Life Story

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Elizabeth Vesey was born in 1865 at Pitfield, the daughter of Sarah Denmead. When her mother married John Vesey in 1870, Elizabeth became part of a new family, and in 1875 she was baptised at St John’s Church in Colac.

 

In July 1890, on a cold winter’s day, Elizabeth, working as a domestic servant, married Frank Yates, a farmer, at St Mary’s Church, Colac. Their future must have seemed full of promise. By April the following year, they were preparing for the arrival of their first child when tragedy struck. While blasting rock at a quarry near Beeac, Frank was involved in a devastating accident that left him completely blind. His workmate, James Gaylard, was also terribly injured, losing both his sight and an arm.

 

A report at the time described Frank as “totally destitute,” with a young baby and no clear means of support. In response, the local community rallied around the families. With this assistance, Frank was able to begin supplying milk, purchasing the goodwill of an existing round and working, as best he could, to provide for his family.

 

Throughout these difficult years, Elizabeth’s strength and determination sustained them. Together they had three children, but her life was cut short in 1899 when she died of septicaemia, just a week after the birth of their youngest son, Francis. She was remembered as a devoted wife whose hard work and perseverance had helped guide the family towards stability despite overwhelming hardship.

 

The depth of Frank’s grief was evident the following year when he placed a memorial notice for his “Darling Lizzie,” expressing a loss that endured.

 

Research by Merrill O’Donnell

Story by Lynette Genua

Narrated by Janet Slow
 
© 2026 Colac & District Family History Group Inc. 
All rights reserved. 

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Life stories have been researched and compiled by the Colac & District Family History Group Inc. and its independent contributors. This material must not be copied or reproduced without permission. AI tools have been used to assist. 

 

For more information, please contact the Colac & District Family History Group Inc.