Duncan Beith DSO from Ligar Street Ballarat achieved the rank of Major and served with distinction right through the war, although his WW1 service record is not readily available. The pinnacle of his service came in the AIF’s last major battle of the war where his gallantry and leadership with the 23rd Battalion earned for him the Distinguished Service Order. His recommendation read in part ‘In the operations culminating in the fall of Montbrehain extending from 2nd – 6th October 1918, Major Beith led his Battalion successfully in two successive operations ..... where he and his men were under heavy shell and machine gun fire. Major Beith carried out his reconnaissance with indomitable spirit, and in the attack he succeeded in securing a ridge which gave command of the approaches to Montbrehain. Major Beith displayed resourcefulness and initiative and his work helped immensely in the great success achieved. For his actions at Montbrehain he was also awarded the Belgian Crois de Guerre. He served again during the Second World War as V4177.

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