7. Sir Joseph John Talbot Hobbs (1864-1938), architect
Joseph John Talbot Hobbs was born in London, the son of a journeyman joiner. He arrived in Perth in 1887 and became a successful architect and partner in the firm of Hobbs, Smith and Forbes. Amongst his design credits are the Weld Club, the Masonic Hall, the Swan Brewery and the Church of England offices.
Hobbs was an active Anglican who owned considerable property in the central Perth district. He served on the Karrakatta Cemetery Board on two occasions. His first term was from 1897 to 1916. He interrupted his architectural career and service to the Board to serve in World War I as Lieutenant-Colonel in command of the 1st Australian Division serving at Anzac, Pozieres and later the 5th Division at Bullecourt, Ypres and the Somme. He was the commander of the Australian Corps after the demobilisation of the A.I.F. in Britain with the responsibility to bring home the Australian troops.
Talbot Hobbs was re-appointed a trustee of the Karrakatta Cemetery Board in 1922 and served as Chairman from 1937 until his death from a heart attack en route to England in April 1938. His body was returned to Perth and a state funeral was held for him on 14 May 1938. This was the first state cremation service held after the opening of the crematorium in 1937.
A twice life-sized bronze statue of Lieutenant General Sir Joseph John Talbot Hobbs is situated along Riverside Drive, west of Barrack Street overlooking the site where the annual ANZAC Day celebrations are held in Perth each year.