Monday 7th September 1914
Today we had our first introduction to a real bivouac. The Regiment paraded at 8 a.m. with transport and full mobilization equipment including 24 hours rations for the purpose of a route march to Highden. It was again a glorious sunny day. The Regiment paraded punctually but the transport as it was their first day out experienced difficulty in getting into column of route, and the pack horses of companies created endless diversion for the first few miles. Loads were badly put on by inexperienced men and if the load did not tumble of[sic] of its own accord the indignant pack horse soon made shift to rid himself of it. One I saw persisted in lying down until his load was altered and afterwards he went quite well. We arrived at Highden about 15 miles in time for midday tea. In the afternoon there was a short parade and then the troops were dismissed to their bivouacs. With plenty of dry scrubby bush and long grass to shelter in the men made themselves quite cosy. Logs were plentiful, camp fires were lit in each Company’s quarters and impromptu concerts were held. The night was clear and cold but everyone got a little sleep despite the novel surroundings.
Leave a Reply