James Barlass was the son of Alexander and Euphemia Barlass, of Auckland, New Zealand; husband of Phyllis Barlass, of Whangarei.

Attending the Dargaville Primary School, he developed a keen interest in cricket, and this he maintained throughout his life, captaining club teams and assisting to further the game. Even when cricket was not flourishing in the Northern Wairoa District, he endeavored to maintain the interest of others.

After leaving school, he worked for several years as a plumber, afterwards taking a position with the Northern Farmers' Coop Ltd, Whangarei, where he was employed at the time of his enlistment.

Next of kin details compiled from information in the Casualty lists published in the newspapers. AWMM