In parish records, mother's name s shown as "Matilda Jane"

William Collis enlisted in the AIF on 12 June 1915. Because he was under age, he required his parents' consent which was given. He was killed in the Battle of Pozieres on 4 August 1916. His name appears on the Villiers-Bretonne memorial, but the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has no record of a burial site.

Alexandra and Yea Standard Friday September 16 1916 Editorial The news of the death of Private W Collis 23rd Bat AIF and son of Mr and Mrs D Collis was received on Thursday of last week with feelings of deep regret by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. It is almost certain that he and H Payne fell in the same engagement on Aug 4. Private Collis some time ago was accidentally struck in the back by a comrade who was using a pick in the dark. He was in hospital for several weeks in consequence. The same day as the news of his death was received a letter reached his parents in which he stated he had just left a convalescent home and was preparing to join his company to once more face the Huns. He wrote in a cheerful strain and appeared to be pleased that he was soon to rejoin his comrades in settling the little business they had volunteered to carry out. He spoke of the prospect of seeing several Alexandra lads an a few days having been in communication with Privates Mansfield, Peach and others. He had been in some hot corners but each time the Boche turned and cleared out. He received a shot in the wrist but the wound had healed. Private Collis put in 10 weeks on Gallipoli and was a close companion of Norman Hanning both occupying the same dugout and suffered the same privations. He was one of the last to leave the peninsular. Much sympathy has been expressed for the bereaved parents both of whom are natives of the town and highly respected. On Tuesday evening the members of the band met for practice but adjourned out of respect to their comrades.

Death Notice in Alexandra and Yea Standard Fri Sept 15 1916 Death On Active Service Collis-Killed in action in France on 4 August 1916 Private William Collis No 1897 D Company 23rd Bat 6 Brigade aged 20 on June 6 third son of David and Lavinia Collis of UT Creek. “He rose responsive to his country’s call And gave for her his best, his life, his all.”