISIT]
Miss K. O’Brien, of Sydney, sister of Mr W. O’Brien, of Goodiman, is spending a holiday as the guest of her brother and their auntie, Mrs E. O’Connell, of Goodiman.
Source: Mudgee Guardian - Thursday 11 June 1931

Another sibling visited Goodiman in 1933. John (the dentist) had the full name John Patrick O'Connell O'Brien which is presumably a tribute from his mother Julia O'Brien (nee O'Connell) to her brother Patrick.

1933 – [VISIT]
Mr John O’Brien, dentist, of Parramatta, is spending a holiday as the guest of his brother, Mr W O’Brien of Goodiman, Gulgong district.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 12 January 1933

In 1933, Wilfred and Grace were engaged to be married. Grace told her daughter-in-law, Marlene O'Brien, that their courtship involved meeting up for conversations between Mudgee and Gulgong. Grace would drive to a halfway point and meet Wilfred who rode there on horseback from Goodiman.  

1933 – [ENGAGEMENT]
The Engagement is announced of Grace, only child of Mrs. S. Morris and the late Mr. W. Morris of Mudgee, to Wilfred O'Brien, of Goodaman Station, Gulgong, third son of Mr. and Mrs. J. O'Brien, of Sydney.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald Saturday 4 February 1933 p 12

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1934 – [DEPARTURE]
Mr W O’Brien, of Goodiman, left for Sydney a few days ago to see his wool sold.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 18 January 1934

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In 1934 Wilfred married Grace Morris. For more details of the wedding, see Grace Morris nee O'Brien 

1934 – [WEDDING ARRANGEMENTS]
Arrangements have been made for the wedding of Miss Grace Morris, of Mudgee to Mr. Wilfred O'Brien, of Goodiman Station, to take place in Sydney. They will be married at 8 o'clock on December 1 at a Nuptial Mass at St. Mary's Basilica. The bridesmaids will be Misses Jean Kirk and Kath O'Brien, and the best man the groomsman, Messrs. Charles and John O'Brien. The reception is to be at Usher's, and they will leave on the Strathaird at about noon the same day for Bombay. The honeymoon is to be spent touring India.
Source: Catholic Freeman's Journal Thursday 29 November 1934



The wedding was held at St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney and witnessed by Charles O'Brien and Jean Kirk.

1935 – [VISIT]
Mr John O’Brien, of Sydney, arrived in Gulgong a few days ago and is the guest of his father [sic] at Goodiman.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 3 January 1935

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1935 – [VISIT]
Mr J O’Brien, a capable and highly popular school teacher in this district many years ago and who has been residing on his son’s property at Goodiman for some months past, was a welcome visitor to Mudgee at the week-end, during which he had the pleasure of meeting many old friends. The genial John, who is wearing wonderfully well, has a remarkably retentive memory, and his well-told stories of the good old days are full of interest.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 18 April 1935

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In 1936, Grace and Wilfred planned the building of a new homestead at Goodiman.

1936 – NEW HOUSES
Magnificent new houses are in course of construction for Mr C. R Niven, of Spring Ridge and Mr W O’Brien of Goodiman.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 21 May 1936

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1936 – [NEW CARS]
Constable A E Tucker, of Gulgong, and Mr W O’Brien, of Goodiman, Gulgong, have joined the ranks of new car owners…

Mrs. O'Brien (nee Miss Grace Morris, of Mudgee), wife of Mr. W. O'Brien, of Goodiman, Gulgong, rendered a much-appreciated carillon recital at Bathurst last week.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 28 May 1936

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1936 – FINE NEW HOME
THE new home being erected for Mr. and Mrs. Wilfred O'Brien, of Goodiman Station, is nearing completion. It is a very fine building of nine rooms and sun verandahs, and has all modern conveniences, including a sewerage system. Mrs. O'Brien. before her marriage, was Miss Grace Morris, of Mudgee. Mr. Rayner, of Mudgee, is the contractor. — 'Mudgee Guardian.'
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 9 July 1936


Goodiman Homestead 

1938 - GULGONG PERSONAL
Miss Kath O'Brien, who, prior to being the guest of Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Naughton for a few days, was the guest of her brother, Mr. Wilfred O'Brien, and Mrs. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman,' returned to Sydney a few days ago.
Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 27 January 1938

In 1939, Eugene O'Brien, Wilfred's brother, took a series of photos around Goodiman. They are a fantastic record of the homestead, sheds and paddock at the time.

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Wilfred and Grace had a son, John Wilfred Eugene O'Brien in 1940. Twin girls (unnamed) died at birth in 1941. They are buried with Grace's mother, Sarah, in the Mudgee Cemetery.

1940 – [BIRTH]
O'BRIEN (nee Grace Morris) - February 21 1940 at Rexton private hospital Mudgee to Mr and Mrs Wilfred O'Brien, Goodaman via Gulgong - a son (John WilfredEugene).
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Saturday 23 March 1940


Wilfred with infant son John, about 1940

1941

18 Feb 1941

1942

22 February 1942

The following newspaper articles mention Wilfred and his brothers, Eugene and Charles.

1943 - GULGONG PERSONAL
It was officially stated on Monday afternoon last that the following were patients in the Gulgong District Hospital: Mesdames J. Judge, sen. (Gulgong), Rains, sen. (Birriwa), Misses M. Dowd (Gulgong), Perram (Mudgee), Pat Ryan (Gulgong), Darnell (Dunedoo), Messrs. W. O'Brien (Goodiman), Fred. Ballard (Birriwa). V. Ross (Gulgong), Bartle (Sydney), Fred. Tattersall (Gulgong), Leslie Woods (Gulgong), Hugh Anderson (Goolma).

Miss Jean Kirk, of Kirribilli, is now staying in Gulgong with her cousin, Mrs. O'Brien, and Mr. W. O'Brien, Goodiman, Gulgong.
 
Congratulations to Mr. H. A. B. on passing another mile stone, and wishing him the best on the 12th instant. Mr. Wilfred O’Brien, of Goodiman, Gulgong, also had a birthday on the same day. He is now a patient in the District Hospital, so we wish him a speedy recovery to good health again. He also had a visit from his two brothers, Messrs. E. and C. O'Brien of Sydney, to brighten his birthday.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 14 Oct 1943 Page 17

Mr. Eugene O'Brien, of Marrickville, Sydney, brother of Mr. Wilf O'Brien, is at present at Goodiman, attending to the shearing. Mr. W. O'Brien is a patient in the Gulgong, Hospital, but is making a steady recovery.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative Thursday 21 October 1943 p 17 Article
 
1943 Letter from Wilfred's mother, Julia

1944 - [EUGENE'S VISIT]

Mr. E. O'Brien, of Marrickville, is spending a month at Goodiman with his brother, Mr. Wilf O'Brien. He was unfortunate in spraining his ankle a few days after arriving in Gulgong, especially as he had made the visit to Gulgong for health reasons.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative Thursday 6 April 1944 p 17 Article

 

Wilfred and John
1945

1947 – DEVASTATING STORM OVER STRIP OF GULGONG DISTRICT

A devastating storm early last week broke over a strip of land to the north-west of Gulgong, taking in Goodiman and part of the Birriwa wheat growing area.

Mr W. O'Brien of Goodiman, reported the fall of hail as large as hen eggs. His valuable wheat and oat crops received a very severe battering. He had expected to harvest 3000 bags of wheat and 1000 bags of oats. Whether he will harvest a quarter or a third of his wheat crop depends on future weather conditions. Over seven inches of rain were recorded for the first 12 days of this month. Mr. O'Brien says he cannot recall any worse rain and storm conditions so far as wheat growing is concerned.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 18 December 1947

Source: Gulgong Advertiser, 17 December 1947

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1948 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr.W. O'Brien, of "Goodaman" left for Sydney last Wednesday on a week's visit. At the wool sales, which he attended, part of his clip realised 64d. per lb.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 22 April 1948

22 March 1948 (Good Friday)
Wilfred and John in the front yard at Goodiman

1948 – [DEPARTURE]

Mrs. O'Brien, wife of Mr. W. O'Brien, of  'Goodaman', Gulgong, left for Sydney last Friday night on a brief visit.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 2 September 1948

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1948 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr and Mrs W O’Brien and son, John, of Goodiman, Gulgong, are holidaying in the city.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 23 December 1948

1949 – [RETURN]

Mr and Mrs W O’Brien, Goodiman, were holidaying Sydney when word was received of the death of the former’s aunt, Mrs Rosina O’Connell, of Mayne Street. Mr O’Brien immediately returned home.

Source: MG - Thursday 20 January 1949 

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1949 – [DEATH]

O'CONNELL Rosina - January 4, 1949 at her residence Mayne Street, Gulgong relict of the late Eugene O'Connell late of Goodiman and loved sister of John (decd ), Joseph (decd), Jacob (decd) Christopher, Mary (Mrs Gordon) and William. Requiescat in pace.

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald Saturday 8 January 1949

1949 – DEATH - Mrs R O’Connell

DEATH - Mrs. R. O'Connell  

The death occurred suddenly at her residence in Mayne Street, late on Friday, of last week of Mrs. Rosina O'Connell, aged 86 years. Deceased, who was a native of Murrurundi, was predeceased by her husband, the late Mr. Eugene O'Connell, of 'Goodiman', Gulgong, many years ago, and some time, later moved to town to take up residence in her own new house. Essentially a home woman, the late Mrs. O'Connell gave devoted service to her husband, and she was loved and respected by a very wide circle of friends. She took a great interest in her church and was a regular worshipper. Deceased is survived by the following brothers and sister: Messrs. William and Christopher Williardt, and Mrs. Gordon Sutherland, all of Queensland. Mr. W. O'Brien, of  'Goodiman', is a nephew. Three brothers, who resided in the Gulgong district, are deceased, namely, Messrs. John, Joseph and Jake Williardt. The funeral took place to the Roman Catholic portion of the Gulgong cemetery on Wednesday afternoon, Rev. Father Crowe officiating. Our sincere sympathy is ex tended to the bereaved ones.

Source: MG - Thursday 13 January 1949

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1949 – [PROBATE]

In the will of Rosina O’Connell… Wilfred O’Brien and Isabel Honeysett

Source: MG - Monday 17 January 1949

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John and Wilfred in front of Goodiman homestead, 7 October 1949

John and Wilfred with Goodiman shearing shed in distance, 7 October 1949

4 February 1951

Wilfred and Grace, 4 February 1951

1951 saw another visit from Wilfred's brother, Eugene.

Mr. Eugene O'Brien, of Sydney, arrived, in town last Friday to stay a week with his brother and sister- in-law, Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien of  'Goodiman'.

Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative  Thursday 28 June 1951 p 19 Article

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1949 – [RETURN]
Mrs O’Brien, wife of Mr W O’Brien, of Goodiman, Gulgong, returned home last Friday morning from Sydney.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 10 February 1949

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1949 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodaman', leaves on vacation to-night (Wednesday) for Sydney, where Mrs. O'Brien and son, John, are already holidaying.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 14 April 1949

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1949 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr W O’Brien, of Goodiman, Gulgong, left for Sydney last Friday night on a visit for a few days.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 2 June 1949

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1949 – [DEPARTURE]

Mrs O’Brien, wife of Mr W O’Brien, of “Goodiman”, left for Sydney last Monday evening to stay for a few weeks with the latter’s parents, Mr and Mrs J O’Brien, of Marrickville.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 1 September 1949

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1949 – [DEATH]

Death of Popular Gulgong Native  - Miss Ellen ('Nellie') O'Brien, whose death occurred in Sydney quite recently, was a Gulgong district native. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. O'Brien, of Marrickville, and attended school at Tallawang, where her father was a teacher for some time. For many years past she had resided with her parents at Marrickville. Deceased had a lovable personality and was very popular with all sections of the community. After a Requiem Mass at St. Brigid's Church, Marrickville, the late Miss O'Brien was privately interred at Rookwood. In addition to her parents, deceased is survived by the following brothers and sister: Messrs. Eugene, Charles, John (all of Sydney), Wilfred (Gulgong) and Kathleen (Sydney). A brother, Tom, lost his life in the first world war. Our sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved ones.  

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 1 September 1949

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1949 – [STAR STUDENT]

Recently, John O’Brien, correspondence school pupil, was praised for the excellent progress he was making with his studies. A radio announcement stated that the authorities were pleased with his work. John is a son of Mr and Mrs W O’Brien of “Goodiman”, Gulgong.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 24 November 1949

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1950 – [HOLIDAYS]

Mr and Mrs W O’Brien and son, John, of Goodiman, spent the Xmas-New Year holidays in Sydney.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 5 January 1950

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1950 – [RETURN]

Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien and son, John, of "Goodiman," returned from Sydney last week. John will return to the city early in February to attend St. John the Baptist School, Hunter's Hill.    

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 12 January 1950

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1950 – [SCHOOL]

Mrs. O'Brien, wife of Mr. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', accompanied their son, John, to Sydney by last Friday evening's train. John will attend School at Hunter's Hill.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 9 February 1950



Grace, John and Wilfred O'Brien, Circular Quay Ferry Terminal, 12 February 1950



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1950 – [DEPARTURE]

Mrs. O'Brien, wife of Mr. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', Gulgong, left for Sydney last Friday evening to stay for a week or two.  

Source: Mudgee Guardian - Thursday 6 April 1950

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1950 – [RETURN FROM SCHOOL]

John O'Brien, who attends St. John the Baptist College at Hunter's Hill, arrived in town last Friday to spend holidays till the end of the month with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', Gulgong.

Source: MG Thursday 11 May 1950

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1950 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr Charles O’Brien returned to Sydney last week after staying for some days with his brother and sister-in-law, Mr and Mrs W O’Brien of “Goodiman”, Gulgong.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 16 March 1950

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1950 – [VISIT]

Accompanied by her daughter (Julia), Mrs O’Brien, wife of Mr C O’Brien, of Marrickville, is staying with her brother-in-law, Mr W O’Brien and Mrs O’Brien, of “Goodiman”, Gulgong.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 11 May 1950

John, Grace, Madeleine and Julie at Goodiman.
Madeleine, Julie and John at front dam, Goodiman.

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1950 – [RETURN TO SCHOOL]

When John O’Brien returned to College by last Friday evening’s train, he was accompanied by his mother, Mrs W O’Brien of “Goodiman”, Gulgong.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 1 June 1950

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1950 – [HEALTH]

Mr. W. O'Brien, of “Goodiman”, was called to Sydney by train from Mudgee last Sunday evening to the serious condition of his father, Mr. John O'Brien, of Marrickville. The latter was at one time a school teacher at Tallawang.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 22 June 1950

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1950 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr W O’Brien, of Goodiman, returned from Sydney last Friday morning, but owing to his father’s condition, was again called to the city by Sunday evening’s train from Mudgee.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 29 June 1950

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1950 – [DEPARTURES]

Mrs. O'Brien, wife of Mr. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', left for Sydney last Saturday on a visit. Mr and Mrs W Bryant, of Spring Ridge, left for Sydney by car last Saturday.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 13 July 1950

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1950 – [DEPARTURES]

Mr W O’Brien, of “Goodiman” was called to Sydney last week owing to the serious illness of his mother.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 7 September 1950

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1950 – [RETURN]

Mr W O’Brien, of “Goodiman”, returned last Monday from Sydney having been called to that city last week owing to the illness of his mother. Mrs O’Brien is at present staying with Mr O’Brien’s mother having accompanied her son John last Friday on his return to college at North Sydney [Hunters Hill].

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 14 September 1950

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1950 – [DEPARTURE]

Mrs O’Brien, wife of Mr W O’Brien, of “Goodiman”, is visiting Sydney.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 7 December 1950

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1951 – [VISIT]

Mr. Eugene O'Brien, of Sydney, arrived in town last Friday to stay a week with his brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien of “Goodiman”.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 28 June 1951

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John O'Brien and Denis Newey, both pupils of St. Joseph's College, Hunter's Hill, are spending the school holidays with the former's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of “Goodiman”. Gulgong.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 6 September 1951

Denis Newey and John O'Brien at Goodiman

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Wilfred's mother died in 1951.

1951 – [DEATH]
The death occurred in Sydney last week end of Mrs. Julia T. O'Brien, relict of the late Mr. O'Brien. Deceased, who was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Terence O'Connell was born at Burrendong and had resided in the Gulgong district for many years. Deepest, sympathy is extended to the family who survive: Messrs. Eugene O'Brien, Charles O'Brien, John O'Brien (all of Sydney), Wilfred O'Brien ('Goodiman', Gulgong) and Miss Kathleen O'Brien (Sydney).

 Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative Thursday 13 September 1951 p 17 Article 

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1951 – [ILLNESS]

Mrs O’Brien, wife of Mr W O’Brien, of “Goodiman,” was accompanied by her son, John, when she returned home last Saturday. John is spending leave from College, following an illness.

[JOB: Pneumonia (had 3rd term off school) JOB was dux in first term]

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 4 October 1951

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1951 – [VISIT]

Accompanied by a friend (Miss M Gaitey), Miss Kathleen O’Brien, of Marrickville, arrived in town last week to spend holidays with the latter’s brother and sister-in-law, Mr and Mrs W O’Brien of “Goodiman”, Gulgong. Miss O’Brien had the misfortune to sustain an injured ankle the other day and has since been indisposed.

[JOB: she jumped a fence down near the Tin Hut]

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 25 October 1951

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1951 – [VISIT]

Miss Nina Dibley, of Sydney, is staying with her niece, Mrs O’Brien, of “Goodiman”, Gulgong.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 22 November 1951

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1952 – [XMAS HOLIDAYS]

Mr and Mrs W O’Brien, of “Goodiman”, Gulgong, and son, John, spent the Xmas-New Year holidays with Mr. O’Brien’s sister Miss Kath O’Brien, of Marrickville.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 10 January 1952

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1952 – [DEPARTURE]

Mrs. O'Brien, wife of Mr. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', spent last week in Sydney.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 14 February 1952

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1952 – [DEPARTURE]

Accompanied by their son, John, Mr and Mrs W O’Brien of “Goodiman,” Gulgong, left on Monday of this week to spend some days in Brisbane (Q).

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 15 May 1952

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1952 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr Eugene O’Brien retuned to Sydney last Monday after holidaying with his brother, Mr W O’Brien and Mrs O’Brien, of “Goodiman.”

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 12 June 1952

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1952 – [VISIT]

Mrs C. O’Brien [Madeline] and son [sic] and daughter [Julie], of Marrickville, are spending holidays with Mrs O’Brien’s brother-in-law, Mr W O’Brien, of Goodiman, Gulgong. John, son of Mr and Mrs W O’Brien, is also spending the school holidays with them.

[JOB: people used to call the Gulgong Advertiser the “2 minutes silence” because there was only about 2 mins worth of good reading in it. The Mudgee Mail was in opposition to the Guardian. Wilfred and Grace got the Mudgee Mail and the Gulgong Advertiser.]

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 28 August 1952

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1952 – [VISIT]

Mr P[at] Kerlin, of Sydney, and formerly of the Gulgong district, returned to the city early last week after staying for a few days with Mr and Mrs W O’Brien of “Goodiman”.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 9 October 1952

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1952 - Gulgong Personal

Mrs. W. O'Brien, of  'Goodiman', left for Sydney last Friday, and is to return in a 'few' days accompanied by son, John, who is attending college in the city.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 4 December 1952

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1953 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', Spring Ridge, left for Sydney last week on a visit.  

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 5 February 1953

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1953 – [RETURN]

When Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien returned to 'Goodiman' last Monday, they were accompanied by Miss Nina Dibley, of Sydney (Mrs. O'Brien's aunt).

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 12 February 1953

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1953 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', left for Sydney last week to attend the Sydney (Royal) Show to return this week accompanied: by the former's brother, Mr. Eugene O'Brien, who is convalescing after an illness of some months.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 9 April 1953

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1953 – [DEPARTURE]

Mr. Eugene O'Brien returned to Sydney last Wednesday after recuperating for some weeks at 'Goodiman'.

Source: Mudgee Guardian Thursday 7 May 1953 p 17 Article

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1953 – [RETURN]

Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman' spent three weeks in Sydney with relatives, returning home yesterday (Tuesday).

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 18 June 1953 p 17 Article

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1953 - BRIEFLY

Mr. Pat Kerlin, who was an employee of W. O'Brien, of  'Goodiman' some years ago, has returned to the district and has purchased a property.

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 9 July 1953 p 16 Article

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1953 – [VISIT]

When John O'Brien came up from Sydney last week to spend the school vacation with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of  'Goodiman', he was accompanied by his aunt, Mrs. C. O'Brien and the latter's daughter, Julie.

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 27 August 1953 p 17 Article

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1953 – BRIEFLY

Whilst engaged in harvesting operations, Mr. W. O'Brien, of  'Goodiman,' sustained a badly injured finger when it was caught in the drum of a header.

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 17 December 1953 p 17 Article 


Wilfred, John and a school friend, 21 January 1952

1953 - [HOLIDAY] 

Mr. Eugene O'Brien returned to Sydney last Monday after holidaying with his brother, Mr. W. O'Brien and Mrs. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman.'

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative Thursday 12 June 1952 p 17 Article

 1953 - [DEPARTURE]

Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman', left for Sydney last week to attend the Sydney (Royal) Show to return this week accompanied by the former's brother, Mr. Eugene O'Brien, who is convalescing after an illness of some months.

Source:  Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative  Thursday 9 April 1953 p 19 Article

1953 - [RETURN]

When Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien returned from Sydney to 'Goodiman' last week they were accompanied by the former's brother, Mr. Eugene O'Brien, who is convalescing after, an illness.

Source:  Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative  Thursday 16 April 1953 p 17 Article

1953 - [RECUPERATION]

Mr. Eugene O'Brien returned to Sydney last Wednesday after recuperating for some weeks at 'Goodiman'.

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative  Thursday 7 May 1953 p 17 Article

 

Wilfred on a family holiday in May 1952

1954 - Gulgong Personal

Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman' and son, John (a Sydney College student) returned last Monday from a visit to the metropolis.

Source: Mudgee Guardian - Thursday 14 January 1954 p 11 Article

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1954 - Gulgong Personal

Mr. John O'Brien, dental mechanic on the staff of the Government travelling Dental Train now on a visit to Gulgong, is a brother of Mr. Wilfred O'Brien, of 'Goodiman'.  

Source: Mudgee Guardian - Thursday 11 February 1954

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1954 – [VISIT]

When Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Brien returned to 'Goodiman' last Friday evening they were accompanied by the former's brother, Mr. Charles O'Brien, of Marrickville, who is to return to the  metropolis today (Wednesday).  

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 4 Mar 1954 Page 11

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1954 – DENTAL TRAIN GAVE PENSIONERS VERY FINE SERVICE

Dental Train Gave Pensioners Very Fine Service - Gulgong pensioners who received free treatment at the State Government's rail travelling dental clinic which left Gulgong for Coolah early last week, have spoken of the excellent and sympathetic treatment they received from the staff, including Mr. John O'Brien (brother of Mr. Wilf. O'Brien, of "Goodiman"). As patients entered the car their names were taken and they were provided with comfortable leather seats in a small waiting room. When their turn came, they were shown into the spotless surgery. A late model x-ray unit was provided, films being developed in a special room provided for the purpose. Shadowless lamps hung over the chairs used by the dental surgeons and occupied by patients. All dressings and other equipment used were sterilised before being used. At the end of the car was a generating, plant which operated at night to recharge the batteries which supplied the, electricity, used in each day's operations.

Source: MG - Thursday 15 April 1954

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1954 - Gulgong Personal

Congratulations to Mr. Jim Haley, who celebrated the anniversary of his birthday last Saturday. Jim has been an employee of 'Goodiman' for 40 years.

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 17 June 1954 p 10 Article

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Wilfred in 1954

O'Brien men in 1954
Back row: John (the dentist) and Wilfred
Front row: John Michael O'Brien, unknown man and Charles O'Brien

O'Briens in Marrickville, 1954

Back Row: Madeleine, John (the dentist), Wilfred, Doreen and Charles
Middle row: Nellie, Grace (nee Morris)
Seated row: Unknown man, Emily Madsen, John Michael O'Brien and Julia (nee O'Connell)
Seated on ground: Colleen, Barbara, Kathleen


1954 – [VISIT]

Accompanied by her daughter, Julie, Mrs. C. O'Brien of Sydney is spending holidays with her brother in-law and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs: W. O'Brien of 'Goodiman.' The son, John, of the last mentioned, accompanied by Peter Tomkins, is spending the school vacation with his parents.

Source: Mudgee Guardian - Thursday 9 September 1954 p 11 Article

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1954 – [VISIT]

Personal note from Lithgow: A visitor to Lithgow last week, the guest of Mr. and Mrs. N. Derrett, was Mrs. W. O'Brien, of 'Goodiman,' Gulgong. As Miss Grace Morris she will be remembered as a brilliant young pianiste, as well as a clever exponent of national dancing.

Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Monday 20 September 1954

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1957 – [US TRIP]

The Wilfred O'Briens, of "Goodaman," Gulgong, are now on the first leg of their four months' tour of Canada and the U.S.A., after voyaging from Sydney to Vancouver on board Orsova.

Source: The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982) Wednesday 26 June 1957 p 15 Article Illustrated

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1968 - SOCIAL ROUNDABOUT

Fifth overseas trip for Mr. and Mrs. Wilfred O'Brien, of "Goodaman," Gulgong, who left on March 5 in the Arcadia for a nine-month trip abroad. Their son, John, has been left at home to manage the property until their return.

Source: The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982) - Wednesday 20 March 1968

Wilfred worked on the farm, Goodiman, with his uncle Eugene O'Connell (who had no children). He was an active participant in the Gulgong Show Society and the local Catholic Community. He travelled overseas numerous times with his wife, Grace.

Wilfred died 19-6-1976, aged 79. He is buried in the Gulgong Cemetery with his wife Grace, who pre-deceased him.

Source: VO