Oatley RSL Sub Branch
Oatley RSL Sub Branch
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The History and Origins of the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch

The Oatley RSL Sub-Branch was formed on August 23, 1944, but its origins go back to World War I. This was when the original Mortdale-Oatley RSL Sub-Branch was formed in 1915 by a group of WWI diggers. These courageous men, having served their country with honor, recognized the need for a support network that would provide assistance, advocacy, and camaraderie to returning servicemen and their families. Their dedication laid the foundation for what would become a vital institution in our community.

As World War II loomed, the Mortdale-Oatley RSL grew to include veterans from this new conflict, further expanding its role as a crucial support system. In the post-war years, the organization offered a communal space where veterans could gather, share their experiences, and find solace among those who understood their sacrifices. It served not only as a social club but also as a hub for veterans advocating for rights and benefits, ensuring that their contributions to the nation were recognized and honored. Over the decades, the Sub-Branch evolved, reflecting the changing needs of the veteran community. In 1944, the decision was made to formally establish the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch, marking a new chapter in its history. The Oatley RSL Sub-Branch committed itself to not only supporting veterans but also engaging with the broader community, fostering relationships that would keep the spirit of mateship alive.

As the years progressed, the Sub-Branch continued to adapt its services. It provided essential assistance to veterans navigating the complexities of post-service life, from accessing healthcare and financial support to simply finding companionship. The Sub-Branch became known for its commitment to inclusivity, welcoming veterans from all backgrounds and conflicts while honoring the legacy of those who preceded them. Today, the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch remains a cornerstone of the local community. Our focus is on delivering face-to-face support and fostering a culture of comradeship. We work diligently to connect veterans and their families with a range of services, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources for a fulfilling life post-service. In doing so, we uphold the principles established by our founders, ensuring that no veteran stands alone.

The Oatley RSL Sub-Branch currently holds ownership of several significant properties that serve our community and support our operations. The primary property leased by the Oatley RSL Community Club is located at 23 Letitia Street, Oatley, providing a vital space for members and the broader community to gather and engage in various activities. In addition to this, the Sub-Branch owns the properties at 25 and 27 Letitia Street, which house the RSL Sub-Branch Hall and the Youth Club Halls, both essential venues for events and programs that foster connection and camaraderie among members and local youth. Furthermore, we also own the property at 30 Oatley Avenue, commonly known as the Sub-Branch BBQ outdoor area, which enhances our community's ability to come together for social events and gatherings, enriching our commitment to supporting veterans and their families.

In 2024 the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch celebrated its 80th birthday, with the Sub-Branch receiving a restored charter from RSL NSW.

As the Sub-Branch move's through the 21st century, the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch is committed to continuously improving and supporting local veterans and their families in today's dynamic environment. In 2025, following a decision made by our Sub-Branch members and board during a general meeting in 2022, we transitioned to incorporation, allowing us to streamline our operations and reduce the administrative burden previously associated with trust management. This change aligns with the broader initiative by RSL NSW, responding to the 2019 Congress call for sub-Branches to gain the right to incorporate, enabling us to navigate complexities related to grants and property management more effectively. By embracing this new structure, we will enhance our service delivery, ensuring that we can provide timely and relevant support to veterans and their families, fostering a resilient community for years to come.

Oatley RSL Sub Branch through the years

Sidney Bennett Private 4th Battalion. Killed in Action 21st September 1917 aged 31. No known grave.
Claude Leopold Bourchier 54th Siege Battery. Killed in Action 11th July 1917.
Percy Bennett 17th Battalion. Killed in Action 7th August 1916.
Frederick Joseph De La Rey LCPL 38th Battalion. Killed in Action 29th September 1918
Frederick Fletcher CPL
Frank Derwent Thompson Private, A Coy, 19th Battalion. Passed away (Pneumonia) 13th December 1918
Wiilliam Rolleston, 19, Private, 4th Battalion. Killed in Action Battle of Lone Pine 10 August 1915
The Oatley Radio Theatre 1942, now the Oatley RSL Youth Club Hall. Letitia Street Oatley.
The Oatley Radio Theatre 1942, now the Oatley RSL Youth Club Hall. Letitia Street Oatley.
Oatley RSL Sub-Branch Community Hall. 2025.
Oatley RSL Youth Club Hall. 2025
Oatley RSL Community Club memorial. 2025
Oatley War Memorial (Oatley Park, Oatley Ave). 2025
Oatley War Memorial (Oatley Park, Oatley Ave). 2025
Oatley War Memorial (Oatley Park, Oatley Ave). 2025
Oatley RSL Sub-Branch 80th Birthday celebrations. 25th August 2024.

WW2 Spitfire hero - Pilot Officer Frederick "Darky" McDowell

 Informal outdoors portrait of 403070 Flight Sergeant Frederic Richard John McDowell of 457 (Spitfire) Squadron RAAF AWM Photo Collection - https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C285128 

Photo January 1943 PLTOFF Frederick "Darky" McDowell RAAF  RAAF base Livingstone NT.

 Inscribed in the photograph album of LAC Bill Conant, 457 Squadron UK "Jack McDowell and Kim Edwards" 

Oatley’s own hero, Pilot Officer Frederick Richard John McDowell

 Pilot Officer Frederick Richard John McDowell (Service Number: 403070), a distinguished Spitfire pilot of No. 457 Squadron RAAF during World War II. Born on 4 February 1917 in Waverley, NSW, and later residing in Oatley, McDowell enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force on 9 December 1940.  

Throughout his service in the Northern Territory, McDowell showcased exceptional bravery, engaging enemy aircraft in defense of our nation. His commitment to protecting Australia from aerial threats exemplifies the courage and dedication of our servicemen.

During his service, PLTOFF McDowell had three unconfirmed kills (Japanese Bombers) and damaged another five aircraft (unconfirmed).

Tragically, on 6 July 1943, McDowell was killed during air operations over the Northern Territory. 

McDowell and his 457 SQN wingmen were scrambled to intercept an enemy force approaching Darwin from the west. Departing RAAF Livingstone (South of Darwin) at 1045 hours local in an 11 aircraft scramble, McDowell, number 2 in blue formation (Blue 2) of four aircraft departed Livingstone in the second packet of four. The remainder of the section comprised Blue 1. FO F.D Hamilton, Blue 3. FO N.F. Robinson, Blue 4 FLTSGT R. Watson. FLTSGT Watson returned to base shortly after take off with engine problems and did not witness the engagement. 

Interception was made with the enemy aircraft approximately 35 miles East of Anson Bay (NT) at a height of approximately 22,000ft. Blue section dived in to attack from 32,000ft. Following a fierce air battle, McDowell and the remaining men of Blue section were shot down and never seen again by their 457 SQN comrades. 

A week after the engagement, PLTOFF McDowells aircraft and body were located and recovered within/close to the Roper River.

He is laid to rest at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made for our country’s freedom.

We honor Pilot Officer McDowell’s legacy, reflecting on his valor and the ultimate sacrifice he made. His story continues to inspire and remind us of the profound debt we owe to those who fought for our nation’s peace and security.

Thank you Fred “Darky” McDowell. 

Lest we forget.

Darky's Spitfire MkVc

Darky's Spitfire MkVc

RAAF Ground crew from 457 SQN prepare an MK-Vc Spitfire at Livingstone NT. The Aircraft McDowell lost his life in was tail number A58-33 (BR499)

Darky's Spitfire MkVc

Darky's Spitfire MkVc

Darky's Spitfire MkVc

Livingstone, NT. February 1943. A Supermarine Spitfire aircraft of No. 457 Squadron RAAF of No 1 (Fighter) Wing RAAF shortly after take off from the airstrip. Livingstone (South of Darwin) was Fred's operational base and the base that he departed from before losing his life in the defence of this great nation.

457 SQN RAAF

Darky's Spitfire MkVc

Fred McDowell's Grave

Australian crew of the No. 457 Squadron 'Grey Nurse' RAAF pushing a Spitfire fighter into its dispersal at Livingstone Airfield, Northern Territory, Australia, Feb 1943.

Fred McDowell's Grave

Fred McDowell's Grave

Fred McDowell's Grave

OAWG grave marker for Pilot Officer McDowell 403070 RAAF in Adelaide River War Cemetery, NT D C Barlow image 

RAAF Signal

Fred McDowell's Grave

Casualty Letter

RAAF Signal 457 SQN - Missing pilot PLTOFF Frederick McDowell.

Casualty Letter

Fred McDowell's Grave

Casualty Letter

Casualty letter to Mr's J.F. McDowell informing her of her husband's (Fred McDowells) death in combat

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

Photos of McDowells  09/11/42. Coded V and named "Bill 1". Accident 1700hrs 13/03/43, written off on landing at Livingstone NT following a non-operational flight. Aircraft had violent swing to the left off strip and crashed into high ground and trees , with port wing being ripped off and aircraft ending on nose. Cause attributed to retrac

Photos of McDowells  09/11/42. Coded V and named "Bill 1". Accident 1700hrs 13/03/43, written off on landing at Livingstone NT following a non-operational flight. Aircraft had violent swing to the left off strip and crashed into high ground and trees , with port wing being ripped off and aircraft ending on nose. Cause attributed to retracted left flap.  Pilot at the time; P/O Alfred Henry Blake Serv#400458 was not injured. ; https://allspitfirepilots.org/aircraft/BR499

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

Photos of McDowells  09/11/42. Coded V and named "Bill 1". Accident 1700hrs 13/03/43, written off on landing at Livingstone NT following a non-operational flight. Aircraft had violent swing to the left off strip and crashed into high ground and trees , with port wing being ripped off and aircraft ending on nose. Cause attributed to retrac

Photos of McDowells  09/11/42. Coded V and named "Bill 1". Accident 1700hrs 13/03/43, written off on landing at Livingstone NT following a non-operational flight. Aircraft had violent swing to the left off strip and crashed into high ground and trees , with port wing being ripped off and aircraft ending on nose. Cause attributed to retracted left flap.  Pilot at the time; P/O Alfred Henry Blake Serv#400458 was not injured. ; https://allspitfirepilots.org/aircraft/BR499

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 20JUL43 Crash site

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 1942 airfield crash incident

Map of P/O McDowells crash site after it was located and recovered on the 20/07/43.

 Pilot of BR499; P/O F.R.J. McDowell Serv#403070 killed. Wreck and pilot located 20/07/43 by 7RSU beside Mount Litchfield just 28 Miles South, South East of the enemy intercept location. Red Circle denotes enemy aircraft engagement area. Blue circle denotes

Map of P/O McDowells crash site after it was located and recovered on the 20/07/43.

 Pilot of BR499; P/O F.R.J. McDowell Serv#403070 killed. Wreck and pilot located 20/07/43 by 7RSU beside Mount Litchfield just 28 Miles South, South East of the enemy intercept location. Red Circle denotes enemy aircraft engagement area. Blue circle denotes WW2 RAAF Base Livingstone (Livingstone Strip) McDowells home base

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 noted in 7RSU Log

McDowells Aircraft A58-33 BR499 noted in 7RSU Log

7RSU  Log entry. Noting (in red) P/O McDowells crash site after it was located on the 20/07/43 and recovered on the 23/07/43.

 Pilot of BR499; P/O F.R.J. McDowell Serv#403070 killed. Wreck and pilot located 20/07/43 by 7RSU. 

Copyright © 2025 Oatley RSL Sub Branch - All Rights Reserved.

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