Francis William Steane (also listed as William Frank Steane) was born in Bendigo, Victoria, was single and an Electric Engineer when he enlisted with the 8th Battalion, 16th Reinforcement on 10 February 1916 at the age of 18. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A23 Suffolk on 1 April 1916. He was absent without leave from parade in August 1916, for which he as penalised 3 days' pay, and again whilst in Perham Downs in April 1917. Despite these minor infractions he was promoted to Lance Corporal and to Acting Corporal in August 1917. He reverted back to the rank of Private upon the return of the Company Corporal and in December 1917 was severely reprimanded for again being absent without leave. He returned to Australia 9 August 1919

The reasoning for his absence may relate to the fact he married Ms Elizabeth Maud Barlier at the Christ Church in Hoxton on 21 May 1917.
Tree No. 1358