Robert Mackay (SN 47) born in Ballarat, was a 19 year old telegraphist when he enlisted in Ballarat on July 26th 1915. As a sergeant with the 37th Infantry Battalion he embarked on June 3rd 1916 aboard the Persic. He reached France in November 1916 but in April 1917 he was transferred to the 66th Battalion for five months. During his time with the 66th he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant. In July 1918 trench fever forced his evacuation to hospital in England but in November he was promoted to lieutenant. After hostilities ceased, he departed England aboard the Berrima on January 2nd 1919, disembarked at Melbourne six weeks later and on March 27th 1919 his appointment was terminated.

His brother Daniel also served in the AIF and is honoured with a tree in the Avenue.


Lucas’s Staffs Appreciation of Brave Men, the original Avenue register, records his name as Robert McKay.