Bernard Evans

Background

Evans was born in Manchester, England on 13 May 1905.

Education

After completing his secondary schooling, he studied architectural drawing at night, and then worked as a designer and builder.

Career

In 1913 his family emigrated to Melbourne, initially living in Street Kilda, and subsequently in Hampton. He was commissioned in the cadets in 1923, and the Militia in 1924. By the late 1920s he had begun building speculative villas, and in the 1930s he was commissioned to design and oversee the building of houses and hospitals.

In 1934 he become a major in the 46th Battalion.

In 1937 he sold his business interests and travelled with his family to London. While in Britain he was accepted into the Incorporated Association of s and Surveyors.

On return to Australia in 1939, he was appointed lieutenant colonel commanding the 57th/60th Infantry Battalion, and in 1940 registered as an architect in Victoria. On 1 July 1940 he was appointed to the Second Australian Imperial Force and ordered to form and command the 2/23rd Battalion, "Albury’s Own".

Tobruk, (April–October 1941).

El Alamein, 1 November 1942, command of the 24th Brigade as a temporary brigadier. New Guinea, 1943. Land Headquarters Tactical School (School of Tactics and Military Intelligence), Beenleigh, Queensland. On 23 October 1945 he transferred to the Reserve as an honorary brigadier.

Military appointments Cadet Service: Cdt 2lieutenant 30 June 23 Cdt lieutenant 31 December 23.

Occupation: He served as the Melbourne city councillor for Gipps ward (1949-1973), and during this period served two terms as Lord Mayor.

Achievements

• There is a plaque at Street Matthews Church, 520 Kiewa Street, Albury commemorating Evans and his formation of the 2/23rd Battalion. Evans was appointed/awarded: He was Mentioned in Despatches three times. Defence Science Organisation Citation: "The untiring energy and enthusiasm of this commanding officer, his solid leadership and total disregard of personal danger has been the main factor to the successes which have attended the activities of 2/23 Aust. Information. Battalion With the exception of very brief periods in reserve positions this Bn has been in the FDLs of Tobruk since early in April and during that period Lieutenant-Colonel Evans has personally planned and supervisedd the numerous enterprisess designed to ensure the defence of his sector and inflict losses in men, material and morale on the enemy. His personality and unceasing interest in his men as been an inspiration to all ranks.".