Barnet Frank Lindley
| Type of person | Printer |
|---|---|
| Also known as: | Dollar Barnet |
| Date of birth | 1875 |
| Place of birth | Gawler, South Australia |
| Principal occupation | Printer publisher |
| Date of death | 1941 |
| Place of death | Gawler, South Australia |
| Significant places | Bunyip Printing,Calton Rd 6 |
Frank Lindley Barnet: A Legacy Ink-Deep in Gawler’s History
The name Barnet is more than just a family name; it is a thread woven tightly into the fabric and progress of Gawler. For over 150 years, the family has been the voice of the "Modern Athens," a tradition championed by three generations of pioneers, printers, and public-spirited citizens. Among them, Frank Lindley Barnet (1875–1941) stands out as a man who steered Gawler’s premier journal, The Bunyip, through some of the town’s most transformative and challenging years.
Early Ambitions and the Family Call
Born in Gawler on September 5, 1875, Frank was the son of William Barnet, the Scottish immigrant who established the first provincial press in the colony. Frank’s early life was one of academic and practical preparation; he was educated at Mr. L. S. Burton’s school before studying metallurgy at the Adelaide School of Mines and agriculture at Roseworthy College.
However, the death of his father in 1895 fundamentally altered his path. Setting aside his interests in mining, Frank returned to the family business. He entered The Bunyip office to work alongside his brother, Robert, and sister, Emily, ensuring the business continued to flourish in the interests of their mother, Hannah.
The Voice of the "Modern Athens"
Frank’s tenure at The Bunyip saw the publication evolve from a satirical broadsheet into a powerhouse of provincial journalism. He was a pioneer of technology, becoming an expert in the operation of the Linotype machine after its introduction in 1913.
Under his sole management in later years, The Bunyip became the largest printing establishment outside of the metropolis. Even during the "burst" of the post-war boom and the ensuing hardships of the Great Depression, Frank’s steady hand ensured the newspaper remained a "mirror of its own district," capturing the soul of Gawler for all to see.
A Pillars of the Community
Frank Barnet’s life was not confined to the printing press. He was described as a "bundle of wit" and a man whose word was his bond. His civic contributions were vast:
- The Turf: An ardent lover of racing, he served on the Gawler Jockey Club Committee for 24 years, including seven years as its esteemed Chairman.
- Sporting Life: He was a keen exponent of the Gawler Rifle Club and the Bowling Club, always supporting local sports with both time and resources.
- Fraternal Orders: A dedicated member of the Freemasons (Gawler Fidelity and Mark Lodges) and the Ancient Order of Foresters.
- Industry Leadership: He served as Chairman of the Country Press Company, fighting for the welfare and progress of regional journalism across South Australia.
A Courageous Farewell
Frank Barnet’s final year was one of immense personal struggle. Following an injury that led to the amputation of a foot and later a leg, he faced his illness with the same quiet honor that defined his public life. He passed away at his residence, "Hillside," on March 18, 1941, at the age of 65.
His funeral at Willaston Cemetery was a testament to his popularity. Mourners from all walks of life—from metropolitan racing clubs to local tradesmen—gathered to pay their respects to a man who lived a life of "unpretentious service."
As his childhood friend A.H. Riggs reflected: "His code was honour... he held the chair of the Barnet family connections well." Today, Frank Lindley Barnet is remembered not just for the ink he put on paper, but for the indelible mark he left on the heart of Gawler.
Quick Facts: Frank Lindley Barnet
- Born: September 5, 1875 (Gawler)
- Died: March 18, 1941 (Gawler)
- Wife: Clarice Carne
- Children: Kenneth L., Geoffrey K., and Vivia L.
- Key Achievement: Managed The Bunyip through the Great Depression , the 2nd World War and modernized its printing plant to be the largest in regional SA.
References
Memories of Barnet Frank Lindley
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