James Alfoncis Moodie DCM (SN 1104) born at Burrumbeet, was a 23 year old labourer when he enlisted in Ballarat on January 8th 1915. On August 8th he embarked aboard the Persia and sailed to Egypt where he would serve with the 4th Light Horse Regiment. In mid-1916 he was hospitalised with influenza then near the war’s end he became dangerously ill with malaria. Between these bouts of illness, he achieved the highlight of his service, the award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal, his citation, ‘Whilst in charge of a flank patrol at Sasa on 30 September 1918, this non-commissioned officer came upon a party of 122 enemy, with four machine guns, waiting to enfilade our flank. He, with his patrol of three men, in company with another non-commissioned officer and three men, with great dash and determination, charged the enemy, whom they dispersed and forced to surrender’. Still suffering from the effects of malaria he returned home aboard the Lancashire, disembarked on March 31st 1919 and was discharged on June 27th.

His brothers Henry and John also served in the AIF and are honoured with trees in the Avenue.