Letters from Harold O’Brien to his wife to be Joan Terry
C/- Goldsbrough Mort and Co
19 December 1950
Dear Joan
I hope this finds you at Dalmuir where no doubt you will spend Christmas.
Although this is somewhat belated, I would like to thank you for coming to the Chinchilla Rodeo with me. I really enjoyed your visit and company immensely. Would you please drop me a line and let me know how you are going.
Chinchilla Rodeo - 13/14 October 1950 - Queensland Country Life - Thursday 26 October 1950, page 19
Life here is very quiet and except for an odd trip I have to Miles and Dalby where there are few frontiers, you might say the place is completely dead.
This place does not compare to the way back areas from a hospitable point of view, and at times I wish I were back on the old Hughenden Richmond stamping ground.
The house is now fully finished and looks quite presentable. Pat is still staying with me and has proved himself an excellent cook.
Give my regards to your family and when you get the energy drop me a line.
Lots of love,
Harold’s letter to Joan 19 December 1950
Primaries, Longreach
8 December 1953
Dear Joan
I hope this finds you well and happy.
Since speaking to you, business has slackened off quite a bit due to the continued hot dry weather. Things are not serious here yet, but if good rains do not fall during January, a lot of the graziers will suffer losses.
How are your people getting along at Stamford? I have not heard from them for some time, but I understand the country up there is much better than at Longreach. I must give Doug a ring one day.
I hope your job is still progressing favourably as judging from your last letter, you like the work.
I saw a big gambling day last week when Stewart Henderson lost £5,000 cutting cards to another man in a few hours. Big money, isn’t it? Too big I would say.
There has been an enquiry at the Hospital recently as to why they are unable to hold staff. Looks as though the doctor or matron will be shifted. The doctor is a bastion of Charles B O’Connor and a bit of a lad with it.
Jardine, the famous English Captain of the Cricket team in 1934, was in Longreach this morning. Has an interest in Rockwood and Mt E????.
Douglas Jardine, the English Cricket Captain during the Bodyline series in 1932-33 visits Longreach - Brisbane Telegraph, Saturday 12 December 1953, page 1
After a long delay I am enclosing the photographs to fill that frame you have.
Mona Allan Benley (??) had the big annual party a couple of weeks ago. Very well run show. I saw Frank and Rupert Terry there having a grand time. I managed to have a good time myself.
I don’t know what my Christmas programme is, but I suppose I will find somewhere to celebrate. I wish you could drop in for the few days.
I must away; lots of happiness for Christmas. Please drink my health.
Love
Harold
Written by Harold O’Brien, transcribed by Rob Landsberry, last updated 29 September 2023