The well-known George Town resident Athol Sylvester Geale has died, aged 96. Mr Geale, the last surviving Tasmanian from the 39th Militia Battalion, was regular face at George Town Anzac Day parades. He served in the Kokoda campaign in the infantry, being sent to the Kokoda Track in June 1942. While serving he contracted malaria and was shot in the leg. He was carried out of Kokoda by the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and transported back to Australia for treatment. The passionate Collingwood supporter was born in Launceston and live in George Town most of his life.
While funeral details are yet to be confirmed, it is understood Mr Geale’s funeral will be held at the Bass and Flinders Centre, Elizabeth Street, George Town.

There are only 26 39th Battalion veterans now remaining.