The Road to Chunuk Bair

Brigade exercise in outpost work along banks of Canal, about 2 miles march from Camp. Very shady and delightfully cool.

A cold morning but indications of there being a very hot day. Church Parade was held at 9.30 a.m. the 5th Battery Field Artillery being present. No’s 2 and 3 platoons were given an hour and a half’s pack drill in the afternoon for not having their lines tidy by 8 a.m. It was a [...]

Our move to the Canal was carried out quietly and successfully. We picked up the rest of the Company at Khubri. There was the usual trouble in getting our kits and blankets to the same place as the men but everyone has now learnt to be philosophical at the temporary loss of or non arrival of [...]

This morning we received news of very heavy fighting yesterday on the Canal in the direction of Kantara and Ismailia. Through towards Suez everything is perfectly quiet. Capt Cameron returned to us tonight though not yet fit for duty. The day passed quietly. Had an interview with oc. Native Coy detailed with ourselves for defence [...]

There was no reveille this morning. We were all awakened very early 4 a.m. by heavy firing from the Canal about a mile to our front followed by gun fire. Men in the bivouac stood to arms and a platoon was sent out to get touch with Otago Battalion on our right. The firing continued [...]

A foggy morning. Still anchored in one of the lakes. Got started again at 10 a.m. An interesting day going through the Canal. Reached Port Said about 3 p.m. A very picturesque place. Numerous French warships in port also H.M.S. Swiftsure. Coaling commenced on arrival. Natives kick up terrific noise all night. Rest of ships arrive [...]

A much cooler day. Wind cold. Everybody putting on winter clothes. Arrived Suez at 5 p.m. Received our orders to disembark at Alexandria. Started up the Canal at 7 p.m. A glorious sunset. First view of the Desert. Passed numerous posts manned by Indian troops. Had to anchor during night for fog. Armed guard roused at [...]