John Monash

John Monash was born in West Melbourne in 1865. A precocious student, he studied arts, law and engineering at the University of Melbourne, though he did not complete his studies and formally graduate for several years.

A co-founder of a private engineering practice, he worked on construction projects before the outbreak of the war. His long interest in soldiering, however, led to him pursuing a parallel career in the military; in 1913, he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel of the 13th Infantry Brigade.

With the declaration of war in August 1914, John Monash was briefly appointed chief censor before being tasked with raising the 4th Brigade of the AIF at Broadmeadows, in Melbourne’s west. He went on to command the 4th Brigade at Gallipoli, and despite some criticism was promoted to brigadier in July. Monash also played a key role in organising Sarpi Rest Camp in West Mudros in September 1915.

In 1916, Monash was made major general and given command of the newly raised 3rd Australian Division, which served on the Western Front. After the five Australian infantry divisions were later reorganised into the Australian Corps, he was appointed commander from May 1918, with the rank of lieutenant general. Following the armistice, in November 1918, Monash directed the demobilisation and repatriation of Australian troops. His received accolades for his exceptional service during the war, including a knighthood.

After his return to Australia, in late 1920, John Monash became general manager of the State Electricity Commission, an important public project for the state of Victoria, and he was instrumental in developing the brown-coal deposits of Gippsland’s Yallourn fields. His range of high-profile appointments after the war included vice-chancellor of the University of Melbourne.