In the Argus, 22nd November 1886.
Assault by a Pugilist.— W. Farnan, a prizefighter, appeared on summons on Thursday at the District Court, on the complaint of Robert E. Rowley, whom he was said to have assaulted at Bevan’s iron works, Latrobe- street west. Complainant was accused by deFix this textfendant of supplanting him in a job for making tree guards. Rowley said he was knocked senseless with the blow given him. for which not the least provocation was offered. Thebench inflicted a fine of 10s. with 30s. costs.
Robert E Rowley was my paternal Great Grandfather. He got into trouble a few times soon after arriving in Melbourne. This incident could’ve been fatal. I wonder if he knew Farnan was a prizefighter?