Thomas Bolger

It is with deep regret we have to chronicle the sudden death of Mr Thomas Bolger, of Jumbuk, a very old colonist and a pioneer of Gippsland, the sad event taking place on Monday morning last. Deceased, who had reached the ripe old age of 84 years, was always hale and hearty, and Iooked years younger than he really was. He ladded in Australia in the forties, and was present at the Eureka riot. He could relate much of great interest regarding the "early days" and scenes witnessed on the gold fields. He was among the first to select land in Jumbuk, and the manner in which he succeeded in converting a wild jungle into a fine, profitable and productive property, speaks much for the pluck, energy and perseverance of the "boys of the old brigade" He hardly knew what a day's illness was, and on the morning of his death ate a hearty break fast. He was chatted to a neighbour outside the house, and was in the act of lighting his pipe, when he suddenly fell back, and expired within two hours. Medical aid was at once sought, but he had passed away whilst the doctor was on his way out. Deceased leaves a widow and large grown-up family to mourn his lose. His remains were in terred in the Hazelwood cemetery on Wednesday last, the Rev. E. J. Colman officiating at the grave.

MOrwell Advertiser, 1 March 1905.