ALMOST FORGOTTEN
A Virtual Memorial Experience
George Francis “Frank” Smalley
(1847-1872) CofE Sec6 Grave51
NAME
George Francis “Frank” Smalley
DATE OF BIRTH
1847
CATEGORY
Almost Forgotten
DATE OF DEATH
1872
CEMETERY
Colac Cemetery
Life Story
Frank Smalley is often remembered for the manner of his death, but his life tells a broader story of movement, responsibility, and service. George Francis Smalley, known as Frank, was born in Cape Town, South Africa, the eldest of four children of George and Elizabeth Smalley. His father worked as third assistant at the Cape Observatory before the family relocated to England, where George became a mathematics teacher at King’s College, Oxford.
Frank’s childhood was marked by significant change and loss. When he was about twelve years old, his mother Elizabeth died, leaving four young children. Within a few years, the family moved again, this time to New South Wales, where his father had been appointed Government Astronomer.
As a young man, Frank began working in the New South Wales police force, quickly attaining the rank of constable. However, he did not remain in that role for long, choosing instead to move to Victoria and take up teaching. Both occupations suggest a commitment to the welfare and guidance of others.
In December 1872, during the Christmas period, Frank joined fellow schoolteachers Robert Macafee and his cousin Wallace on an outing at Lake Colac. While shooting from a flat-bottomed boat, conditions changed and the boat was swamped. Macafee, who could not swim, was thrown into the water. Frank and Wallace initially made for shore but turned back to assist him. In attempting to save their companion, both men lost their lives.
Frank Smalley’s life, though not long, reflects a pattern of duty and care for others, evident in both his work and his final actions.
The Colac community erected this monument from funds raised by public subscription to honour an act of profound heroism and selfless devotion.
Research by Carol Judkins
Story by Norma Bakker
Narrated by Tyson Graham
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All rights reserved.
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.
© Colac & District Family History Group Inc 2026
This profile is a potted biography prepared from more extensive research undertaken by the Colac & District Family History Group (CDFHG). For additional information, historical records, or further research relating to this individual, please contact the CDFHG team.