A Land Fit for Heroes?

In delicate health

Milton Hasthorpe’s block consisted of 129 acres and was located at Runnymeade, Via Casino.  It was in the County of Rous, Parish of Runnymeade, Casino Land District.[1]

His property situated at Back Creek comprised hilly country with black soil slopes.  It was a fair dairy farm with 40 heifers and calves and three horses which were in excellent condition.[2] The District Officer reported that Hasthorpe was a good settler but had suffered because of dry weather and poor prices for dairy produce.  It was not until August 1924 that the situation showed any sign of improvement.[3]

Poor health as well as poor seasons marred the prospects of soldier settlers.  By 24 October when an Inspection was made of his holding, Hasthorpe was in ‘delicate health and had gone to Victoria for a change of climate and (would) not be back for another months’.[4] His wife was to continue working the property having decided not to sell up.[5]

Marion Hasthorpe requested that the 50% of the dairy order which was held by the Department be withheld until 1928 as because her husband was ill, she was working the farm by herself and could ‘not afford hired help.’[6] Approval was given for an extension of time for her to pay overdue amounts as well as to suspend the order for 50% of the cream returns.[7]

Footnotes

[1] SRNSW:  Lands Department; NRS 8058, Returned Soldiers loan files; [12/7298 No. 8325], Application for Loan abt. 1 December 1921.

[2] Ibid, RSS Branch Office Memorandum 11 August 1924.

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ibid,  CP Inspector 24 October 1927.

[5] Ibid.

[6] Ibid, Marion Hasthorpe to ?? 19 October 1927.

[7] Ibid, RSS Branch Report 1 December 1927.

Sources used to compile this entry:

State Records NSW:  Lands Department; NRS 8058, Returned Soldiers loan files; [12/7298 No. 8325] Milton Hasthorpe.

National Archives of Australia: B2455, First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers (Milton Hasthorpe) online: http://naa12.naa.gov.au/scripts/imagine.asp?B=4738668&I=1&SE=1