General, Sir John Monash, Personal Files Book 20, 31 July - 15 August - 1918 - Part 15

Conflict:
First World War, 1914–18
Subject:
  • Documents and letters
Status:
Awaiting approval
Accession number:
RCDIG000635
Difficulty:
2

Page 1 / 10

tik tug e Paugt äni d /o4. AT ) 2 -t o oe 6 Qlerpeu(hdedu Fronce 20000 Price Ifrone, I oud of 4"Bde Prisoners of Wor
o 5 Ach AUSTRALIAN INF. BRIGADE SPORTS MEETING to be held at CHATEAU QUERRIEU 20th July, 1918 AQUATIC PROGRAMME COMMENCE 10 A.M EVENT Brgade Group Swimming Championship, No. 1. 100 yards. Officers Championship, 75 yards. 3. Greasy Pole Competition. Neat Diving Competition. 5. 100 yards Breast Stroke Race. Pillow Fight. 7. 50 yards Swimming Championship. Brigade Group Relay Race, 200 yards. Al Clothes Race, 50 yards. 9. 10. Band Quick Step.
ATHLETIC PROGRAMME COMMENCE 130 P.M. EVENT No. 1. Brgade Group Championship 2. Hurdle Race. 120 yards. 3. Anzac Championship, 75 yards (or those who landed on Gallipolli on or before ist May, 1915). 4. Brigade Group Championship, 440 yards. "5. Most Humorous Costume. 6. Siamese Race, 50 yards. ? High Jump. 8. Flag Race--Offcer, Sergeant and 4 Men, 75 yards. 9. Brgade Group Championship, mie. 10. Tug-of-War (Teams). I. Obstace Race. "12. Incinerator Kate Race, 100 yards (or Officers only). "13 Oficers 100 yards Race. "14. 1 Mile Walking Race. AQUATIC COMMITTEE Ljeut. R. H. Lackman A. W. B. Fawcett B.J. Shaw ATHLETIC COMMITTEE Lieut. G.). Huse J. D. Minton, MC. Sengt. Bryant PATRON Brg-General C. H. Brand. CB. CMC. DSO. PRESIDENT Lieut-Col. T. P. Meshany, CM G. DSO. MC. HON. SECRETARY Lieut. H. Bandlett Davis
RESULTS. ONE MILE CHAMPIONSWIP SRIGADE CROUP IO VAROS CWAMPIONSHIP. lst, Pte. Smith, 15th B Sgt. McGilvray, 16th Bn. lst. Pte. Sproles, 4th Mi.G. Coy. Pte. Badens, 13th Bn. 16th Bn. G. Coy. TUG.OF.WAR. HURDLE RACE. st, 15th Battal d, 4th Field t, Pte. Skinner 16th Bn i, 13th Battalion. Set. Kneebone, ih Fld Jrd, Pte. Sandford, lth Bn. OSSTACLE RACE. Lieut. Fawcett, ath M.G. ANZAC CHAMPIONSHIP. Lieut. Carrol, Ih MG M.S. Bowers, 15th Br Cpl Hadlow, h Fld. Jrd. Dvr. Weedon, 16th Bn. INCINERATOR KATE RACE. ut Fawcett and Lieut. Ath M.G. Coy. 44O VARDS CHAMPIONSWIP. 1 Lieut. Shaw and Lieut. lst Pre gere ee itt Mie 1 Bn. a Iopkuns and Lieut itth, and Clark, ich MG. C. 5 Son Mch) OFFICERS IOO VARDS RACE. hB? 3th Bn. 2R. Ih Sre Jrd. P S'AMESE RACE. ON LE WALK. lst. S McGilvray and Pte. use 1 a1 Bn. znd. Pte. Kiüby and Pte. Scott. d. Püe Sanen, ich Bn rd, Pte. Ventsall and Pte. Groutch 13th OFFICERs' SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIP. g. 13th Bn Wicn Jump. oll, 4th MG. lst L.(Cpl. Teague, ih Field 3rd, Lt/Col Crowther, 14th Bn. nd, Pte. Brown, 13th rd, Pte. Jones, 13th CaAsv POLE. Lieut. Carroll, 4th MiG. FLAG RACE. And. Pte. Cummings, ih MG. s. 13th B a L Co Lieu cett, ath M.G. 3rd, Pte. Bishop, Bgde. Head quarters Jrd. Lieut. Goninon, 15th Bn. so VAROS CHAMPIONSIP WEAY DIVINC. sWIMNING. Ste. Sheehy, 15th Bn Ford. Field Coy. deut. Gowing, 13th Bn. as Mitchell, 13th Bn. Ste. Lyons, 15th Bn. Jrd, Pte. Percy, 15th Bn. SREAST STROKE. ALL.CLOTHES RACE. d. 15th Bn lst, Pte. Lauch ett, 4th M.G. Lieut. Fa st, Pte. Fogg, 15th Bn nd, Lreut. Fawcett, ith MG Jr, Pte. Carey, 4th Field Coy. Lieut Carrol, 4ch MG. P:LLOW FICHY. Lieut. Fawcett ith M.G. 1OO YAROS SW:MMING CHAMPIONSHIP. Ple. Fogz. 15th Br Pte. Drøberz. 14th Bn. 1 13th Bn. st. Pte 5th Br Rorshiend, ich Mo. RELAY RACE. t 13th Battalon, Lieut. Gowing. SAND. 1 15th Battalion, Cpl Brad 15th Battalion Jth Battalion 1Ich Battalion, Lt/Col rowth Sth Battalion. RESULTS CHAMPIONSHIP CUP sth Machine Cun Company, 53 points. 2, 1Sth sattaton, so, points. 3, 1sth sattaton, e5 points.
REPORT ON SPORTS MEETING By Corporal ]. ]. Moriarty. The Brigade Sports wil be held at the Chateau Grounds, Querrieu, on Saturday next, 21st ins Thusthe Brigadier-General, addressing one of the Battalions of his Brigade a few days prior to that date. Thats the bloomin end of it; up the bloomin' line again," answered the Battalion Pessimist to the man on hisleft. I )oubts being expressed on this point, the Pessimist spoke again.- Pou see, we was to have had them sports last December, when we was at Fressenville. Well, a couple of days before Fritzey broke through at Cambrai, and up we as to go to stop 'im. Instead of sports we gets hard graft, in the snow, ice, and slush, till Feb¬ ruary. We comes out again and goes into billets at Neuve Eglise. We thought we was set there. The Brig. says: 'Alright, lads; well have them sports Tuesday next for certain.' What occurred! Fritz starts his bug push, and we has to alley out of Belgium and come back to France, and all the sports we got on that day was marching up to Hebuterne to stop the Boche again. In telling us that the sports is on on Saturday is the dinkum oil that we are going in again on Thursday or Friday. Just you watch. And so the watch was set The days went by. Thursday came; no lne yet. Friday looked ominous, for Fritz was pushing in the South. Would the Pessimist be a true prophet? Hope dies hard. We wanted thos sports badly, and so would not despair. Fate has been unkind to us twice; surely this time she would repent and smile on the ith Brigade. The night passes, and Saturday dawns, bright, clear, and sunny. Fate has relented and is on our side to-day The hearts of all are glad. The 4th Brigade forget thein troubles, forget Fritz, forget there is a war on at all, for this is the great day of their year-Brigade Sports. Battalion will con- test against battalion to-day for supremacy in physical prowess. The arguments that have waxed hot during the vear as to the respechve merits as a sprinter of Blank of the 13th and Dash of the l4th will be placed beyond all dispute. The Brigade Sports will settle all arguments. Each unit in the Brigade will this day send its respective champions into the arena. Fate as personined by the judges, ere night falls, will place the laurel crown ofvictory upon the brow of the unit which has earned the proud ttle of Brigade Champion for the year 1918-1919. Early on Saturday morning al is hurry and bustle in the vanous camps, billet, or dug outs where lved the men of the 4th Brigade. Parades are called in suffcient time to allow every soul from the Colonel down to the bugler boy, to be on the ground for the frstitem, tmed to start at 10 a.m. The quaint and pretty Hittle village of Querrieu woke from its slumbers to the tread of marching feet. From every direction these troops come in thein columns of fours. By Battalons they come from north, south, east, and west, each with its band in the lead, playing martial airs. For a moment the vilagers may be startled and wonder what fresh disaster is upon them, but only for a moment. These French people had, ere this, watched Australans going into battle, and right well they noted the change in the faces of the men. Then, they were gnm and determined, albeit confdent; to- day on every face there us a smile. The air us flled with jest and laughter; even the very streets respond to the merriment and give back a glad ring to the feet that tread blithely down them. In those more senous days, these men from down under" were heavily equipped, wore tn hats, and carried rines, too. To-day the luncheon haversack is all they carry, and the tin hat is re¬ placed by the old felt hat that stands for Australian soldier throughout the world. No ride to day- only a cigarette and a he, denoting that the Aussie is on pleasure bent. The Chateau is reached atlength, and through the fne entrance gates swings the head of the column, marching up the winding drive, girt on either side by forest trees that tower into the sky and, meetng overhead, act as a screen from the sun beating down. The Chateau itself comes into view— a stately building this, the home of le Comte d'Alcantiara, now used as Brigade Head¬ quarters The ngours of war have failed to rob this venerable pile of its aristocratic look and bearing, and it stands to-day, asit did avant la guerre, a ftting king to the majestic and beautifull wooded park surrounding t. The vanious units are formed up on either side of the many lawns, and after luncheon arrange¬ ments are explained to them, they are dismissed for the dav. The troops strol round, and spend some tme viewing the Chateau and grounds, admiring its beauties, which, no doubt, in days to come will be described " back home with all the wealth of detail of which the Australian is master. As the hands of the clock point towards ten a move is made in the direction of the outer park, where the sports are to be held. This, on being reached, discloses a sports ground, complete with its quarter-nlle track already prepared, and within the oval all arangements for carrying out the days athletic programme. To the left is the lake, and here the swimmers are already in evidence, having a fnal trial before their event comes up for deci¬ sion. Already the gathering is well into the thousands, and is being swelled every minute. A walk round the grounds reveals the completeness of every detail that is to go towards making a perfect holiday. For the combatants dressing-rooms, etc., have been erected; for the onlookers a multitude of things have been done. A score of voices rises above the din of the crowd, and investi¬ gation reveals "the roar of the ring – the bookmakers. The powers that be realise that to the Australian a bet is an essential part of the contest. The books are therefore provided, each unit
Hcensing for the day only those men who were able to show fnancial strength. Queer is the garb of this fraternity. Two are dressed in the discarded frock-coats and top-hats of some owners unknown; more again adopt the style of Isaac McShort Odds,of Sydney Bulletin fame. They call the odds loud and long (or short), and, dealing as they are with ”Aussies, they do not want for takers. To-day the "books," all privates, are no re¬ spectors of persons, and offcers for the nonce (if they are com¬ petitors) go short of ttles. It sounded humorous to hear a pri vate of a certain battalion offering " two to one against Blank, Blank in this case being none other than his own Colonel. In competition with the books was the Brigade Tote, and the more sedate could, if they wished, invest their money with the machine, far from the madding crowd. To help the punter squander his roll (or to acquire a fortune, their owners said), the old crown: anchor, roulette, and other gambling kings held sway. whole day long did they talk, barrackung, begging, and praying the passer-by to put down a shilling to pick up a pound; and, whether it was the powers of their oratory or the temptation to get rich quick that caused it, the fact remains they were rarely short of customers. This laughing, rollicking, jolly crowd of soldiers were out for a days fun- eager to pay for it, and what mattered who collected it from them, so long as it was gone. Darting in and out among the crowd were the bootblacks. These, dressed a la Gypo the older soldiers knew so well, di great business. Boot a-shines, mister; ye-es, mister, good shine"; and mister was lucky if they left him before inducing him to part with a franc. One dignined General wondered what had such a hold of his already hghly-polished legging, and on making inquiries discovered that ” Abdul) was in possession and would not let go without obtaining backsheesh, which the General gave amidst the laughter of the onlookers. The soldiers who in bygone days resided in country parts were brought face to face with old times by being tempted to guess the weight of a cow. This they did with great gusto, and laughed the laugh superior when foolish city fellows dared to ai¬ them opinions of the beast or its weight The old game of ringulet was revived for the day, and for half a franc one could have six tries to ring and win any one of the wonderous collection of articles that dazzled the eye of the beholder. The 13th Bat tahon had amuystery tankon parade and for a, panvtned and: knowallsto answerthe dueston, " What is je3.smmal sum alowed their guesses must have been correct, for few tried again. The most elaborate of the many " money-catchers," however, was the 7th A.S Companys Circus. They had a large tent erected, and announced their show open at 2.30 p.m. Shortly before that time their performers arrived, and created a sensation as they dashed around the ring, seated on a lorry drawn by six horses, ridden by postilions dressed in red jackets and blue caps, the whole being heralded by Jackey, the black-fellow from the Gulf of Carpen¬ tania. On board was a motley crowd—Charley Chaplin sitting next to Fatima, Queen of the Harem, whilst the King of the Lion Tamers looked lovingly at Virtuous Violet, to the disgust of the Egyptians and monkev on board. The performance drew crowded houses, and the shrieks of laughter from within denoted clearly that the audiences were satished with their moneys worth. Besides providing fun for the boys, all these performers, black boys, gambling gentry, etc., had in view another and a nobler end. They were working, and working hard, too, for profts, the whole of which was to go towards helping the 4th Brigade Prisoners of War Funds. So well did they succeed in their eforts that ere the day chosed they had collected and yhanded in to the treasurer no less than 2,363 francs. The soldier who lost his roll at the roulette wheel, or who paid the black boy for the boots that were not cleaned may take consolation from the knowledge that he at least helped an Australian soldier to feel his intermment less bitterly than he otherwise would do. Visrons During the morning the " visitors of high degree put in an appearance, and, being quickly observed, are cordially welcomed by the Commitee. The red facings of themselves and thein stafs break the monotony of the khaki, and lend a charming variety to the scene. The Australans' old friend and General, Sir W. R. Birdwood, arrived early, and met with a great recep¬ ton. The fact of hss weanng the felt hat appealed to the lads. and they claimed him for ther own again, for this one day at least. He was, as ever, most content when chatting to the boys, and indeed it was in this way he spent a great part of his tme. Lieut-General Sir John Monash was on the ground all day, and this being his frst appearance amongst the 4th Brigade since he took command of the Australan Corps, he was the subject of par ticular scrutiny. The Australan is awed by no one in offce however high, unless he appeal to them as being a man. Did Sir John so appeal? The answer was quickly forthooming Hell dol That was all, and yet it contained more than page could fll. It was the verdict of the 4th Brigade. Major-General Montgomery, MG.G.S, Fourth Army; Brigadier-Genera Carruthers, D.A. and O. Mi.G., were also present, and took keen interest in everything. The U.S. Army has its representatives among the pleasure seekers, too. The warmth of their welcome denotes something more personalthan mere courtesy to visitors. A closer inspection of these troops reveals the fact that they are the men of the 132nd Regiment This explains all. Are they not the very men who fought so gloriously side by side with the boys of the 4th Bngade in the Hamel offensive of 4th July, and taught the Boche that a new and irresistible combination was at work to thwart his world-domination scheme. How well they drove thei lesson home, all the world knows. The Brigade lads showered every attention on them, and clearly made them feel that the friendship begun on the anniversary of Independence Day was to
be of Hfelong duration. The Colonel of the 132nd Regiment not only gave his men a holiday from the reserve trenches to be present at the Sports, but, to show how deep his interest in the ith Brigade was, sent the regimental band along to play selec- tons during the day. The band, looking well in their smart uni- forms, and with their silvered instruments brilliantly polished, marched on to the ground amidst tumultuous applause. Australian loves good music, and he appreciates a kindly act. Both the Americans supplied him with, and his cheers of delight and gratitude rang out un unison for the Colonel and the music. Before commenting on the sports itself, one other item must be touched on-the Aussies love of the ladies. He proved it up to the hilt to-day, and, more, that he likes them tastefully dressed. It was impossible, he found, to get the real thing to the sports, but that did not daunt him. Was there not an old adage Half a loaf is better than no bread"? And he set to work to prove it in regard to this matter. He took the best and most likely material from out of each unit, and said:" I will recreate you and to-day you shall be a girl! Where from or by what powers of persuasion he induced the owners ofthelatest Parisian costumes to hand their creations over to him no one save himself knows, but he did it The result was a triumph for the Austra Han, and a delight for evervone. Sprinkled amongst the crowc were these made-to-order ladies, and for long did one wonden and puzzle what good fortune sent such charming creatures to the Bnigade sports. Certainly, the "halfloaves,' for good looks, dress, and deportment, would hold their own against al comers They had admirers among all ranks, and a well-known Colonel looked vastly pleased as he paraded the lawn with a fair maid of 16 on his anm. THE SPORTS. The sports in themselves were a revelation to everyone Every item on the long programme was keenly contested. Each unit had its representatives taking part, and certainly the latter if they lost, could not complain that thev did so through lack of encouragement from their supporters. Sports of this kind are in a different category from ordinary gathenngs. There the prize is the only end in view, but in these contests each participant has as well to remember that he is nghting for the honour of his unit. This makes, every, contest a battle-royal The competitors buoyed up with a knowledge that their battalion looks to them for victory, nght to secure it. In their turn the members of his unit feel in honour bound to encourage him, and right lustily they do so. Grouped in their thousands round the lake or the oval, they send theur particular calls through the air. A thousand voices yell,' Go it 13th) and in reply comes a thousand more, Go it 16th1 The 14th and 15th Battalions are no less keen than these, and, though, the remaining units have not the numerical strength of the others, on this day they put forth their energy to carry their helpful voice to their champions. a thrilling scene, and the atmosphere is electrical. The race is inished. Whos won 2 is on everv tongue. Some are to suffen disappointment. Who is to obtain the glory? The judges' deci- sion is posted. A 14th Battalion man has won. The gold and blue are in the delirium of joy, and their cries of victory ill the air. For a moment only the others are silent, and then the Australian sporting instinct comes to the fore. Their man lost, tis true, but it was a fne race, and the best man won, and they, too, join with the victorious battalon in cheering the victor. Twas the leth turn then, but ten minutes will bring another con¬ test, and most lkely it will be the turn of another to lead the cheering, with the 14th Battalion playing the part of assistant applause-makers. On every race the books are laying the odds, and it is evident from the circle of admirers that attend these at the conclusion of each event that the Australian does not let his joy make him forget to collect any little perquisites his favourite's win may have placed to his bettng account. SWIMMINC. The aquatic events opened the days programme, and so large were the entries for each that the whole morning was devoted to their decision. Most of the events had to be run in heats, and these were productive of keen competition. The stan item and the centre of interest to the swimming "fans was the 100 yards championship. The fnal starters all got away well on the word go, and fought out an excellent race. A close fnish ended by Weatherall, of the 13th, beating Sheehy, of the 15th wich Townsend, of MG.C, third. The diving was a particularly hne contest, the neatness and cleverness with which the competitors performed the various evolutions eliciting much applause. Sheehv un this justined his selection by bringing victory to the 15th, Ford, of the Engineers running him close. The 50 yards championship was another event that caused great excitement. The heats being decided, the frst and second of each prepared for the fnal On the word of the starter, the competitors left the board and struck the water together. Inch by inch the race was fought, and only inches separated them at the fnish. Lieut Gowing, 13th swam a fne race, and deserved the victory he secured from Lyons, of the 15th, Percy, 15th, being third. The greasv pole and pillow-nghting events supplied the lghter side of the morning's programme. Many were daring Wenough to risk their balance astrde the poles, but only the M.G.C representatives attained success therein. Lieut. Carroll, M.G.C. walked to the end of the path that so many failed to tread; while Lieut. Fawcett, M.G. C., was too superior for all his opponents in the gentle art of pillow-ighting. Both events evoked roars of laughter, and hearty applause greeted the efforts of the gunners ATHLETIC. An hours respite for lunch at the conclusion of the swimming events was very welcome. The cookers of the units had arrived on the ground, and by 12.30 all billies were boiling. Luncheon was
partaken of under the shade of the trees, thus giving a picnicky touch to the days outing. In groups the troops sat around, and for the hour happiness is king, the events of the morning are discussed, the winners congratulated, the losers sympathised with. Points are already being added up to see if the winners of the coveted trophy, the Brigade Cup, can be discovered. The 13th's chances look rosy at present, but many events are still to be de¬ cided, and who knows what might occur. The lunch hour is over, conjecture is fnished with; back to the oval, and let the day decide. First heat of the Group 100 yards Championship. This announoement lets all know that senous matters are being argued with. The heats will be run in deadly earnest, for only the winner of each will qualify for the fnal A shot, a dash of the pistol, and the men are off. Necks are craned, thousands are yelling encouragement of their favourites, the tape is reached Brackenridge wins, and the 16th are sure of a say in the fnal At intervals of minutes only the remaining heats are got of, and then, to spell the men who are to start in the fnal, a fresh race is announoed. Omcers Championship, 100 Yards— Omücers' events are always popular with the lads, and the company is proud indeed that can point to one of its offcers as the champion sprinter of the Bnigade. This year the fnal was ful of interest and run amidsttremendous excitement. Lieut. F. Anderson, carrving the gold and blue of the l4th, won the event from Lieut Goninin, of the 15th. The starters for the nnal of the group 100 yards now lne up to the post. The start is a good one, and Sproles, of the MiG.C., who had won his heat rather easily, proved superior to all oppo¬ sition, and after a fne fnish secured pride of place, Bracken bridge, l6th, running second. Later in the day Sproles won the 440 yards championship for the gunners, Brackenridge again being runner-up. The Anzac Championship 75 vards was well conducted, and fnally annexed by Bowers, 15th, Hadlow, 4th Field Ambulance, and Weedon, l6th, nlling the places. The 16th secured a victory in the Siamese race, McGilvray and Cusack proving too good for Külbv and Scott, of the leth. The 120 yards Hurdle Championship was run in four heats, and, as the winner only was allowed to start in the nnal, competi¬ tors had to hustle all the time. After a fne race, the fnal went to Skinner, of 16th, Kneebone, ith Field Ambulance being second, and Sandford, 14th, third. The Mile Walking Championship provided one of the events of the day. From the fring of the pistol to the decision of the judges the contest was brimful of excitement. After two lap had been completed it was evident that a duel was in progress between Lieut Huse, lith, and Pte. Gough, 13th. Both men were walking excellently, taking the lead in turn. The last 200 yards was run in slence; bets were made and changed as they came into the straight. Fifty yards from home Gough was in front, but with a rare turn of speed and walking beautifullv Lieut Huse forged ahead, and, passing his opponent, assumed a lead that he maintained to the end. Gough fought hard to overtake him, but he lacked the speed. When the cheers were given many were for the loser for the splendid ight he made to accomplish an impossible task. The Flag Race, with teams from each unit, resulted in a popu- lar win, Colonel Marks, of the 13th, leading his men to victory from Lreut. Fawcett, of the 4th Machine Gun Company The Mie Championship resulted in a win for Smuth, of the 15th, after a stubborn contest wih McGilvray, of 16th, Badens of 13th, running third. The Obstacle Race and Incinerator Kate events caused much amusement, and here the Mi. G.C. representa¬ tives were superior to all others. The sprint events over, the oval was cleared for the test of strength between units- the tug of-war. There is something about a tug-of-war that more than any other trial of strength auses the supporters of the teams taking part to wax excitable This they certainlv did to-day, and perhaps their hoarse cries may have urged their men to greater efforts. Every pul was exciting, and every team did their best to secure victory. When the fnal came the huge crowd centred its attention on the 15th Bat talion and the 4th Field Company, who were nghting for the championship. It was a long pull, and a strong, strong pul, and a pull all together boys, but the men from the lne were too good for the Sappers, and hnal victory went to the 15th Battalion amudst loud cheering. SAND CONTEST. This is the frst time that a Brigade Band Contest has been part of the annual sports programme, but from the wonderful success that met the efforts of the Committee on this occasion it surely has come to stay. It might be suggested to the Brigade that a day should be devoted in other vears entirely to the band contests. The whole of this part of the days programme took place in the grounds immediately surrounding the chateau. Nature seemed to have made the beautiful park for just such a purpose as this. The competitors were the brass bands of the 13th, 15th, and 16th Battalions, and the pipe band of the l4th After inspection by the judges, thev, in turn, formed up at the starting point for the quick step. The spectators hned the lawn and numbered thousands. The signal given to start, the 16th was the frst to move off. The marching was excellent, and thein piaying delightful. The spectators were keenly alive to every good quality displayed, and were unsparing in their appreciation The remaining bands taking part did full credit to theur units and deserved the praise bestowed upon them. The pipe band of the 14th were special favourites, and as they carried out the evolu¬ tons of marching and counter-marching they were cheeredt the echo. When the judges' decision was announced it was found that pride of place had been awarded to 15th, the 13th a very close second.
AUS 16 BRICADE CUP. The competitions over, the only thing of real interest to the Brigade is "Who won the CUP? This us held by the unit win¬ ning most points in the competitions, and gives them the title of champions for the year. Every unit us desrous of obtaining this honour, for it ranks high in Brigade life. This year the M.G. Company were declared winners, and right proud they are! Their success us deserved, and is very popular. They entered into every event determined to do thir utmost, and they met the success such determination merits. On all sides they were congratulated, and one hears everywhere, (Good luck to the gunners. THE COMMITTEE. The programme is concluded. The day is nearly over, but before it fnally closes it were well to look back over this, the greatest success the annual sports of the 4th Brigade has yet attained. Preparations for it did not arrive by chance. The details of its success had to be arranged by someone. Such a day that at one bound placed the 4th Bngade sports in the very fore¬ front of such gatherings for the A.I.F.- It meant hard work for someone. The commuttee. Yes, the thanks are mostly theirs, and greatest of these is Lieut. Bartlett Davis, the genial and ever-smiling secretary. The day is a tribute to them and to him. He is on the ground, ever ready, ever obliging; wanted in a hundred places at once, and always seeming to be there, nothing rufdes him A great secretary, this I.O. of the 4th Brigade! One is yet to be mentioned. Al day he is on the ground, working wherever there is work to be done. His face wears a look of happy pride. It seems to say, naught else matters so long as this day is a success. This us his day. He sees it is going well, and is content. What matters the war? These boys fought for him yesterdav; they will ight for him again to- morrow. To-day he has decreed they shall forget it all and be mery. And they are merry. He is satisfed. They are his boys; he is proud of them, and loves them, every one. He is their General, and they return both his pride and love. Tis a happy union this of the 4th—the General proud of his lads and the lads proud of their Brig. THE CONCERT. As a fttng fnale to a great day, a concert platform had been arranged un front of the chateau, and an American Pierrot Troupe from Uncle Sam's Army gave an artistic concert to an audience numbering thousands. The theatre was typically a soldiers one -the grass for seats, the trees for walls, with the blue sky for a dome. The artists gave of their best, and received in return vocfferous applause The performers were exceptionally talented, and well earned the three mighty cheers given them at the conclusion of the programme. God save the Kingà closed the evening and brought the carnival to a conclusion. This day will live long in the minds of the lads, and in, the years to come the story will often be told of the great days sports held in Chateau Querrieu.
A USTRALIAN CO RPS ----------------------------------------------- Wounded admitted to Field Ambces. - Operations Drom Zero 8-8-18 From opm 12-8-18 6am 13-8-18 13-8-18 To 6am FORMATION Officers o/Ranks O/Ranks; ices 1275 20 Division lst Australian 1025 2nd Australian Division 687 16 Division 3rd Australian 29 695 4th Australian Division 597 31 5th Australian Division 485 39 C orps Troops 813 20 Other Formations 79 206 Australian Total 5577 265 Brand Total 778 Prisoners of Var tzeenen COLONEL Headquarters D.D.M.S. Australian Corps. 13th August 1918 Copies to A.O.0. B.G.G.3.

[*With Bri-Gen. Braud! letter of 13/9/18*]
4TH AUSTRALIAN
Infantry Bde
SPORTS
Querrieu Chateau France
20 July 1918.
Price 1 Franc. In aid of 4th Bde Prisoners of War
 

 

4th AUSTRALIAN INF. BRIGADE
S P O R T S  M E E T I N G
to be held at
CHATEAU QUERRIEU
20th July, 1918
AQUATIC PROGRAMME
COMMENCE 10 A.M.
EVENT
No. 1.  Brigade Group Swimming Championship,
             100 yards.
   "   2.  Officers' Championship, 75 yards.
   "   3.  Greasy Pole Competition.
   "   4.  Neat Diving Competition.
   "   5.  100 yards Breast Stroke Race.
   "   6.  Pillow Fight.
   "   7.  50 yards Swimming Championship.
   "   8.  Brigade group Relay Race, 200 yards.
   "   9.  All Clothes Race, 50 yards.
   "  10.  Band Quick Step.
 

 

ATHLETIC PROGRAMME
COMMENCE 1.30 P.M.
EVENT
No.  1.  Brigade Group Championship
   "   2.  Hurdle Race, 120 yards.
   "   3.  Anzac Championship, 75 yards (for those
who landed on Gallipoli on or before
1st May 1915).
   "   4.  Brigade Group Championship, 440 yards.
   "   5.  Most Humorous Costume.
   "   6.  Siamese Race, 50 yards.
   "   7.  High Jump.
   "   8. Flag Race—Officer, Sergeant and 4 Men.
75 yards.
   "   9.  Brigade Group Championship, 1 mile.
   "  10.  Tug-of-War (Teams).
   "   11.  Obstacle Race.
   "  12.  Incinerator Kate Race, 100yards (for
Officers only).
   "  13.  Officers' 100 yards Race.
   "  14.  1 Mile Walking Race.

AQUATIC COMMITTEE
Lieut. R. H. Lackman
    "      A. W. B. Fawcett
    "      B. J. Shaw
ATHLETIC COMMITTEE
Lieut. G. J. Huse
     "    J. D. Minton, M.C.
Sergt. Bryant
PATRON
Brig.-General C.H. Brand, C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O.
PRESIDENT
Lieut.-Col. T. P. McSharry, C.M.G., D.S.O., M.C.
HON. SECRETARY
Lieut. H. Bartlett Davis
 

 

6    RESULTS.
 

BRIGADE GROUP 100 YARDS
CHAMPIONSHIP.
1st, Pte. Sproles, 4th M.G. Coy.
2nd, Sgt. Brackenridge, 16th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Escott, 4th M.G. Coy.
ONE MILE CHAMPIONSHIP.
1st, Pte. Smith, 15th Bn.
2nd, Sgt. McGilvray, 16th Bn.
3rd, Pte, Badens, 13th Bn.
 
HURDLE RACE.
1st, Pte. Skinner, 16th Bn.
2nd, Sgt. Kneebone, 4th Fld 
Amb.
3rd, Pte. Sandford, 14th Bn.
TUG-OF-WAR.
1st, 15th Battalion.
2nd, 4th Field Coy.
3rd, 13th Battalion.
 
ANZAC CHAMPIONSHIP.
1st, R.Q.M.S. Bowers, 15th Bn.
2nd, L./Cpl. Hadlow, 4th Fld 
Amb.
3rd, Dvr. Weedon, 16th Bn.
OBSTACLE RACE.
1st. Lieut. Fawcett, 4th M.G. 
Coy.
2nd, Lieut. Carroll, 4th M.G. 
Coy.
440 YARDS CHAMPIONSHIP
1st, Pte. Sproles, 4th M.G. Coy.
2nd, Sgt. Brackenridge, 16th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Cameron, 14th, and
Capt. Toft, 15th Bn. 

 
INCINERATOR KATE RACE
1st, Lieut Fawcett and Lieut. 
Carroll, 4th M.G. Coy.
2nd, Lieut. Shaw and Lieut. 
Hynes, 15th Bn.
3rd, Lieut. Hopkins and Lieut. 
Clark, 4th M.G. Coy.
HUMOROUS COSTUME.
1st, Pte, Martin, 13th Bn.
2nd, Pte. Charlesworth, 13th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Gawn, 13th Bn.
OFFICERS 100 YARDS RACE.
1st, Lieut. Anderson, 14th Bn.
2nd, Lieut. Goninon, 15th Bn.
3rd, Lieut. Fawcett, 4th M.G. 
Coy.
SIAMESE RACE.
1st, Sgt McGilvray and Pte. 
Cusack, 16th Bn.
2nd, Pte Kilby and Pte. Scott,
14th.
3rd, Pte. Ventsall and Pte. 
Groutch, 13th Bn.
ONE MILE WALK.
1st, Lieut. Huse, 14th Bn.
2nd, Pte. Grough, 13th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Hanlon, 14th Bn.


 
HIGH JUMP.
1st, L./Cpl. Teague, 4th Field
Amb.
2nd, Pte. Brown, 13th Bn.
3rd, Pt. Jones, 13th Bn.
 
OFFICERS' SWIMMING 
CHAMPIONSHIP.
1st, Lieut. Gowing, 13th Bn. 
2nd, Lieut. Carroll, 4th M.G.
Coy.
3rd, Lt./Col Crowther, 14th Bn.
FLAG RACE.
1st, L./Col. Marks, 13th Bn.
2nd, Lieut. Fawcett, 4th M.G. 
Coy.
3rd, Lieut. Goninon, 15th Bn.
GREASY POLE.
1st, Lieut. Carroll, 4th M.G. 
Coy.
2nd, Pte. Cummings, 4th M.G.
Coy.
3rd, Pte. Bishop, Bgde. Headquarters.

7

NEAT DIVING.
1st, Pte. Sheehy, 15th Bn.
2nd, Spr. Ford, 4th Field Coy.
3rd, Pte. Mitchell, 13th Bn.
 
50 YARDS CHAMPIONSHIP 
SWIMMING
1st, Lieut. Gowing, 13th Bn.
2nd, Pte. Lyons, 15th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Percy, 15th Bn.
BREAST STROKE.
1st, Pte. Lauchland, 15th Bn.
2nd, Lieut Fawcett, 4th M.G.
Coy
3rd, Pte. Carey, 4th Field Coy
 
ALL-CLOTHES RACE.
1st, Pte. Fogg, 15th Bn.
2nd, Lieut. Fawcett, 4th M.G.
Coy.
3rd, Lieut. Carroll, 4th M.G. 
Coy
PILLOW FIGHT.
1st, Lieut. Fawcett 4th M.G. 
Coy.
2nd, Pte. Fogg, 15th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Dryberg, 14th Bn.

 
100 YARDS SWIMMING
CHAMPIONSHIP.
1st, Pte. Weatherall, 13th Bn.
2nd, Pte. Sheehy, 15th Bn.
3rd, Pte. Townshend, 4th M.G. 
Coy.
RELAY RACE.
1st, 13th Battalion, Lieut. 
Gowing.
2nd, 15th Battalion, Cpl. Bradley.
3rd, 14th Battalion, Lt./Col.
Crowther.
BAND.
1st, 15th Battalion. 
2nd, 13th Battalion.
3rd, 16th Battalion.


 

RESULTS CHAMPIONSHIP CUP.

1, 4th Machine Gun Company, 53 points.

2, 15th Battalion, 50½ points.

3, 13th Battalion, 45 points. 

 

8

REPORT ON SPORTS MEETING 

By Corporal J. J. Moriarty

"The Brigade Sports will be held at the Chateau Grounds, 

Querrieu, on Saturday next 21st Inst."

Thus the Brigadier-General, addressing one of the Battalions

of his Brigade a few days prior to that date.

"That's the bloomin' end of it; up the bloomin' line again," 

answered the Battalion Pessimist to the man on his left. Doubts 

being expressed on this point, the Pessimist spoke again. "you

see, we was to have had them sports last December, when we was

at Fressenville. Well,  a couple of days before Fritzey broke

through at Cambrai, and up we as to go to stop 'im.  Instead of 

sports we gets hard graft, in the snow, ice, and slush, till Feb-

ruary. We comes out again and goes into billets at Neuve Eglise.

We thought we was set there. The Brig. says:  'All right, lads;

we'll have them sports Tuesday next for certain.' What occurred?

Fritz starts his big push, and we has to alley out of Belgium and

come back to France, and all the sports we got on that day was

marching up to Hebuterne to stop the Boche again.  In telling

us that the sports is on on Saturday is the dinkum oil that we are

going in again on Thursday or Friday. Just you watch."   And

so the watch was set.

The days went by. Thursday came; no line yet.   Friday 

looked ominous, for Fritz was pushing in the South.   Would the 

Pessimist be a true prophet? Hope dies hard. We wanted those 

sports badly, and so would not despair. Fate has been unkind 

to us twice; surely this time she would repent and smile on the 

4th Brigade.  The night passes, and Saturday dawns, bright, 

clear, and sunny. Fate has relented and is on our side to-day.

The hearts of all are glad. The 4th Brigade forget their 

troubles, forget Fritz, forget there is a war on at all, for this is

the great day of the year - Brigade Sports. Battalion will contest
against battalion to-day for supremacy in physical prowess.

The arguments that have waxed hot during the year as to the 

respective merits as a sprinter of Blank of the 13th and Dash of 

the 14th will be placed beyond all dispute. The Brigade Sports

will settle all arguments. Each unit in the Brigade will this day

send its respective champions into the arena. Fate as personified 

by the judges, ere night falls, will place the laurel crown of victory

upon the brow of the unit which has earned the proud title of 

Brigade Champion for the year 1918-1919.

Early on Saturday morning all is hurry and bustle in the 

various camps, billet, or dug-outs where lived the men of the 4th 

Brigade. Parades are called in sufficient time to allow every soul, 

from the Colonel down to the bugler boy, to be on the ground

for the first item, timed to start at 10 a.m. The quaint and pretty
9

little village of Querrieu woke from it's slumbers to the tread of

marching feet. From every direction these troops come in their

columns of fours. By Battalions they come from north, south,

east, and west, each with its band in the lead, playing martial

airs. For a moment the villages may be startled and wonder 

what fresh disaster is upon them, but only for a moment. These 

French people had, ere this, watched Australians going into

battle, and right well they noted the change in the faces of the 

men. Then, they were grim and determined, albeit confident; today
on every face there is a smile. The air is filled with jest and

laughter; even the very streets respond to the merriment and give 

back a glad ring to the feet that treat blithely down them. In

those more serious days, these men from "down under" were

heavily equipped, wore tin hats, and carried rifles, too. To-day

the luncheon haversack is all they carry, and the tin hat is replaced
by the old felt hat that stands for Australian soldier 

throughout the world. No rifle to-day - only a cigarette and a 

cane, denoting that the Aussie is on pleasure bent. 

The Chateau is reached at length, and through the fine entrance

gates swings the head of the column, marching up the winding

drive, girt on either side by forest trees that tower into the sky,

and, meeting overhead, act as a screen from the sun beating 

down. The Chateau itself comes into view - a stately building this,

the home of the le Compte d'Alcantiara, now used as Brigade Headquarters.
The rigours of war have failed to rob this venerable 

pile of its aristocratic look and bearing, and it stands to-day, as it 

did avant la guerre, a fitting king to the majestic and beautifully

wooded park surrounding it. The various units are formed up 

on either side of the many lawns, and after luncheon arrangements
are explained to them, they are dismissed for the day. The 

troops stroll round, and spend some time viewing the Chateau

and grounds, admiring its beauties, which, no doubt, in days to 

come will be described "back home" with all the wealth of detail

of which the Australian is master. 

As the hands of the clock point towards ten a move is made

in the direction of the outer park, where the sports are to be held. 

This, on being reached, discloses a sports ground, complete with

its quarter-mile track already prepared, and within the oval all

the arrangements for carrying out the day's athletic programme. To 

the left is the lake, and here the swimmers are already in

evidence, having a final trial before their event comes up for decision.
Already the gathering is well into the thousands, and is

 being swelled every minute. A walk round the grounds reveals 

the completeness of every detail that is to go towards making a 

perfect holiday. For the combatants dressing-rooms, etc., have

been erected: for the onlookers a multitude of things have been 

done. 
A score of voices rises above the din of the crowd, and investigation
reveals "the roar of the ring" - the bookmakers.   The 

powers that be realise that to the Australia a bet is an essential

part of the contest. The books are therefore provided, each unit

 

10

licensing for the day only those men who were able to show

financial strength. Queer is the garb of this fraternity. Two are

dressed in the discarded frock-coats and top-hats of some owners

unknown; more again adopt the style of Isaac McShort Odds, of 

Sydney "Bulletin" fame. They call the odds loud and long (or 

short), and, dealing as they are with "Aussies", they do not 

want for takers. To-day the "books", all privates, are no respectors
of persons, and officers for the nonce (if they are competitors)
go short of titles. It sounded humourous to hear a private
of a certain battalion offering "two to one" against Blank,

Blank in this case being none other than his own Colonel. In 

competition with the books was the Brigade Tote, and the more 

sedate could, if they wished, invest their money with the machine,

far from the madding crowd. To help the punter squander his

roll (or to acquire a fortune, their owners said), the old crown and

anchor, roulette, and other gambling kings held sway. The

whole day long did they talk, barracking, begging, and praying

the passer-by to put down a shilling to pick up a pound; and, 

whether it was the powers of their oratory or the temptation to 

get rich quick that caused it, the fact remains they were rarely

short of customers. This laughing, rollicking, jolly crowd of 

soldiers were out for a day's fun - eager to pay for it, and what 

matters who collected it from them, so long as it was gone.

Darting in and out among the crowd were the bootblacks.

These, dressed a la Gypo the older soldiers knew so well, did 

great business. "Boot a-shines, mister; ye-es, mister, good

shine"; and mister was lucky if they left him before inducing 

him to part with a franc. One dignified General wondered what 

had such a hold of his already highly-polished legging, and on

making inquiries discovered that "Abdul" was in possession and 

would not let go without obtaining backsheesh, which the General 

gave amidst the laughter of the onlookers. 

The soldiers who in bygone days resided in country parts

were brought face to face with old times by being tempted to

guess the weight of a cow. They did this with great gusto, and

laughed the laugh superior when foolish city fellows dared to air

their opinions of the beast or its weight. The old game of

ringulet was revived for the day, and for half a franc one could 

have six tries to ring and win any of the wonderous collection 

of articles that dazzled the eye of the beholder. The 13th Battalion
had a mystery tank on parade, and for a small sum allowed

knowalls to answer the question, "What is it?" Many tried, and 

their guesses must have been correct, for a few tried again. The

most elaborate of the many "money-catchers", however, was the

7th A.S. Company's Circus. They had a large tent erected, and 

announced their show open at 2.30 p.m. Shortly before that time 

their performers arrived, and created a sensation as they dashed

around the ring, seated on a lorry drawn by six horses, ridden by

postilions dressed in red jackets and blue caps, the whole being

heralded by Jackey, the black-fellow from the Gulf of Carpentaria.
On board was a motley crowd - Charley Chaplain sitting

11

nest to Fatima, Queen of the Harem, whilst the King of the Lion

Tamers looked lovingly at Virtuous Violet, to the disgust of the

Egyptians and monkey on board. The performance drew crowded

houses, and the shrieks of laughter from within denoted clearly

that the audiences were satisfied with their money's worth.

Besides providing fun for the boys, all these performers, 

black boys, gambling gentry, etc., had in view another and a 

nobler end. They were working, and working hard, too, for

profits, the whole of which was to go towards helping the 4th

Brigade Prisoner of War Funds. So well did they succeed

in their efforts that ere the day closed they had collected and

handed in to the treasurer no less than 2,363 francs. The soldier

who lost his roll at the roulette wheel, or who paid the black boy

for the boots that were not cleaned may take consolidation from 

the knowledge that he at least helped an Australian soldier to feel

his internment less bitterly than he otherwise would do.

VISITORS.

During the morning the "visitors of high degree" put in an 

appearance, and, being quickly observed, are cordially welcomed

by the Committee. The red facings of themselves and their

staffs break the monotony of the khaki, and lend a charming 

variety to the scene. The Australians' old friend and General, 

Sir W. R. Birdwood, arrived early, and met with a great reception.
The fact of his wearing the felt hat appealed to the lads, 

and they claimed him for their own again, for this one day at

least. He was, as ever, most content when chatting to the boys,

and indeed it was in this way he spent a great part of his time. 

Lieut.-General Sir John Monash was on the ground all day, and 

this being his first appearance amongst the 4th Brigade since he

took command of the Australian Corps, he was the subject of particular
scrutiny. The Australian is awed by no one in office, 

however high, unless he appeal to them as being a man. Did

Sir John so appeal? The answer was quickly forthcoming. 

"He'll do!" That was all, and yet it contained more than pages

could fill. It was the verdict of the 4th Brigade. Major-General 

Montgomery, M.G.G.S., Fourth Army; Brigadier-General

Carruthers, D.A. and Q.M.G., were also present, and took keen

interest in everything. 

The U.S. Army has its representatives a month the pleasure-seekers,
too. The warmth of their welcome denotes something 

more personal than mere courtesy to visitors. A closer inspection 

of these troops reveals the fact that they are the men of the

132nd Regiment. This explains all. Are they not the very men 

who fought so gloriously side by side with the boys of the 4th

Brigade in the Hamel offensive of 4 July, and taught the 

Boche that  anew and irresistible combination was at work to

thwart his world-domination scheme. How well they drove their

lesson home, all the world knows. The Brigade lads showered 

every attention on them, and clearly made them feel that the 

friendship begun on the anniversary of Independence Day was to

 

12

be of lifelong duration. The Colonel of the 13nd Regiment not

only gave his men a holiday form the reserve trenches to be 

present at the Sports, but, to show how deep his interest in the 

4th Brigade was, sent the regimental band along to play selections
during the day. The band, looking well in their smart uniforms,
and with their silvered instruments brilliantly polished,

marched on to the ground amidst tumultuous applause. The 

Australian loves good music, and he appreciates a kindly act.

Both the Americans supplied him with, and his cheers of delight

and gratitude rang out in unision for the Colonel and the music. 

Before commenting on the sports itself, one other item must

be touched on – the Aussie's love of the ladies. He proved it up 

to the hilt to-day, and, more, that he likes them tastefully

dressed. It was impossible, he found, to get the real thing to the

sports, but that did not daunt him. Was there not an old adage,

"Half a loaf is better than no bread"? And he set to work to

prove it in regard to this matter. He took the best and most

likely material from out of each unit, and said: "I will recreate

you and to-day you shall be a girl!"   Where from or by what 

powers of persuasion he induced the owners of the latest Parisian

costumes to hand their creations over to him no one save himself 

knows, but he did it. The result was a triumph for the Austra-

lian. and a delight for everyone. Sprinkled amongst the crowd

were these "made-to-order" ladies, and for long did one wonder

and puzzle what good fortune sent such charming creatures to the

Brigade sports. Certainly, the "half-loaves", for good looks, 

dress, and deportment, would hold their own against all comers.

They had admirers among all ranks, and a well-known Colonel 

looked vastly pleased as he paraded the lawn with a fair maid of

16 on his arm. 

THE SPORTS.

The sports in themselves were a revelation to everyone. 

Every item on the long programme was keenly contested. Each 

unit had its representatives taking part, and certainly the latter,

if they lost, could not complain that they did so through lack of

encouragement from their supporters. Sports of this kind are in

a different category from ordinary gatherings. There the prize is

the only end in view, but in these contests each participant has

as well to remember that he is fighting for the honour of his unit.

This makes, every contest a battle-royal. The competitors 

buoyed up with a knowledge that their battalion looks to them

for victory, fight to secure it. In their turn the members of his 

unit feel in honour bound to encourage him, and right lustily

they do so. Grouped in their thousands round the lake or the 

oval, they send their particular calls through the air. A thousand 

voices yell, "Go it 13th!" and in reply comes a thousand more, 

"Go it 16th!" the 14th and 15th Battalions are no less keen

than these, and, though the remaining units have not the 

numerical strength of the other, on this day they put forth all

their energy to carry their helpful voice to their champions. 'Tis

a thrilling scene, and the atmosphere is electrical. The race is 

13

finished. "Who's won?" is on every tongue. Some are to suffer

disappointment. Who is obtain the glory? The judges' decision
is posted. A 14th Battalion man has won. The gold and 

blue are in the delirium of joy, and their cries of victory fill the

air.   For a moment only the others are silent, and then the

Australian sporting instinct comes to the fore. Their man lost,

'tis true, but it was a fine race, and the best man won, and they,

too, join with the victorious battalion in cheering the victor.

'Twas the 14th turn then, but ten minutes will bring another contest,
and most likely it will be the turn of another to lead the

cheering, with the 14th Battalion playing the part of assistant

applause-makers. On every race the books are laying the odds, 

and it is evident from the circle of admirers that attend these at

the conclusion of each event that the Australian does not let his

joy make him forget to collect any little perquisites his favourite's

win may have placed to his betting account. 

SWIMMING.

The aquatic events opened the day's programme, and so 

large were the entries for each that the whole morning was 

devoted to their decision. Most of the events had to be run in 

heats, and these were productive of keen competition. The star

item and the centre of interest to the swimming "fans" was the 

100 yards championship. The final starters all got away well on

the word go, and fought out an excellent race. A close finish

ended by Weatherall, and of the 13th, beating Sheehy, of the 15th

with Townsend, of M.G.C., third. The diving was a particularly 

fine contest, the neatness and cleverness with which the competitors

performed the various evolutions eliciting much applause. Sheehy

in this justified his selection by bringing victory to the 15th, Ford,

of the Engineers running him close. The 50 yards championship

was another event that caused great excitement. The heats 

being decided, the first and second of each prepared for the final.

On the word of the starter, the competitors left the board and

struck the water together. Inch by inch the race was fought, and 

only inches separated them at the finish. Lieut. Gowing, 13th 

swam a fine race, and deserved the victory he secured from Lyons,

of the 15th, Percy, 15th being third. 

The greasy pole and pillow-fighting events supplied the 

lighter side of the morning's programme. Many were daring

enough to risk their balance astride the poles, but only the M.G.C.

representatives attached success therein. Lieut. Carroll, M.G.C., 

walked to the end of the path that so many failed to tread; while

Lieut. Fawcett, M.G.C. was too superior for all his opponents in 

the gentle art of pillow-fighting. Both events evoked roars of 

laughter, and hearty applause greeted the efforts of the gunners.  

ATHLETIC.

An hour's respite for lunch at the conclusion of the swimming

events was very welcome. The cookers of the units had arrived 

on the ground, and by 12.30 all billies were boiling. Luncheon was
 

 

14

partaken of under the shade of trees, thus giving a picnicky

touch to the day's outing.  In groups the troops sat around, and 

for the hour happiness is king, the events of the morning are

discussed, the winners congratulated, the losers sympathised with.

Points are already being added up to see if the winners of the

coveted trophy, the Brigade Cup, can be discovered. The 13th's 

chances look rosy at present, but many events are still to be decided,
and who knows what might occur. The lunch hour is 

over, conjecture is finished with; back to the oval, and let the day 

decide. 

First head of the Group 100 yards Champion ship. This 

announcement lets all know that serious matters are being argued

with. The heats will be run in deadly earnest, for only the

winner of each will qualify for the final. A shot, a flash of the

pistol, and the men are off. Necks are craned, thousands are 

yelling encouragement of their favourites, the tape is reached.

Brackenridge wins, and the 16th are sure of a say in the final. 

At intervals of minutes only the remaining heats are got off, and

then, to spell the men who are to start in the final, a fresh race

is announced.

Officers Championship, 100 Yards. - Officers' events are 

always popular with the lads, and the company is proud indeed 

that can point to one of its officers as the champion sprinter of 

the Brigade. The year the final was full of interest and run

amidst tremendous excitement. Lieut. F. Anderson, carrying the

gold and blue of the 14th, won the event from Lieut. Goninin,

of the 15th.

The starters for the final of the group 100 yards now line up

to the post. The start is a good one, and Sproles, of the M.G.C.,

who had won his heat rather easily, proved superior to all opposition,
and after a fine finish secured pride of place, Brackenridge,
16th, running second.  Later in the day Sproles won the

440 yards championship for the gunners, Brackenridge again 

being runner-up. 

The Anzac Championship 75 yards was well conducted, and 

finally annexed by Bowers, 15th, Hadlow, 4th Field Ambulance,

and Weedon, 16th, filling the places. The 16th secured a victory 

in the Siamese race, McGilvray and Cusack proving too good for

Kilby and Scott, of the 14th.

The Mile Walking Championship provided one of the events

of the day.  From the firing of the pistol to the decision of the

judges the contest was brimful of excitement. After two laps

had been completed it was evident that a duel was in progress 

between Lieut. Huse, 14th, and Pte. Gough, 13th. Both men

were walking excellently, taking the lead in turn. The last 200 

yards was run in silence; beds were made and charged as they 

came into the straight. Fifty yards from home Gough was in
15

front, but with a rare turn of speed and walking beautifully Lieut.

Huse forged ahead, and, passing his opponent, assumed a lead

that he maintained to the end. Gough fought hard to overtake

him, but he lacked the speed. When the cheers were given many

were for the loser for the splendid fight he made to accomplish an

impossible task.

The Flag Race, with teams from each unit, resulted in a popular
win, Colonel Marks, of the 13th, leading with his men to victory

from Lieut. Fawcett, of the 4th Machine Gun Company. 

The Mile Championship resulted in a win for Smith, of the

15th, after a stubborn contest with McGilvray, of 16th, Badens, 

of 13th, running third. The Obstacle Race and Incenerator Kate

events caused much amusement, and here the M.G.C. representatives
were superior to all overs.

The sprint events over, the oval was cleared for the test of

strength between units - the tug-of-war. There is something

about a tug-of-war that more than any other trial of strength

causes the supporters of the teams taking part to wax excitable. 

This they certainly did to-day, and perhaps their hoarse cries 

may have urged their men to greater efforts. Every pull was

exciting, and every team did their best to secure victory. When the

final came the huge crowd centred its attention on the 15th Battalion
and the 4th Field Company, who were fighting for the 

championship. It was a long pull, and a strong, strong pull, and 

a pull all together boys, but the men form the line were too good

for the Sappers, and final victory went to the 15th Battalion

amidst loud cheering. 

BAND CONTEST.

This is the first time that a Brigade Band Contest has been

part of the annual sports programme, but from the wonderful 

success that met the efforts of the Committee on this occasion it

surely has come to stay. It might be suggested to the Brigade

that a day should be devoted in other years entirely to the band

contests. The whole of this part of the day's programme took

place in the grounds immediately surrounding the chateau.

Nature seemed to have made the beautiful park for just such a

purpose as this. The competitors were the brass bands of the

13th, 15th and 16th Battalions, and the pipe band of the 14th.

After inspection by the judges, they, in turn, formed up at the 

starting point for the quick step. The spectators lined the lawn,

and numbered thousands. The signal given to start, the 16th

was the first move off. The marching was excellent, and their 

playing delightful. The spectators were keenly alive to every

good quality displayed., and were unsparing in their appreciation.

The remaining bands taking part did full credit to their units and

deserved the praise bestowed upon them. The pipe band of the 

14th were special favourites, and as they carried out the evolutions
of marching and counter-marching they were cheered to 

the echo. When the judges' decision was announced it was found

that pride of place had been awarded to 15th, the 13th a very close 

second. 

 

16

BRIGADE CUP.

The competitions over, the only thing of real interest to the

Brigade is "Who won the CUP?" This is held by the unit winning
most points in the competitions, and gives them the title of 

champions for the year. Every unit is desirous of obtaining this 

honour, for it ranks high in Brigade life. This year the M.G. 

Compnay were declared winners, and right proud they are! Their 

success is deserved, and is very popular. They entered into every 

event determined to do thir utmost, and they met the success 

such determination merits. On all sides they were congratulated,

 and one hears everywhere, "Good luck to the gunners."

THE COMMITTEE.

The programme is concluded. The day is nearly over, but 

before it finally closes it were well to look back over this, the

greatest success the annual sports of the 4th Brigade has yet

attained. Preparations for it did not arrive by chance. The

details of its success had to be arranged by someone. Such a day

that at one bound placed the 4th Brigade sports in the very forefront
of such gatherings for the A.I.F. -It meant hard work for

someone. The committee. Yes, the thanks are mostly theirs,

and greatest of these is Lieut. Bartlett Davis, the genial and

ever-smiling secretary. The day is a tribute to them and to him.

He is on the ground, ever ready, ever obliging; wanted in a 

hundred places at once, and always seeming to be there, nothing 

ruffles him. A great secretary, this I.O. of the 4th Brigade!

One is yet to be mentioned. All day he is on the ground, 

working wherever there is work to be done. His face wears a

look of happy pride. It seems to say, naught else matters so 

long as this day is a success. This is his day. He sees it is

going well, and is content. What matters the war? These boys

fought for him yesterday; they will fight for him again tomorrow.
To-day he has decreed they shall forget it all and be

merry. And they are merry. He is satisfied. They are his

boys; he is proud of them, and loves them, every one. He is

their General, and they return both is pride and love. 'Tis a

happy union this of the 4th- the General proud of his lads and

the lads proud of their "Brig". 

THE CONCERT.

As a fitting finale to a great day, a concert platform had 

been arranged in front of the chateau, and an American Pierrot

Troupe from Uncle Sam's Army gave an artistic concert to an

audience numbering thousands. The theatre was typically a

soldier's one - the grass for seats, the trees for walls, with the 

blue sky for a dome. The artists gave of their best, and received

in return vociferous applause. The performers were exceptionally

talented, and well earned the three mighty cheers given them at

the conclusion of the programme. "God save the King" closed 

the evening and bought the carnival to a conclusion. This day

will live long in the minds of the lads, and in the years to come 

the story will often be told of the great day's sports held in 

Chateau Querrieu. 

 

A U S T R A L I A N   C O R P S
Wounded admitted to Field Ambces. - Operations 

Formation From 6pm 12-8-18
To 6am 13-8-18;
DFrom Zero 8-8-18
To 6am 13-8-18
Officers O/Ranks Officers O/Ranks
1st Australian Division

3

20

71

1275

2nd Australian Division

1

7

47

1025

3rd Australian Division

-

16

20

687

4th Australian Division

-

-

29

695

5th Australian Division

-

-

31

597

Corps Troops

-

1

39

485

Other Formations

-

3

20

813

Australian Total

4

43

206

4279

FGrand Total

4

47

265

5577

Prisoners of War

1

2

26

778

G W Baden

 Colonel                                    

 D.D.M.S. Australian Corps
Headquarters  
13th August 1918                                 

Copies to :-

A.C.C.

            S

B.G.G.S.

           S

 

 

Last edited by:
Sam scottSam scott
Last edited on:

Last updated: