Joseph Beeston facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joseph Beeston
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| Member of the New South Wales Legislative Council | |
| In office 21 July 1908 – 8 March 1921 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 19 September 1859 Newcastle, New South Wales |
| Died | 8 March 1921 (aged 61) Newcastle, New South Wales |
| Resting place | Sandgate Cemetery |
| Political party | Liberal Reform Party (until 1916) Nationalist Party (from 1917) |
| Education | Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Australia |
| Branch/service | Citizens Military Force Australian Imperial Force |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Commands | 4th Field Ambulance (1914–15) |
| Battles/wars | First World War |
| Awards | Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers' Decoration Mentioned in Despatches |
Joseph Lievesley Beeston (born September 19, 1859 – died March 8, 1921) was an important person in Australia. He was a skilled surgeon, a brave soldier, and a politician in New South Wales. He helped people as a doctor, served his country in the war, and helped make laws in the government.
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Who Was Joseph Beeston?
Joseph Beeston was a remarkable Australian who lived in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He had a very busy life, working in three different important areas: medicine, politics, and the military. He is remembered for his dedication to helping others, whether it was through healing them, representing them in government, or fighting for his country.
Early Life and Education
Joseph Beeston was born in Newcastle, New South Wales, on September 19, 1859. His father, John Lievesley Beeston, was a traffic manager, and his mother was Amelia Jane Denison. Joseph went to school in his hometown of Newcastle.
After finishing his local schooling, Joseph traveled all the way to Ireland to continue his education. He studied medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin. This was a very important step in becoming a doctor. Around 1881, he married Anna Maria Read, and they had four children together.
A Career in Medicine
After completing his medical studies, Joseph Beeston returned to New South Wales. He started working as a surgeon in Newcastle. He worked in different medical groups and also served as an honorary surgeon at the Newcastle Hospital. Being an honorary surgeon meant he offered his medical skills without being paid, showing his commitment to the community.
Serving in Politics
In 1908, Joseph Beeston was chosen to be a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council. This is like a part of the government that helps make laws for the state of New South Wales. While serving there, he generally supported the Liberals, a political group that aimed to make fair changes in society.
A Soldier in World War I
In 1914, when First World War began, Joseph Beeston decided to join the army. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF), which was Australia's main fighting force overseas. Because he was a doctor, he joined the Australian Army Medical Corps.
The Gallipoli Campaign
Joseph Beeston was given command of the 4th Field Ambulance unit. This unit was responsible for providing medical care to soldiers on the battlefield. He served during the famous Gallipoli campaign, a very difficult and dangerous battle. During his time there, he reached the rank of colonel, which is a high rank in the army.
Returning Home
Unfortunately, Joseph Beeston became ill with malaria while serving in the war. Malaria is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes. Because of his illness, he had to leave the war in 1916 and return to Australia.
After coming home, he wrote a book about his experiences called Five months at ANZAC. This book shared his personal story of being a soldier and doctor during the war. For his bravery and service, he received several important awards:
- He was appointed a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1915. This is a special honor given for important service.
- He also received the Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers' Decoration.
- He was Mentioned in Despatches, which means his name was officially noted for brave actions during battle.
Later Life and Legacy
Joseph Beeston passed away in Newcastle in 1921 at the age of 61. He is remembered as a dedicated individual who made significant contributions to medicine, politics, and military service in Australia. His life showed a strong commitment to helping others and serving his country.
