Private John Yates - a short war

John Yates, a railway fireman of Moonee Ponds, enlisted on 1 September 1916 and embarked with 5 Infantry Bn one month later.  Rod Martin tells the unfortunate story of John Yates, who had a short war, killed by friendly fire.

Unknown Bandsman, 1916

The photo was taken in Melbourne, circa 1916.  Courtesy of Judith Williams.

This photo of an unknown soldier was included with some photos of the 3rd Pioneer Battalion Band.  He also appears in the centre of the top row of the band photographed in January 1916, probably at Campbellfield. 

(Click on the photo to get a larger view.)

If anyone can identify this young man, or any of the bandsmen in the 3rd Pioneer Battalion photos, please let us know.


UPDATE:  After further consideration, it seems likely that the band taken in front of pine trees was the Head Quarters Band, or Depot Band, as it was dated January 1916.  The two identified Bandsmen did not join 3 Pioneer Battalion until late February 1916, so the  Unknown Bandsman may not have embarked with 3 Pioneer Bn.

3 Pioneer Battalion Band in Collins Street, 1916

3 Pioneer Bn Band in Collins St, courtesy of Judith Williams.

Fundraising was done by the soldiers and citizens to find the money to purchase instruments for the 3 Pioneer Battalion Band.  The above march seems likely to have been held on Wednesday 10 May, 1916.  "The route of the march will be as follows: - Leave King street at  half past 11 o'clock, and proceed via Collins, Spring, and Victoria streets to Royal Park, where the men will have lunch."    The centre horsemen of the three directly behind the band was Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Law.  The business on the left, Southwell Coultas & Co was located on the east side of Collins Street, between Swanston and Russell.  they are probably passing Scots Church on the right of the photo.  See the website for further photos of the Band.