15 Facts About Frederic Hughes

Post federation, Frederic Hughes had risen to command several light horse brigades before volunteering for service with the Australian Imperial Force in October 1914.

Frederic Hughes continued to suffer ill health, but returned to active service mid-1918, undertaking a staff role until 1920 when he retired as a major general.

Frederic Godfrey Hughes was born on 26 January 1858 in the Melbourne suburb of Windsor, the son of a grazier, Charles Hughes and his wife Ellen.

Frederic Hughes played for St Kilda for three seasons beginning in 1876, and then transferred to Essendon in 1879.

Frederic Hughes assumed command of the Victorian Nordenfeldt Battery in mid-1888 with the rank of captain, and continued in the role after it became part of the Victorian Horse Artillery the following year, commanding the Rupertswood Battery.

Frederic Hughes received his majority in 1891 and, on the disbandment of his battery, he transferred to the field artillery in 1897 and was posted to a staff role in Melbourne.

Frederic Hughes was promoted to colonel in 1906, and placed in command of the 4th Light Horse Brigade.

In 1909, Frederic Hughes took up an appointment as the Governor-General's aide de camp.

Frederic Hughes came to depend heavily upon Antill, although the latter was described as "well respected, if prickly".

Frederic Hughes' brigade departed for Egypt in February and March 1915 where it continued training.

Frederic Hughes' brigade undertook defensive duties initially, holding an area around Walker's Ridge and Russell's Top.

In March 1916, Frederic Hughes embarked for Australia, due to ongoing health issues.

Frederic Hughes retired in March 1920 with the rank of major general.

Frederic Hughes died in St Kilda on 23 August 1944 at age 86.

Frederic Hughes's decorations included a Companion of the Order of the Bath and the Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers' Decoration.