AWM52 1/11/18/5 - Headquarters London Victory March Contingent, 1946, part 4, Summary of events and correspondence - Part 9

Conflict:
Second World War, 1939–45
Subject:
  • Documents and letters
Status:
Open for review
Accession number:
RCDIG1020021
Difficulty:

Page 1 / 10

Eeather Prrskitg Crer à oviog nzbr Pozition order of March Funde sexn for Roste Ihurndav 18 wor 46 ZELETUEES AfSEA Fine day in morning but bccame threatening about 12chrs. Except for a fes sprinkles the rain held ofi and tho zesther for the morch wes on the shole good. og3ohrs. froops paraded to receive embarkstion zumters, and aF 47. Then formed up and practised shecling in sixes, chichbed not hitherto been done. 100CErs Broken off to complete final adainistration arrançements in clearing up comp and getting ready to o The co-operstion 1130hrs. Left WifsONIA by M.T Convoy. of the C.O and staff of AR & CDD EATSOKIA doring the ats there sas all that could bo desired. It holred immesurably to get the Contingent organized and equiped in the short tire sveilable. 1210hrs. Arrived assomhly are in Albert St., betwcen Cibsorne St., and Nicholzon S 2.A.H. and R.A.A... Contingeats alroedy there. Nen stage a protest objecting to Sgt. CURTAIS'S dismissal from the Coctingent at the lest momont, and refuzed to march unle: he eas re-inzteted. Major sILLIAXS talked mith them and they deciced to march and defer sction catil the sarch ras over. Hennchile Lt. Gen. H.C.H. ROBERTSOY rho had arrived unofficially talked with Erig. MorEN and it was decided that CURTAIN would be re-insteted if be could be got on the ship in tine. The troops cere informed of thiz fact before leaving the essembly area. it 1240ers the Contingent wes fallen in in sixes in the following order:- Nounted Police Band R.A.R. . a.A.A.F. Mounted Folice Fomale perzomnel of esch service marched in rear of their respective sorvices et normal distances. 1258hrz. Zej. Cen.K.w. Eitääß errived asd took over the parade. 130Chrs. Costingent noved off on the follosing route with 15 paces betrees servicez: Albert St., - Nicholzon St., - Burke St., - Swanston St., Pringes Bridge - ilexandra Avenne ( Embussing point.) Seluting baze situeted at the Torn Hall, where His Kxcelleney the Covenor of VICIORIL Nsj. Cen. Sir cinzoon pocas , , Dso took tbe selute.
Prrrassions ø arsh Berectign at foun 22.. Rocatiog At Toes hall die urtceion Ss.arsd Shin zailg Foccmedation eraxsisg si Si 2. 33 Ohrs. Arrived csbuzning point Alcrondra Avenuo. Reasonably sized crerds lined the whole route, and their vocal cnt usíazz though sporadic ras good. Nuch confetti end mary atroamers were thrown. The crord tas vell controlled, exccpt from Pringes Fridge onwerds, shere the gap loft cas isadequete to enehle the carch to continge sithout homching. Noticed particalorly r the uber of ex eriees "o jined the rente mith their regimentl flage, their chits beizg ropresested in the Contingent. R fell out. After passing the zaluting bose. Cen ZA and accompanied by Brig. Hof Z procceled te 'he Ton Hall s Recetio iven by cca e Sir horas LDDecting Lor" kayor of , in the Ton . Arong guests presont 2.2 e Oovnor of OkIA, nt. Hon c.J. D cister for Air, the E. GO.C. Southern Cend C.d.s. Kr. Cer. V.N.man, Sir Zowis HääTirOs Firzt Lt. Cen.T..E. PTE Havl ebe, and ers ef th City Coancil. The acting Lord Enyer is bis acoress camplirested the Continzent on thoir marching end wishod them Cod Speed. We alsc pat forrard s cucgestion that Crest Britein be invitod to tend a Ccntingent for the Anstralion Victory Karch in June. De asscunced his intantion of putting Maj. Cen. EATSER in the sugzestion to Parlisment. al, thauke th tias Lord Mayor asd the City of ECUENS Ter their enthosiastic recentien. 1345hrs. Tcti ent cabussed and proccocec te Princes Pier Pert ZTB 12. Estarkstion in N.S.A.S. SHROPSHIRE refusec to as held xp fer 20 niautes os the tr zbark fer ie rri e S IN. shen he nichly and soothly. rrived the embarkatica tock plece i lerge croué sas the ceperture of the ship, and strommer florod fros ship side to cherf. Lt. COL. ROSER Sox and TnJ. CEL CLDNES :a te abearå to pey their respects to Cast T.A. SUOWERS COE RAN CSptain of the ship, 1éoOhrs The zbit seilod tith the shipz compary and nembers of t Contingent liniag the side. Officerz are cccommodsted on the Zerd Room Plat and in the Driége structore. O. Es are sccc-zodated on the two Eezz Oecks, bedding in the forz of stretchers etc. beig provided by the chip. ".Os and R.A.A.F. Flt/Sgts are sessing in cacivalest neszes aboare chir. Egte and .R. Ycmale ccrbers of all ele iefeei ranks ez mith w.Oz. Officers sre divides betwoen Capt kess, word Room and Con room. Semnieder cf day ves spent in settling is and loarsieg Shirs rontine. Tenler 9?TE?? ef .SaS. SCROPSTIRE are as folloc. Ca::. Cert. E.A. SEOPERS CEE RAn Commander J.C. NOFAD: DSO nSC RAN errerer OLISZR RAD Commaoder E.C.. Cocder (E Comenter JS ? Commarder (1 D DCC ZZ" Correder ? Corcanfer (: e s Sageon CeC TESEAI Sorgeee Ccoresder (2) D.O. SCC?2Y R ist. Lientemant Lt. Corarde- J.L- EAT" 212
sasther sondye chnod Pureoe Pank 2 A brief history of HHAS SUROPSSIRE is as follows:- Laid doen 24 Feb 27 launched 5 Jul 28 at Dockyard of Mesars William HEARDMORK and Coy Lti., DALnUIR SCOKLAND. Named after county of SHOPSHIRK chose poople have always taken a livoly interest in ber Sordeg ichrs Aug 31 Carrioc Their Royal Highnesses, the Prince of Wales, and Prince Ceorge from caxuEs to MALTA. 31 Aug 31 - 25 May 39 Served throe tours in MEDITERBANEAN In 1936 tock part in evacuation of refugees from BARCEtONA during Spanish Civil Wor. Wore flag of Rear Edmiral Jon cumvschan CB M7O betwoen 19 Sep 38 - 25 May 39. 3 Sep 39. Patrol work in ATLANTIC Ocean 1940 Patrol and escort work in INDLAN Gcean. Nar 42 Returned ATLANTIC Ocoan. It was then decided to d OHIHE over to RAN, to replace HMAS CANSRRRA. At this stage sho had steamed 364,000 miles of chich nearly 2 220,000 had beon travolled since the outbreak of war. ndes mich SAR 25 Jon 43. officially handed ovor to Ràß. Capt J.A COLLISS CB RAX assumed command. 12 A ug 43. M.H. the King inspocted the ahip, and signalled Cod Speed vnen she left for AUSTRALLA. on 12 Aug 46. Dec 43 Supported landing of ARMöE and Cape OLOOCESTER 2 Har 44 Bombarded AD-IRALTY ISLAODS 22 Apr 4aBombarded HOLLANDIA 6 Uay 44 Capt HA SHOXERS RAN assuned cocmend. 25 xx 44. Bombardod BIXK Sap 44 Capt CAG NICHOLS MVO assumed command Oct 44 assisted in landing at Larrx CULF 3 Jun 45. Domberded LINGEXEI GOLN 16 Feb 45. Dombarded CORRECIDOR ISLARD 30 Nov 45 Arrived Sydney for 2nd time in which she hod steamod 50,124 silos in 17 months and firod 4500 rounds of 8 inch and 3,981 of 4 inch ammmnition. Datails of Shin. mondon Class hrunnnnt 8 x 8e Cunz, 8 x 4" H.A Cons 2 x 8 bærrelled 2 pounder Pom Poms and il 40 mm Bofors guns. Engineg Dovelop 80,000 H.P and Sxxinom spoed of 32,Seéxnots Dlmensiona Length 632' ? Ersndtn ebvor- Hean draught 21' Displocement 13,220 tons Once carried one aircraft en a catorpault amid ships. Eriday 19 Arr 46 itSom Clomdy with good visibility. Smooth no with long Routine for voyage vas pablished to commepos low smoll. as from 20 Apr 46. or Broskfast Sgts & O.Rz. no Ereakfast S.O- oppo-1130 vernde Dinner Sgts & C.Rs Dinner 3.Oz leso-1500 rarede ltod Tes all Ranßs leoo Snpper s. Oe 1830 Sopper Sgts £ O.ds. 103Onrs. Master parade. 1065hrs Church parode all ronks. S. s paraded sxpggetely. At cocclusion of Church Parode eCommender spoke to all seabars of the Contingent. Se pointed out that we could be living together for mosthe thet he sished the Contingent to enjoy the-selves as mocn as posible - and that it was vitally nocessary for
Commnnder sådranses contingent Sirisen thun tiss kosition Drasa Ses ricknass Edminishntion cordbaralop Maathor Pyrsde ralndrine Löning dhin rtie Rakdne kmsitiee sminise Lkrer Beirpe roge 8 co-operation betwoen all services. He urged evory bodys co-operation in enforeing the rules and customs of the ship. Ne then mentioned several of the more important points to obsorve in this respect. Capt JIEH ovacuated sick bay sith Malaris. Lt STARMER assumed duties of hajt in his absence. Lt PECK evecnated to sick bay with sors thront. 1200hrs Speed 15.2 knots Course 27ldegrees Distance since leaving MELBOURNE. 310 milez. Latitude 38 degrees 50 minntes S. Longitude 139 Degross 26 minutes E. 13l0hrs. Exchanged identities with ATH Ouf CASZLE. 14OOhrs Administration parade to hang good S.D Uniforms in room provided. Thore vill Nof be worn on voyage. eoff the peg" SD to be used efter 1700hrs nightly. Incidenco of Ses Sickness. Slight as yet - much higher agonst women then men. léißhrs On approximatley the same latitude as ADELAID Rechinder of dey passod in tyning up minor administrat- ion. This is not an casy task owing to the extent shich froops are spreod out within ship. Good use is made of the ships P.å system. It has bocooe apparent early that all ranks of HEAS SaR SHIRE are doing their utmost to help iron out the multitodinouse difficulties shich havo been encountered. 1830hrs. Retarded clocks lhour, giving in effect 25hrz sailing time during the dey. ssturdss 30 jar 45 AtSas Fine cloudy day, strong wind and quiet sea. o90Ohrs.Commencod first training sboard ship. Platoons paredod in diemond formation platoonn on torpedo docks amid ships. Although it may be possible to attain voice control on windless day, all information had to be passed to each platoon. O9O5hrz Inspection. O9 5hrs Paludrine Administored by pletoons. It is the intention to issue it cach Saturday and Monday during the trip for all personnel sho have seen tropical sarvice. 03AOhrs Prectißed lining ship. It was found that the chole AM contingent could fit for'd on starboard side B deck, lesving port side free for RAAF. Unfortunately sprecticable to leavo every man uncovered. 1020hrs difle exercizes - proctically impossible to get any benefit out of toese owing to difficulty of voice control and inability in most men to koep a firm footing on the dock. 1049urs. Captains inspection cocompanied by Cen SATHKR. ill ranks resained in approx dressing ship position on B deck throughout inspoction. 1117hrs Cleaned fifleg returned to armocrey, and broke off. Instruct ons issued that all webbing will be hlapcoed by Mondsy in readiness for march through PERId. Thiz will take place PM 22 Spr It will be folloned by leavo until 23 O800urs. No othor details yet availble. 120Chrs. Speed 15.2 Knots (16 Knotz by revs) Course 278degrees (G) Distanco since 19 1200hrs 380 miles. Latitude 38 degroes 12.5minntes Longitode l3ldegress 17 minntes K Bertnstær drogoing. 1400 - 1500hrs PT and rocreational tra'ning under Platoon P.T.: istroctors. l6oOhrs P.T. all Officers under I xon quarterdeck.- this to be a regular parade. Both contingent libra y, ron by Chep Iinøs, and snips library nos working. RAAF have not as yet been able to fit in completely vich axs parodes. Approximately half contingent assiziing opposite technical numbers in ship. Trahing waz therefore restricted to one P.T.porade. 20jOhrs. Imprompta congert held in mers dock. Woll
soncaf Raszher Maather Sos siskness dunnh Foxndes Rocrits Bossurss roitkon sasthor nesicor casnskyy esstner Blspegos endhing P.l. an aae Pozizion Somfornnss oo rrr Rerale Prrinine attended and a groat success. The intention is to arrange bigger and better ones to relieve boredom during voynge. 210chrs Weather commenced to deteriorate. 233 Ohr: Very rough - gear odrift.overywhore. Starboard sca boat brcko partly loosc. andsv 21 err At Sop Uncomfotrable night for all ranks. Quite a bit of cater cace in on mess decks and soms bedding bocame vory wot. Hezvy rain squalls of short duration. O?oohrs Remarkably good attendance at breckfast. It was intorest- ing to noto that our felloss cere holding their un with ships company as far as sca sicknoss wos copcerned. Reason being that a grcat nany of them have never been to sea beforo. Owing to rough weather church parade scheduled for 1000hrs was cancelled. Voluntary C of E and S.C. sorvices care hold during cey. OöOOhrs. Roduced speod to 8 knots and stocred into sca and attempted to secure sea bont. Attempt not successful. SWH rigged on main deck and in passagesays as security moasure. 1200hrz. Speod ló knots. Courze 265 dogrees (C) Distance travelled since 20 1200hrs 360 miles Latitude 37 cegrees 125 minutes Longitude 124 degreez oo minutes E Wind N-3 between 16-30 Miles par hour. Rest day for all ranks pluz blencoing of webbing. 1600hrs. Neathor improving. Wind worked aroundto port quarter and not cansing as moch discomfort. Swell still overage length, soa moderate height but rougte. Lt. PlCX returred to duty. 18johrs Retarded clocks 1 hour. Nmnder 29 jrr At Sae Fino clear day, slight soa with a moderatod to average svell. Majority of dey spant in preparation for merch in PERTñ om 23 Apr. O?00hrs Farade mithout rifles, but with wobbinginclustog rif ez slings. Webbing inspected to encore blancoeing carried out satisfoctorily. Oing to voriod methods of application there were mang different shades and inconsistenes in texture. It was decided to adopta standard sethod viz. dizzolving in sater first, and reblanco all vebbing before recching CAPETONN. O945-ll0Ohrs P.T. and organizod gamus. A high percentage of the contingent are stiff from previous days P.T. and organised games, so the latter mainly cith sedicine balls, occupied nost of the t oc. A proximstely half the medicine balls broucht on board have inadvertently gone over the side. ll0Ohrs Broke off. 1OChrz Speed 14 knots Course 286 degress (C) Wind approximately l2 knots. Visibility 12 Miles Roll 10 degrees. Distance since 21 1200hrs Latitud 33 degroes 19 minntes Longitude 116 degroes 32 ninntes E. le00hrs Cood SD Uniformes distributed. 150Chrs-lé00hrs. PY and organined gares 1900hrs Hifles iszued from arsoury. 160Ohrs Brig HOTKI beld conference attended by Daj. SILLLAMS and Aait to discuss leave question whilst at FREXiNTLE. A policy of grenting overnight loave only to thoso perso nnal havin relatives and friends in FERIH was docided. This to be ontil 24 O2OChrz, resainder until 24 QloOhrz. This zrrangesent waz subse mestly slightly altored by Cen EATHER. Fepake members of contingent did approx lyhrs P.T. during day uncer S/Sgt KxICHT. He reports their all round sprightliness to be improving already. Navel contingent dre oporatíng trening quite separataly
Hn Asathal Drunned shin g Mharf ennorsn Arna den SaTUR Andrass Lesys Entraining hassmblv irsl pdf gdar sf dargo snrisial Page 6 from AX and RAAF. Approximately 1 hours mixed P.T. and foot drill is done a day. For this they have the use of the quarter deck. All members are employed during day on normal ship's duties. 140Ohrs Rounded Cope LEEWIN. usndav 214pr At Saa - FHEMANTLE A fine clear day. O?5Ohrs All ranks assumed dressing ship positions preparatory to enetering harbour. Paraded with rifles and sidearms and dressed as for the march. Slight lack of room at last movement chen orders given to dress ship on port side. Contingent stood at attention as the ship steamed into No 5 Dock FREMXRILE, and berthed at O820hrs. Thero was a croed of approximately 100 and Western Comd Band on the wharf. o83ohrs Paraded on the wharf preparatory to small arms drill and marching. This was dons not only to practice all porsonnel for march through PERTñ but to give them back their"land legs". This proved to be vary important as quite a number of personnel had not got "them" completcly back as late as the march itself. Both foot drill and rifle drill were ragged after first disembarking but improvod. Also training were 60 armed personnel of HuAs SHROPSHIRE who were to tako part in murch. 100Ohrs Contingent and SEROPSHIRE party formod mass at the rear of tho wharf whors Cen. EATHER addressed them about the standard of dressing ship, and stated that it must show a distinet improvement in the future. He also promulgated that leave ould be granted until 24 O90Ohrs for those staying overnight and until 24 010 for the remaindor. lo2Ohrs Troops beoken off for a cup of toa and final polish up. llOOhrs. Fell in on wharf and marched to train. 1207hrs. Errived PERTH railway station. Detrained and fell in, in front of station with the head of the coluan at the MXST end. 1225hrs Maj. Cen. EATHER arrived and took command of the parade. 1230hrs Contingent moved off in the following order.- Western Comd. Band Javal Contingent ROPSHIRE party RAAF Again female members of each service marched behind their respective contingent. Route - XELLINCTON St - BARRAC St., - HAx st., - wILIAM St. -ST EORCES Tce e to Anzac House. The Contingent uting base sitnated in St CEORCES Tce passed the TY Church at 1242hrs. The salute waz apposite Ih Iis Excellency the Lieutenant Covenor, Sir LL XCMC. When the head of the column reached the saluting Maj. Cen EArMER foll ont and joinod offi cial party shich included the Naval Officer in charge Fremantle (Commodore C.J POPE), the GOC Western Comd (Maj. Cen Js wIITELAN) Croup Capt ZH MORAN reprozenting Croup Capt CT HAHKLM, Air Officer commandin Western Krea, the Lord Mayor of PEXIX F.T rOrTERDELL Ezc The Minister for Health & Social Services, Senator iM FRASRR) representing tho Commonsealth Covernment, and the Ministor for Education (Hon J.? TOxXIX) representin the State Covernment. A reazonable numer of spectators lined the route. but it was felt no more than the average luneh time cromd. The roception of the marchingtroops was disappointing. A feeling of polite interest parvaded t scane. but no more. Thare was practically no choering; clapping or applanse. In nddition thare vas a complete
Commants on Rosaution si March shandsri of Marching Hgneal mnehson at unges House Hon. Fomk 15 Addrass San Baunne Bepag Besantiog Gosanment Nonss staff Sorns Mans no Am Page ? abs of flags, bunting, or patriotic paraphenalia of any sort. Capt wIXR cho observed the march as a spectator picked many faults in the calibre of the marching, buth they were mainly concered with individuals and not of the Contingent as a whole. To a lay man, as proved by survey of publie opinion, these inadequacios were not apparent and the contingent presented a smart and impressive aspect. Nevertheless it was soen that the standard of merching owing to the effects of the sea voyage and lack of training since leaving MELBOURME had deteriorated sharpl Very intensive training will heve to be completed before arrival in LONDOñ if the contingent is to stand up in the eyes of the far more critical LONDON crowd, and compare with the British and EMPIRE troops marching on the same day. The contingent was broken off at ARzAC Gouse, where rifles and sidearms were collocted and transportod back to the ship. The entire contngent was entertaind at lunch by the Citizens Recoption Council. Thetroops were provided with an extremly good stand up lunch in the body of the ahll, chilst the Official party comprisiz most of the persons previously mentioned as attending at the saluting base, and the Officers of the Contingent were given an equally good one on the stage. Hon. fowkIN in welcoming the contingent on behalf of the Rt. Hon the Premier of WA and the State Covernment, said that it's members had been salected because they were worthy represestatives of AUSIRALXA. Everyons had distinguished himself or herzelf in some way. They had a great responsibility in representing AUSTBALLA in LONDON and would carry sith them the best wishes and full appreciation of the AUSTRALIAN people. Maj. Cen EATHER in a brief reply said that he had pleasant memories of PERTH, chich he visited in 1940 while on his way mith a contngent to the MIDDLE EAST and again on his return. Members of the Victory Parade contingent were fully cware of their responsibility in represonting AUSTRALLA. All were anxious to go among the BRITISK poople and discuss war experiances. After lunch all ranks with the exception of a small socurity pickot on the ship were given leave. 1345hrs. Cen BATHER together with all service heads of the contingent including Col. SaCE Chief Officer CLXXNTS Sec. Officer CARISR and Maj. DEASXX made an official call on Sir JAMáß and Lady MICHELL at dovernment House. Col BARREf represented the COc Western Command. 1700hrs Staff Corps Mess. Vo-rodh Barracks entortsined all Officers of the contingent. The opportunity was taken for Western Comd to pay tribute to Col. SACE for the job ahe has dono as Matron in Chief of the AANS during the war. Maj. wILLLAMS the senior male contingent Officer present, thanked the presidont and members on bahalf of tue contingent. 2100hrs. Officers were invited to be guests of the C.o and Matron of 110 Aust Gen Hospital. Distance travelled from 22 1200hrz to 23 O80Ohrz. 280 miles. 4 Western Anstutien memberz of Naval contingent joined at PERTH
gssther cnadd ransde Lined shin Late Arrivala Denarbod Sremanfle. otdisgr samgttios Rosition knrinss Brask don Månn Addrans nesingr Ersining. Progranne kenuuratte tnslyirs of Anatralia Pazs 8 Rednspdne 24 kor Framdauls - At sos Fine clear day with only a very slight breeze. O90Ohrs check parade held to ascertain wother all personnel returned from leave. RAN and RAAF were all present approx 10 AMF missing. O95Ohra Orders given to assume dressing ship position. A crowd of epprox 250 were present on the wharf, and the Western Comd Band plsyed the ship out, assisted by the ships Marine Band p playing on the quarter deck. O955hrs Missing AMF personnel arrived in a body after gangways and bean drazn up and pede a most undignified last minnte entry into the ship through the lower port holes. Looohrs. The ship drew out of the dock with the contingent lining ships side. The ship sailing at 1000hrs instend of ll0ohre, the advertisod sailing time caused numbers of friends and relatives to miss their last minute farewalls. The roason for change of sailing time was due to the berth being required for another vessel. 1020hrs Stood down. Good uniforms return during morning. Mail distributed. Capt WIER resumed his duties as Adjt Lt. STARMER rosumed comd of his Platoon. 1200hrs Course 278 degroes. Speed 15 Knots Distance- KooOhrs 17.3 miles. Latitude 31 Degrees 56 minutes S Longtituce 115 Degrees 26 minutes E. 120Ihrs Main engines d and ship becalæed. 1258hrs Engines repaired. 1500hrz AEF component of contingent mustered on main deck smid ships, and UNx EATRER sidressed troops. He reiterated his romarks made before leaving MELOURHE with referance to his intention to grant as noch leave as possible. He warned all ranks thet this only appliedas long as they played the game. Any future incidonts like this morning would result in a vary drastic curtailment of leave, both in CAPE TOWX Loxpon. 1515 - léoOhrs. Pf and organinod games. Nnrdky 35 hrr at sos oSlohrs. Heavy rain squall with wind rising to gale velocity. Umolessant cloudy, and sindy day. O83ohrs officers conference in orderly room. Following training progruenee prommnlystædt- 0900 - 0919hrs .Fall in, administration and Inspoction o15-lolôhrs P.T. and Rocreational Training. Arxs Drill every sccondony 1015-lojOhrs Lectorette 1030-1045hrs Break 1045-1130hrs Pf or Drill 1115-1130hrs Rifle cleaning every sccond day 1130-1500hrs Dinner Break 1500-léoohrs PT and Cames Programme designod to be as flexible as possible and permit of ready alteration in event of bed weather The loctorette pariod or other unforscan occurencen. to be arranged from day to day, and lecturers to be provided from BAX & RLAF to Ax and vica versa. It is alzo intended to use this period, to further by question and enswer, the contingent's knosledge of AUSTRALLA. Litærature provided by the Departmant of Information will be issned in the near future. It is considered that all nambers of the contingent, should heve as mory details abont AUSZRALIA both statiztical and general, as poneit et the nger tin to rdy teveret ies nilkt in k SbF carsloes to Poarsn It is intended to ingrease the scope to include a knoslodge of ExCLAMD. OSoohrs Parode and admonistration of palomdins. O915-l019hrs Pf and recrestional training dome as wall as possible/with
Enterteinment Anzec Day Allocation to snins Dntigs Faur of Horins Room Position Wasther Disssminstion sf Information en Anstralie bll rersonnal an Shins Duties Indtagjons in Enzland rbotegrardis Prints sunnling Suxxanex Page 9 with considerable movement in the ship, and ships company scrubbing down the upper deck. Lecturette time used to ascertain mens views on entertainment. Lt. Comd PURVIS has been designated ships entertainment Officor. and is anxious to co-ordinate details of concerts, quizes, card parties, plays, deck games, and cinemas as son as possible. Many men made sensible and useful suggestions and quite a bit of prospective talent was discovered. lloohrs. Projected church parade to commemorate ANZAC Day on quarter deck had to be cancelled owing to unsuitable weather. Broke Off. Church was heldin Cafeteria Mess deck in lieu. After discussion with the lst Lieut it was decided to allocate all men to ships duties. These to be carried out when weather did not permit full training programme to be completed. It was decided to allocate duties as closely as possible to firstly, men's civilian vocation and secondly, military experience. This includes carpenters, fitters, storemen, shoet metal worers, mechanics and gunners. Not only will this greatly facilitate the working of the ship, but will help considerably to relieve boredom. In addition a duty platoon will be detailed daily for ship's duties as required. The Captain kindly consented to allow two parties daily of six to be token on a conducted tour of engine rooms at O93Ohrs and 104Ohrs respectively. 1200hrs Course 278 degrees C Speed 15 Knots Wind 11x5 Knots Distance travelled since 241200hrs - 360 miles. Latitude 31 Degrees 10 minutes S Longitude 108 degrees 29 minutes E 1315hrs Parade. All ranks stood down. 1830hrs Clocks retarded 1 hour. Friday 26 Apr. at ses Fine clear day with very slight sea. By far the most pleasant day yet encountered on the voyage. O845hrs Conference of all Officers in the Orderly room. Systom inauguarated for the distribution of information on AUSTRALLA. Decided to distribute pamphlets on platoon basis, with platoon sjts retaining copies that are not in sufficient numbers to go round. O90Ohrs All rank: paraded and allotted to ships duties for the morning. About tan personnel given specialirt tasks, remainder used on general unskilled labour. This included a variety of jobs from painting, polishing and scrubbing decks to splicing rope. The men pitched in with a will and presented a most unnsual sight for a War Ship. All other training was cancelled for the morning. O93Ohrs Er. MOrEN outlined to Maj wILLIAMS zuggested ideas for coping with the expected flood of invitations in ENCLAND. It is proposed that a pro forma contli ing action taken in detail be attached to cach invitation etc., as it arrivaz. A committec of so Officers from each service is proposed, to deal with tha flood. It is hopod that socretaríal assistance can be procured from AUSIRALIA House on arrival. Platoon Comds will have to keep rre that each men sees comprehensive lists of visits to en xCLaXD and possibly S- as of anp as possible. cig XOEY clso dircctec L:. FOR" ES to cive thought to a method of obtaining prints of nevspeper pootographs for the Jar Diary andshosoevor may desire them. Tuis is to give cach man a chance of obtaining all pablished photographs and at the same time be cortain of evantually receiving them. If pozzitle this cill be done in CAPE oJN as wall as in LOKDON. All AUSTRALLAN moncy cas exchanged for Sporling duri g the day, on the basis of Ol sterling to 25/- Anstralian
- - Position Deck Hoskas Musie Bnig. Kounn Weather Gonfaranse Parada Bife Rollz Badding Kit Deficien- sias Midday Maal Intordiss Position Insoplstiop Deck Reskyr Pago 10 This is causing some dofficulty in the ship's canteen who are still dealing ik both AUSTRALLAN and Sterling As a consequence change in Australian is likely to be received for sterling proferred, causing a loss. This has been taken up with the ships autherities and is now in the course of adjustment. All ranks have now had their pay books altered to include the exchange allowance due on leaving AUSTRALIA. 1200hrs Course 278 degrees Speed 15 Knots Distance trav- elled since 25 1200 - 360 miles. Latitude 30 Degrees 10 minutes S Longitude 102 degreos 13 minutes E Wind Force Now travolled 2459 milos since leaving MELBOURNE. Deck hockey has now become a poptlar and regular sport for most members of the contingent. It is plawed on a court constructed in the starboard waist on the main deck Played with cane sticks and a rope "puck" it is a strenuous and suitable game. The court is overlooked on three sides from "B" deck which provides a natural amphitheatre for the many enthusiastic spectators. LooOhrs RAAF Officers played RXAF O.R's resulting in a win for the O.R's. L615hrs Ward room played AMF Officers with an easy winf for the Ward Room l33Ohrs Cun room pluyed Stokors, with s 5-1 win for the stokers. At present the contingent is at aslight disadvantage over the ships company who have played the game before. Hcwever iti is felt by all ranks that it will not be long before this state of affairs is conclusively and emphatically remedied. 180ohrs A programme of recorded music was played over the shipsiRt system with a commentarypby Lt. Comdr FAULKNER the ships schoolmaster. Brig MoTEN was ordered to bed for 3 days. 184ihrs. Now steaming dead along jOth paralled of latitude. Ship will steam along it, until it arrives at Approx 40 Degrees E. Longitude. Ssyurdiy 57 kor At Saa Fine clear day, becoming quite cloudy and threatening towards mid day. Practically no swell. O8e5hrs Officers conference in orderly room. Notified inoculations for RHB and revac would bo done during afternoon. O9OOhrs. Parade. Palaudine administered and inoculation rolls brought up to date. Majority of men require rovac and approz 50% TAB. Rifle rolls and comprehensive system for storing produced for the first time. Previously no man could te certain of getting his own rifle for uso on morning parades. Rifles cleaned and inspected. All personnel warned to be careful of bedding as blankets are meadily saleable articlef Lists of deficiencies in normal kit taken - these are quite numerous An attempt is being made to re issue from maintenance stocks during voyage. 30 - 1100hrs P.T. Midday meal for hrs instead of 12CChrs. This O.R personnel nos at 11 involve breaking off at 1100hrs instead of 1130hrs as rtoo. 1045hrs Maj. Cen EATHER interviewed each en-a. who arrived after 0?0Ohrs at FRZMANTLE. He pointed out to each man individually the seriousness and implications of his offence. No other disciplinary action has been taken. 1200hrs Coorse 268 degrces Speed 15 Knots Wind S W Force (4-5 Lrots) Distenco since 2ó 1200hrs - 360 miles. Latitade 29 degrees 57 minntes S Longitude 25 degrees 22 minntes E. 1eohrs. All ranks with the exception of RAAF who recei them before embarkation paradod for inoculation. 150Ohr: Todays deck heckey geres resulted in RAAF defea Army 3-1 Army Officers defesting SikF Officers 3-0 M
  Thursday 18 Apr 46                     MELBOURNE AT SEA
Weather Fine day in morning but became threatening about
1200hrs. Except for a few sprinkles the rain held off
and the weather for the march was on the whole good.
Breaking
Camp &
Moving to
Assembly
Position		 0830hrs. Troops paraded to receive embarkation
numbers, and [[?F]] 47. Then formed up and practised
wheeling in sixes, which had not hitherto been done.
1000hrs Broken off to complete final administration
arrangements in clearing up camp and getting ready to [[move?]]
1130hrs. Left WATSONIA by M.T Convoy. The co-operation
of the C.O and Staff of RR & GDD WATSONIA during the stay
there was all that could be desired. It helped
immesurably to get the Contingent organised and equipped
in the short time available. 1210hrs. Arrived assembly
are in Albert St., between Gibsorne St., and Nicholson St.
R.A.N and R.A.A.F. Contingents already there. Men stage
a protest objecting to Sgt. CURTAIN'S dismissal from the
Contingent at the last moment, and refused to march unless
he was re-instated. Major WILLIAMS talked to them and
they decided to march and delay action until the march
was over. Meanwhile Lt. Gen. H.C.H. ROBERTSON who had
arrived unofficially talked with Brig. MOTEN and it was
decided that CURTAIN would be reinstated if he could
be got on the ship in time. The troops were informed
of this fact before leaving the assembly area.
Order of
March		 At 1240hrs the Contingent was fallen in in sixes in
the following order:-
Mounted Police
Band
R.A.N.
A.M.F.
R.A.A.F.
Mounted Police
Female personnel of each service marched in rear of
their respective services at normal distances.
  1258hrs. Maj. Gen. K.W. EATHER arrived and took over
the parade.
Parade
Moves Off		 1300hrs.  Contingent moved off on the following route
with 15 paces between services:
Route Albert St., - Nicholson St., - Burke St., - Swanston St.,
Princes Bridge - Alexandra Avenue ( Embussing Point.)
Saluting base situated at the Town Hall, where His
Excellency the Govenor of VICTORIA Maj. Gen. Sir Winston
DUGAN KCMG, CB, DSO took the salute.
 

Page 2.

Impressions
of March		 1330hrs. Arrived embussing point Alexandra Avenue.
Reasonably sized crowds lined the whole route, and their
vocal enthusiasm though sporadic was good. Much
confetti and many streamers were thrown. The crowd was
well controlled, except from Princes Bridge onwards,
were the gap left was inadequate to enable the march
to continue without bunching. Noticed particularly
were the number of ex servicemen who lined the route with
their regimental flags, their units being represented in
the Contingent.
Reception at
Town Hall




Reception
At Town Hall		 After passing the saluting base. Gen EATHER fell out,
and accompanied by Brig. MOTEN proceeded to the Town Hall
to attend a Reception given by Councillor Sir Thomas
NETTLEFOLD acting Lord Mayor of MELBOURNE, in the Town
Hall. Among guests present were H.E. the GOVENOR of
VICTORIA, Rt.Hon [[A.S?]]. J. DRAKEFORD Minister for Air, the
C.G.S. Lt. Gen. V.H. STURDEE, GO.C. Southern Comd
Lt. Gen. H.C.H. ROBERTSON, Sir Louis HAMILTON First
Naval member, and members of the City Council.
The acting Lord Mayor in his address complimented the
Contingent on their marching and wished them God Speed.
He also put forward a suggestion that Great Britain be
invited to send a Contingent for the Australian Victory
March in June. He announced his intention of putting
the suggestion to Parliament. Maj. Gen. EATHER in
reply, thanked the Acting Lord Mayor and the City of
MELBOURNE for their enthusiastic reception. 1345hrs.
Arrived
Port MELBOURNE
Embarkation
Delayed




Ship sails		 The contingent embussed and proceeded to Princes Pier
Port MELBOURNE. Embarkation in H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE
was held up for 20 minutes as the troops refused to
embark before the arrival of Sgt. CURTAIN. When he
arrived the embarkation took place quickly and smoothly
A large crowd saw the departure of the ship, and streamers
flowed from ship side to wharf. Lt. Gen. ROBERTSON and
Maj. Gen. CLOWES came aboard to pay their respects to Capt
H.A. SHOWERS CBE RAN Captain of the ship. 1600hrs The
ship sailed with the ships company and members of the
Contingent lining the side.
Accommodation
& messing		 Officers are accommodated on the Ward Room Flat and
in the Bridge structure. O.R.s are accommodated on the
two Mess Decks, bedding in the form of stretchers etc.,
being provided by the ship. W.O.s and R.A.A.F. Flt/Sgts
are messing in equivalent messes aboard ship. Sgts and
below messing in Cafeteria. O.R. Female members of all
ranks mess with W.Os. Officers are divided between Capt
Mess, Ward Room and Gun room.
  Remainder of the day was spent in settling in and
learning Ships routine.
Command in
Ship		 Senior Officers of H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE are as follow.-
Capt. Capt. E.A. SHOWERS CBE RAN
Commander Commander J.C. MORROW DSO DSC RAN
Commander (E) Commander H.G.D. OLIVER RAN
Commander (N) Commander JS [[KESLYE?]] DSC RAN
Commander (S) Commander BF [[HATHERFIELD?]] DSC RAN
Surgeon Commander C E DOWNWARD DSC RAN
Surgeon Commander (D) D.O. [[SOUTHEY?]] RAN
1st Lieutenant Lt. Commander J.L. BATH RAN
 

PAGE 3
A brief history of HMAS SHROPSHIRE is as follows:-
Laid down 24 Feb 27 launched 5 Jul 28 at Dockyard of
Messrs William BEARDMORE and Coy Ltd., DALMUIR SCOTLAND.
Named after county of SHROPSHIRE whose people have always
taken a lively interest in her
Service with [[ENG?]]
Aug 31 Carried Their Royal Highnesses, the Prince of
Wales, and Prince George from CANNES to MALTA.
31 Aug 31- 25 May 39 Served three tours in MEDITERRANEAN
In 1936 took part in evacuation of refugees from
BARCELONA during Spanish Civil War. Wore flag of Rear
Admiral JDH CUNNINGHAM CB MVO between 19 Sep 38 - 25 May 39.
3 Sep 39. Patrol work in ATLANTIC Ocean 1940 Patrol and
escort work in INDIAN Ocean.
Mar 42 Returned ATLANTIC Ocean. It was then decided to
hand SHROPSHIRE over to RAN, to replace HMAS CANBERRA.
At this stage she had steamed 364,000 miles of which nearly 2
220,000 had been travelled since the outbreak of war.
Service with RAN
25 Jun 43. officially handed over to RAN. Capt
J.A. COLLINS CB RAN assumed command.
12 A ug 43. H.M. the King inspected the ship, and signalled
God Speed when she left for AUSTRALIA. on 12 Aug 46.
24 Sep 43. Arrived FREMANTLSE
29 Oct 43. Joined Task Froce 74
Dec 43 Supported landing of ARAWE and Cape GLOUCESTER
2 Mar 44 Bombarded ADMIRALTY ISLANDS
22 Apr 44Bombarded HOLLANDIA
6 May 44 Capt HA SHOWERS RAN assuned command.
265 [[Aug?]]May 44. Bombarded BIAK
25 Sep 44 Capt CAG NICHOLS MVO assumed command
20 Oct 44 Assisted in landing at LEYTE GULF
3 Jun 45. Bombarded LINGAYEN GULF
16 Feb 45. Bombarded CORREGIDOR ISLAND
30 Nov 45 Arrived Sydney for 2nd time in which she had
steamed 50,124 miles in 17 months and fired 4500 rounds of
8 inch and 3,981 of 4 inch ammunition.
Details of Ship
London Class
Armament 8 x 8" Guns, 8 x 4" H.A Guns 2 x 8 barrelled
2 pounder Pom Poms and 11 40 mm Bofors guns.
Engines Develop 80,000 H.P and maximum speed of 32,646Knots
Dimensions
Length 632' 9½"
Breadth 66' 0½"
Mean draught 21'
Displacement 13,220 tons.
Once carried one aircraft on a caterpault amid ships.

  Friday 19 Apr 46                     At Sea
Weather  Cloudy with good visibility. Smooth sea with long
low swell. Routine for voyage was published to commence
as from 20 Apr 46.
Routine  0725 Breakfast Sgts & O.Rs.
0800 Breakfast W.Os
0900-1130 Parade
1200 Dinner Sgts & O.Rs
1230 Dinner W.Os
1400-1500 Parade
1600 Tea all Ranks
1800 Supper W.Os
1830 Supper Sgts & O.Rs
Church
Parade 		 1030hrs. Muster parade. 1045hrs Church parade all ranks.
R.Cs paraded separately. At conclusion of Church Parade
the Commander [[MASON?]] spoke to all members of the Contingent.
He pointed out that we would be living together for months-
that he wished the Contingent to enjoy themselves as much
as possible - and that it was vitally necessary for
 

Page 4

Commander
addresses
Contingent		 co-operation between all services. He urged every bodys
co-operation in enforcing the rules and customs of the
ship. He then mentioned several of the more important
points to observe in this respect.
Officer
Casualties		 Capt WIREER evacuated sick bay with Malaria. Lt STARMER
assumed duties of Adjt in his absence. Lt PECK
evacuated to sick bay with sore throat.
Position 1200hrs Speed 15.2 knots Course 271degrees Distance
since leaving MELBOURNE. 310 miles. Latitude 38 degrees
50 minutes S. Longitude 139 Degrees 26 minutes E.
  1310hrs. Exchanged identities with ATH ONE CASTLE.
Dress 1400hrs Administration parade to hang good S.D Uniforms
in room provided. These will NOT be worn on voyage.
"Off the peg" SD to be used after 1700hrs nightly.
Sea sickness Incidence of Sea Sickness. Slight as yet - much
higher amonst women than men.
  1615hrs On approximatley the same latitude as ADELAIDE
Administration Remainder of the day passed in typing up minor administration.
This is not an easy task owing to the extent which
Troops are spread out within ship. Good use is made of
the ships P.A system.
Co-operation
of RAN		 It has become apparent early that all ranks of HMAS
SHROPSHIRE are doing their utmost to help iron out the
multitudinous, difficulties which have been encountered.
  1830hrs. Retarded clocks 1hour, giving in effect 25hrs
sailing time during the day.
  Saturday 20 Apr 46                             At Sea
Weather Fine cloudy day, strong wind and quiet sea.

Parade


Paludrine

 0900hrs. Commenced first training aboard ship. Platoons
paraded in diamond formation platoons on torpedo decks
amid ships. Although it may be possible to attain voice
control on windless day, all information had to be passed
to each platoon. 0905hrs Inspection. 0925hrs Paludrine
Administrated by platoons. It is the intention to issue
it each Saturday and Monday during the trip for all
personnel who have seen tropical service.

Lining Ship

 


Rifle
Exercises

 


Webbing

 0940hrs Practisced lining ship. It was found that the
whole AMF contingent could fit for'd on starboard side
B deck, leaving port side free for RAAF. Unfortunately
impracticable to leave every man uncovered. 1020hrs
Rifle exercises - practically impossible to get any benefit
out of these owing to difficulty of voice control and
inability in most men to keep a firm footing on the deck.
1045hrs. Captains inspection accompanied by Gen EATHER.
All ranks remained in approx dressing ship position on B
deck throughout inspection. 1117hrs Cleaned rifles,
returned to armourey, and broke off. Instructions issued
that all webbing will be blancoed by Monday in readiness
for march through PERTH. This will take place PM 22 Apr 46
It will be followed by leave until 23 0800hrs. No other
details yet availble.
Position 1200hrs. Speed 15.2 knots ( 16 Knots by revs) Course
278degrees (G) Distance since 19 1200hrs 380 miles.
Latitude 38 degrees 12.5minutes Longitude 131degrees
17 minutes E
Barometer dropping.
Training 1400 - 1500hrs PT and recreational training under Platoon
P.T. instructors. 1600hrs P.T. all Officers under 
Lt STARMER on quarterdeck.- this to be a regular parade.
Library Both contingent library, run by Chap JAMES, and ships
library now working.
RAAF Tng RAAF have not as yet been able to fit in completely
with AMF parades. Approximately half contingent
assisting opposite technical numbers in ship. Training
was therefore restricted to one P.T.parade.
2030hrs. Impromptu concert held in mess deck. Well
 
Concert
Weather		 attended and a great success. The intention is to
arrange bigger and better ones to relieve boredom during
voyage. 2100hrs weather commenced to deteriorate.
2330hrs Very rough - gear adrift.everywhere. Starboard
sea boat broke partly loose.
  Sunday 21 Apr                                    At Sea

Weather

 


Sea sickness

Church Parades


Security
Measures

 Uncomfotrable night for all ranks. Quite a bit of
water came in on mess doecks and some bedding became very
wet. Heavy rain squalls of short duration. 0700hrs
Remarkably good attendance at breakfast. It was interesting
to note that our fellows were holding their own with
ships company as far as sea sickness was concerned.
Reason being that a great many of them have never been
to sea before. Owing to rough weather church parade
scheduled for 1000hrs was cancelled. Voluntary C of E
and R.C. services were held during day. 0800hrs. Reduced
speed to 8 knots and steered into sea and attempted to
secure sea boat. Attempt not successful. SRE rigged
on main deck and in passageways as security measure.
Position 1200hrs. Speed 16 knots. Course 265 degrees (G)
Distance travelled since 20 1200hrs 360 miles Latitude
37 degrees 12½ minutes Longitude 124 degrees oo minutes E
wind N-S between 16- 40 Miles per hour. Rest day for all
ranks plus blancoing of webbing.
Weather 1600hrs. Weather improving. Wind worked around to port
quarter and not causing as much discomfort. Swell still
 average length, sea moderate height but rough.
Officer
Casuatlty		 Lt. PECK returned to duty. 1830hrs Retarded clocks 1 hour.
  Monday 22 Apr                               At Sea

Weather
 

Blancoed
Webbing


P.T. and
Effects






Position




Conference on
Leave

 Fine clear day, slight sea with a moderated to average
swell. Majority of day spent in preparation for march
in PERTH on 23 Apr. 0900hrs parade without rifles, but
with webbingincuding rifles slings. Webbing inspected
to ensure blancoeing carried out satisfactorily.
Owing to varied methods of application there were many
different shades and inconsistenes in texture. It was
decided to adopta standard method viz. dissolving in
water first, and reblanco all webbing before reaching
CAPETOWN. 0945-1100hrs P.T. and organised games. A
high percentage of the contingent are stiff from
previous days P.T. and organised games ,so the latter
mainly with medicine balls, occupied most of the time.
A proximately half the medicine balls brought on board
have inadvertently gone over the side. 1100hrs Broke
off. 1200hrs Speed 14 knots Course 286 degrees (G)
 wind approximately 12 knots. Visibility 12 Miles Roll
5 degrees - 10 degrees. Distance since 21 1200hrs
392 miles. Latitude 35 degrees 19 minutes Longitude
116 degrees 32 minutes E. 1400hrs Good SD Uniforms
distributed. 1500hrs-1600hrs. PtT and organised games
1900hrs Rifles issued from armoury. 1600hrs Brig
MOTEN held conference attended by Maj. WILLIAMS and Adjt
to discuss leave question whilst at FREMANTLE. A policy
of granting overnight leave only to those perso nnel
havin relatives and friends in PERTH was decided. This
to be until 24 0800hrs, remainder until 24 0100hrs.
This arrangement was subsequently slightly altered by Gen
EATHER.
Female
Training		 Female members of contingent did approx 1½hrs P.T. during
day under S/Sgt KNIGHT. He reports their all round
sprightliness to be improving already.
Naval contingent are operating tra^ining quite separately
 

Page 6

RAN
Training		 from AMF and RAAF. Approcximately 1 hours mixed P.T.
and foot drill is done a day. For this they have the
use of the quarter deck. All members are emp,loyed
during day on normal ship's duties.
1440hrs Rounded Cape LEEWIN.
  Tuesday 23 Apr                                 At Sea - Fremantle

Weather

 

Dressed Ship

 

 

Berthed
Fremantle
Training on
Wharf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 A fine clear day. 0750hrs All ranks assumed dressing
ship positions preparatory to enetering harbour.
Paraded with rifles and sidearms and dressed as for the
march. Slight lack of room at last movement when orders
given to dress ship on port side. Contingent stood
at attention as the ship steamed into No 5 Dock
FREMANTLE, and berthed at 0820hrs. There was a crowd of
approximately 100 and Western Comd Band on the wharf.
0830 hrs Paraded on the wharf preparatory to small arms
drill and marching. This was done not only to practice
all personnel for march through PERTH but to give them
back their"land legs". This proved to be very important
as quite a number of personnel had not got "them"
completely back as late as the march itself. Both foot
drill and rifle drill were ragged after first disembarking
but improved. Also training were 60 armed personnel of
HMAS SHROPSHIRE who were to take part in march.

SHROPSHIRE
Armed Party

Gen EATHER
Address


Leave

 1000hrs Contingent and SHROPSHIRE party formed mass at
the rear of tho whard where Gen. EATHER addressed them
about the standard of dressing ship, and stated that it
must show a distinct improvement in the future. He
also promulgated that leave would be granted until
 24 0900hrs for those staying overnight and until 24 010hrs
for the remainder.

Entraining
Assembly Area
PERTH

 

Order of
March

 1020hrs Troops boroken off for a cup of tea and final
polish up. 1100hrs. Fell in on wharf and marched to
train. 1207hrs. Arrived PERTH railway station.
Detrained and fell in, in front of station with the
head of the column at the EAST end. 1225hrs Maj. Gen.
EATHER arrived and took command of the parade. 1230 hrs
Contingent moved off in the following order.-
Western Comd. Band
Naval Contingent
SHROPSHIRE party
AMF
RAAF
Again female members of each service marched behind their
respective contingent.

Route
Saluting Base

 


Official
Party

 Route - WELLINGTON st - BARRACK. St., - HAY St., - WILLIAM
St., - ST GEORGES Tce - to Anzac House. The Contingent
passed the saluting base situated in the St GEORGES Tce
apposite TRINITY Church at 1242hrs. The salute was
taken by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, Sir
JAMES MITCHELL KCMG. When the head of the column
reached the saluting Maj. Gen EATHER fell out and joined
Offi cial party which included the Naval officer in
charge Fremantle ( Commodore C.J. POPE), the GOC
Western Comd ( Maj. Gen JS WHITELAW) Group Capt RH MORAN
representing Group Capt CT HANNAN, Air Officer commandin
Western Area, the Lord Mayor of PERTH F.T. TOTTERDELL Esq.
The Minister for Health & Social Services, Senator J.M.
FRASER) representing the Commonwealth Government, and
the Minister for Education ( Hon J.T TONKIN) representin
the State Government.
A reasonable numer of spectators lined the route,
but it was felt no more than the average lunch time
crowd. The reception of the marching troops was
disappointing. A feeling of polite interest pervaded the
scene, but no more. There was practically no cheering,
clapping or applause. In addition there was a complete
 

Page 7

Comments on
Reception of
March

absecnence of flags, bunting, or patriotic paraphenalia of

any srort. Capt WIER who obcserved the march as a

spectator picked many faults in the calibre of the

marching, buth they were mainly concerned with individuals

and not of the Contingent as a whole. To a lay man, as

proved by survey of public opinion, these inadequacies

were not apparent and the contingent presented a smart

and impressive aspect.
Standard of
Marching		 Nevertheless it was seen that the standard of marching
owing to the effects of the sea voyage and lack of
training since leaving MELBOURNE had deteriorated sharply.
Very intensive training will have to be completed before
arrival in LONDON if the contingent is to stand up in
the eyes of the far more critical LONDON crowd, and
compare with the British and EMPIRE troops marching on
the same day
Official
Luncheon at
Anzac House




Hon. TONKINS
Address		 The contingent was broken off at ANZAC Gouse, where
rifles and sidearms were collected and transported back
to the ship. The entire contingent was entertaind at
lunch by the Citizens Reception Council. The troops
were provided with an extremely good stand up lunch in
the body of the ahll, whilst the Official party comprising
most of the persons previously mentioned as attending at
the saluting base, and the Officers of the Contingent
were given an equally good one on the stage. Hon.
TONKIN in welcoming the contingent on behalf of the
Rt. Hon the Premier of WA and the State Government, said
that it's members had been selected because they were
worthy representatives of AUSTRALIA. Everyone had
distinguished himself or herself in some way. They had
a great responsibility representing AUSTRALIA in
LONDON and would carry with them the best wishes and
full appreciation of the AUSTRALIAN people.
G en  EATHERS
Reply




Reception
Government House		 Maj. Gen EATHER in a brief reply said he had
pleasant memories of PERTH, which he visited in 1940
while on his way with a contingent to the MIDDLE EAST
and again on his return. Members of the Victory Parade
contingent were fully aware of their responsibility in
representing AUSTRALIA. All were anxious to go among
the BRITISH peopl,e and discuss war experiences.
After lunch all ranks with the exception of a small
security picket on the ship were given leave.
1345hrs. Gen EATHER together with all service heads of
the contingent including Col. SAGE Chief Officer
CLEMENTS Sec. Officer CARTER and Maj. DEASEY made an
official call on Sir JAMES and Lady MICHELL at
Government House. Col BARRET represented the GOC
Western Command.
Staff Corps Mess






110 AGH		 1700hrs Staff Corps Mess. VICTORIA SWAN entertained
all Officers of the contingent. The opportunity
was taken for Western Comd to pay tribute to Col. SAGE
for the job she has done as Matron in Chief of the
AANS during the war. Maj. WILLIAMS the senior male
contingent Officer present, thanked the presidetnt and
members on behalf of the contingent.
2100hrs. Officers were invited to be guests of the C.O
and Matron of 110 Aust Gen Hospital.
  Distance travelled from 22 1200hrs to 23 0800hrs.
280 miles.
  4 Western Australian members of Naval contingent joined
at PERTH
 

Page 8

  Wednesday 24 Apr                    Fremnatle - At Sea
Weather Fine clear day with only a very slight breeze.

Check Parade


 

 

 

 

 

Lined Ship


Late Arrivals
Departed                
Fremantle

0900hrs check parade held to ascertain wither all
personnel returned from leave. RAN and RAAF were all
present approx 10 AMF missing. 0950hrs Orders given
to assume dressing ship position. A crowd of approx
250 were present on the wharf, and the Western Comd Band
played the ship out, assisted by the ships Marine Band p
playing on the quarter deck. 0955hrs Missing AMF
personnel arrived in a body after gangways hhd been
drawn up and made a most undignified last minute entry
into the ship through the lower port holes. 1000hrs. The
ship drew out of the dock with the contingent lining
ships side.

The ship sailing at 1000hrs instead of 1100hrs, the
advertised sailing time caused numbers of friends and
relatives to miss their last minute farewells. The
reason for change of sailing time was due to the berth
being required for another vessel.
Officer
Casualties		 1020hrs Stood down. Good uniforms returninged during
morning. Mail distributed. Capt WIER resumed his duties
as Adjt Lt. STARMER resumed comd of his Platoon.

Position

 

Engines Break         

Down

Muster

Gen EATHERS
Address

 

 

 

 

 1200hrs Course 278 degrees. Speed 15 Knots Distance [[?]]
L,000hrs 17.3 miles. Latitude 31 Degrees 56 minutes S
Longtitude 115 Degrees 26 minutes E. 1201hrs Main
engines [[?]] levied and ship becalmed. 1258hrs Engines
repaired. 1500hrs AMF component of contingent mustered
on main deck amid ships, and [[?]] EATHER addressed
troops. He reiterated his remarks made before leaving
MELBOURNE with reference to his intention to grant as
much leave as possible. He warned all ranks that this
only appliedas long as they played the game. Any
future incidents like this morning would result in
a very drastic curtailment of leave, both in CAPE TOWN
LONDON. 1515 - 1600HRS. PT and organised games. 
  Thursday 25 Apr                          At Sea

Weather

 

Training

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Programme

 

Lecturette

 

 

Knowledge of

Australia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0510hrs. Heavy rain squall with wind rising to gale

velocity. Unpleasant, cloudy and windy day. 0830hrs

Officers conference in orderly room. Following training

programme promulgated:-

0900 - 0915hrs .Fall in, administration and Inspection

0915-1015hrs P.T. and Recreational Training.
Arms Drill every second day
1015-1030hrs Lecturette
1030-1045hrs Break

1045-1130hrs PT or Drilsl

1115-1130hrs Rifle cleaning every second day

1130-1500hrs Dinner Break

1500-1600hrs PT and Games

Programme designed to be as flexible as possible
and permit of ready alteration in event of bad weather

or other unforseen occurences. The lecturette period
provided from RAN & RAAF to AMF and vica versa. It is

also intended to use this period, to further by question

and answer, the contingent's knowlege of AUSTRALIA.
Literature provided by the Department of Information
will be issued in the near future. It is considered

that all members of the contingent, should have as many

details about AUSTRALIA both statistical and general, as

possible at their finger tips, so they may provide

ready answers to queries whilst in ENGLAND. From

CAPETOWN to PORTSMOUTH It is intended to increase the

scope to include a knowlege of ENGLAND. 0900hrs Parade

and administration of palsudine. 0915-1015hrs PT and
recreational training done as well as possible/with
 

Page 9

Entertainment

 

 

 

Anzac Day

with considerable movement in ths ship, and ships company

scrubbing down the upper deck. Lecturette time used 

to ascertain mens views on entertainment. Lt. Comd

PURVIS has been designated ships entertainment Officer, 

and is anxious to co-ordinate details of concerts, quzes, 

card parties, plays, deck games, and cinemas as soon as 

possible. Many men made sensible and useful suggestions

and quite a bit of prospective talent was discovered. 

1100hrs. Projected church parade to commemorate ANZAC 

Day on quarter deck had to be cancelled owing to 

unsuitable weather. Broke off. Church was heldin

Cafeteria Mess deck in lieu. 
Allocation to 
Ships Duties 

After discussion with the 1st Lieut it was decided to 

allocate all men to ships duties. These to be carried out 

when weather did not permit full training programme to be 

completed. It was decided to allocate duties as closely

as possible to firstly, men's civilian vocation and

secondly, military experience. This includes carpenters, 

fitters, storemen, sheet metal workers, mechanics and 

gunners. Not only will this greatly facilitate the 

working of the ship, but will help considerably to relieve

boredom. In addition, a duty platoon will be detailed 

daily for ship's duties as required. 
Tour of Engine
Room

The Captain kindly consented to allow two parties daily 

of six to be taken on a conducted tour of engine rooms 

at 0930hrs and 1040hrs respectively. 
Position

1200hrs Course 278 degrees G speed 15 Knots Wind 11[[55?]]

Knots Distance travelled since 241200hrs - 360 miles. 

Latitude 31 Degrees 10 minutes S Longitude 108 degrees 

29 minutes E
 

1315hrs Parade. All ranks stood down. 1830hrs Clocks 

retarded 1 hour.
  Friday 26 Apr                                  At Sea

Weather

 

Dissemination
of Information
on Australia

 

 

 

All Personnel
on Ships Duties

 

 

 

 

 


Invitations in
England

 

 

 

 

 

Fine clear day with very slight sea. By far the most 

pleasant day yet encountered on the voyage. 0845hrs

Conference of all Officers in the Orderly room. System

inauguarated for the distribution of information on 

AUSTRALIA. Decided to distribute pamphlets on platoon

basis, with platoon sjts retaining copies that are not in 

sufficient numbers to go round. 0900hrs All ranks 

paraded and allotted to ships duties for the mornoing. 

About tneen personnel given specialitst tasks, remainder 

used on general unskilled labour. This included a 

variety of jobs from painting, polishing and scrubbing

decks to splicing rope. The men pitched in with a will 

and presented a most unusual sight for a War Ship. All 

other training was cancelled for the morning. 0930hrs Brig

MOTEN outlined to Maj WILLIAMS suggested ideas for coping

with the expected flood of invitations in ENGLAND. 

It is proposed that a pro forma aoutlining action taken 

in detail be attached to each invitation etc., as it 

arrives. A committee of two Officers from each service

in proposed, to deal with the flood. It is hoped that 

secretarial assistance can be procured from AUSTRALIA

House on arrival. Platoon Comds will have to keep 

comprehensive lists of visits to ensure that each man sees 

as much of ENGLAND and possibly SCOTLAND as possible. 
Photographic
Prints

Brig MOTEN also directed Lt. FORBES to give thought 

to a method of obtaining prints of newspaper photographs

for the War Diary andwhosoever may desire them. This is 

 to give each man a chance of obtaining all published 

photogrpahs and at the same time be certain of eventually

receiving them. If possible this will be done in CAPE

TOWN as well as in LONDON. 
Sterling
Currency 

All AUSTRALIAN money was exchanged for Sterling during 

the day, on the basis of  £1 sterling to 25/- Australian
 

Page 10

 

This is causing some dofficulty in the ship's canteen 

who are still dealing iin both AUSTRALIAN and Sterling

As a consequence change in Australian is likely to be 

 received for sterling proferred,causing a loss. This has 

been taken up with the ships authorities and is now in the 

course of adjustment. All ranks have now had their pay

books altered to include the exchange allowance due on 

leaving AUSTRALIA.
Position

1200hrs Course 278 degrees Speed 15 Knots Distance travelled
since 25 1200 - 360 miles. Latitude 30 Degrees

10 minutes S Longitude 102 degrees 13 minutes E Wind Force

2. Now travelled 2459 miles since leaving MELBOURNE.
Deck Hockey

Deck hockey has now become a poptular and regular spiort

for most members of the contingent. It is played on a 

court constructed in the starboard waist on the main deck

Played with cane sticks and a rope "puck" it is a strenuous

and suitable game. The court is overlooked on three sides 

from "B" deck which provides & natural amphitheatre for the 

many enthusiastic spectators. 1600hrs RAAF Officers

played RAAF O.R's resulting in a win for the O.R's.

1615hrs Ward room played AMF Officers with an easy win of

for the Ward Room 1630hrs Gun room played Stokers, with 

a 5-1 win for the stokers. At present the contingent is 

at a slight disadvantage over the ships company who have

played the game before. However iti is felt by all ranks

that it will not be long before this state of affairs is 

conclusively and emphatically remedied. 
Music

1800hrs A programme of recorded music was played over the 

shipsSRE system with a commentarybby Lt.  Comdr FAULKNER

the ships schoolmaster.
Brig. MOTEN Brig MOTEN was ordered to bed for 3 days.
 

1841hrs. Now steaming dead along 30th paralled of latitude. 

Ship will steam along it, unit it arrives at Approx

40 Degrees E. Longitude.
  Saturday 27 Apr                                At Sea
Weather

Fine clear day, becoming quite cloudy and threatening 

towards mid day. Practically no swell.

Conference
Parade

 

 

Rifle Rolls

 

 

 

Bedding

 

Kit Deficiencies

 

 

Midday Meal

 

 

Interview

 

 

0845hrs Officers conference in orderly room. Notified

inoculaions for RTAB and revac would be done during

afternoon. 0900hrs. Parade. Palaudine adminisftered

and inoculation rolls brought up to date. Majority of 

men require revac and approx 50% TAB. Rifle rolls and 

comprehensive system for storing produced for the first 

time. Previously no man could be certain of getting his 

own rifle for use on morning parades. Rifles cleaned and
inspected. All personnel warned to be careful of bedding

as blankets are readily saleable articles Lists of 

deficiencies in normal kit taken - these are quite numerous 

An attempt is being made to re issue from maintenance

stocks during voyage. Io30 - 1100hrs P.T. Midday meal for 

O.R personnel now at 1130hrs instead of 1200hrs. This

will involve breaking off at 1100hrs instead of 1130hrs as
hithertoo. 1045hrs Maj. Gen EATHER interviewed each man
who arrived after 0900hrs at FREMANTLE. He pointed out
to each man individually the seriousness and implications
of his offence. No other disciplinary action has been
taken.
Position 1200hrs Course 268 degrees Speed 15 Knots Wind S W Force
(4-6 Knots) Distance since 26 1200hrs - 360 miles. Lat
Latitude 29 degrees 57 minutes S Longitude 95 degrees
22 minutes E.
Inoculation 1400hrs. All ranks with the exeption of RAAF who received
them before embarkation paraded for inoculation.
Deck Hockey 1500hrs Todays deck hockey games resulted in RAAF defeating
Army 3-1 Army Officers defeating RAAF Officers 3-0

                             

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