Souvenir brooch : Lieutenant W C B Stavely, 59 Battalion AIF

Rectangular silver brooch with a pin and clasp on the reverse for attachment. The brooch takes the form of a voided rectangle with an early model tank with rear steering wheels centred within it. Beneath, in a ribbon scroll, is the word 'SOUVENIR' in rose gold with a five point star on either side. The brooch is contained in its original cardboard case with the maker's details; 'F. DEFACQ BIJOUTIER AMIENS' printed on the interior satin lining.

Associated with the service of Lieutenant William Charles Beresford Stavely who served in 59 Battalion, AIF during the First World War. Stavely was born in Victoria in 1894 and worked for the local council at Avoca until his enlistment, on 11 February 1916. Allocated the service number 2253, he completed initial training at Broadmeadows and later on the Salisbury Plains in England, before his battalion moved to France. After service there Stavely he was sent to Balliol College, Oxford where he underwent officer training. He was commissioned as a Lieutenant on 17 May 1918 and returned to his battalion in France. He took part in the Battle of Hamel, taking over command of a company when Lieutenant Facey was killed. Stavely was gassed later in 1918 and saw no further active service. He returned to Australia on 5 February, 1919 and was discharged 15 March 1919.