As Remembrance Day approaches, the Arcadia and Galston communities are turning their thoughts to local stories of service and sacrifice.
At the Society’s November gathering, guest speaker Ron McIntosh delivered a moving presentation on soldiers from the district who were killed in war and are remembered only by the heartbreaking inscription: “No Known Grave.”
Among them was young Frederick Gartung, pictured in the surviving family photograph. Frederick was one of three Gartung brothers who enlisted in the First World War, and tragically, he and his brother Fedor never returned home. Their family once farmed the land now marked by Gartung Road in Arcadia, and a photograph of their cottage can be found in Les Geelan’s well-known local history book Galston and Arcadia: Memories of Value.
The presentation capped off a remarkably successful year for the local historical society, which has enjoyed strong attendance and an engaging line-up of speakers. Planning for next year is already well underway, with guest speakers confirmed and hopes for at least two local history tours. History Cottage will welcome visitors on 30 November from 1pm to 4pm before closing for its summer break, reopening in February. The Society’s first meeting of 2026 is scheduled for 14 February at Galston Uniting Church, and community members can make enquiries via 02 9653 1365.
The Society highlights that its extensive research collection is available to the wider community and extends its thanks for the support shown throughout the year. Members will close out the season with a Christmas lunch at the Glenorie Club and send warm wishes to all for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
