"Bill" / "WAT" William Alexander Thomas SARGENT
Born 26 January 1880 in Wirrabara, South Australia [16]
Son of Henry SARGENT and Elizabeth MCDOUGAL [55]
He and his brother Arthur McDougall SARGENT shifted from South Australia to Western Australia in August 1901 [371: 5-Apr-1946]
Married "Isabel" Isabella Allan SPARKS on 23 August 1911 in Adelaide, South Australia [55]
Farmer in Katanning, Western Australia 1914-1917 [6]
Enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in Adelaide, South Australia on 23 April 1917 [30: item 8074912]
On enlistment was recorded as 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing 154 lbs. with black hair, grey eyes and a medium complexion [30]
Gave his wife as his next of kin, her address during the war being 52 Frederick Street in Maylands, South Australia [30]
Filled in a form declaring that his will was lodged with the manager of the Union Bank of Australia in Wagin, Western Australia [30]
After training in Broadmeadows, Victoria he was appointed to the 10th Reinforcements of the 46th Battalion on 9/01/1918 [30]
Embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia for active service abroad on the H.M.A.T. A71 Nester on 28 February 1918 [30]
Disembarked in Liverpool, England on 20 April 1918, and underwent further training in Codford and a gun school in Tidworth [30]
Proceeded to France on 22 August 1918, and on 25 October 1918 was promoted from Private to Lance Corporal [30]
Private and later Lance Corporal 3804 in the Australian Imperial Force's 46th Battalion in France during the First World War [30]
Returned to England on 28 March 1919 and then for three months worked for a farmer in Coldingham, Berwickshire, Scotland [30]
Embarked from England on the H.T. Anchises on 22 August 1919 and arrived back in Australia on 5 October 1919 [30]
Discharged from the Australian Imperial Force on 29 October 1919; received the British War Medal and the Victory Medal [30]
Resumed farming in Katanning, Western Australia where he remained until 1920 [6]
Farmer in Peringillup south of Broomehill before shifting to Carnamah [6] [50]
Along with his wife Isabella and their daughter Jean shifted to Carnamah, Western Australia in 1923 [P46]
Farmer of Wongyarra Farm in East Carnamah 1923-1946 [P46]
Began with 3,130 acres in Carnamah, which he purchased as virgin bush from the Midland Railway Company [27]
The 3,130 acres consisted of Lots M1032 and M1464 of Victoria Location 2023, and cost £2426/-/10 (15/6 per acre) [27]
By 1925 had purchased an adjoining 2,191 acres in Lots M1029, M1522 and M1523 of Victoria Locations 1935 and 2023 [27]
His farmland was purchased from the Midland Railway Company at a total price of £3,686 with the final payment due in 1940 [27]
From 1924-25 to 1926-27 he owned a Ford car or truck registered with license plate CA-13 [325]
He no longer owned the Ford in 1927-28 but was then the owner of two Oldsmobile vehicles with plates CA-13 and CA-260 [325]
He ran in the annual election for the Carnamah Ward of the Carnamah District Road Board in 1928 [9: 13-Apr-1928]
The board position became available following the retirement of Carnamah farmer W. Henry WATSON [4: 21-Apr-1928]
Both he and James K. FORRESTER ran but he lost by 87 votes (he received 107 votes and FORRESTER 190) [4: 21-Apr-1928]
Won both 1st and 2nd prizes for a Merino Wether at the Carnamah Show and Sports Carnival on 4 October 1928 [4: 13-Oct-1928]
In November 1928 purchased a new Shearer harvester from local agent Raymond R. WYLIE [4: 17-Nov-1928]
Delivered his wheat for the 1928 season to Louis Drefus & Co, via their local agent Raymond R. WYLIE [4: 17-Nov-1925]
Attended Charles ROBERTSON and Winifred LANG's wedding and reception in Carnamah on 27 March 1928 [4: 31-Mar-1928]
Inaugural Committee Member of the Carnamah Ratepayers & Citizens Association 1928-1933 [4: 27-Oct-1928] [5: 14-Jul-1933]
Vice President of the Carnamah Ratepayers & Citizens Association 1932-1934 [5: 11-Nov-1932, 12-Jan-1934]
Ordinary member of the Carnamah Ratepayers & Citizens Association until at least 1936 [5: 12-Jun-1936]
Member of the Carnamah District Agricultural Society [4: 21-Jun-1930, 25-Apr-1931] [5: 17-Nov-1933] [13]
Vice President 1928-1937, Committee Member 1930-1935 and President 1938-1939 [4: 22-Sep-1928, 2-Nov-1929] [5: 26-Apr-1935] [58]
Donated trophies and £6/6/6 money to the Carnamah District Agricultural Society in 1932 [13]
Following the loss through fire he was one of four members who drew up new rules and regulations in 1935 [5: 26-Apr-1935]
In July 1935 donated £10 to start a Building Fund for the Society to have more buildings built at Centenary Park [5: 2-Aug-1935]
Steward of the Sheep section at the Carnamah District Agricultural Society's Annual Show in 1935 [5: 7-Jun-1935]
One of 12 who attended the Annual Meeting of the Carnamah District Agricultural Society on 15 November 1935 [5: 22-Nov-1935]
Attended the Annual General Meeting of the Carnamah District Agricultural Society on Saturday 16 January 1937 [5: 22-Jan-1937]
Financial Member of the Carnamah District Agricultural Society 1937-1940, and by 1940 was a Life Member [13]
Donated £20/10/- in 1937, £23/2/6 in 1938 and £5/15/6 to the Carnamah District Agricultural Society [13]
At some point he was one of five people who loaned the Carnamah District Agricultural Society a debenture [13]
In 1939 received a refund of debenture interest from the Carnamah District Agricultural Society amounting to £1 [13]
Attended a meeting at the Carnamah Hall on 19 April 1929 to discuss the establishment of flour mills in Carnamah [86: 20-Apr-1929]
Attended the Carnamah Football Club's Opening Season Ball held at the Carnamah Town Hall on 18 May 1929 [4: 25-May-1929]
He was among those who attended the Centenary Ball held at the Carnamah Hall on 26 July 1929 [86: 3-Aug-1929]
The ball was to celebrate 100 years since the founding of Perth and the establishment of the Swan River Colony [86]
Attended the Plain and Fancy Dress Ball held at the Carnamah Town Hall on Thursday 8 August 1929 [4: 17-Aug-1929]
Exhibited in the Carnamah District Agricultural Society's Annual Show on Thursday 19 September 1929 [4: 28-Sep-1929]
Won 1st prizes for Merino Ewe, locally bred Merino Ram and for the Best Collection of Garden Flowers [4: 28-Sep-1929]
Won 1st prize for Sheaves of Green Wheat for Grain and 2nd prizes for Bushel of Wheat and Turnips [4: 28-Sep-1929]
Attended the Grand Ball following the Carnamah Show and opening of Centenary Park on 19 September 1929 [4: 28-Sep-1929]
His brother of South Australia visited him in Carnamah during October 1929, and he showed him around the district [4: 19-Oct-1929]
His brother, also a farmer, was interested in the land however believed better farming would result in finer crops [4]
In South Australia they cultivated their fallows about five times and his brother was a great believer of harrowing [4]
Had an account with Carnamah blacksmith, wheelwright and motor mechanics Henry Parkin & Son in the later 1920s and 1930s [53]
Saw in the new year of 1930 with the singing of Auld Lang Syne at the Church of England's Dance at the Carnamah Hall [86: 4-Jan-1930]
In 1932 was the owner of an Oldsmobile car and a Ford truck with license plates CA-93 and CA-239 [4: 12-Nov-1932]
Among those who made a donation to the Carnamah Country Women's Association in 1932 to help them buy premises [5: 29-Jul-1932]
Breeder of his own Collinsville Sheep Stud known as "Wongyarra Stud" at his Wongyarra Farm, Carnamah [4: 29-Aug-1936] [P46]
He began his stud by importing one ram and 21 ewes from South Australia in 1929 [4: 1-Feb-1930] [120: 15-Oct-1936]
He travelled to South Australia in August 1933 to purchase sheep from the well known Collinsville Stud [5: 1-Sep-1933]
Sold some of his locally bred rams at Elder Smith & Company's sheep sale in Carnamah on 8 September 1933 [5]
In July 1934 extended his sheep stud with the purchase of 40 more ewes from the Collinsville Stud of South Australia [5: 13-Jul-1934]
A few months later in 1934 he held his first sale of rams from his Wongyarra Stud [5: 13-Jul-1934]
Paid the highest price of the day (230 guineas) for a Boonoke Cup winner stud ram at a sale in Perth in October 1934 [5: 12-Oct-1934]
Employed the services of the local Elder Smith & Co agent to conduct a sale of his stud sheep on 18 October 1934 [5: 12 & 26-Oct-1934]
At the sale he sold 60 of his locally bred rams for an average price of 7½ guineas to buyers as far away as Wannamal [5]
On Saturday 17 November 1934 took delivery of another 100 Collinsville stud merino ewes from John Collins & Sons [5: 23-Nov-1934]
The ewes had been imported at great expense from South Australia on the steamship Koomilya [4: 8-Dec-1934]
Attended the dispersal sale in Midland Junction of the Meerogoolia merino stud and purchased 211 of the 1200 sheep [5: 23-Nov-1934]
49 stud ewes 1932 drop at 1¾ guineas, 26 at 1½ guineas; 50 sound full month 1 guinea; 51 aged ¾ guinea and 34 ½ guinea [5]
Employed the services of the local Elder Smith & Co Ltd agent to conduct a sale of some of the sheep from his stud [5: 6 & 13-Sep-1935]
The sale was held in Carnamah at 1 p.m. on Friday 20 September 1935 and included in the sale were: [5]
60 of his Collinsville Merino rams (1933 and 1934 drop) and 250 flock Merino ewes of mixed ages and in good condition [5]
Buyers from Morawa, Perenjori, Yandanooka, Three Springs, Carnamah, Coorow and Marchagee attended the sale [5: 4-Oct-1935]
Purchased several valuable additions of rams and ewes for his stud at the Royal Show sales in Perth in October 1935 [5: 18-Oct-1935]
A fortnight later one of the rams purchased at the Royal Show was found laying beside a fence with a broken neck [5: 1-Nov-1935]
Travelled to Adelaide in mid 1936 to purchase two high-class Merino rams for his stud [81: 26-Jul-1936]
Mr A. J. MCDONALD, one of the leading authorities of Merino sheep in Australia, visited his farm in August 1936 [5: 14-Aug-1936]
After classing his flock he commented that it was the largest and best grown stud Merino flock of their age he'd ever seen [5]
He commented on the remarkable low percentage of rejects, and the strength of the wool which showed excellent breeding [5]
"Mr McDonald was of the opinion that Mr Sargent could be ranked among the most progressive stud breeders in the State" [5]
In February 1937 he imported 50 high class Collinsville stud ewes from Collinsville, South Australia [5: 12-Feb-1937]
The ewes were mated with Collinsville rams before leaving South Australia, and arrived in excellent order after the long trip [5]
The North Midland Times reported the acquisition as a "valuable addition of stud sheep" to his Wongyarra Stud [5]
He was described as "a practical, progressive sheep man with sound ideas" and an impressive knowledge of sheep [5: 2-Apr-1937]
Over 50 farmers from Carnamah, Coorow, Perenjori and Three Springs attended a field day at his farm on 9 August 1939 [4]
The field day had become an annual fixture giving farmers the opportunity to inspect his Collinsville sheep stud [4: 19-Aug-1939]
He was the most successful exhibitor at the Carnamah Agricultural Show in 1930 with numerous sheep and wool entries [4: 27-Sep-1930]
Won the President's Cup and Inering Settlers' Cup; he exhibited the "Fleece of Outstanding Merit" and the "Champion Sheep" [4]
Won both 1st and 2nd prizes for Merino Ewe, Merino Ewe bred in Carnamah, and Merino Ewe bred in the North Midlands; [4]
Also won 1st prizes for Merino Ram, 3 Fat Shorn Wethers, 3 Merino Wethers in Wool, and 3 Merino Lambs under 6 months [4]
Won 1st prizes for Merino Fleece Medium Wool, Merino Fleece Fine Wool, and 1st and 2nd for Merino Fleece Strong Wool [4]
Committee Member of Carnamah's branch of the Wheatgrowers' Union in 1931 [4: 13-Feb-1932]
Attended the funeral of "Father of Carnamah" Donald MACPHERSON at the Winchester Cemetery on 14 August 1931 [4: 22-Aug-1931]
Exhibited in the Sheep and Wool sections of the Carnamah District Agricultural Society's Annual Show in 1932 [5: 23-Sep-1932]
Won three 1st prizes and two 2nd prizes for Merino Rams; and two 1st and two 2nd prizes for Ewes in the Sheep section [5]
Won both 1st and 2nd prizes for Merino Fleece Strong Wool and also 2nd prize for Merino Fleece Fine Wool [5]
Attended the Surprise 21st Birthday for George AUNGER in Carnamah on Sunday 2 October 1932 [5: 7-Oct-1932]
Attended a large meeting in Three Springs to form a North Midlands Chamber of Commerce on 18 November 1932 [4: 26-Nov-1932]
In 1932 he received an average of six bags per acre from 2400 acres of crop [5: 27-Jan-1933]
On 9 February 1933 attended the meeting in Carnamah at which Federal Member A. E. GREEN, M.H.R. was entertained [5: 17-Feb-1933]
Sold some of his locally bred Merino rams by auction at a special stock sale held in Carnamah on 8 September 1933 [5: 15-Sep-1933]
He received up to seven guineas for his 1932 drop rams; he also sold by auction imported rams from the Millbrae Stud [5]
Received seven 1st and seven 2nd prizes in the Sheep and Wool sections at the Carnamah Agricultural Show in 1933 [5: 22-Sep-1933]
Won 1st and 2nd prizes for Merino Ram, WA bred Merino Ram, Merino Ewe, WA bred Merino Ewe and 2-tooth Merino Ewe [5]
Also won 1st prize for Three Fat Merino Lambs and 2nd prize for Two Merino Rams of Medium to Strong Wool [5]
In the Wool section was awarded 1st prize for Fine Wool Merino Fleeces and 2nd prize for Strong Wool Merino Fleeces [5]
Purchased a new Sunshine A. L. 10 foot harvester from local dealer Oswald S. SOWERBY in November 1933 [5: 10-Nov-1933]
In 1933 he was referred to as a progressive farmer noted for his enterprise in importing valuable stud stock to Carnamah [120: 5-Oct-1933]
Vice President of the Carnamah Rifle Club 1933-1936 [4: 1-Sep-1934] [5: 30-Jun-1933, 12-Jul-1935, 17-Jul-1936]
Competed in a shoot of the Carnamah Rifle Club for the first time on Sunday 25 August 1935 [5: 30-Aug-1935]
The shoot, which took place over the 200 yard range, was the first time he'd fired since his discharge from the A.I.F. in 1919 [5]
He competed against John BOWMAN to determine which one of them would donate a trophy to the Carnamah Rifle Club [5]
John BOWMAN won and donated the trophy, however he challenged him to another competition [5: 30-Aug-1935]
During the 1933-34 financial year purchased Sydney L. TURNER's nearby farm of 2,296 acres [3]
The 2,296 acres became known as Turners [P46] and consisted of Lots M1024, M1025 and M1026 of Victoria Location 1935 [3]
Shortly after purchase enlarged the machinery shed at Turners to 40 by 24 feet and did 400 acres of scrub rolling [5: 2-Feb-1934]
In March 1934 he paid local contractor George BOOTH to erect 3½ miles of boundary fences on the property [5: 30-Mar-1934]
In 1934 was one of seven members in a committee formed to establish a Bush Fire Brigade in Carnamah [4: 13-Jan-1934]
Attended the Annual Ratepayers meeting of the Carnamah District Road Board in February 1934 [5: 2-Mar-1934]
He ran in the extraordinary election called for the North Ward member of the Carnamah District Road Board in 1934 [5: 30-Mar-1934]
The election was called following the resignation of John BOWMAN, and numerous ratepayers requested he nominate [5: 27-Apr-1934]
He was elected by a 51 vote lead and represented the North Ward on the Carnamah District Road Board 1934-1940 [7: page 111]
Resumed his outstanding exhibitions of his sheep at the Coorow Agricultural Show on Thursday 30 August 1934 [5: 7-Sep-1934]
Won both 1st and 2nd prizes for Merino Ram over 2½ years, Merino Ram under 2½ years and Merino Ewe under 2½ years [5]
Won 2nd prize for Merino Ewe over 2½ years; and 1st prizes for Strong Wool Merino Fleece and Medium Wool Merino Fleece [5]
Attended the funeral of Mrs Christina B. D. FORRESTER of Carnamah at the Winchester Cemetery on 31 August 1934 [4: 8-Sep-1934]
Steward of the Sheep section at the Carnamah District Agricultural Society's Annual Show on 6 September 1934 [5: 27-Jul-1934]
He was the "outstanding exhibitor" in the Sheep section of the Show, winning seven 1st and seven 2nd prizes [5: 14-Sep-1934]
Won both 1st and 2nd prizes for Merino Ram, WA bred Merino Ram, Merino Ewe, North Midlands bred Merino Ram [5]
2-tooth Merino Ewe, Two North Midlands bred Merino Ewes, Two WA bred Medium to Strong Wool Merino Rams [5]
Awarded 1st prizes for Strong Wool Merino Fleece and Fine Wool Merino Fleece in the Wool section [5]
Also received 2nd prize for a Clydesdale Stallion in the Horse section; and both 1st and 2nd for Wheaten Hay and Green Wheat [5]
Successfully exhibited his locally bred merino rams at the Mingenew Agricultural Show on Thursday 20 September 1934 [5: 28-Sep-1934]
Along with his wife travelled to Perth in early October 1934 to attend the Perth Royal Show [5: 5-Oct-1934]
Patron of Carnamah's Parkinson Tennis Club in 1934-35, 1935-36 and 1936-37 [5: 18-Sep-1936] [56]
In 1934-35 was the owner of the three year old draught stallion registered under the name of Royal Prince [5: 25-Jan-1935]
Vice President of the Carnamah Golf Club in 1935 and 1937 [5: 8-Mar-1935, 5-Mar-1937]
Around 1935 employed the services of local builder Charles J. DALLIMORE to build him a shearing shed on his farm [P46]
The shearing shed was 23 feet by 80 feet in size, had room for four machine stands, and was adequately lighted [5: 14-Aug-1936]
The classing and holding yards of his shearing shed were capable of holding 2,000 sheep and were built to his designs [5]
It was remarked that the layout and design of his shearing shed and its yards were among the best in Western Australia [5]
From 1935 to 1938, in addition to his own land, also leased and farmed NIVEN Bros 1,202 acre farm in Carnamah [3]
The 1,202 acres leased form NIVEN Bros was Lots M995 ad M996 on the north side of Reading Road in Carnamah [3] [62]
Entertained William PATRICK, M.L.A. during the first day of his official visit to Carnamah, on Sunday 23 June 1935 [5: 28-Jun-1935]
The Carnamah District Road Board recommended in June 1935 that he be appointed a Justice of the Peace [5: 21-Jun-1935, 27-Sep-1935]
In December 1935 he was made a Justice of the Peace for the Victoria Magisterial District of Western Australia [5: 20-Dec-1935]
As a Justice of the Peace he served as Magistrate on criminal and traffic cases that went before the Carnamah Police Court [22]
The local Police Court dealt with cases involving Carnamah, Winchester, Waddy Forest, Coorow, Marchagee and Gunyidi [22]
The first known case of the Carnamah Police Court he served on was on 17 December 1936 [88]
Between 1936 and 1943 he presided as Magistrate over 23 cases that went before the Carnamah Police Court [22]
Attended the Carnamah Repertory Club's 5th Concert and the Supper & Social that followed on Thursday 25 July 1935 [5: 2-Aug-1935]
Second most successful exhibitor at the Carnamah Agricultural Show on Thursday 12 September 1935 [5: 20-Sep-1935]
Received fourteen 1st and eight 2nd prizes, scoring him 56 points - only one point short of tying for the President's Cup [5]
Won every prize in the Merino portion of the Sheep section, and exhibited the Champion Ram (which was of Millbrae blood) [5]
Awarded 1st prizes for Merino Ram over 2½ years, Merino Ewe under 2½ years, WA bred Merino Ram over 2½ years, [5]
WA bred Merino Ram over 1½ years; and both 1st and 2nd for Merino Ram under 2½ years, Merino Ewe over 2½ years, [5]
WA bred Ram under 1½ years, WA bred Merino Ewe over 2½ years, WA bred Merino Ewe over 1½ years, [5]
and WA bred Merino Ewe under 1½ years; and in other sections won prizes for Green Wheat (1st), Clydesdale Stallion (2nd), [5]
Medium/Strong Wool Ram's Fleece (1st), Two Strong Wool Merino Fleeces (1st), Merino Fleece Commercial Value (1st, 2nd) [5]
The judge of the Sheep section remarked that his Champion Ram was a "particularly fine sheep, of good stud [5]
appearance, very massive with medium wool of good density and length of staple, and should make an excellent sire" [5]
William PATRICK M.L.A. remarked at the Show that "the residents were very fortunate in having a man like [5]
Mr Sargent in the district who was prepared to spend time and money in raising a stud flock for suitable breeding purposes" [5]
He won £9/15/- in prize money at the Show, which he donated back to the Carnamah District Agricultural Society [5: 22-Nov-1935]
Won 1st prize for Merino Ram 2½ years and over in the Sheep section at the Royal Show in Perth in October 1935 [5: 11 & 18-Oct-1935]
Sold 32 shorn wethers at 11/10 per head and one lamb for 8/7 through Westralian Farmers Ltd on 23 October 1935 [5: 25-Oct-1935]
Attended a meeting about Wireless Interference in Carnamah on Wednesday 23 October 1935 [5: 1-Nov-1935]
The main purpose of the meeting was about offsetting the cost of engine suppressors installed to combat local radio interference [5]
Sold 33 bales of wool through Elder Smith & Co Ltd at the Fourth Wool Sale of the Season in Perth on 25 November 1935 [5]
The 33 bales consisted of 10 at 17¼d., 8 at 16d., 3 at 15¾d., 9 at 15½d., 1 at 15¼d., and 2 at 15d. per pound [5: 29-Nov-1935]
Sold 68 shorn wethers through Elder Smith & Co Ltd on 27 November 1935 - 46 at 12/10, 20 at 11/1, 2 at 8/- per head [5: 29-Nov-1935]
Attended the entertainment for the Commonwealth Grants Commission at the Coorow Hotel on 21 November 1935 [5: 29-Nov-1935]
Sent a floral tribute for the grave of Miss "May" Mary L. LANG at the Winchester Cemetery on 26 November 1935 [5: 29-Nov-1935]
Purchased a new 2-ton Commer truck through the agency of local mechanic D. Standish O'GRADY in December 1935 [5: 6-Dec-1935]
Came equal third with two other farmers in the Carnamah District Agricultural Society's Fallow Competition in 1935 [5: 20-Mar-1936]
Member and Patron of the Five Gums Tennis Club from 1935-36 to 1940-41 [89]
Attended the Wedding Social & Dance for Stuart and May FORD at Koolabba Farm in Carnamah on 25 January 1936 [5: 31-Jan-1936]
Attended the funeral of Carnamah agent William B. SHERIDAN at the Winchester Cemetery on 27 January 1936 [5: 31-Jan-1936]
At his request a meeting was held in Carnamah on 6 May 1936 to discuss the formation of a Stud Breeders Association [5]
Foundation President of the North Midlands Registered Stud Stockbreeders Association in 1936 and 1937 [5: 8 & 22-May-1936, 28-May-1937]
Sold rams at the Association's First Annual Sale held at Centenary Park in Carnamah on Friday 18 September 1936 [5: 4-Sep-1936]
Offered for sale "88 Stud Selected and Flock Rams" which was the entire draft of the season's rams from his flock [5: 21-Aug-1936]
All of the 88 rams had been graded by an independent expert and were offered for sale with the expert's grading [5: 4-Sep-1936]
Generously sold one of his rams in aid of the North Midlands District Hospital in Three Springs [5: 2-Oct-1936]
The ram won 2nd prize at the 1936 Three Springs Agricultural Show, and was sold to J. P. STRATTON of Bunjil for £7/7/- [5]
A number of farmers and the brokers handling the sale gave 10/- to the ram, with the Hospital receiving a total of £17/-/- [5]
Resigned as a Member and President at a meeting of the Stud Stockbreeders Association on Saturday 19 June 1937 [5: 25-Jun-1937]
He resigned after some members expressed their desire for limitations to be placed on what stock could be sold at sales [5]
He didn't wish to sell where rams were sold from unregistered ewes, or with those who were selling their used rams [5]
Following his resignation Alec G. LEISHMAN and Bruce A. LEISHMAN also resigned from the Association [5: 9-Jul-1937]
After leaving the Association he held his own stud ram sale at Centenary Park in Carnamah on 17 September 1937 [5: 25-Jun-1937]
In addition to selling his own rams he invited other registered breeders in the North Midlands to offer rams and ewes for sale [5]
The Association resolved to still hold a sale but appear not to, probably because four other breeders instead sold at his sale [5]
Sydney C. GOOCH of Three Springs and LEISHMAN Bros of Winchester sold the draft of their rams at his sale[5: 23 & 30-Jul-1937]
Morawa farmers George P. WHITE of Invermay and John A. MCGLEW of Alawa Park also sold rams at the sale [5: 3-Sep-1937]
At the sale he offered for sale 113 selected and flock 1935 and 1936 drop Merino rams from his Wongyarra Stud [5: 3-Sep-1937]
Found a Dorset Horn ram with an indistinct brand in one of his paddocks, which he advertised as "Found" in May 1936 [5: 29-May-1936]
The owner of the Dorset Horn ram could collect it after paying for the "Found" notice in The North Midland Times newspaper [5]
Motored to Perth accompanied by Carnamah farmer John BOWMAN on Thursday 28 May 1936 [5: 5-Jun-1936]
The next day his wife arrived in Perth from a holiday in South Australia, and they returned to Carnamah on 31 May 1936 [5]
While in Perth they met with Millars Trading & Agency Company on behalf of the Carnamah Ratepayers & Citizens Association [5]
They negotiated a £60 settlement for an outstanding account payable by Carnamah builder Charles J. DALLIMORE [5]
The account was for materials for the Carnamah Private Hospital, for which DALLIMORE was never paid for [5: 12-Jun-1936]
In 1936 he was described as the biggest wheat and sheep farmer and "among of the best established" in Carnamah [81: 26-Jul-1936]
Had 2,200 acres of wheat crop, 1,000 acres of oats and barley and 2,500 sheep on his Wongyarra Farm in 1936 [120: 15-Oct-1936]
Attended the Carnamah Repertory Club's Social Evening & Play Presentation at the Carnamah Hall on 17 June 1936 [5: 19-Jun-1936]
Travelled from Carnamah to Perth by train on Monday 22 June 1936 [5: 26-Jun-1936, 10-Jul-1936]
He then left per the trans train for a business trip South Australia, after which he arrived back in Carnamah on 8 July 1936 [5]
Attended the Surprise 21st Birthday for Miss Eileen R. PERRY in Carnamah on Saturday evening 18 July 1936 [5: 24-Jul-1936]
In July and August 1936 sold at the Midland Market 7 stags at 29/6 per head and 400 wethers comprising 43 at 35/4, [5: 24 & 31-Jul-1936]
62 at 35/1, 54 at 33/10, 38 at 30/10, 36 at 29/10, 49 at 29/4, 65 at 28/4, 7 at 26/-, 16 at 25/1, and 30 at 24/10 [5: 7, 14, 21 & 28-Aug-1936]
Served on the Board of the North Midlands District Hospital in Three Springs 1936-1944 - was Chairman for part of 1943 [109]
Loaned his truck to help cart 80 loads of sand, gravel and stones for the nursing quarters in Three Springs in April 1937 [5: 30-Apr-1937]
By 1936 he had obtained the telephone on his farm - was telephone number Carnamah-23D from 1936 until 1946 [60]
He was among the big prize-winners at the Carnamah Agricultural Show on Thursday 10 September 1936 [5: 11 & 18-Sep-1936]
Awarded 1st prize for Merino Ram over 2½ years which was alao awarded the ribben as the Champion Ram of the show [5]
Won both 1st and 2nd prizes for Ram over 1½ years and under 2½ years and both 1st and 2nd for Merino Ewe over 2½ years [5]
Won 2nd for WA bred Merino Ram over 2½ years, Merino Ram under 1½ years and Merino Ewe over 1½ and under 2½ years [5]
For wool won 1st and 2nd for Merino Fleece judged on commercial value, and 2nd for Two Medium Wool Merino Fleeces [5]
Won 2nd prizes for Clydesdale Stallion in the Horse section and for Australian Strong Wheat in the Grain & Fodder section [5]
Attended the Reunion of South Australians in the North Midlands at Centenary Park in Carnamah on 26 September 1936 [5: 2-Oct-1936]
Attended the Carnamah Repertory Club's Social including three plays at the Carnamah Hall on Friday 2 October 1936 [5: 9-Oct-1936]
Along with his wife travelled to Perth to attend the Royal Show in early October 1936 [5: 9 & 16-Oct-1936]
He and Maurice S. B. AUNGER were among the first farmers to start harvesting in Carnamah in late October 1936 [5: 30-Oct-1936]
In October 1936 the Carnamah District Road Board appointed him to investigate the matter of stockyards for Carnamah [5: 6-Nov-1936]
Attended the public meeting about the creation of stockyards in Carnamah on Saturday evening 14 November 1936 [5: 20-Nov-1936]
At the meeting himself and two others were appointed a committee to handle the matter and then report at another meeting [5]
Sold 72 bales of wool through Elder Smith & Co Ltd at the Wool Sale in Perth on Monday 23 November 1936 [5]
The 72 bales consisted of 8 bales at 20½d. per pound, 9 at 19d., 1 at 18¼d., 3 at 18d., 6 at 17¾d., 3 at 16¾, [5]
7 at 16½d., 3 at 15¾d., 2 at 15d., 6 at 14½d., 14 at 14d., 3 at 13¼d., and 7 bales at 8½d. per pound [5: 27-Nov-1936]
With great pleasure he proposed the toast to the "Carnamah Repertory Club" at the Club's Concert on 9 December 1936 [5: 11-Dec-1936]
A road running along the south and eastern boundaries of his Lot M1523 unnecessarily cut off M1523 from the rest of his farm [3] [5]
In 1936 attention was being given to closing the surveyed road and declaring a new one on the west side of his Lot M1523 [5]
The closure and declaration took place with the new road becoming part of Pope Road and intersecting with the Caron Road [62]
Vice President of the Carnamah Tennis Club in 1936-37, and Vice Patron in 1937-38 [5: 24-Jul-1936, 13-Aug-1937]
He and John BOWMAN voluntarily carted 20,000 gallons of water for the Carnamah Tennis Club in 1936-37 [5: 5-Feb-1937]
The water was to consolidate the ground prior to the laying of colas for four new tennis courts on Centenary Park in Carnamah [5]
He was also one of six local residents who covered the cost of enclosing the courts with a wood and wire netting fence [5]
For both counts of generosity he was thanked at the Official Opening of the courts on Sunday afternoon 31 January 1937 [5]
Donated a trophy for the Carnamah Tennis Club's Easter Tennis Tournament in Carnamah in 1937 [5: 23-Apr-1937]
Vice President of the Billeroo Cricket Club in 1936-37 [5: 9-Oct-1936]
The North Midland Times newspaper described him as one of Carnamah's "most foremost farmers" in 1937 [5: 5-Feb-1937]
Employed local builder Charles J. DALLIMORE [P46] to build him a substantial brick home on his farm in 1937 [5: 5-Feb-1937]
Part of an overland trip using his truck to the uninhabited coast at Jurien Bay, which departed on 15 February 1937 [5: 26-Feb-1937]
The 12 other members of the party were Baxter D. BOTHE, William J. GAUNT, Donald S. GRANT, David TODD, [5]
Fred BINGHAM, George HUTCHCRAFT and John S. READ of Coorow; Angus A. N. MCGILP of Waddy Forest; [5]
and Frank R. BRYANT, Walter G. FENNELL, W. Frank FENNELL and C. Jock BRAYNT of Marchagee [5]
They travelled in two trucks and two cars and from Moora they drove over 54 miles of road and 30 miles of sand [5]
They erected a permanent shed and tables and were able to get good reception on a wireless Fred BINGHAM had taken along [5]
They took a boat with them and fished every day, and paid a visit to caves situated nine miles from their camp at Jurien Bay [5]
The party also visited Sandy Cape and North Head and after an enjoyable stay returned home on Friday 19 February 1937 [5]
Purchased a McCormick Deering TD40 diesel tractor from Carnamah agent W. George MULLIGAN in March 1937 [5: 5-Mar-1937]
Held a Surplus Clearing Sale at his Wongyarra Farm in Carnamah on Thursday afternoon 18 March 1937 [5: 12-Mar-1937]
Livestock up for sale was the Clydesdale stallion Royal Prince and 25 good working farm mares and geldings of various ages, [5]
and 300 sheep - 250 wethers at to 2½ years, 50 1½ year Merino ewes, 50 Merino ewes of mixed ages mated to Merino rams [5]
Plant and machinery included a 3-horsepower International Harvester Company engine, 15/30 McCormick Deering tractor, [5]
International Harvester Company tandem disc cultivator, 10-foot Sunshine header harvester, 19-disc McCormick Deering drill, [5]
24-disc Sunshine drill and fore-carriage, two 17-run McCormick Deering combines, 33-spring-tyne Sunshine cultivator, [5]
10-disc sundercut, 12-disc Sunshine scrub plough, 12-disc Shearer plough, hay rake, harness and sundries [5]
Patron of the Carnamah Athletic Club in 1937 [5: 19-Mar-1937]
Attended the meeting in Carnamah on 28 April 1937 to organise Coronation Celebrations for the children of Carnamah [5: 30-Apr-1937]
Presented the Coronation Medals to the children at the Coronation Celebrations in Carnamah on Wednesday 12 May 1937 [5]
The festivities celebrated the coronation of King George VI of the United Kingdom and the British Commonwealth [5]
Nominated for appointment to the Protests & Disputes Board of the North Midlands Football Association in 1937 [5: 9-Apr-1937]
Vice President of the Carnamah Repertory Club in 1937 [5: 7-May-1937]
Inaugural Vice President of the Carnamah Cycle Club in 1937 [5: 21-May-1937]
On behalf of the Road Board he met with Albert E. GREEN, M.H.R. when he visited Carnamah on 29 May 1937 [5: 4 & 18-Jun-1937]
Sold 27 wethers at 27/10 and 29 stags (16 at 25/4, 5 at 17/10, 8 at 16/7) through Elder Smith & Co Ltd in June 1937 [5: 25-Jun-1937]
Offered for sale 100 stud Merino ewes mates to Merino rams at Elder Smith & Co Ltd's Market in Carnamah on 8 July 1937 [5: 2-Jul-1937]
Donated the prize money for the juvenile contests of the Community Concert at the Carnamah Hall on 11 August 1937 [5: 13-Aug-1937]
Held a combined inspection of his flock and wool demonstration at his shearing shed on Saturday afternoon 28 August 1937 [5]
The wool demonstration including a talk was carried out by experts from Elder Smith & Co Ltd and Dalgety & Co Ltd [5]
His "excellently planned" large wool and shearing shed was reported to have been ideal for such an occasion [5]
The afternoon provided buyers the opportunity to inspect his flock, while also being of educational value to others [5]
Despite the damp weather a large number of farmers and other interested persons attended the annual inspection of his flock [5]
Demonstrations included crutching, shearing; skirting, rolling and classing of the fleeces; and pressing and labelling of the bales [5]
The day was a success as the farmers present requested he hold a similar day the following year [5: 13 & 20-Aug-1937, 3-Sep-1937]
Attended the opening of the Nurse's Quarters in Three Springs and dinner at the Commercial Hotel on 27 August 1937 [5: 3-Sep-1937]
On the Carnamah Ratepayers & Citizens Association's grasshopper eradication committee in 1937 [0: image 02876]
Advertised his Wongyarra Stud in the Schedule for the Carnamah District Agricultural Society's Annual Show in 1938: [13]
"Wongyarra Stud. The Proprietor of the "Wongyarra" Stud extends a Cordial Invitation to all interested to a [13]
Field Day and Wool Demonstration and general inspection of "Wongyarra" Stud on Saturday Afternoon August 27th [13]
Wool Experts from the various firms will be in attendance" [13]
One of his sheep won the Collinsville Cup at the 1938 Royal Show in Perth [13]
Also farmed a 1,210 acre farm on the Inering Estate in Carnamah, leased from Vidal F. JACKSON from 1938 [3] and into the 40s [P46]
His main unit for seeding was an International WD40 crawler tractor which ran from midnight Sunday to midnight Saturday [P46]
The WD40 contained a triple hitch and pulled two 14 disc and one 10 disc Sunderseeders [P46]
The other machine in action at the time was an International W-30 wheeled tractor which pulled a 24 run Springtime combine [P46]
Foundation Vice President of Carnamah's branch of the Red Cross Society in 1939 [0: image 03834]
Conducted a Field Day and Wool Demonstration on his Wongyarra Farm on Wednesday 9 August 1939 [13]
An annual sale of his Wongyarra, Binderie and British Breed Rams was held at Centenary Park, Carnamah on 12 September 1939 [13]
Pallbearer at the funeral of Mrs Doris FORRESTER on 10 October 1939 at the Karrakatta Cemetery [0]
Foundation Committee Member of the Carnamah District War and Patriotic Fund in 1940 [0: image 03074]
Member of Carnamah's branch of the Australian Defence League in 1940 [0: image 03947]
Vice President of the Carnamah Sub-Branch of the Returned Soldiers League 1940-1943 [52]
In July 1939 five families, two of whom were in his employ, requested a state school be established at East Carnamah [277]
He shifted a two roomed cottage to a suitable part of his farm for the school building, which he then provided free of charge [277]
The cottage contained one room 16 by 13 feet, a second room 12 by 13 feet, fireplace and cemented verandahs on two sides [277]
He and Frederick P. WATERS comprised the School Board who worked to establish and then manage the school [277]
The Education Department railed furniture to Carnamah which he then carted to the school on his Wongyarra Farm [277]
The East Carnamah State School opened on 4 September 1939 and within a month was renamed the Wongyarra State School [277]
It was renamed after the property on which it stood in recognition of his generosity in providing the school building [277]
The Wongyarra State School, which was a Regulation Four Assisted School, operated until closing on 31 December 1943 [277]
On behalf of the Education Department he railed the closed school's furniture and stock from Carnamah to Perth in 1944 [277]
Along with his wife travelled the 12 miles to town to see the Carnamah Repertory Club's concerts and musical productions [7: page 229]
Fired the first shot at the Carnamah Miniature Rifle Club's Rifle range on 5 January 1941 [85] [0: image 03988]
Vice President of the Carnamah Football Club in 1941 [0: image 04007]
Committee Member of the Carnamah District War and Patriotic Fund in 1941 [0: image 04014]
In 1941 helped raise funds for the erection of a new maternity ward at the North Midlands District Hospital, Three Springs [0: image 04044]
Through his efforts approximately £27 was raised in Carnamah to go towards the hospital [0: image 04051]
In 1943, due to the war, found in necessary to go to Perth to find shearers to shear his Wongyarra flock [0: image 04235]
When nearby farmer Leo GREEN couldn't get a bank loan to buy a header, he went to the bank and gave him the £30 he needed [P46]
On another occasion he gave 120 aged ewes and a load of hay to a local farmer having a bad run [P46]
Committee Member of the Carnamah District Agricultural Society in 1945 [0: image 04348]
Some time after the death of his wife he was unwell and went to stay with relatives in Katanning, where he died aged 66 years [P46]
He probably stayed at Katanning with his brother Arthur McDougall SARGENT, who is also buried at the Katanning Cemetery [180]
Adoptive father of Jean SARGENT [P46]
Died 27 March 1946 in Katanning; buried Katanning Cemetery in Katanning, Western Australia [371: 5-Apr-1946]
Following his death his estate was valued for probate at £30,609/8/11 with the chief beneficiaries being his relatives [39: 8-Nov-1946]
His 2,296 acres (Turners) was sold in two parts to Kenneth J. SIVYER and Norman R. WATSON on 4 January 1947 [3]
His 5,321 acre Wongyarra Farm was sold to William H. NICHOLLS and Mrs Gladys E. WILLIAMS on 1 September 1947 [3]
From The Western Mail newspaper, Thursday 15 October 1936:
Through the Victoria District - Carnamah - Two Men of Carnamah - W. A. T. Sargent
"Twelve years ago Mr. W. A. T. Sargent took up 5,300 acres of virgin country at Carnamah, and later increased his holding to 7,300 acres. He now has all his land cleared except for some shade timber, and 2m200 acres are under a wheat crop, besides 1,000 acres of oats and barley for feed. He runs 2,500 sheep and 800 lambing ewes. Mr. Sargent considers Carnamah a first-class district, for stud breeding, but the long dry summer affects the wool to a certain extent. For seven years he has successfully carried on stud breeding, and has won prizes in the Royal Show, besides various country shows. In 1934 he bought the Boonooke Cup winner for 230 guineas, and this year imported two exceptional top stud rams from Collinsville, South Australia, one of which cost 250 guineas. Mr. Sargent, who is 56 years of age, is president of the North Midlands Registered Stud Stock Breeders' Association, which was formed this year, and had its inaugural sale at Carnamah on September 18."
From The Great Southern Herald newspaper, Friday 5 April 1946:
Obituaries - Late William Alexander Thomas Sargent
"The death occurred in the Katanning Hospital on Wednesday, March 27, 1946, of Mr William Alexander Thomas Sargent, late of Wongyarra, Carnamah, aged 66 years, the funeral taking place on Friday, March 29, when his remains were interred in the Methodist portion of the Katanning Cemetery. The Rev. T. L. Nicholls, of Wagin, officiated at the service, funeral arrangements being carried out by Messrs C. E. Courtis and Co. of Katanning. Members of the Katanning sub branch, R.S.L., namely W. N. Mathews, J. W. Old, C. M. Morrison, E. Stonestreet, C. L. Shaw, and A. Gooch, acted as pall-bearers, whilst the Last Post was sounded by Bugler Mark Harvey. Chief mourners present were: Miss Jane Sargent (sister); Mr Arthur McDougall Sargent (brother) ; Mrs A. McD. Sargent (sister-in-law); Messrs J. W. and A. V, McDougall (cousins) ; Mr and Mrs Robert Sparks, Mr and Mrs E. J. Slee, Mr and Mrs V. T. Slee, Mr and Mrs George Sargent, Mr and Mrs C Barrett, Mr and Mrs Phillips and Miss Ruth Sargent (nephews and nieces). Among those present at the graveside were the following: Messrs F. M. Bowden (Richardson and Co., Ltd); L. Caldwell; H. Cronin; H. R. Conning; C. R. Garstone; L. J. Josephs (Shell Oil Company); F. M. James; P. D. James; Gem Ladyman; H. Matthews; R. K. McDougall; R. E. McDougall; Mr and Mrs A. V. McDougall; C. A. McDougall; J. H. Pepall; Mr and Mrs Porter; Mr and Mrs H. A. Phillips; P. R. Patterson (Goldsbrough, Mort and Co., Ltd); P. Rands; J. Rob son ; E. T. Radford; A. Radford; A. Simper; F. J. Lee Steere; P. H. Schultz; A. A. Stevens (Rogers Ltd); Mr and Mrs E. J. Slee; Mr and Mrs V. T. Slee; S. Teni bv; Max Turner; A. S. Timms (Pool Petroleum); Mr and Mrs W. White; R. H. Wharton (Elder, Smith and Co., Ltd. Perth).
Floral tributes, cards and telegrams were received from : Sister Jane (Bunbury); Cousin Arthur, Elsie and family; Cousins Will, May and family; Auntie; Eddie, Elsie and family; George, Dorothy, Ron and Richard; Sister Elizabeth (Sth Aust); Brother Arthur, Cecelia and Rita; Arthur and Ol. (Ongerup); Emmie, George and family (Bunbury); Don and Dave (Sth Aus); Jim and Annie; Jean and May (Melbourne); Elvy and family (Sth Aust); Howard and Isobell and family; L. West and family; The chairman and members of the Carnamah Road Board; The manager and staff Elder, Smith and Co., Ltd Katanning; The manager and staff Elder, Smith and Co., Ltd. Perth; Carnamah Girls Club; Manager and Staff Elder, Smith and Co., Ltd, Carnamah; C. Bussenschutt and family; Members of the Three Springs District Hospital; Mag and All the family from Gladston, (S.A.); Members of the Carnamah Agricultural Society; Management Shell Coy. of Aust. Ltd; Members of the Carnamah Sub-branch RSL; Jean Poldervaart; Wally, Elvy and Mrs Longmire; W. Davidson; Mr and Mrs E. T .Radford; Mr H. Mathews; Mr and Mrs O. L. Livsey and Dorothy; Mr and Mrs E. Warren; Mr and Mrs Fred Lee Steere; A. Simper and H. and R. Livsey; Mr and Mrs Britt Holding; Mr and Mrs White and family; Porter family; Filmer and Forbes Ltd; Mr and Mrs Clem Ladyman and Mrs Garstone snr; Elva Brooks (Sth Aust); Mrs Morris (Sth Aust); C. J. Dallimore and family; C. B. Barrett and family; Mr and Mrs V. T. Slee and Louise; Mr and Mrs A. S. Timms and family; R. Sparks and family; Mrs A. F. Ramm and family; E. A. White; Pearl; Audrey Ladyman; Bob, Mollie and Dorothy; Ivy Threadgold; Les West and family; Mr and Mrs Drage; Mather; Ernie; V. Jackson; Annie James Sparks; Mr and Mrs Waters and family.
The late Mr W. A. T. Sargent was born at Wirrabara, S.A., 66 years ago, and in August, 1901, came to Western Australia with his brother, Mr Arthur McDougall Sargent, the two working together in the Wagin, Darkan and Williams districts for several years. In 1904 the two brothers selected land 30 miles north-east of Katanning, in what is now known as the Datatine area, and operated chiefly in wheat with considerable success, carting the grain to Dumbleyung the first year the Wagin-Dumbleyung railway was opened. In the 1914-18 war, Mr W. A. T. Sargent sold his interests to his cousin, Mr J. W. McDougall, and enlisted for overseas service, serving in France with rank of Sergeant until the cessation of hostilities. After his discharge, he returned to this State, to carry on farming operations near Broomehill for a number of years. Selling out, he purchased land near Carnamah, on the Midland line, and went in for wheat farming on an extensive scale; his greatest yield for any one year being 45,000 bushels, but not less than 30,000 bushels for many seasons. In 1928, he established the Wongyarra Merino Stud, subsequently importing from the Eastern States many high-priced rams and ewes to improve the flock, which became well-known throughout Western Australia. On one occasion a ram selected personally by him in South Australia secured the Grand Champion for merino ram at the Royal Show, Perth, and his annual stud sale will be remembered by sheepmen generally. Each year he held a field day at Woogyarra for the purpose of demonstrating the classing and culling of the season's rams, in which great interest was taken by people of the surrounding districts. Deceased was a strong supporter of local charities and during his lifetime gave large sums to patriotic efforts and different charities, the Three Springs Hospital in particular benefiting by his generosity. In this war he was an active member of the VDC, holding the rank of Sergeant.
He married in 1912 Miss Elizabeth Sparks, of Adelaide, who predeceased him by two years. Following a severe illness he was brought to the Katanning Hospital from Carnamah last September by his niece, Miss Rita Sargent, and remained there as a patient until his death."
| Reference: Carnamah Historical Society & Museum and North Midlands Project, 'William Alexander Thomas Sargent' in Biographical Dictionary of Coorow, Carnamah and Three Springs, retrieved 15 November 2024 from www.carnamah.com.au/bio/william-alexander-thomas-sargent [reference list] |
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