The Road to Chunuk Bair

A very hot day. Pvt Lewis M.F.A. died at 7 p.m. from Pneumonia. Usual routine.

The news reached us that Dr Webb had died at Colombo. Great regret was expressed by all ranks who had been associated with him at Awapuni. A memorial service was held at 10. o’clock.

A hot tropical day. Usual routine resumed.

We sailed at 12.30 for Aden.

We remained all day at Colombo. The men were not allowed ashore. Coaling operations were in progress all day. The coal is put on board by natives with baskets carried on their heads. The noise is terrific.

Church parade was held very early as we expected to arrive at Colombo by 9 or 10 oclock. It was a delightfully calm warm morning the sea as smooth as glass and quite an opalescent tint. Land was in sight at daybreak and as we neared Colombo a swarm of sampans came gliding over the [...]

Washing day as usual, and very hot weather. We learned with great regret the unfortunate accident which had overtaken Lieut. Webb on the Arawa.

A warm moist day with misty rain. A suitable day for the visit of his Deep Sea Majesty King Neptune and consorts. At 2.30 p.m. punctually he appeared over the ship’s side and took his seat with his retinue on a dais amidships aft. Major Cunningham and Lieut Turnbull were presented among the first and [...]

Both hot days, ordinary routine carried out.

Both hot days, ordinary routine carried out.