Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Edward TILNEY DSO MiD VD
5th Australian Commonwealth Horse
16th Battalion AIF
13th Battalion AIF
Leslie Edward Tilney was born on 3 March 1870 in Tinonee, New South Wales, Australia. He was one of eleven children born to George Edward Tilney and Isabella Chloe Benjamin. George had been born on 30 August 1818 in Greater London and Isabella had been born on 21 November 1841 in Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia. She had been baptised on 10 January 1847 in Macquarie NSW. In the 1848 return of the colony, George was shown in the County of Gloucester as having 55 acres of land for which he paid £55. On 8 September 1858 he married Isabella, who was only 16 at the time. George passed away on 29 December 1894 in Taree NSW. In the 1930 electoral roll, Isabella was living with her son John. She passed away on 14 August 1934 in Taree and is buried in the Taree Estate Cemetery in row 31, with George.
George and Isabella’s first child, Isabella C Tilney was born in 1859 in Wingham NSW but sadly died in the same year.
John Downman Tilney was born in 1860 in Tinonee, New South Wales. In 1896, money for rent of his lease was overdue to the government. It was listed as Bellbrook in Kempsey and he had leased it in 1894. The 1930 electoral roll shows him living at Ventnor, Albert Street Taree and he was a farmer. He was living with Isabella Chloe Tinley, who was doing home duties. He died on 22 December 1934 in Sydney and is buried in Rookwood General Cemetery.
Lionel George Tilney was born 27 May 1862 in Manning River NSW. In 1901 he married Katherine Davis with the wedding being registered in Bombala, New South Wales. (Her name is spelt with a C elsewhere). A listing in the 1922 New South Wales Police Gazette, under pensions, is an entry for Constable 1st Class Lionel George Tilney, with ‘rate of pension 13s. 2¼d. per diem, less 3 per cent., from 28th May 1922.’ In 1926 Sands Directory is a listing for Lionel Tilney, living at 9 Keith Street Clovelly. The 1930 directory also includes the house is in the ‘East Side’. In the 1935 electoral roll, living at 9 Keith Street Clovelly were Lionel George Tilney, constable; Jack Downman Tilney, traveller; Catherine Tinley and Marie Gladys Tinley, both doing home duties. Lionel passed away on 12 April 1941 in Clovelly, Randwick City, New South Wales, a retired police constable. He is buried in Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park in plot GA – General FM A, Position 732. The Wingham Chronicle and Manning River Observer of NSW had an article on him on Thursday 24 April 1941: – ‘MR. LIONEL GEORGE TILNEY. Many of the older residents of Taree, particularly those of 40 or 50 years ago, will remember the well known Tilney family when they resided in Taree. For years most of them have moved far afield, and the only remaining member locally is Mrs.Percy W. Flett, of Victoria St. This week word was received in Taree of the death of her brother, Mr. Lionel George Tilney, who passed away on Saturday night, April 12th, at his home at 9 Keith Street, Clovelly, at the age of 79 years. He suffered from heart trouble and passed away quite suddenly and unexpectedly. Deceased was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Edward Tilney, who resided in Taree in the long ago. The late Mr. Lionel Tilney left the Manning many years ago, subsequent to which he followed farming in several places in New South Wales. Eventually he retired and for a good many years be spent the evening of his life in his home at Clovelly. In addition to his widow he is survived by two sons and one daughter— Mr. Frederick Tilney, of the S.M. Herald staff. Mr. John Tilney, of Sydney, and Miss Marie Tilney, also of Sydney. Surviving brothers include Messrs. Richard and Herbert Tilney, of Sydney, while the living sisters are: Mrs. Percy W. Flett, of Taree: Mrs. A. J. Homewood of Melbourne; and Mrs. W. E. Browning of Sydney. Deceased brothers are Messrs. John and Leslie Tilney, while Mrs. George Nowland. of Manly, whose husband is a retired manager of the Bank of N.S.W. and in the long ago was on the staff of the Taree branch, being a very prominent footballer then. The remains of the late Mr. Lionel George Tilney were interred on Monday afternoon week, in the Botany cemetery.’ Catherine passed away on 17 May 1955 and is buried in the same cemetery in the same plot.
Richard Benjamin Tilney was born in 1864 in Tinonee NSW. In 1899 in Sydney, he married Ethel Harrop Robinson. She had been born mid-1871 in Birkenhead Cheshire England. Her mother Louisa had been born in Sydney and her father must have passed away, as Louisa is recorded as the head of the house in the 1881 census. The 1920 directory had Richard living in High Street Epping. In the 1930 electoral roll they were living at Woorilla Govett Street Katoomba, with Richard a traveller and Ethel doing home duties. Richard died on 24 May 1944 and is buried in the Anglican section of Rookwood General Cemetery in section 14, row 24, Grave 1087 with John Tilney as in the picture above. His address was listed as West Ryde in the deceased estate file, with his wife the administrator.
Laura Mary Tilney was born in 1867 in Tinonee NSW. She married William E Browning in 1896 in Young, New South Wales. Laura passed away on 27 November 1926 in Belmore NSW and is buried in Rookwood General Cemetery in Zone C Section 9 Grave 171.
Mary Charlotte Tilney was born in 1873 in Manning River NSW. In 1903 she married George William Alexander Nowland (1874-1956) in Taree, New South Wales. Mary passed away on 29 February 1940 and was buried on 1 March in Manly Cemetery in Section U Plot 329. Her address was listed as Hawthorn Flats 124 Addison Road Manly.
Isabella Chloe Tilney was born on 12 November 1875 in Taree NSW. She married Percival William Flett in Taree in 1909. Percival was a farmer who was born in 1859 in New South Wales and died on 17 September 1931 in Taree. In the 1934 electoral roll she was living at Victoria Street West Taree and doing home duties. Isabella passed away on 10 April 1959 in Taree and her ashes are in Taree Anglican Columbarium.
Emma Mildred Tilney was born in 1879 in Manning River, New South Wales. On 3 March 1903 she married Alfred James Homewood (1879-1960) in St Matthias Church of England in Sydney. Her father was listed as a journalist. In the 1916 electoral roll they were living at Chaplin Carinya Crescent Caulfield and Alfred was a manager. She passed away on 7 December 1952 in Victoria.
George Lee Tinley was born and died in 1882 in Wingham NSW.
Herbert Heath Tilney was born on 3 November 1884 in Tinonee NSW. He married Amy Venetia Painter (1887-) in 1909 in Randwick Sydney. In the 1932 electoral roll they were living at Frazer Road Normanhurst, with Herbert a clerk and Amy doing home duties. By the 1963 roll they were living at 5 Chapman Avenue Beecroft and had the same occupations. He died on 28 September 1970 in Beecroft NSW.
The New South Wales Government Gazette in 1892 had a listing ‘[9790] Colonial Secretary’s Office, Sydney 26th November, 1892. His Excellency the Governor, with advice of the Executive Council, has been pleased to make the following appointment in the Volunteer Force, viz,:- Mr. LESLIE EDWARD TILNEY to be First Lieutenant in the Young Corps, First Regiment Partially-paid Infantry, vice Mallard, promoted.’
On 26 October 1898 Leslie married Cordelia Beatrice Lurline Cronin at St Michael’s Church Surrey Hills Sydney. She was a widow who had been born in Forbes NSW in 1870. Leslie was listed as a Post and Telegraph Assistant, age 27, of 136 Point Piper Road Paddington and Cordelia was age 25, doing domestic duties and living at Fernleigh Canley Vale near Liverpool. His parents were recorded as George Edward Tilney (deceased), a Journalist and Isabella Chloe Benjamin. Her parents were recorded as William Worner (deceased), a Station Owner and Dorothy Gimeson.
Leslie and Cordelia had three children. Lurline Dorothy Laura Tilney was born on 3 January 1900 in Paddington and was baptised on 9 January 1901 at St. Matthias Paddington Church of England. Their address at the time was 9 Oakey Road Paddington and Leslie was listed as a Telegraph Operator. She married George Herbert Newman in Perth in 1922. In the 1931 electoral roll they were living at 40 Thomas Street Nedlands. George was recorded as a collector and Lurline was doing home duties. She passed away on 12 June 1941 in Wembley, Western Australia.
Leslie Edgecliff Tilney was born on 2 April 1907 (according to his service records; he was actually born in 1901) in Woollahra NSW. In the 1927 electoral roll he was living with his parents at Crimea Court Charnwood Road St Kilda, and, like his father, was a traveller. In January 1929 Leslie (a salesman) & his wife Marie Tilney were up on charges for having obtained money and goods by false pretenses. Also, in August 1923 Leslie aged 22 an insurance inspector was arrested on alleged fraud charges, and was later acquitted. The NSW Police Gazette of 1930 had an entry for ‘HERBERT JOHN BROWN, alias FOLEY (28), charged with illegally using a motor car, and with stealing motor tools, value £8, the property of Leslie Edgecliffe Tilney, has been arrested by Constable Ferguson, Sydney Police. Sentences to twelve months’ and three months’ hard labour respectively. Sentences accumulative. Identical with discharged prisoner Herbert Foley, alias Herbert Corliss &c. (vide Police Gazette, 1930, page 151).’
In 1940 in Paddington, NSW he married Janet Elizabeth Wharton (his third wife; first married to Marie Morris in 1928 in Victoria and second marriage to Queenie Constance Binney in 1931 in Western Australia – The West Australian of Thursday 17 Feb 1921 ‘TILNEY-BINNEY.–On February 8, 1931, at Christ Church, Claremont, by the Reverend Canon McLemans, Leslie Edgecliffe, only son of Colonel and Mrs. Tilney, of Mt. Lawley, to Queenie Constance, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Binney, of Subiaco.’). She had been born about 1901 in Mansfield Victoria and had previously married Gordon Kitchener Rattray on 29 June 1922 in Hawksburn Victoria, before being divorced by him in 1938 in Victoria. He was a Chemist and they had had two girls. Gordon did serve in WW1, joining as Gunner 38070 with the 3rd Field Artillery Reinforcements in April 1917. He served with 11th Field Artillery Brigade in France from August 1918, and returned to Australia in January 1919. In the divorce record he stated that for a few years she had been going out a lot to parties and dances and was drinking a lot and was neglecting the family. She then left him as she was sick of being married. His sister came to look after the children. Then she moved to Sydney and was working at Darrods. After various correspondence the marriage was dissolved by the court on the grounds that the wife had willfully deserted him. Gordon died on 10 December 1964 in Sandringham Victoria. He was listed as an Oil Merchant in his probate record. Janet died on 19 September 1981 in Heidelberg Victoria with her surname as Rattray.
Leslie enlisted in WW2 as NX3856 in the Australian Army on 20 October 1939 in Paddington NSW. He stated his birth year as 1907. His next of kin was Nellie Tilney. As some stage he was captured defending Crete and became a POW. Leslie was held at Stalag XC, Oflag VIB, Oflay IX & Oflag VIIB and died at Lazarett Neuburg Brothers of Charity Hospital. He died on 5 February 1944 of illness, with the rank of Lieutenant and his posting was recorded as Headquarters 16 Infantry Brigade (2/1 Infantry Battalion). His service record is open at NAA, but not online; another file headed ‘TILNEY Leslie Edgecliffe – NX3856 AIF; Year of Death – 1944; Cemetery – Durnvach (sic) War Cemetery, GERMANY’ is also open but not online, and his pay file ‘Tilney, Leslie Edgecliffe – NX3856 [WWII Army Pay File]’ has not yet been examined.
Leslie is buried in the Durnbach War Cemetery in Germany in Section 4, Row B, Plot 11. The gravestone says “Resting”. CWGC has ‘Son of Colonel Leslie E. Tilney DSO, MM and Bar, and Lurline Tilney, and the husband of Janet Elizabeth Tilney, of North Fitzroy, Victoria’. His name is also memorialised on the Australian War Memorial, located at panel 12 in the Commemorative Area, the Australian Ex- Prisoners of War Memorial in Ballarat and the Roll of Honour in Sydney.
From AWM: ‘Germany. Prisoner of War (POW) identification photograph of NX3856 Lieutenant Leslie Edgecliffe Tilney, 2/1st Battalion, Australian Infantry. Lieutenant Tilney, aged 36, died on 5 February 1944, as a POW, after being captured defending the island of Crete against the German land and airborne invasion. He was the son of Colonel Leslie E. Tilney DSO, MM and Bar, and Lurline Tilney, and the husband of Janet Elizabeth Tilney, of North Fitzroy, Vic. He is buried in the Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany, Section 4, Row B, Plot 11. (Photograph supplied by the Army’s Soldier Career Management Agency. Information from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Database.)’
Marjorie Ruth Tilney was born on 1 October 1914. In the 1936 electoral roll she was living with her parents at 15 Lysterville Avenue Malvern in Victoria and was doing home duties. She married twice, to Cecil Dunn (no record can be identified) and Richard Godfrey Cruttenden in 1937. Marjorie died in 1966 according to a family tree on Ancestry, but another records 8 December 1996 in Canada- neither have proof.
Leslie Edward Tilney attested with a Commonwealth Contingent for service in South Africa, joining in Sydney on 24 April 1902. He was commissioned with the 5th Commonwealth Horse. His answers stated he was a British subject, born in Tinonee, Manning River NSW, was 32 years and 2 months old and was a Telegraphist. He was married with his next of kin being his wife C B L Tilney of “Laura” Harkness Street Woollahra NSW. Leslie had no previous service and was willing to serve for 12 months or the duration of the war and to be vaccinated. His permanent address was the same as his wife and his religion was Church of England. He was certified medically fit with his description as 5 foot 9 inches tall and chest measurement of 33 to 36½ inches. No other details were recorded. They were part of the 3rd Contingent, embarking on transport Columbian at Sydney, on 22 May 1902, but did not see combat as the war came to an end on 31 May 1902. After a short stay in South Africa, they embarked at Durban on the transport Manchester Marshal on 1 July 1902 and arrived at Sydney on 1 August.
His service record notes under Special Employment that Leslie was Militia Adjutant 1st Australian Infantry Regiment from 1 October 1906 to 31 October 1911 and Area Officer from 1 November 1910.
The London Gazette of 19 March 1909 recorded that ‘The undermentioned Officers of the Citizen Forces of Australia are granted the local rank of Captain in the Army, whilst serving with Imperial Troops in the United Kingdom or in India, and to have seniority as from the dates stated against their names, i.e., the date of their present rank as Captain in the Military Forces of the Commonwealth’: – with the list including ‘Captain Leslie Tilney, 1st Australian Infantry Regiment. Dated 20th June, 1900.’ Listed as a married Gentleman, Captain L E Tilney left Sydney on the Mongolia on 29 August 1908, bound for Bombay, India. He departed from London on the Ophir, listed as Captain L E Tilney, arriving in Sydney on 1 May 1909.
Leslie’s name appeared in the British Army Lists in 1902 as a Captain in the First Infantry Regiment. In the Commonwealth Public Service List of 1904, he is listed under the category ‘Education & work’ under Civil service. The 1908 Sands Directory lists him as living at 1 Maddock Street Petersham Sydney. In the 1910 directory he is listed at 23 The Avenue Strathfield North Side. The 1912 British Army Lists show him as a Major in the 1st Australian infantry Regiment with precedence from 9 August 1909. In the 1915 lists he was a Major on the Unattached List in one and 21st Infantry (Sydney Battalion) in the other. The 1916 lists had him still with the 21st and the 1917 lists are like the 1915 ones. In the 1918 lists he is under graduation List of Officers or Infantry as a Major. In the 1919 Navy List he is recorded as Leslie Edward Tilney DSO VD as a Radio Lieutenant with seniority from 1 July 1916. He was serving in the Central Office Sydney.
In November 1914, Leslie applied for a Commission in the 16th Battalion AIF. For educational qualifications he stated no certificate. For military qualifications, Leslie stated he had 20 years commissioned service with the 1st AIR, he was in India from 1908 to 1909 and served in South Africa with the 5th ACH in 1902. For his present civil employment, he stated he was Officer in Charge of Perth Radiotelegraph Station. He had been born on 3 March 1870 and was 44 years and 8 months old and was a British subject, born in Manning River NSW. Leslie was married with his next of kin being his wife C B L Tilney. His postal address was Wireless Station Applecross WA. That was later changed to Regent St Mt Lawley Perth WA. He was certified medically fit with his description being 5 foot 10 inches, weight 12 stone and for eyesight he had good vision 6/6. His chest measurement was not recorded. The Commanding Officer of the 16th Battalion appointed him to Headquarters on 14 November 1914 and the District Commandant recommended him on 20 November 1914. His term of service was for the duration of the war and 4 months. He was appointed Major on 1 October 1914, as also recorded on his record of Officer’s service form.
‘BLACKBOY HILL, WA, 1914. MARCHPAST OF 16TH BATTALION TROOPS IN TRAINING CAMP. COMMANDING OFFICER COLONEL LESLIE EDWARD TILNEY STANDS AT THE SALUTING BASE, WHILE AN UNIDENTIFIED CIVILIAN TAKES THE SALUTE. DONOR: R.T. NEWMAN’ From AWM.
The Nominal Roll for the 16th Infantry Battalion shows they embarked on Troopship A40 Ceramic at Melbourne on 22nd December 1914. Major Leslie Edward Tinley, listed under Headquarters, was age 44, a married civil servant whose address was given as Wireless Station, Applecross, Western Australia. His next-of-kin was recorded as ‘Mrs Cardelia (sic) Beatrice Lurline Tilney, wife, 161 Thomas-street, Subiaco, Perth, W.A’. His religion was Church of England and he joined on 1 October 1914, with previous service in 88th Infantry AMF. Leslie was paid 30 shillings a day, of which 21 shillings was allotted to his wife, 4 shillings to himself and 5 shillings was deferred. After a brief stop in Albany, Western Australia, they proceeded to Egypt, arriving in early February 1915.
‘Group portrait of the officers of the 16th Battalion. Identified, left to right, back row: unidentified interpreter; Captain (Capt) Harold Alfred Southern, killed in action on 2 May 1915; Lieutenant (Lt) William Buchanan Kerr, killed in action on 2 May 1915; Capt Leslie Duncan Heming, killed in action on 8 August 1915; Lt John Kingsley Langsford; Lt William Ernest Elston; Lt Harry James Burton, killed in action on 2 May 1915; Lt Edwin Theodore Knight; possibly Lt Gordon Levason Curlewis. Middle row: Lt Alexander Peter Imlay; Lt Robert Balmain Blyth; Capt Eliazar Lazar Margolin; Capt Samuel Edward Townshend, killed in action on 9 May 1915; Lt Ross Harwood; Wilton (no further information); Lt Arthur Edward Carse, died of wounds on 2 May 1915; Capt Francis George Chabrel (killed in action on 7 August 1915); Lt Ernest Otto Alfred Bruns, killed in action on 2 May 1915; Lt Frank Barnes Gladman; Lt Arthur Henry Torres Mountain, killed in action on 27 April 1915. Front row: Major Francis Bird Carter, killed in action on 27 April 1915; Major Edgar Kendall Baker; Chaplain Colonel George Willis Kendrew; Lt Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney; Lt Colonel Harrold Pope; Capt (Adjutant) Ronald Tracy Alexander McDonald; Hon Lt Thomas Gorman (Quartermaster); Major William Owen Mansbridge; Capt James Miller, killed in action on 2 May 1915; Lt Edmund Herman Kretchmar, killed in action on 6 May 1915. Lying in front: Lt Norman Henry Durston, died of wounds on 9 May 1915; Lt Cyril Arthur Geddes, killed in action on 2 May 1915; Lt Kieran Leopold Anderson, killed in action on 2 May 1915.’ From AWM.
‘13th Battalion officers play a game of donkey polo with hockey sticks at a camp between Cairo and the Suez Canal. Identified left to right: Captain Francis Maxwell Barton (later killed in action on 11 August 1916); Captain Phillips RMO; Major Edward Twynam; Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney DSO, VD.’ From AWM.
He proceeded to join the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force for Gallipoli on 12 April 1915. As part of the 4th Brigade, the battalion landed at Anzac Cove late in the afternoon of 25th April 1915.
Major L E Tilney of the 16th Australian Infantry Battalion was recommended for the Distinguished Service Order as on ‘2nd/3rd May, his command suffered severe losses, and it was largely due to his personal influence that the ground was held. On the morning of the 3rd May, the line being seriously shaken by artillery fire, a very critical moment had arrived, and I believe it to be entirely due to Major Tilney’s exertions, who, by fearlessly exposing himself, although himself wounded, succeeded in rallying his men, and so averted what might have been turned into a disaster. Since then Major Tilney has acted as Second in Command at Quinn’s Post, until relieved on June 1st, and has actively participated in all the offensive and defensive operations of that post, during the whole period, and where he rendered particularly conspicuous service on the night of the 19th/20th May during the attack by the enemy on our lines.’ Another note reads ‘MAJOR L E TILNEY, 16th Battalion, 4th Australian Infantry Brigade. On the evening of the 2nd May this Officer led the assault which took the “Razor Ridge”. During the whole of the night,’ and the rest of the note is missing. DSO was handwritten on the note. Temporary Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney 16th Australian Infantry Battalion was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order, for distinguished service in the Field during the operations at the Dardanelles, which was promulgated in the London Gazette on 8 November 1915 on page 11027 at position 5, and the Commonwealth Gazette on 27 January 1916 on page 157 at position 50. His service records contain an entry ‘A.I.F. Orders 6/2/16. List No. 22. To be Companion of the Distinguished Service Order. Major (Temporary Lieutenant Colonel) Leslie Edward Tilney. Extracts from the London Gazette No. 29354 5/11/15.’
The Australian War Memorial has files of papers relating to the First World War service of Colonel John Monash, 4th Infantry Brigade. They include information on officers, suggestions for awards and promotions, and other information. One file notes: – ‘Serial Number 198, Major L E Tilney of 16th Battalion, originally appointed Second in Command, was wounded on 2 and 29 May 1915 and is present and effective.’
Leslie was transferred from the 16th Battalion to command the 13th Battalion, vice Lieutenant Colonel Burnage being wounded, and was granted the temporary rank of Lieutenant Colonel whilst so employed on 28 June 1915 at Gallipoli. While with the battalion, on 26 August 1915 he was sent to hospital and his temporary rank was cancelled. He was sent to HS Maheno on 29 August and on the next day at Mudros he embarked for England on HS Huntsgreen with dysentery. Leslie was admitted to 3rd General Hospital in London with dysentery on 16 September 1915 and was unfit for two months, as found by a Medical Board held in London on 3 December 1915. He was found fit for duty by a Medical Board held in London on 14 January 1916. At Weymouth Depot on 1 February 1916, he was part of the nominal roll forming No 17 Draft returning to join the MEF, leaving Devonport on 2 February on HT Saturnia and re-joining his battalion at Moascar on 16 February 1916. On 20 February 1916 he was to be a Lieutenant Colonel with the 13th Battalion ‘and to Command vice Burnage to Supernumerary List.’ An extract from List No. 27 20/2/16 A.I.F. Orders reads ‘Major (Temp Lieut Colonel) L. E. Tilney D.S.O. V.D. from 16th Battalion to 13th Battalion to be Lieut Colonel and to Command, vice Burnage to Super List dated 20/2/16’. He proceeded to join the BEF from Alexandria on 1 June 1916, disembarking at Marseilles on 8 June.
Mrs CBL Tinley of Wireless Station Applecross WA was sent a note from the Secretary of Defence on 30 September 1915 stating: – Regret reported husband Lieutenant Colonel L E Tilney admitted hospital London sick will promptly advise if anything further received. On 10 February 1916 another letter sent by Base Records in Melbourne to her read: – ‘I now beg to advise you that Lieutenant Colonel L.E. Tilney 13th Battalion has returned to duty Egypt. In the event of any further reports being received concerning the above soldier you will be immediately notified.’
Base Records sent a letter to Mrs G B D Tilney of 161 Thomas Street Subiaco, Perth on 11 April 1916 advising her that ‘I have much pleasure in forwarding herewith copy of extract from Supplement No. 29354 to the “London Gazette” of 5th November, 1915, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by Lieutenant-Colonel L. E. Tilney, D.S.O., V.D., 16th Battalion. “In continuation of my Despatch of 26th August, 1915, I have the honour to submit herewith the additional name of Lieutenant-Colonel L. E. Tilney, 16th Battalion.” The above has been promulgated in Australian Military Order No. 44 of 1916.’
He was Mentioned in Despatches in the London Gazette of 5 November 1915 on page 11003 at position 5 and the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette of 27 January 1916 on page 157 at position 3. A medal index card shows that Major (Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel) L E Tilney 16th Battalion (South & West Australia) Australian Infantry was Mentioned in Despatches in the London Gazette of 5 November 1915 in page 10023(sic).
Headquarters of 4th Australian Infantry Brigade replied to Headquarters of 4th Australian Division on 18 August 1916 stating ‘In reply to A 1/276, of 15th. instant, it is recommended Lt. Col. Tilney, D.S.O., now commanding 13th. Battalion, be appointed to command the 4th. Training Battalion. For some weeks Lt. Col. Tilney has not enjoyed the best of health, and remained in command of his battalion during 6 strenuous days 8/13 August near Moquet Farm, at the risk of a general break-down. A statement from his M.O. is attached hereto. Lt. Col. Tilney is quite qualified to take up the appointment referred to, he having trained his Battalion which did very good work on the aforesaid dates. The question of a successor to command the 13th. Battalion will form the subject of separate correspondence.’ Captain WJE Phillips RMO wrote a letter to ‘the Brigadier, Commanding 4th. Brigade’ on the same date saying ‘I wish to bring to your notice the state of health of my C.O., Colonel Tilney. Colonel Tilney is quite capable to carry out his duties efficiently provided he is able to live his normal regular mode of life, but if he experiences any extra strain or exertion, evidence of cardiac insufficiency appear. The main symptoms are a continued quickened rate of the heartbeat, shortness of breath and cyanosis, ample evidence that his heart was not equal to the extra strain put upon it. These symptoms, I know, originated in the first place from a bad attack of Amsebic (sic) Dysentery together with hepatitis that he contracted in June 1915 on the Gallipoli Peninsula, together with a relapse with cardial symptoms that he had in early convalescence. I have been associated with Colonel Tilney now for 9 months and have had ample opportunity of watching the effect that extraordinary exertion has upon him. On that account, I would suggest that, if possible, he be removed for an extended rest into some sphere where he could get regular rest and have sufficient opportunity of looking after himself. I’m sure that his experience in military matters would be valuable in a number of positions, which would not entail the necessary hardships of campaigning in the field. Hoping you will be able to arrange something of this nature for him, as I feel continuance of field service would be distinctly inimical to his future health and welfare.’ A note at the bottom of the page from Major General H V Cox, Commanding 4th Australian Division to the 13th Battalion and forwarded to 1st Anzac said ‘I do not recommend that Lt. Colonel Tilney should be given the command of the 4th. Training Battalion as I do not consider it likely that his health would stand the work.’
In France on 21 August 1916, he was transferred to hospital and embarked for England on HS Newhaven from Calais on 31 August. That same day he was diagnosed with disorderly action of the heart (DAH) slight at 4th London General Hospital at Denmark Hill. He was discharged on 13 September 1916.
On 27 August 1916 a note was sent from 1st Anzac Corps to DMS Administrative Headquarters AIF London advising them that ‘I am to forward for your information the enclosed correspondence, relative to Lt.Colonel L.TILNEY,D.S.O., 13th. Battalion. It is understood that Lt.-Col.Tilney is being evacuated to England through the 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Station, and in due course he will, no doubt, come before a Medical Board.’
The AAG of 1st Anzac Headquarters wrote to Headquarters Fourth Australian Division on 13 September 1916 regarding ‘Notification has been received that Lieut.-Colonel TILNEY has been reported fit for duty, and I am to ask you for your recommendation as to his disposal. The Lieutenant-General Commanding desires me to say that, except under very special circumstances, it is only in the cases of officers who are invalided as unfit for service at the Front or for duty with Training Battalions that their return to AUSTRALIA is considered.’
On 14 September 1916 AIF Headquarters in London wrote to AAG AIF attached Headquarters 1st Anzac about ‘Lieutenant-Colonel L.E. TILNEY. D.S.O., C.O., 13th Battalion. A.I.F., has been found fit for General Service, and has been instructed to report to No.1 Command Depot, Perham Downs. Have you any instructions with regard to disposal of this officer, please.’
A Colonel in ADMS 4th Australian Division wrote to DAA & QMG 4th Australian Division on 15 September 1916, stating ‘Reference attached. When Lieut.-Col. TILNEY was evacuated from this Division the Medical Officers concerned considered him “Unfit for Active Service” with the Division and did not consider he would become fit. If Lieut.-Col. TILNEY returns to the Division it is highly probable that he would be again evacuated as “Unfit for Service”. This was in reply to a hand-written note from the acting DAA & QMG, marked urgent, which reads ‘The G.O.E. desires your remarks please.’
A note written by Major General H V Cox commanding 4th Australian Division to HQ 1/Anzac, dated 17 September 1916, reads: – ‘ConfidentialPlease see ADMS’ memo. of 15th. Lt. Colonel Tinley will not be permitted to return to this Division. I have already stated that I do not consider him at all fitted to command a Training Battn. I hope therefore that this case may be considered as a special one & that he may be sent to Australia – Perhaps a long period of leave there, say 6 months, would meet the case?’
A letter from the First Australian and New Zealand Army Corps Headquarters to Administrative Headquarters AIF in London on 21 September 1916 was received on 30 September and reads ‘Disposal of Lieut.-Colonel L.E.TILNEY, D.S.O., V.D. Reference your Ab.16848 of the 14th. September, I am to say that the Lieutenant-General Commanding has approved of Lieutenant-Colonel TILNEY being returned to AUSTRALIA. Will you, therefore, cause the necessary arrangements to be made for his passage, and notify this office of the date of his embarkation, so that an A.I.F. Order may be issued striking him off the strength of the 13th. Battalion. The papers regarding the matter are forwarded herewith for your information and for favour of transmission to Defence, Melbourne.’
On 11 October 1916 he reported for duty in Australia in the 5th Military District, embarking on HT Orsova from England for duty in Australia, and he was struck off strength on that date. His appointment was terminated on 30 November 1916 in the 5th Military District. His wife was notified of his returning on 21 October 1916.
A receipt form from Base Records to Lieutenant Colonel L E Tilney DSO VD 13th Battalion for his DSO Warrant and Statues was eventually signed by him on 31 October 1918 after being sent to his new address of Bezant Street, Mount Lawley Perth. An application for War Service Gratuity was passed on 19 March 1919 for account number 18732. On 19 November 1918, the address for his wife was changed to Regent Street Mt Lawley Perth. He signed for two oak leaf emblems for his Mentioned in Despatches on 13 September 1920, after them being sent to him on 19 August 1920.
His name is recorded in the Commonwealth Public Service List in 1920 under Civil service. A form of commission was issued on 29 December 1922 showing Leslie was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. The 1925 Sands Directory lists Leslie at 663 Inkerman Road Caulfield. In the 1927 electoral roll they were living at “Crimea Court,” Charnwood Road St Kilda. Leslie was a traveller and Cordelia was doing home duties. Their son was also with them. In the 1928 Police Gazette, along with other charges, Harold Herbert Armstrong alias Harold Berry was ‘charged with taking and using a motor car without the consent of the owner Leslie Tilney. Fined £5, in default one month hard labour.’ The 1933 Rate Book shows that Leslie Edward Tinley was living at 15 Lysterville Avenue Malvern as an occupying tenant. The house had 7 rooms and a garage. His occupation was Commissioner. In the 1936 electoral roll they were still living at the same address, with Leslie listed as a civil servant and Cordelia and Marjorie doing home duties.
His entry in Who’s Who in Australia in the 1933-4 edition reads: ‘TILNEY, Lieut.-Col. Leslie Edward, D.S.O., V.D. (Vic.): son of George Edward Tilney; b. 1870; served Gt. War A.I.F., Lt.-Col. 1914-16, Gallipoli; despatches, D.S.O. 1914; Member Repatriation Commission; address, 680 Inkerman Rd., Caulfield, S.E.7, Vic.; club, Naval and Military (Melb.).’
Leslie was the League’s Nominee on the Repatriation Commission from 1 July 1923 to 31 October 1935.
His record of service shows he was he was a Lieutenant with the 1st Australian Infantry Regiment from 26 November 1892 to 19 June 1900, a Captain with the same regiment from 20 June 1900 to 8 August 1909 and a Major with the same regiment from 9 August 1909 to 21 October 1912. He was then on the Unattached List as a Major from 22 October 1912 to 17 June 1918. It records in red ‘For A.I. Force Service, see detail under heading “Active Service”’ and then he was to command 11th Battalion as Lieutenant Colonel from 1 October 1921 to 15 June 1923. He had a leave of absence from 6 June 1923 to 15 September 1923 before being transferred to the Reserve of Officers in the 3rd Military District from 16 September 1923. Leslie was transferred to the Retired List with the Honorary rank of Colonel on 3 March 1930. For his ranks, the form lists Lieutenant 26.1.92, Captain 20.6.00, Major 9.8.09, Honorary Lieutenant Colonel 20.2.16 and then substantive Lieutenant Colonel 8.6.18 and finally Honorary Colonel 3.3.30. For Active Service he had listed Major AIF 1.10.14, Major 2nd in Command 16th Battalion AIF 16.12.14, Temporary Lieutenant Colonel and to Command 13th Battalion 28.6.15, temporary rank of Lieutenant Colonel cancelled 26.8.15, Lieutenant Colonel and to Command 13th Battalion 20.2.16 and AIF appointment terminated 30.11.16. For Orders, Decorations and Medals the following are listed: – Awarded Distinguished Service Order, Awarded Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers Decoration and Mentioned in Despatches.
He has a couple of service records at National Archives Australia which are open but not online: – B73 M101006 TILNEY, Leslie Edward – Service Number – N/A Access status: Open Location: Melbourne 1914 – 1949 20863878 and B73 101006 TILNEY, Leslie Edward – Service Number – N/A Access status: Open Location: Melbourne 1936 – 1937 20863879.
The Repatriation Commission in Melbourne wrote to Base Records there on 10 August 1936, asking them to supply a copy of his service records.
Leslie passed away in Perth on 21 January 1937 of natural causes (heart failure) in Perth Hospital, and is buried in Karrakatta Cemetery and Crematorium in the Church of England portion, Anglican Section ZC, Section 0083.
His obituary was recorded in the Wingham Chronicle and Manning River Observer NSW on Friday 29 January 1937 in page 6: – ‘Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney. Many friends of past years oil the Manning will regret to hear of the death of Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney, for as a youth he was a man among men and in adult life these characteristics never left him. A son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Tilney, he was born at Tinonee, and when he was old enough entered the service of the postal Department, eventually becoming one of the finest telegraphists in the State. Amongst other places where he was stationed were Bundara, Narrabri, and Young, and then his ability as a telegraphist was recognised by him being called in to head office, Sydney, where he remained for a good number of years. He enlisted for the South African war and went through that campaign at the beginning of the present century. On returning to Australia, still with the military, he went to India on exchange for experience in military matters. Returning to Australia he was appointed chief telegraphist on one of the earliest wireless stations established on this continent, situated in West Australia. His patriotic instinct impelled him to volunteer for the Great War, and there his valor — gained for him the D.S.O. He was wounded several times and invalided. He spent much of this time, during his recovery, in Scotland, and for many years after he kept up correspondence with friends he made in that country, which he considered had the finest and most hospitable people in the world. On returning to Australia, lie was appointed Deputy-chairman of the Repatriation Commission, and in this position he visited every State in the Commonwealth, where his geniality and fair dealing with the matters which came under his consideration won for him an enviable popularity and the approval of his superiors. His home was in Melbourne, but for the last seven months he suffered from heart trouble and was confined to his bed for a lot of the time. His Taree sister, Mrs. P. W. Flett, spent nine weeks in Melbourne, with a sister, and during that time she saw much of her brother, who was then in very poor health. However, he rallied and on the 29th December he sailed in the Duntroon for West Australia on a health trip. He enjoyed the trip across immensely and appeared to be making splendid progress, but he had another attack and was forced to enter hospital, where he passed away on Thursday last, at the age of 66 years. A widow, two daughters and a son survive. Brothers and sisters of deceased who survive include the following: Mr. Leo Tilney, Sydney; Mr. Richard Tilney, Katoomba; Mr. Herbert Tilney, Sydney; Mrs. George Nowland. Manly; Mrs. Percy W. Flett, Taree, and Mrs. Homewood, Melbourne. Mr. George Nowland will be well remembered as having been on the staff of the Bank of New South Wales at Coopernook and Taree. He retired from the management of the Bank’s Wellington branch some time ago, and is now living in retirement at Manly. The late Colonel Tilney visited the Manning frequently, the last being shortly before his mother died a little over two years ago last August. He was a fine stamp of British-born Australian, and whatever he had to do he did thoroughly.’
Also, in the Riverine Herald at Echuca on Saturday 23 January 1937 in page 2 was an article: – ‘COLONEL TILNEY DEAD Fine War Record PERTH, Friday: After a long illness Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney, 66, died in Perth hospital last night. Colonel Tilney, until his retirement in 1932, after an association of nearly 50 years with the public service, was deputy chairman of the Repatriation Commission. He leaves a widow, two daughters and a son. He served in the Great War as major with the 16th Battalion. He was at the Landing, and soon after was appointed second in command at Quinn’s Post, a vital part of the Anzac defences. In the night attack on Sari Bair, on August 7, 1915, he was in temporary command of the battalion which was leading half of General Monash’s 4th Brigade. Later in the same month he was evacuated, because of sickness, and sent to England. With the rank of Lieut.-Colonel, he rejoined the battalion as its commanding officer at Moascar, in February, 1916, wearing the ribbon of the D.S.O., which he had received for his services on the peninsula. His health affected he returned to Australia in August, 1916. (Last year Colonel Tilney, accompanied by his wife and daughter, visited Echuca while on a caravaning tour, but he was taken suddenly ill and was an inmate of the District Hospital for some time. During their stay here they made many friends.)’
From https://alh-research.tripod.com/gallipoli_album/index.album/leslie-edward-tilney?i=272
He is one in a list of ex-soldiers in Western Australia whose deaths have been accepted as due to war service in the 1914-1918 war, as done by the Highgate RSL. The list was originally subsequent to 30/11/1936, but then up to and including 30/6/46. He is listed as Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney 13th Battalion. His name is also located on the 16th Australian Infantry Battalion memorial in King’s Park Perth, which gives a list of battle honours and is in ‘memory of those who served the 16th Battalion during the Great War’. His name is in a list of ‘soldiers shown on the WA State Memorial but not listed by the Australian War Memorial’ and is recorded as ‘TINLEY Leslie Edward Died (WA): 1937.
The Argus of Melbourne on Saturday 23 January 1937 had an entry:
‘Colonel L. E. Tilney
After a long illness caused by his war service, Colonel Leslie Edward Tilney died in Perth at the age of 66 years. Colonel Tilney had a splendid war record and a long career in the public service. He was decorated with a D.S.O. for his services on Gallipoli, and later was awarded the V.D. for his work as deputy chairman of the Repatriation Commission. He was born at Tinonee (N.S.W.) In 1870, and joined the Postal Department as a probationer at the age of 15 years. When the South African War broke out he enlisted and served through the campaign. While still working in the Postal Department he retained his connection with the Army, and was appointed major in the 16th battalion in 1914. He served with distinction in Egypt, Gallipoli, and France, but his health was seriously impaired, and he was invalided home in 1916. He joined the newly formed Repatriation Department in 1918 and served on it until his retirement in 1935. He leaves a widow, two daughters, and a son. The funeral will be held to-day.’
Probate was granted on 24 May 1937 and lists his occupation as ‘Repatriation Commission’.
The West Australian of Friday 20 April 1951 had: – ‘TILNEY: On April 13, at a private hospital. Lurline Tilney. of Park Mansions, Park-street South Yarra. Melbourne, beloved wife of the late Col. Leslie Tilney and beloved mother of Lurline (deceased). Leslie (deceased), and Judy (Mrs. R.Cruttenden. 26 Reynolds-street. Cremorne, N.S.W.), loved Nanna of Robert and Nerida Newman. And Diane Cruttenden.’ She was buried on 16 April at Brighton Cemetery. She is recorded in Victoria BMD as Lurline Cardelia Beatrice Tilney with father’s name Warner and mother Dorothy (unknown).
On 2 May 1968 the Repatriation Department in Victoria wrote to Central Army Records Office in Melbourne asking them for a copy of the Officer’s Records of Service for Lieutenant Colonel Tilney, which was received by them on 6 May. They forwarded back his record on 8 May.
The gravestone reads: In memory of our beloved husband and father Leslie Edward Tilney, D.S.O. V.D. Died 21st Jan. 1937. Aged 66 years. – Lurline beloved wife of Geo. Newman & daughter of above died 12th June 1941 aged 41 years. Nerida loved wife of Peter Jowett daughter of Lurline 1927-93.
His medals are Distinguished Service Order, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal with oak leaf, Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers Decoration (EVIIR), hallmarked for London 1909, with brooch bar suspender. Lieut. L.E. Tilney. 21st Infantry (Sydney Battn), Volunteers Decoration. He was one of twelve Companions of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) awarded for the 16th Battalion AIF.
The museum just holds the one medal, which is the Colonial Auxiliary Forces Decoration (EVII).
ANZAC Biographies
On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum, Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.