Bundaberg local Private Thomas Magee has been honoured through Bundaberg Regional Council’s Streets of Remembrance program.
Magee Court in Kepnock, which was originally named in September 1991, now also displays a badge of service recognising the veteran’s efforts during World War II.
Private Magee’s granddaughter Sally Greer said she was very proud of her grandfather who she affectionately knew as Nom.
“Nom didn’t speak often about his time in the army, I guess it would have been a horrible time to remember and I know he lost some of his close mates,” Sally said.
“What anyone went through back during those days is unimaginable and then having to adapt to ‘normal’ life after.”
Private Magee was born in Bundaberg on 11 February 1919 and grew up on Station Street in North Bundaberg.
He went to school at Christian Brothers and became a butcher before enlisting as part of the 42nd Battalion Regiment in World War II on 16 January 1941 at the age of 21.
Private Magee served on Thursday Island (20 March 1941 to 17 July 1942), in New Guinea (21 January 1943 to 28 May 1944) and Bougainville (1 December 1944 to 16 January 1946).
He was discharged on 29 January 1946 at the age of 26.
“After being discharged from the Army, Nom lived in Bundaberg where he met my nan Joan Marshall whom he married in 1947,” Sally said.
“They went on to have three children: Kerry, Lyn and Bill.
“Nom worked up until 1979 as a butcher at Kings Butchers, he retired at age 60.
“He had seven grandchildren and lived his retired life fishing and enjoying his garden.
“He lived on until the age of 93.”
Valuing and supporting those who have served
Sally said she believed that honouring veterans with programs like Streets of Remembrance was crucial as a recognition of their service and to inspire future generations.
“Veterans have made significant sacrifices for their country and honouring them acknowledges their bravery and commitment,” she said.
“Honouring veterans can inspire younger generations to value service, commitment and community engagement.
“Overall, these programs play a vital role in creating a society that values and supports those who have served.”
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Streets of Remembrance program honours local veterans by adding their badge of service to the streets named after them.
Applications are available through the Council website and will be assessed as specified within the project guidelines.
Find a list of recognised streets here with information gathered from Council records and the Australian National Archives.
- Streets of Remembrance: Private Laack
