With the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics now complete, and the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad officially underway, a further 'dip' into a local who took part in two Olympic Games, 1932 and 1936, as a wrestler, Eddie Scarf.
From Issue 631:
- Paris 2024 Olympic Games: 18 Locals Representing Australia
- Mona Vale SLSC's Frederick Claude Vivian Lane - Gold Medal Olympian At Paris 1900 Games: A Few Insights Into A Local Legend
Edward Richard Scarf (1908-1980), wrestler and butcher, was born on 3 November 1908 at Quirindi, New South Wales, fourth child of Lebanese-born parents Michael Eli Scarf, grocer, and his wife Amelia, née Zraysarty. His father's surname had originally been Alissis, his mother's first names Jamili Brahim.
Eddie was educated at the Marist Brothers' School, North Sydney, where he excelled at sport. At five feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall and 15 stone 8 lb. (99 kg) in weight, with large hands and a chest measurement of 45½ ins (116 cm), he was considered to be ideally equipped for wrestling.
In 1927 Scarf won the New South Wales amateur heavyweight wrestling championship. Although he retained it in 1928, and also won the State middleweight title and an Olympic Games test-tournament, he was not selected for the Olympics that year.
In 1930 he took the New South Wales heavyweight championships in both wrestling and boxing. A string of wrestling titles, including the Australian heavyweight championship in 1929 and 1932, earned him a place in the national team for the 1932 Olympics, held at Los Angeles, from 30 July to 14 August 1932.
The 1932 Australian Team comprised just 13 individuals due to the Great Depression economic restraints. Two other locals were part of the team, Andrew Murray "Boy" Charlton (12 August 1907 – 10 December 1975) and Noel Philip Ryan (1912 – 23 November 1969) both swimmers.
All three were members of their local surf clubs. Prior to the team leaving for Los Angeles, Dee Why SLSC, which Scarf had joined in 1928, held a carnival to raise funds for the local Olympic Team Members, which the three local Olympians took part in. One of the newspapers of then ran:
DEE WHY SURF CARNIVAL
TESTIMONIAL TO OLYMPIANS
MANY ENTRIES
DEE WHY Surf Life-Saving Club is holding a surf carnival for the Olympic team on Easter Monday.
Large entries have been received, for most of the events. As added attractions, the Olympic Team will be present; Eddie Scarf is .to give a Wrestling display; the Tamarama team will be seen in.an exhibition: of gymnastics, and L. Hendry is: to give a weight-lifting display.
Twelve teams have entered in the senior belt race, including Boy Charlton and Vic Moore, of .Manly; R. Chequer, of Collaroy; A. Henley and N. Griffin, of Dee Why; and D. Wiseman, of Blackhead. ''Boy" Charlton will also compete in the open surf race against Noel Ryan and all the cracks of the northern side.
Some interesting racing should be witnessed in the senior boat race between Manly "A" and Palm Beach "A" in one heat. Freshwater "A'', North Steyne and Dee Why "A'' in another, with three good "B" crews--Freshwater, Manly and Palm Beach —to fight for the final. All of these crews are In the pink after their training for the championship, and all are looking to retrieve their lost positions.
BEACH RACE
Ten teams will contest the beach relay race; and it will be interesting to see if the Manly team which won the championship on Saturday, can ward off the opposition. Champion pillow-fighter "Glaxo" Jackson will have to sit tight to hold his position against Geoff Bland, of Manly, and his club-mate, Eddie Scarf.
The Juniors, some of whom, will be competing in their last carnival before entering . the senior ranks, have been provided for with a junior surf race and boat race. Four strong, keen rival crews will contest, the boat race 'without heats! They are Dee Why, Manly, Freshwater and North Steyne.
It is very pleasing to see Collaroy Club again sending in a good list of entries after being in the background lately. This club has some good talent among its members and should be in the distribution of prize-money. These include B Lilly. R. Chequer and N. Spargo.
The proceeds of this carnival are to be used to equip surf life-savers E. Scarf (Dee Why),: "Boy" Charlton and N. Ryan (Manly) for their trip to the Olympic Games. DEE WHY SURE CARNIVAL (1932, March 24 - Thursday). The Labor Daily (Sydney, NSW : 1924 - 1938), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article236970129
Andrew (Boy) Charlton, Noel Ryan (both of Manly LSC), and Eddie Scarf (Dee Why SLSC)
Andrew 'Boy' Charlton and Noel Ryan won their events – Charlton won the senior surf belt race and Ryan won the open surf race – while Eddie gave that wrestling display.
The event raised more than £800 which was presented to the three athletes to help equip them for the Olympic Games. The trio – plus team manager Jim Eve – were guests of honour at a Manly and District Citizens’ Farewell on May 27. Mr. Scarf was also the guest of honour at a farewell banquet the following night organised by the United Lebanese (Syrian) Association.
The Meeting of Warringah Shire Council held on Tuesday. 7th June1932 records:
E.R.Scarf, Olympic Games representative, 27/5/32, thanking Council for its congratulations and good wishes.
Eddie was the only wrestler on the Australian Team. He won a bronze medal in the light-heavyweight freestyle event, Australia's first Olympic medal in wrestling, in an impressive display, he was defeated in his final bout by the American Peter Mehringer.
Andrew 'Boy' Charlton again broke the Australian record in both the 440 and 880 yd (800 m) freestyle events at the 1932 New South Wales championships to gain selection for the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the oldest member of the team at 25 years of age. He contracted influenza a fortnight before the Games after arriving in the United States. Charlton raised hopes that he had recovered when he won his heat, but then only won third place in the semi-final, although he still progressed to the final of the 400 m freestyle. Charlton finished in a distant sixth, some ten seconds behind the winner. In the 1500 metres, Charlton finished second in his heat, before coming fifth in his semi-final, resulting in his elimination.
Noel Philip Ryan finished fourth in the 1500-metre freestyle. In the 400-metre freestyle, he was eliminated in the semi-finals and in the 100-metre freestyle event he was eliminated in the first round.
Eddie was the only local Olympian to bring home a medal. However, the small team still brought home other medals:
Gold: Dunc Gray – cycling, men's 1000 m time trial, Bobby Pearce – rowing, men's single sculls, Clare Dennis – swimming, women's 200 m breaststroke. Silver: Bonnie Mealing – swimming, women's 100 m backstroke.
The Australian Olympic team at the Olympic Stadium, Los Angeles, courtesy State Library of NSW. Eddie is in back row, second from left.
Eddie with his 1932 Olympics Bronze Certificate. Item: SLNSW_FL9600072, courtesy Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW
The October 10 1932 Minutes of the Warringah Shire Council Meeting record:
34. Deewhy S.L.S.Club, 26/9/32, nominating for appointment as Beach Inspectors for the ensuing season, Messrs. L.Turner, G. Dempster, E.Scarf, J.Trembath and A. Hehley. Resolved, - Surfbathing That the persons named be appointed Beach Inspectors for the ensuing surfing season, and that the appointments be under Seal. (Crs. Nicholas, Fox)
Returning to Sydney, Scarf built up the family's butchery business at Narrabeen and Palm Beach. Some records state he began in the butchery business at age 18, in 1926. By the early 1930's he was a Master Butcher.
Fairfax Corporation. (1932). Olympic wrestler Eddie Scarf wearing a butcher's outfit and shaking a young man's hand, New South Wales, 10 February 1932 Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-160255483 - courtesy National Library of Australia
Fairfax Corporation. (1933). Olympic wrestler Eddie Scarf wrestling with another man on a beach (Dee Why), New South Wales, 4 February 1933, 1 Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-160363990 - courtesy National Library of Australia
The Meeting of Warringah Shire Council held on 17th of July 1933 records:
Butchers; Recommending renewal of butcher's shop licenses to W. Cocks, Licenses A. G. Drake, E. Scarf, F. Moss, C.J. Deley and Pierce Bros: Resolved --That the issue of the licenses be approved.
Narrabeen Tram Terminus, March 9, 1933 - Pittwater Road repairs/cementing series - Collaroy to Narrabeen. Brookvale to Dee Why was concreted 1929-1930. Item: FL3617398, courtesy NSW Records and Archives. The Scarf Butcher shop is just parallel to where the truck is, 2nd vehicle, going south.
In April 1934 his father passed away at quite a young age:
SCARF.— April 11th, 1934, at his residence, Mariposa, Maranui Avenue, Dee Why, Michael Eli, dearly loved husband of Amelia and father of Clyde, Edie, Eddie, Ruby, Theo, Norman, Russell, and John. Aged 57 years. R.I.P. Family Notices (1934, April 12). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17069557
The May 21, 1934 Meeting records:
Eddie Scarf, 8/5/34, again complaining of the state of Waterloo right-of-way; at the lane-at the base of his butcher's shop at the tram terminus, Narrabeen. Resolved, - He be informed of the negotiations in progress between the Board of Health and Mr. J. Warren regarding the putting of a drain through the latter's land.
Mavis Crowley (family Palm Beach premises beside Barrenjoey House) recalled in an interview with the Local History Unit in 2000:
Her father worked on the roads, and had a fish shop (later leased to Eddie Scarf as a butchers). Her parents sold the property – and the butchers shop was moved down the road, as was the grocery shop. Jim Boots had left the shop by then – Clyde Scarf still managed it. This later became a Gonsalves business with Allan running the business.
Jim Boots, born 1920, who came to live in Walsh Street, North Narrabeen, moved to our area in 1926, recalled in 1 2000 interview with the Local History Unit:
'I began working at the barber’s in Narrabeen, then Eddie Scarf’s butcher shop. I had attended Narrabeen Public School – but only stayed until 6th class'; ''there was no money so I said to my dad I’d get a job – started at the barbers shop at 14''.
At 14 and a half the barber couldn’t afford the 10/6 to pay him and the barber got Jim a job with Eddie Scarf. Jim started with Eddie Scarf – didn’t want the job but took it and had it all the rest of his life. Eddie wanted Jim to go work at Palm Beach with his brother, Clyde Scarf. The Scarfs had shops at Narrabeen, Palm Beach and later at Willoughby, North Sydney and Eddie was the first man to open a butcher’s shop in Wynyard Ramp.
Clyde Scarf and one of the Gonsalves boys, Allan, at the Palm Beach shop when it was beside Barrenjoey House. Photo: ABHS
Section from Postcard - Barrenjoey House with Butchery shop beside it, circa 1933-1935. Photo: ABHS
Snapperman Beach, Barrenjoey House and Pittwater Park, circa 1935. The whole Postcard: ABHS
Pittwater Aquatic Club Opening of Clubhouse Program - October 1937
Palm Beach Scarf Butchery when moved further south towards RSL, to left of Henmans Garage. Noe the stucco cement walls. Item: SLNSW_FL9600060 part of Pix Series. 'Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940', photographed by B. Rice - courtesy Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd.
Henman garage at Palm Beach showing butchery just south of this. Photo: Ray Henman
This photo, supplied by Ray Henman, shows a Butcher Shop on Iluka Road. It is to the left of PJ's Store (formerly Goddards). The Butcher was called 'Palm Beach Meat Services' and was owned by Frederick Plumridge, a Butcher from Punchbowl Road, Punchbowl and later of Pittwater Road, Mona Vale. He would have been in direct competition with Allan Gonsalves' shop on Barrenjoey Road, to the left of Jack Henman’s Garage. Newspaper articles in 1954 indicated he was fined for overcharging. Info: William (Bill) Goddard.
Jim Boots first job was to ride a push bike from Narrabeen to Palm Beach every day. The bike was welded in 4 parts. Roads were very rough, especially through the bottom of Bilgola. There was an old bus service which went to Palm Beach – the Diggers Bus. Sometimes when Jim saw the bus coming he’d wait at the top of the hill and then hang onto the big number plate at the back and with one foot on the bumper bar; the bus would tow Jim all the way to Palm Beach. Sometime a truck would come along – he'd do the same again.
Jim did that for 3 years, the trip would take about 3/4 hour to 1 hour to get to Palm Beach – hills were the worst, especially Newport Hill.
Hannah Maclurcan and Lees were in Bilgola – had hotels in Sydney had a beautiful property with palm trees. On the way to Avalon there were only 2 or 3 shops – one was Wickham’s store and Stapleton (real estate agent). At Wickham’s store was a parrot outside the store near the phone box and it would take off all the people on the phone.
On the way to Palm Beach there were only a few houses on the left hand side of the road and at Palm Beach was a nice village, wasn’t overcrowded. Jim delivered meat from a little shop in Palm Beach – no refrigeration, only ice. The Butcher’s shop was located where the little fish shop was in Palm Beach.
Every week he had to go to Narrabeen in a 1920 Buick with gate gears on the side to get the ice. He used to put it in a dicky seat in the back and it nearly melted.
Palm Beach Meat deliveries included to camping area at Palm Beach (right next to the golf course) and the lighthouse. The little shop there (Beacon Store -1933) was run by the Gonsalves – Midge Gonsalves was a stonemason who did all the work around the walls of Palm Beach. Gonsalves had a mixed business. Midge Gonsalves was a little man, according to Jim, and a champion golfer at the club.
When the tide was out Jim rode his bike to the lighthouse to Mr Billy Arblaster. He rode the bike to flat part of Palm Beach, where Mr Hal had the shop. He had a brother in the butcher business at Newport and used to deliver meat in a van.
Florida House, then a Guest House, was one place he delivered meat to. Mr G. J. Coles built home above the rock pool – went up north part of Sunrise Hill in Palm Beach – supplied meat to Bea Miles and her mother who lived there. Bea Miles would be strolling on the beach; lovely figure, big belt with a knife in it – smoking 3 cigarettes. She could swim from the rock baths at Palm Beach to the lighthouse, and was 'very athletic'.
Sunrise Hill houses was a place he delivered meat to.
Jonah’s was also another place he delivered to. He delivered meat to Mrs Butcher, down hill and left into Whale Beach and delivered to old lady, Mrs Rose – she used to have a cup of tea and a sandwich ready for Jim. Mr Laws had a little grocery business on the beach.
He went back over the hill to the shop from there - that was his route.
In the afternoons he had to pump corn beef with brine. No sausage machine. For 3 years Jim rode a pushbike to Palm Beach, 6 days a week.
Around age 15 – he met the Staverleys and played golf. Albert Staverley, was the captain or such at the Palm Beach Golf Club – Jim won their first tournament, he stated. He joined North Narrabeen Surf Club at 15 and got bronze medallion and was a life saver for 12 months. He used to practise golf at Salvation Paddock.
After he turned 17 he was working in Eddie Scarf’s butcher in Narrabeen. From there he delivered meat from Narrabeen to Curl Curl to Stewart House up to the War Veteran’s home, the Salvation Army home in Collaroy, right out to Elanora and Mona Vale, through Bayview to Church Point, and around to Avalon. He carried the meat in a side car. People didn’t buy a lot of meat then – a pound of sausages. There were hundreds of orders with little tiny parcels.
He delivered to the camping area at Narrabeen too – a parcel of 4 chops or a pound of sausages. Mostly fried foods. Busy in holiday time. Collected coupons for people – difficult to get the right amount of coupons from people.
Butcher shop – every night you had to book in the orders, organise the money. Campsite at Narrabeen – upgraded now. All tents in the 1930s – in the rains camps were washed away and whole of Narrabeen would be underwater. Few people stayed there permanents – “Palm Beach was the place that had the permanent residents.” Mowers, gardens and lawns, fly screen-doors to the tents, really lovely. Every Friday night the people who had their tents there came at the weekend. That’s all gone. Tents would stand there permanently 12 months a year.
ADULTERATED MEAT (1937, March 19). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article247129946
PRIME FINISH IN BUTCHERS' RELAY
By one yard, Eddie Scarf's team won the butchers' 440 yards relay race at Narrabeen last night, for a five-gallon keg of beer.
A team from the shop of Mr. Scarf, the ex-Olympic wrestler, had challenged four employees of Mr. Billy Pilon. An enthusiastic crowd of 150 watched the race at Narrabeen Recreation Ground. The ground was flood-lit by the headlights of about 30 cars and motor cycles.
Excitement ran high as the last men — Stan. Riley (Scarf) and Len. Starr (Pilon) raced neck and neck for the tape, and Riley won by a yard. It .was a great race, and we are all firmer friends than ever," said Mr. Pilon. "Now we are all looking forward to Saturday night, and the 'five' of beer." PRIME FINISH IN BUTCHERS' RELAY (1938, March 31). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article247468524
Inside one of the Scarf Butchers' shops. From: Pix Series. Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940, photographed by B. Rice - Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd.
Once Jim got his licence used to take Russell Scarf to the gymnasium at Willoughby where Eddie Scarf learnt to be a wrestler. Little old shed. Boxer – Dr Norm Scott Young and his daughter was a doctor at Belrose, Tricia Scott Young. Eddie Scarf was NSW and Australian champion wrestler.
Jack Knight was policeman, Australian champion too. Jim used to go there just to drive. Man who owned the gym was a little bald headed man, Mr Wilkins – encouraged Jim to do exercises. Jim skinny but got stronger and more solid. Entered in bantam weight champion – went to well-known wrestling place near Wynyard and Jim won.
Eddie Scarf was telling Jim what to do.
Eddie also consolidated his own wrestling career. He won his third Australian heavyweight championship in 1935 and the New South Wales and national light-heavyweight titles in 1937 and 1938.
He continued to excel at boxing, he gained the State heavyweight championship in 1934 and 1938. His performances at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin aroused considerable excitement. In a tough and contentious wrestling tournament—during which several countries protested against decisions by the judges—a number of questionable decisions went against him and he finished sixth in the light-heavyweight division. He won the gold medal in that division at the 1938 British Empire Games in Sydney.
Eddie also continued to promote sports through the Dee Why SLSC:
DEE WHY CARNIVAL TO-DAY
All Leading Surf Men Engaged
4 BIG ENTRIES
DEE WHY Club's carnival will see all the leading surfers engaged to-day. A start will be made at 10.30 am with the rescue and resuscitation competition. With 17 events listed for the afternoon, enjoyable sport Is assured. Tiered seating for 1000 spectators has been provided.
Altogether 18 clubs will be represented as follows: — 13 teams In the R. and R., 14 in the march-past, 23 in the senior belt, 11 In the Junior belt, 15 In the beach relay, five in the tug-o-war, 41 in the surf races, 85 in the novice surf, 44 In the junior surf, 69 In the surfoplane race, 19 in the canoe race, 64 in the musical flags, 29 In the pillow fight, 37 in the obstacle race, 21 crews in the senior and 10 In the Junior boat races, and 13 In the surf ski race. The events will be described through amplifiers.
Wrestling Exhibition
A wrestling demonstration by Olympian Eddie Scarf and his trainer, Harold Wilkes, should prove an enjoyable innovation.
During the holidays the club is conducting a fancy fair.
Dee Why has decided to grant honorary membership to any Empire Games representatives who may visit the beach, and has also agreed to entertain 30 members of the overseas Empire Games contingent one Sunday during their visit. DEE WHY CARNIVAL TO-DAY (1938, January 3). The Labor Daily (Sydney, NSW : 1924 - 1938), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article237431972
SCARF'S CUP FOR SURFERS
Australia's ex -amateur champion wrestler Eddie Scarf has presented a cup for the senior surf boat race at Dee Why carnival on December 30.
Scarf and Brother Jonathan will give an exhibition during the carnival. SCARF'S CUP FOR SURFERS (1939, December 6). Daily News (Sydney, NSW : 1938 - 1940), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article236344033
AUSTRALIAN IN “BIG TIME” WRESTLING
Americans Agree
Eddie Scarf Among Top Class
“HERE’S One Local Boy who will make good,” said Eddie Scarf, Australian wrestling champion, when he deserted amateur field to mix it with “bad boy” American professionals. Visitors agree Scarf kept his promise. They say he is in top-class. When the going has been tough, that has suited Eddie. He has conceded weight, bewildered bigger fellows with science, speed. In 1938, Scarf, a butcher, had interests in eight shops—and a mixed farm. He disposed of all except three to concentrate on wrestling. He represented Australia at Los Angeles (1932), Belin (1936) Olympic Games, won Empire wrestling title at Empire Games, held in Australia, in 1938.
Above, he re-arranges trophies (and he has many) in den of his Narrabeen (Sydney suburb) home.
Businessman Scarf Opened His First Butcher Shop when he was 18. Now he has three along coast between Dee Why and Narrabeen. In this picture brothers Theo (left) and Russell help satisfy customers. Eddie expects Russell (17) to develop into wrestling champion.
No Lindrum - "You're No Champion Here," says Russell, as Eddie hopefully prepares for big break. His best to date is 11.
Fame - Professional wrestling fame came to Scarf when he defeated Chief Little Wolf (above) and drew with highly-rated Joe Corbett.
Oarsman Never Out Of Condition, Scarf exercises daily in his skiff on lakes at Narrabeen. Has rowed for Dee Why Surf Club. On trip to Berlin Games practised with Australian crew in rigger on deck. At school he played football, cricket. His weight is 15st, 7lb.
Mother Knows Best - Mother Knows what food best suits husky son who likes to toss ring giants. A Great cook, she is serving him with solid lump of steak and vegetables.
He once held three State amateur boxing titles at same time as wrestling honors. Later concentrated on wrestling.
Hollywood - Scarf Visited Hollywood with Australian Olympic team in 1932, met film celebrities, including Anita Page, “oomph girl” of her day. Above, he shows Anita some of the tricks of wrestling, but it’s all fun. Now 31, Scarf is bachelor.
Champions - Three Great Sporting Personalities— Andrew (Boy) Charlton, Noel Ryan, Eddie Scarf, after a surf swim. Always keen surfer, Scarf carried belt for Dee Why in march past. Member of club for 12 years.
AUSTRALIAN IN “BIG TIME” WRESTLING, Pix Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-432456071 (Original: Vol. 6 No. 26 (28 December 1940)
The full album is available in; 'Pix Series. Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940 / photographed by B. Rice - Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd'.
Eddie at home in Narrabeen, he bought a block of land at Narrabeen between Pittwater Road and the lagoon. from 'Pix Series. Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940 / photographed by B. Rice - Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd'.
Eddie at home in Narrabeen, from 'Pix Series. Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940 / photographed by B. Rice - Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd'.
Eddie wresting with younger brother Russell at their home in Narrabeen, from 'Pix Series. Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940 / photographed by B. Rice - Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd'.
Eddie rowing on Narrabeen Lagoon. from 'Pix Series. Eddie Scarf at Narrabeen, 2 December 1940 / photographed by B. Rice - Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales and Courtesy ACP Magazines Ltd'.
Turning professional, Eddie won a competition promoted by Stadiums Ltd to decide the Australian heavyweight wrestling championship in 1938. He drew large, animated crowds, especially on 11 November 1940 when he defeated 'Chief Little Wolf' (Ventura Tenario) on points and took home £100 from a side-wager on the match. A supporter had cried out, 'Cut him up, Butch!', as Scarf executed a new hold which looked as if he was 'trussing a side of beef in his butcher's shop'. The crowd 'cheered wildly' when he applied Little Wolf's signature hold, the 'Indian Death Lock', to the Chief himself.
On 29 April 1941 Scarf enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force and was employed as a storekeeper. He served (1943-45) with the Parachute Training Unit and was discharged from the R.A.A.F. on 7 February 1945.
enlistment portrait - a WWII improvement over WWI - courtesy National Archives of Australia
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MADANG, NEW GUINEA. 1944-09-16. 36315 SERGEANT EDDIE SCARFE, RAAF (1) AND SX14562 TROOPER JERRY VISSCHER, 2/4TH ARMOURED REGIMENT (2) TWO WELL KNOWN WRESTLERS WHO STAGED AN EXHIBITION BOUT DURING A BOXING TOURNAMENT HELD AT THE 165TH GENERAL TRANSPORT COMPANY BETWEEN TEAMS FROM THE RAN, AMF AND THE RAAF. Image: Australian War Memorial Photograph Collection, Image Number 076026
The Narrabeen Butchery was at then 399 Pittwater Road Narrabeen - the family home was at 472 Pittwater road North Narrabeen courtesy National Archives of Australia
At the Church of Our Lady of Dolours, Chatswood, on 30 July 1942 Scarf had married with Catholic rites Edna May Gale, a munitions worker. The Sun newspaper recorded:
Wedding Bells To Ring
'Eddie Scarf and...
Miss Edna Gale
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Australia's heavyweight wrestling champion. Leading Aircraftman. Eddie Scarf, is to marry soon. He has just released the secret. His bride is to be Miss Edna Gale, of Chatswood, a keen, bright war worker.
For downright skill on the mat, Scarf transcends all the wrestlers of this country for more than a decade. He was an Olympic representative in the art of catch-as-catch-can — an outstanding one at that. In Australia he not only won amateur wrestling titles, but heavyweight boxing championships as well. He would stand up with his gloved fists poised and knock opponents cold, just as if they were slugged on the jaw with hams.
Title double .victories— wrestling and boxing— happened so often they were commonplace to Scarf. In his home at Narrabeen are statuettes and plaques as emblems of his skill. Medals and things are so numerous you run on them in every nook ' and cranny. Ex-world professional wrestling title holders Ted Thye and Walter Miller, thought so much of Scarf, they wanted to take him abroad.
Eddie and Sid Barnes, Test batsman, are firm friends. They made a pact that if one married the other would. Sid wed recently. Eddie is keeping his promise. — W. F. CORBETT. Wedding Bells To Ring (1942, July 24). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 8 (LATE FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231786688
The war rationing also impacted on the Scarf businesses - Clyde, Eddie's older brother, who was occupied in a 'reserve' job and ran the shop at Palm Beach, shared some insight on how many sausages the Scarf businesses may have been moving during the cash-strapped 1930's in this item:
Campers Short Of Food
Thousands of Christmas holiday campers are acutely short of food. Wartime restrictions have made it impossible for butchers, bakers, greengrocers, and other fresh food retailers to meet the demands of the campers. Tinned foods were stripped from all shops within miles of camping areas within the first couple of days of the holidays.
Hundreds of families camping at Narrabeen, Avalon, Palm Beach. Woy Woy. and in the Blue Mountains have been without meat since Christmas. In some places campers have appointed buying committees to come to Sydney and secure supplies fo-them.
Rush For Fish
Mrs. C. Jones, camping at Palm Beach, said yesterday that camper had rushed trawlers to buy fish. "This is the only food they can get we have not tasted meat for a fortnight," she said. Mrs. C. Bayldon, Avalon camper said; "My husband went into Sydney today to see if he could buy food. We have had to live entirely on food we brought with us from home."
Palm Beach butcher Mr. C. R. Scarf said he could sell his meat quota eight times over daily.
"I used to sell 28,000lb of meat a week during Christmas before the war," he said. "My quota is now 2500lb."
Mr. Scarf said the queue outside his shop yesterday was 50 yards long.
Mr. A. Brindell, proprietor of Avalon butchery and delicatessen, said the queue outside his shop between 8 a.m. and 9am yesterday blocked traffic. Campers Short Of Food (1944, January 1). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article247756759
There is also one tragedy that may have been associated with the Palm Beach butchery - that of the death of Ailsa Allen, of the Brown-Craig family of Palm Beach, who was one the 'sky-watchers' at Palm Beach during WWII - and took shifts looking for enemy planes from the higher up places along out coast:
PALM BEACH WOMAN KILLED
The City Coroner (Mr. Oram) recorded a verdict of accidental death at the inquest today on Mrs. Ailsa Allen (45), of 8 Pacific, Street, Palm Beach, who was knocked down by a bicycle at Palm Beach on February 9.
MRS. ALLEN, whose husband, Wing-Commander "Scotty" Allen is abroad, left property valued at £40,000. Her uncle, James Brown-Craig, of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron Club House, Kirribilli, said her life was insured for £5000.
Hilton Thompson (15), butcher's apprentice, 71 Hay Street, Collaroy, said he was riding his bicycle along Sunrise Road, Palm Beach, when he saw Mrs. Allen look back at him. I went to the right to avoid her and she moved to the right. I went back to the left and she went to the left also. Then I collided with her and fell to the ground," Thompson said PALM BEACH WOMAN KILLED (1943, March 3). Daily Mirror (Sydney, NSW : 1941 - 1955), p. 3 (Late Final Extra 2). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article272017851
See: Pittwater Summer Houses: The Cabin, Palm Beach - The Pink House Of The Craig Family
After the war, he briefly resumed wrestling before concentrating on his business and shops at North Narrabeen, Dee Why and Palm Beach.
The August 17, 1948 Warringah Shire Council Meeting records:
E R. Scarf 11/8/48, requesting permission to discuss with the Works Committee the proposed extension of Namona Street Narrabeen North, through his land. Referred to Works Committee.
The June 13, 1950 Meeting records:
Land Board Office, 5/6/50, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of a Special Lease to N.W.Elliott for a residence, etc, at Snake Creek, Oxford Fells. Resolved, - 68, That The Council raise no objection. Same, 5/6/50, inquiring whether there are any objections I V to thc grnnting of a Special Lense to for a residence, 6, nultry farm and garden. Resolved, - That the Council raise no objection. Same, 5/6/50, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of a Special Lease to the Sub-Normal Children Welfare Association for erection of buildings in the vicinity of St. Ives Showground. Resolved, - That the Council raise no objection. (55) Same, 5/6/50, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of a Special Lease to the Spastic Centre for the erection of buildings at North Manly. Resolved, - That the Council raise no objection0 (56) Same, 5/6/50, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of a Special Lease to B.W,Fleming for pig and poultry farm purposes at Oxford Falls. Resolved, - That the Council object to the application, as Portion 1305 is solid rock, and not considered suitable for a pig and poultry farm. (57) Same, 5/6/50, inquiring whether there are any objections to the granting of Special Leases to E.R. Scarf and J.H. Shackleton for pig and poultry farm purposes and boiling down works on Land off Wakehurst Parkway. Resolved; That this be referred to the Town Planning Committee.
Involved in community and charity work, Eddie was a founding member of the Warringah Rotary Club, and president and first patron of the House With No Steps. He belonged to both the Narrabeen and Dee Why Surf Life-Saving Clubs and played golf like a 'ploughman' according to those who witnessed his swing. Warringah Shire Council Minutes of Meetings also record 'giving back' more to the community.
The Minutes of the Warringah Shire Council Meeting held on July 5, 1965 record:
10 (A10) R. Shaoklady, 43 Palomar Parade, Harbord, Making application for permission to erect-additions to shop and offices on property owned by Edscar Pty. Limited at the corner of Fisher and Redman Roads, Dee Why. This application followed by a letter from R. Shacklady to Cr. Job dated 28.6.65,(letter handed in to be regarded as official) asking. that approval of the plans be expedited and stating there has been some talk of having to pay a substantial fee towards car parking. As the writer signed to pay all fees appertaining to the job this is disquieting news. He has been informed that the shops on the opposite corner on the ;Citadel; site did not pay any car parking fee and if this is true he fails to see why he show l4 have to pay any. 56 Resolved, that in view of the fact that the Scarf family, approximately 10 years ago, donated land to council adjacent to this proposed development on which the Dee Why Baby Health Centre is built for car parking and at council's request agreed to the site being used for the purpose of erecting a baby health centre because of difficulties council was experiencing in this direction at that time, that the amount of £600 contribution in lieu of car space be waived, and the plans be approved subject to them meeting all the Health and Building and Town Planning requirements. (Crs. Job/Adcock).
Eddie also became an invited speaker at some events which provides an opportunity to hear his voice, experience and perspective in this record of one such engagements:
WELL-KNOWN SPORTSMAN'S ADDRESS
Eddie Scarf On Sport and Sportsmen.
Well-known sportsman, Eddie Scarf, was the speaker at the last meeting of the Cessnock Rotary Club last Thursday night and took as his subject, 'Sport and Sportsmen.' Eddie was well versed in his subject, having held the heavyweight wrestling championship of New South Wales and Australia from 1926 to 1938, having represented Australia at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 1932, in Berlin in 1936, and also at the Empire Games in Sydney in 1938.
He won his first championship at 17 years of age and won the double— the New South Wales boxing and wrestling championships — in 1928-30 and 31. He was Australian professional champion from 1939 to 1946. He was a member of the R.A.A.F. in the last war and was a parachute jumping instructor at Richmond.
He is a member of the Dee Why and Narrabeen Surf Lifesaving Clubs.
Mr. Scarf said that in 1932 he was greatly honoured and lucky to have the opportunity to represent Australia at the Olympic Games In California. 'When I say lucky, I mean It Is good luck for anyone to represent their country, no matter what sphere they may be In. However, he must also have a lot of ability. 'We left Australia on the Mariposa on its maiden voyage. It was a grand ship and a grand lot of athletes who went.
'There were 12 selected, the supposed cream of Australia, and out of them 11 were placed in the first six. We had three gold medal winners, two seconds and two thirds.
'We arrived in California late in April.
'The Americans were determined to outdo anything in any past modern Olympics. They took for themselves something like 200 acres of ground about 10 miles from California, in hilly, rocky country. Inside of a year they cleared this out and made the place known to-day as the Old Olympic Village.
'They were determined to work on similar lines as in ancient Olympics. In those days the Olympians from various countries in Europe gathered together, and for months on end lived and trained in a place together.
'America built dozens of two-room cottages and a huge mess room, cut off into parts depending on the size of the nation which would use them. The colosseum they built was able to accommodate 130,000 people.
'At the opening of the Olympics there were something like 30,000 people turned away and the stadium was full, to witness the 2,000 athletes walk round the arena and take the salute before the dias.
'From the outskirts of the crowd they let loose something like ten thousand pigeons. For a little while they darkened the sky, even over that huge arena which had a two mile distance from point to point.
'The manager of the Australian team, James S. Eave, who is now managing the team at present in Canada, was a very great manager. He did a wonderful job as he brought back eleven places out of twelve and three gold medals which had never been done in Australia before, 'Every time a team Is sent away they fight and squabble over money. Most athletes think that is very bad because they feel that an athlete is sent to another country as an ambassador of goodwill. I think the government should finance more thoroughly some of these trips.
'In 1936 I was again honoured to represent Australia. We took a larger team, but did not do so well.
'In 1932 Germany did not win one gold medal, but in 1936 Germany won more gold medals than any other nation by winning 34, as well as 32 second medals. It was felt over there that Germany had to win and that's all there was to it.
'One little episode was at the opening ceremony. Hitler arrived on the dias taking the salute— America would not drop their flag, by the way he was surrounded by his blackshirts, and there were quite a lot of them. A woman broke through his blackshirts and threw her arms around him and kissed him. They soon got rid of her. That lasted about thirty seconds, but that meant to Berlin something like two million marks out of it through flashes, letters, telegrams and the like.
'The team worked well together. In my bout I was wrestling a Frenchman, and beat him, and in the semi-final I was wrestling a German. His nose started to bleed, so the referee stopped the bout and gave him two or three minutes rest. We started off again, his nose started to bleed, so they gave him another two minutes rest. The bell went and he got the -decision. I'm not saying anything about the decision. What I am a bit crooked onl is the two or three minutes' rest
'There was a marked difference between the games in California and Germany. Germany was then determined to outdo America in building a magnificent, huge village, with dormitory type cottages. It covered about 120 acres, and they also built a very lovely lake. One of the gymnasiums' was built of glass. You could see out, but you could not see in. They had a beautiful swimming baths in it attended by about a dozen people who really gave us service.
'At the end of the gymnasium there were various types of heat baths. We know here in Australia the sweat bath or the Turkish bath, but each nation has a different method of steaming. In one at the back of the gym. there was a room about 20 x 20 feet. In the centre were huge boulders and underneath' the boulders they had some sort of a fire heating the rocks to almost white heat. The fellows sat around the bath with a bucket of water and a little dipper with which they threw the water over the rocks, which threw off a terrific steam.'They 'They built the cottages to accommodate 26 people each. This time the Olympics had grown.
'The Germans must have good foresight because they turned the village afterwards into a military hospital. They must have had war in mind.
'When I arrived back in Perth there was a telegram waiting from the Secretary of the N.S.W. Sports Club which said: 'Will hold championship up if you will compete.' So I answered that I would wrestle.
'I got back to Sydney and went to the club and asked how many there were in the wrestling. He told me there were only two besides myself. I said I would be likely to get the bye, so I asked how many there were in the boxing, and there were the same. I said he could put me in that, too, but he said it was too late; entries had closed.
'The following week I got my mail and one letter said I was to meet so and so in the heavyweight wrestling and to be at the stadium at 8 o'clock with my togs.
A second one said I was to box so and so in the heavyweight division and to be at the stadium at 8 o'clock with my togs. So I did not strike a bye in either one. 'I had not had a glove on for two or three years. After I won my wrestle, I went back to my dressing room and then went in to see my opponent in the boxing. I went Into his room and shook hands and he was shaking. I had him really scared. I said, 'Look, I haven't had a glove on for a couple of years, so give me a fair chance.' I'll never forget as long as I live the way his face brightened up, and as I walked out of the door I could hear him say to his manager, 'I've got this joker beaten.'
'Anyway, we go into the ring. I'm mild and meek in my corner. The bell goes and he makes a terrific rush from his corner; he's going to kill me right off. At the same time I was a bit slow turning round, but I threw a punch. He ducked, but he was a fraction too late and he went down — flop.
'The crowd went wild, they clambered into the ring and they hailed me as a second Les. Darcy. And while they're hailing me they're still trying to bring the other fellow around. They carried me to my dressing room, and when I got there there must have been two or three thousand people wanting my autograph.
'Two days after, there were the finals. For the first round we foxed, the second round we threw a punch or two. Towards the end of the second i.3imd I had missed him a couple of times, 'and the people were starting to boo. The third round comes up, and they were shouting'
'Boo- Why don't you go back to your butcher shop and all that sort of thing. And me losing the glory of the night before, I did my block. I made a terrific swing. The other fellow sidestepped and I finished out about two rows. You can imagine what the people were calling me then.
'The fourth round came along and I was like a steamroller climbing uphill. I was chasing this fellow, doing my block, the crowd was against me— everyone was against me. The bell went and the ref. walked up and patted me on the head. You ought to have seen that crowd. There were still two or three thousand people waiting outside my door. But they did not want my autograph; they all wanted to kick me.'' WELL-KNOWN SPORTSMAN'S ADDRESS (1954, August 3). The Cessnock Eagle and South Maitland Recorder (NSW : 1913 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article100727687
In semi-retirement, he moved to Muswellbrook in 1969 and ran a feedlot.
He died on 7 January 1980 at Camperdown. His brother Russell Horace Scarf had passed away on January 4 1980.
Eddie was buried in Mona Vale cemetery; his wife, and their daughter and two sons survived him. Noted sportsmen, among them Tommy Burns, Frank 'Bumper' Farrell and Jim Armstrong, attended his funeral.
Even through a few insights it becomes apparent Eddie Scarf sought to look after his family, look after his community and serve Australia in any way he could.
References
- TROVE - National Library of Australia
- Tom Sear, 'Scarf, Edward Richard (1908–1980)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/scarf-edward-richard-11623/text20757, published first in hardcopy 2002
- Interview with Jim Boots conducted by Roslyn Burge, February 2000
- MILTON FAMILY PROPERTY HISTORY – PALM BEACH By William (Bill) James Goddard II, Photos Courtesy Of The Milton Family
- Ray Henman ACS - Profile
- Roads To Pittwater: The Pittwater Road
- Pittwater Summer Houses: The Cabin, Palm Beach - The Pink House Of The Craig Family
Section between then Palm Beach Seafoods and Barrenjoey House resumed in March 1948 - old creek-bed drainage/pipe - Vol/Fol: 5795-13 per HRLV
LOT 39 - 1104 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach - Milton Family properties in Palm Beach, by William (Bill) J Goddard
On April 25, 1913, Harry Munro Milton purchased lot 39 on Deposited Plan 6746 from The Barrenjoey Company Limited. The land measured 66 ft x 200 ft and had an area of one rood and one-quarter perches. The property's western boundary adjoined Barrenjoey Road, which was only a grass track barely suitable for a horse and cart. The Land Title is Volume 2360 – Folio 119.
1919 – Renovated Milton Cottage at Lot 39 - 1104 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach
On April 9, 1915, Harry transferred the property to his son, Leslie Frederick Munro Milton (1893-1956). Leslie’s occupation is shown as Balmain Carpenter on the land title. On October 20, 1923, Leslie took out a Mortgage with William Charles Bull, a Sydney Solicitor. The Mortgage was discharged on March 9, 1926.
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On October 9, 1926, Leslie sold the property to Percival (Percy) Robert Hillier (1899-1960). On the same day, Percy took out a mortgage with Leslie and discharged the Mortgage on October 4, 1928. Percy had several Mortgages after this until his final discharge on March 2, 1955. Percy, who was described as a labourer, had a daughter, Mavis Dulcie Hillier (1923-2012), who went on to marry John (Jack) Herbert Crowley (1921-1992). Both are well-known locals in the Pittwater area.
Jack and Mavis Crowley House and Garage at 1104 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach
On March 9, 1955, Percy sold the property to the Palm Beach Fishmonger Henry James Sinclair and his wife, Constance Grace Sinclair. It is likely that Sinclair started the first fish shop of many on that site at 1104 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach. When Henry James Sinclair died, his wife, Constance, became the sole proprietor of the property.
Scarf children: 9
SCARF CARL E 29261/1902 MICHAEL I AMELIA ARMIDALE - passed away in 1903
SCARF CLYDE E19569/1904 MICHAEL E AMELIA ARMIDALE
SCARF EDITH V H31726/1906 MICHAEL E AMELIA ARMIDALE
SCARF EDDIE R 39800/1908 MICHAEL E AMELIA QUIRINDI
SCARF RUBY E 23333/1910 MICHAEL E AMELIA ARMIDALE
SCARF THEODORE G 25604/1912 MICHAEL E AMELIA ARMIDALE
SCARF NORMAN 48068/1920 MICHAEL E AMELIA ST LEONARDS
Passed away in 1980 in Sydney - no record of birth - no record of birth for John either:
SCARF RUSSELL HORACE 2119/1980 MICHAEL AMENA
Edna May Scarf (Gale)
Birthdate: November 08, 1911
Birthplace: McLean, NSW, Australia
Death: February 02, 1987 (75) at R.N.S.H. St. Leonards, NSW, Australia
Place of Burial: Mona Vale Cemetery, with Eddie.
Scarf, Clyde Edward Richard, 4 Barrenjoey-road, Newport (no '4' BJ Rd. at Newport ?); - appointed Justice of the Peace in 1953 - Chief Secretary's Department. (1953, March 13). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 771. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220007097
Clyde married in 1935:
16404/1935 SCARF CLYDE R to DAUBE LILIAN J S - registered in SYDNEY - no Notice in the newspapers
Skins of Protected Marsupials
APPEAL TO SESSIONS.
In the Quarter Sessions yesterday morning, before his Honor Judge Hamilton, Michael Eli Scarf appealed against his conviction at the Armidale Court of Petty Sessions, when he was fined £5 for having opossum skins in his possession, being those of a protected animal.
Mr. C. G. Adison, instructed by Mr. H. Weaver, appeared in support of the appeal, and Mr. J. N. Mason in support of the .conviction.
At the outset, counsel agreed to his Honor's usual course of having the depositions read, and then allowing the witnesses to be questioned.
Constable Eagleton's depositions were read. Michael Eli Scarf, after his depositions had been read, was further examined.
By Mr. Mason: The only persons he knew in the deal were the Nassas. Nobody else that he knew of had anything to do with the skins. He arranged to buy them on the 4th, and got them on the 10th. The 91 skins lie was convicted of having, he bought from Tenterfield, from a man named Rose.
By Mr. Addison: These were the only skins he bought in December.
Roger Nassa was next called.
By Mr. Addison: The skins sold to Mr. Scarf were obtained in Queensland.
By Mr. Mason: He bought from O'Keefe about September, some £17 or £18 worth, of wallaby skins. He saw Francis, O'Keefe's partner, somewhere about the end of October, in Tenterfield. During July he did not see an oppossum skin in O'Keefe's camp.
By Mr. Addison: He was not at O'Keefe's camp in November, so could not say whether Francis was there or not.
George Nassa's evidence was read over. He bought the skins in Riverton (Q.), and brought them to Armidale in a trunk.
By Mr. Addison: He paid for the skins by cheque (butt produced). O'Keefe, from whom he bought the skins, said he got them in Queensland.
By Mr. Mason: He understood Queensland skins could be sold in N.S. Wales. He knew they were protected in Queensland.
Claude O'Keefe, of Riverton (Q.), a hunter and trapper, examined by Addison, said he had a few over 35 dozen skins at Riverton during the months of November. On 24th November he met Roger Nassa at Leetown. Nassa's. brother came out. and bought the skins for-£17/10, paying by cheque. All the skins, without exception, were caught or killed in Queensland. . Francis, who was sometimes in partnership . with witness, was at Uralla when the skins were sold.
By Mr. Mason; He met appellant at a party at Goolwa, and got a subpoena from him. He had not shot a 'possum until Francis got out of sight. They were all shot during November. He had had dealings with the Nassas three or four times before, and had sold them kangaroo and wallaby skins, but not opossums. He could give no information about any other deals.
Alfred Ernest Francis was called by Mr. Mason, in reply to appellant's case
His Honor: What's your occupation?
Witness; I'm a bailee - on a station in Queensland.
His Honor: It's a common term in England, but I never heard it here before.
Witness said he was present once when Nassa was buying skins. He bought £20 worth "Roger bought the skins and paid cash for them. O'Keefe had no skins .for sale in which witness was hot interested. There were no opossum skins in the camp when he left.
By Mr. Addison: He had assisted O'Keefe in trapping. The latter was an expert trapper, and in a month 35 dozen would not be an impossible number for him to get. He had seen the other witnesses in Court, and-had a talk with them. The signature to the document was his .f It was a statement taken from him by a constable.
Mr.. -Mason proceeded to direct the witness' attention to a portion of the document.
Mr. Addison objected. The witness had not proved himself a hostile one, and Mr. Mason was not entitled to treat him as such. The question should hare come in the examination in chief.
Mr.. Mason said he knew that, and that was why he explained at the outset that his course was unusual.
Witness said the statement had been wrongly taken down.
His Honor: You should be more; careful*what you put your name to.
Mr. Addison' submitted that it had been proved the skins were taken in: Queensland. He submitted there was more than a reasonable doubt to which the appellant was entitled.
Mr. Mason said the story of' the origin of the skins had probably been made up with the idea of deluding the Court. When the principal witnesses were examined on a vital point they adopted the Chinee "No saree" principle, and said they did not know. It would be impossible to protect these animals, which were common to both States, if a man could escape prosecution by saying on flimsy evidence 'the animals were killed in Queensland'.
His Honor confirmed the conviction, and said he did not believe the animals were shot in Queensland. He did hot believe O'Keefe and the way he swore so positively about the cheque showed him capable of a good-deal of recklessness.
In answer to Mr. Addison, his Honor said he had no power to make any order in regard to the disposal of the skins. It was quite possible appellant was told these skins were got in Queensland, and if it had not been for his conduct at the station where he approached the Constable, their feelings towards him would have been more of sympathy than anything else. In view of the fact that he tried - to bribe the police, they had no sympathy with him whatever. A man who bought skins might be at the mercy of others, but in this case they could have no sympathy with him at all. Where a man tried to bribe the police, he should be not only censured, but should be visited with severe punishment Costs amounting to £5/5 were given against appellant. Skins of Protected Marsupials. (1914, June 3). The Armidale Chronicle (NSW : 1894 - 1929), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article187607060