Gomer Stanley Thomas (SN 4903) was born in Ballarat, was a painter aged 24 years when he enlisted in the 8th Battalion, 15th Reinforcement on July 23 1915. He embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board the Wiltshire on March 7 1916 and sailed via Egypt where he joined the 60th Battalion. In June he moved to France and in July he was transferred to the 58th Battalion joining his brother Leslie who was serving with the same Battalion. On February 25 1917 he was wounded in action when he suffered gunshot wounds to his face and left leg. He was evacuated to hospital in London where he spent many months recuperating before being returned to Australia, arriving on November 13 1917. He was discharged on January 24 1918.

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