In June 1941, Herb Mould enlisted in the army, he was the eldest son of Ted and Flora Mould of “Boconnoc” Middlingbank. He was in camp at Tamworth and had been granted 4 days leave. So, on 24th January 1942 a wedding was planned,with short notice. Laura Wellsmore, youngest daughter of James and Celia Wellsmore of “Paupong” Dalgety travelled to Maitland. Laura and Herb were married at 7pm at St Mary’s Cathedral at Maitland by Padre Waugh, the Army Chaplin. The charming bride was given away by her mother Celia, wearing a classical gown of ivory slipper satin, with a long train. She carried a bouquet of white frangipanni and gladioli. Her bridesmaid was her sister, Elsie, who travelled from Tullamore, near Parkes for the occasion. Herb was attended by an old school friend as best man, Ted Leslie, also in the army.

A reception was held at O’Donald’s Hotel in Maitland with six guests and the bride and groom. Herb’s younger brother Bruce, then only 12 years old, travelled up for the wedding and today is the only remaining one still living except for her and Laura.

Flora stopped in Sydney to purchase the wedding gown, also bought the two decker cake from Sargent’s and had the bouquet made in Sydney, all of which travelled up perfectly on the train. The happy couple honeymooned in Newcastle for a day and a night at the Great Northern Hotel, which is still there today. Herb returned to his base at Tamworth, until the war ended, finally returning home to their property “Dutton Plain” near Dalgety in 1944 where they successfully ran sheep and cattle and grew crops.

They had a family of three, Anthony (now deceased), Richard who married Maryanne and they live in Cooma and Madeline in Canberra; they have five grand children and six great grand children. During their time at “Dutton”, Herb took an active part in local organisations, Laura enjoyed sewing, knitting, embroidery and cooking and took out prizes at local Shows.

In 1994 they retired to Cooma, but both keep up their interests in the land. Laura has green fingers and enjoys pottering in the garden, growing beautiful flowers and pot plants indoors and out. congratulations Herb and Laura from your many Monaro friends.