Horace Russell MAYERS

Horace Russell Mayers was born in Cairns, 14 November 1895 the son of George Russell Mayers and Louisa Elizabeth Penelope Smith. He was one of 7 children, Gladys Penelope born 1894, then Horace Rusell 1895, Eric George 1898, Phyllis 1899, Frank Aubrey 1901, Cyril Herbert 1902 and Roy Oswald  born 1903.

In 1915 Horace Russel was moving horses from Woree to Mooliba and was fined for not having a permit.

On his enlistment in Cairns he was 20 years 2 months, occupation a Farmer, next of kin was his father, G K Mayers, Cairns.  His height was 5 feet 6 inches, weighed 141 pounds with ruddy complexion, blue eyes and fair to ginger hair.  His religion was Church of England.

Horace Russell Mayers was killed in action in Bullecourt, France 23 April 1917 and buried in the Vaulx Hill British Cemetery North West of Bapaume.

The Bartle Frere Lodge of the Freemasons was consecrated in Babinda Qld on the 5th June 1917 with George Russell Mayers as its first Worshipful Master.  He also donated the Lodge building, which was transported from Cairns and was named the Horace Russell Mayers Memorial Masonic Hall in memory of his son.  Horace’s ceremonial sword was placed on display in the lodge.  His father also obtained permission for a hut to be built in France for the YMCA in honour of Horace,  to be available to the men who served in the same unit.  Permission was granted.