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David Joseph John O’Rourke
Berridale c1906

Feb 12, 1923—“Monaro Mercury” records the death of David O’Rourke, Shire Clerk, of Dalgety Shire since it’s formation in 1906. He died by collapsing in shallow water off "The Creel" in the Thredbo River when attempting the rescue of two ladies he was teaching to swim, Miss Irene Deegan and Miss Lucy O’Rourke. Inquest held and verdict – heart failure not drowning.  Mr. O’Rourke was 50 years of age, born at Wulgulmerang in Gippsland, Victoria.  He owned 9 1/2 acres of land in Berridale and a home - valued at 800 pounds. He was the son of Daniel (sic) O’Rourke.  He was a member of the G.U.O.O.F. and a returned soldier.  The G.U.O.O.F. marched to his funeral and also 10 members of the R.S.S.I.L.A. from Cooma, with Dr. Rodda, their President. He was agent in Berridale of the Government Savings Bank. (MR. O’Rourke was a very popular man and a most useful citizen . His unexpected death came as a shock to the community). Note in brackets by J.A. Perkins .
Transcribed from Perkins Papers by Gwen Hubert <ghubert-at-pcug-org-au>