Frank Fisher joined the AIF much later in life than many, aged 38. By this time, Frank already had 3 children to first wife Rosie Shilling: Willie, Frank and Doris. At the time of enlistment, Frank was married to Esme Fisher (nee Hayward). At his medical examination, it was noted that Pte Fisher had a scar on the right side of his back as well as an operation scar for a hernia, a tell tale sign of the indentured service that he had performed on Barambah Settlement.
Pte Frank Fisher was one of three men from Barambah who formed part of the “The Queensland Black Watch”, serving alongside his Indigenous brothers, John Geary and William Bert Brown, in the 11th Light Horse, 20th Reinforcements. Pte Fisher embarked from Sydney on the ship HMAT A38 Ulysses on the 19th December 1917 bound for the Middle East. He saw active service in a number of towns within the Middle East, along with some time spent confined to hospital.
Frank Fisher is the father of Frank “Bigshot” Fisher, an important figure in Cherbourg history, and the great grandfather of Cathy Freeman.
Archive Items For This Person
The HMAT “Ulysses” A38
Certificate of medical examination
Portrait of Frank Fisher in army uniform
