21 August 1915

Sick sent away increasing daily - Serg. Hannah, Len Dewar today.
Have splendid possie here with cooking, dug-out shelves etc., up to dick. Battleships bombarding up at Anafarta Bay this evening.
Big attack on "Burnt Hill: (Hill 70) which was captured but lost in night.
L.H. (red and white) went to relieve 2 Batn in trenches captured from Turks on Lone Pine Ridge. The Turks know how to dig trenches and also how to build them. Some parts of the captured ones are model of safety and comfort, fine bomb-proof shelter and excellent sniper look outs. Many dead are still unburied up the gully. Some saps are full of bodies and are simply filled in - nothing else can be done with them. The Doctor is now showing consideration to the ones who have stuck to their jobs here right from the start, and he is sending many of them away for a spell.
 Dismounted English Yeomanry joined in attack on Burnt Hill advance across Salt Lake, Inscription on Turkish Shells- Death to my enemies.
...

20 August 1915

Change of weather. Cold snap. 6 hospital ships in anchorage this morning. Some small 3 pounder shells whisked over us very close to our home. One struck poor chap in 11th Btn further on. Saw him with one leg right off, the other mashed, morphia was injected and he seemed to be bearing up well, but died on way out to hospital ship. Issued with 1½ eggs per man.
C.M.R. (N.Z.) casualties on Aug 21st.
Wounded C. Cowan (Thigh), C. West, W. Gray.

19 August 1915

Howitzers from this flank being shifted to Left, another big move on the cards there. Saw 30 of 11th sent away sick in one batch. 3rd Bdge is run down with hard work. Kirkwood (sig.) sent away sick

18 August 1915

 Ninth Btn moved along into Tasmania Post. Lieut Chambers O.C. D Coy.

17 August 1915

Capt Campbell went away sick. Kempshill, Corp Bell, Reinger with old bullet wound

16 August 1915

More sick (14) sent away. Two Sharps Ward T. Reardon, Butler of 6th Ninth. The doctors of each Battalion signed declaration that Brigade is unfit for duty on account of sickness. Round to left near Turkish prisoners camp viewing shrapnel bursting over Anafarla, W. Ridges and range beyond. “Jack Johnsons” bursting on Sandy flat was No 2 Outpost searching for a howitzer battery there. Gen. Birdwood congratulated the “boys” of Aust. & NZ division on their fine night march and subsequent work last Saturday. 15th came under M.G. fire while advancing in single file and was cut up badly. Wellington Hundred’s bore the brunt of N.Z. losses. Rumour of torpedoing of transport “Royal Edward” on 14th inst. confirmed over 1000 Tommies drowned. Rum issue cut out.

15 August 1915

Notice new 6 inch howitzer up gully behind 2nd Btn trenches. Great piles of captured equipment there – also Turkish rifles and bayonets, trenching forks etc. indicating the heavy losses of last week. Dead are still being brought out – saw 15 this morning, some in canvas boarded jackets and limed. Many bodies charred. Daily rum issue still continues. Heard R.Q.M.S was arrested for being tight. Some wounded returned, a few from England, singing praises for the good time they had. Marquerson, W. Cooper, Hughes sent away sick.

14 August 1915

Issue of TWO figs per man, 1 egg, 1/8 tin of milk, handful of rice, 10 sultanas! Hill 971 is surrounded by our boys on three sides. Nobody can live on the top, as it is swept by Artillery of both forces. Many casualties here.

13 August 1915

Bombardment at Achi Baba. Rumoured another attempt to take Hill 971 to be made tonight,

12 August 1915

Serg. Dewar promoted 2nd Lieut. C. Coy. Fighting still proceeding on left. General position is uncertain, we have made a good advance, but not accomplished all that was hoped. Casualties said to be 10000. 15th, 16th Batn A.I.F. suffered, also N.Z boys and East Lancs. Tobacco gift from Over Seas Club.

11 August 1915

Hill 971 still untaken. Smell of dead bodies getting almost unbearable in our front trenches. Gift of Tobacco from overseas Club. Rumoured that we are to relieve 1st Bge which is reduced to 700 strong by recent fighting, 2nd Btn suffering particularly heavy. Their dead lie on heaps on the Turkish parapets on Pine Ridge. Today petroleum bombs are being thrown with the object of setting fire to the dead bodies lying out in front.

10 August 1915

Round to left flank witnessing bombardment by Navy in Anafarla bay; Heard later target was Turkish Div, advancing in Mass. Saw Turks shelling our advanced positions on the plain 5 miles inland, also observation balloon Village of Anafarla in flames. Red Cross depot on shore near old N.Z. “No. 2” outpost. Constant stream of wounded coming from the hills. Very severe fighting on the high ridges. Hill 971 proving a tough proposition. Saw 30 Turkish wounded, an evil-looking lot of ragamuffins, mostly Greek mostly types, big middle-aged men. Said that 60 000 troops have landed on this flank, including cavalry. Received parcel of knitted socks from home, which are very acceptable, considering I have been wearing my present pair for 3 weeks.

9 August 1915

12th Btn supporting 2nd and 1st Bge on Lone Pine getting rather a rough time. 42 of them cut off in a sap. Saw many dead brought out of 2nd Btn trenches, over 1000 in 4 days. Constant rifle fire all day, more troops being landed. Rumoured that transport “Royal Edward” torpedoed off Lemnos with loss of 1200 Tommies.
Final assault on Chunak Bair. Today – preceded by heavy bombardment. Gurkhas reached summit on neck between Hill 971 and Hill Q, but were driven back. Exhausted N.Z. boys relieved at night, after hanging on all day. At dawn on 10th Turks drove the Tommies down the hill.

8 August 1915

At dawn NZ colum gained S.W. slope of main peak of Chunok Bair.Lancaster of our platoon killed in bomb tunnel. Big 10 inch howitzer shells dropping near us. One took leg off signaller lying in his bivouac. 5th Batn Connaught Rangers supporting us. Heard that fine advance has been made by new landing party. “Bluey” Blake wounded

7 August 1915

During night large body of troops landed on both sides of Anafarla Bay. Whole Northern sector is crowded with shipping, many transports, destroyers, 5” cruisers, 100 other craft. Big engagement proceeding, Turkish shrapnel bursting over landing parties. Turks counter attacked on 2nd Bge during night bombing them out of some trenches. At dawn on 8th N.Z. column gained S.W. Slope of main Peak of Chunak Bair.

6 August 1915

Naval artillery observer killed by sniper last night at dusk. He groaned as they lifted him up so they carried him out to the Aid Post in an oil-sheet, but one look at his pale face satisfied the doctor. At daybreak this morning Abdul was surprised to see some transports and a large number of smaller craft plying to and fro, so he commenced a vigorous rifle and shell fire which he is still keeping up. Many fresh troops are in the gully below us. The more the merrier - We will want them all to-night. Orders are out to put blanket and sheet in pack and hand them in, so that looks like business. Who is to try for the first line of trenches we do not yet know. Gun Ridge is the main objective on this flank but there are several smaller ridges, all entrenched that must be taken first. Issued with iron rations. No tea or water for 24 hours. At noon bombardment commenced and first Bge captured 3 lines of trenches at 5.30 towards Lone Pine. 2nd Bge charged at midnight but were not so successful. Indian Mountain Battery left us to support Ghurkas. Getting issue of ⅛ tin of milk per day. Also a little rice. Desperate trench fighting all night on Lonesome Pine. 1st Bge had frightful losses. N.Z. div. and 4 Aus Bge made night march from Fisherman's Hut and No. 2 outpost capturing No.3 Outpost, Banchop’s Hill and Big and Little Tabletops. At dawn Indians had reached the farm, and N.Z. Inf was on Rhododendron Ridge.
Something big must be coming off as we are getting rum issue every day instead of once in a blue moon.

5 August 1915

8000 Tommies landed during night, East, West, South, North Lancashires, Welsh regiments of the Kings Own, and Kitcheners Army. Incendiary shell set fire to wireless station today. Issued with white square of linen for back and armlets for sleeves to be used as distinguishing badge in coming night attack. More rum.

5 August 1915

8000 Tommies landed during night, East, West, South, North Lancashires, Welsh regiments of the Kings Own, and Kitcheners Army. Incendiary shell set fire to wireless station today. Issued with white square of linen for back and armlets for sleeves to be used as distinguishing badge in coming night attack. More rum.

4 August 1915

 Sixth Reinf. arrived this morning. A likely looking lot. Large number of fresh troops reported landed during night. A big move on shortly, Went through test in signalling by Headquarters. More rum.

3 August 1915

More hammering away by Navy at Achi Baba. Rum issue three days running.

11th Bn lost Leans Trench.

2 August 1915

 Dead of 11th buried today, also 4 Turks which looked very famished and down-at-heel in appearance. Their low condition indicates a shortage of rations. The skin of one little fellow was stretched across his ribs like parchment paper. They belonged to 48th Regt. Some of the dead were headless. One clutched a torn half of a bible in either hand. Thirty-one good Australians for the sake of a few chains of trenches. Went round to NZ Rest camp. Saw R Caskey, Phil McGregor, Smallridge, Gibson of Timaru, also Capt. Foulker, who was reported killed but was only badly wounded. Steel darts dropped there yesterday by Taube. More rum.

1 August 1915

Trench successfully carried out at moonrise after blowing up saps.
11th Bat. lost about 110 men. 31 killed 2nd L H Colonel (Colonel Hubert Harris) killed. Firing line supported with heavy rifle fire. McSpadden (one of 4th-9th) struck in jaw. Heavy fire from Turkish batteries for some hours. (2 days later 11th were bombed out of part of “Lean's” trench. Every man on watch there was killed. In retaking it many casualties were incurred. Men had bombs but nothing to light them with! Altogether 11th casualties in this sector have been 220.11th men were mostly scattered by shrapnel from Gun Ridge, which got on to them very lively. Many were killed in the trenches and Aratonga Sap. More rum.

31 July 1915

More heavy artillery duels. Rum issue. Preparations are on foot to storm a forward trench opposite Tasman Post tonight. One platoon of D Coy. Lieut. Chambers, Serg. Kenyon taking part. We lay out in what field protecting flank of attacking party.

30 July 1915

Awakened by sharp blow on arm at 3am caused by flying piece of stone from bomb which burst down the gully. Drew tin of milk in lottery. Sale of milk etc. now prohibited, as some of the ASC have been “pinching” tinned stuff belonging to the army. Olive Grove and Achi Bada bombarded.

28 July 1915

More bombs and howitzers during night. This morning before daylight at "stand to" time heard Turkish trumpet sound call immediately followed by heavy rifle fire in centre maintained for half hour. We awaited attack but nothing happened at our end in spite of this being the "Feast of  Ramagan" [Ramadan] a national Turkish festival. Bomb fell near our possie sending down dirt and riddling some equipment with holes. Total British causalities on Gallipoli to end of May 37000, officers killed 500, men killed 7000. (from "News of the World", official figures) 
DCM's awarded to 9th Batn -"Darky" Kenyon, Geo. Robey, S.S.M. Steel, Lieut. Benson, Lieut. Finley wounded yesterday is NOT dead (reported dead). Went through seven campaigns. 
13 more caught by shell on the beach. A sapper of A Coy killed by sniper. Several more hit on road today, one at latrines.

27 July 1915

 11th Battn. who have been resting, relieved 12th. One of the nearby promoted officers, Findley of B Coy, a capable Gt. imperial man, had the hard luck to be hit this morning. A bad shrapnel wound in the back. Young Galway, returns, also J. O'Donnell.

26 July 1915

Grumpy Addis hit by sniper in hand and close to eye – a narrow escape. Many sick parade daily. Average of 4 per day serious cases sent away from Batn. High explosive howitzers are lobbing very close to position of Kentish and Glascow batteries in gully beneath us. One shell dropped among group of 12 men on beach today. Two killed outright, one had both legs blown off, the remainder wounded. Surely there is some arrangement possible that would reduce these losses on the beach. Daily fatigue parties of men are sent down there by the Q.M.Ss of Battalions on trifling errands that could be easily performed after dark. A heavy toll is taken along the sea frontage among these beach parties. Legitimate losses in the actual firing line are surely heavy enough without exposing men to this unnecessary danger.

25 July 1915

On duty all day. Usual routine. No sign of the expected attack yet, which we are eagerly awaiting!

24 July 1915

 Inoculated again. Tin of milk for 2/-. Navel 4.7 siege gun is being shifted to new pit – without firing a shot, and enemy know her exact locality, and have dropped shells on position. Turks have sapped to within 20 yds of Tasmania post and during last night broke sap in and sand-bagged it up. There will be something doing here directly. 12th are going out tonight to capture it. Sinclair  MacLaggan, Brigade Colonel promoted to Brigadier General.

23 July 1915

We are now supplied with new kind of respirator – a flannel helmet saturated with chemical, and with sheet of mica to see through which fits over head and neck. Enemy supposed to be putting gas generators in position. On duty last night, attack expected but did not materialise. Kentish howitzers plugging away at intervals all night. Jerky rifle fire rising and falling spasmodically. The genuine attack rises in one loud rolling roar of rifle fire like a hail storm on iron roofs.

Unwanted Luxuries
Myself and Gil went down the hill
and bought two tins of peaches.
We ate one fill, but I got ill
And Gilly had dry reaches!
Sleep can only be matched for minutes at a time in the trenches, what with “stand to”, false alarms, and changing watch. To a drowsy ear the trench noises resemble the banging of doors, rattling of windows, and crackling of whips in a windy, rickety old house. Bought some curry roots from a cook of the Indian Mountain Battery. He pounded it up for me in his mortar – an unexploded shrapnel shell. Curry and rice for supper – fit for a king. Turks shelled and attacked Tommies this afternoon, on Left flank – repulsed with loss of 40 killed.

22 July 1915

The gallant Colonel leaves us again after a very short visit. One of D coys blows his finger off. (This kind of accident is getting very frequent.) One of C Coy blows off a thumb.

21 July 1915

Rumoured that Turks have brought their strength up to 100000 by Reinf. Mostly raw recruits. German general on Southern Front superceded by Turkish. This morning Paddy (Granville) Grenfield of D Coy, got tired of life and blew the top of his head off. Irrational thing to do here, for there is sudden death to be had from Johnny Turk for the asking.

20 July 1915

The “Leads” not satisfied with progress of sapping. Reckon rate of 1 foot per hour in cut 2 feet 6 each by 6 feet should be maintained. But how can men work on this tucker and with broken rest. One engineer Lance-jack said his team at Quinn’s post drove in seven feet per shift. Liar! Quick of D Co hit in back by shrapnel on road.

19 July 1915

Colonel Lee Back again. Promotion in 9th - Sgts. Carson, Koch, Findley, Perries to be Lieuts. More bombarding “down South”.

18 July 1915

Heavy guns engaged early this morning down on Southern front. Aeroplane “spotting” for our howitzers over Quinns Post and Walker’s Ridge. Gen Birchwood and staff  “inspected” our lines this morning. Sight 8 inch howitzers belonging to 4th Kent R.F.A. being placed into position in gully below us. Naval siege gun is mounted in stout little sandbag fort and will soon be ready for action now. My rifle, 7266 which was issued to me at Enoggera struck by piece of shrapnel which shattered wood work. In exchange from Armourer I have a battered old rifle, rusty, gritty and stiff in the bolt. Shell-fire from centre is bursting over I.M.B. and enfilading our lines again this evening. Two men hit.

17 July 1915

Water problem is still serious. Tramped down to beach and up Shrapnel Gully without success; came back with empty bottles. German aeroplane dropped two bombs early this morning - one on shrapnel green (this one failed to explode) the other on the beach. During “Tommies” attacks on Achi Baba and Kerivies Dere [Kereves Dere] 12th to 14th inst. a Scotch Battalion, after taking a trench 300 yds long in centre, advanced over crest and was seen .no more. Turks re-occupying first trench. First night another battalion went forward and also disappeared over the hill after retaking the trench. Within an hour Johnny Turk was again manning the trench, and communication was again cut off. British staff bewildered by this disappearance of two regiments, but mystery cleared up following night when detachments came fighting their way back – an astonishing performance, like Jonah issuing from the Whale’s belly. Ration issue of rice.

16 July 2015

Olive Grove battery which has accounted for 600 men along beach in 12 weeks, is being well peppered this afternoon by Monitor. Great clouds of dust rising from their position. Shrapnel dropping over Indiana Mountain. Battery is annoying us again. So far today 3 wounded from this direction. Mate scored a tin of Ideal milk from Serg Dewar – what a luxury

Although I need a decent feed
And feel damn weak and funny
The beach is “dry” there’s naught to buy
So what’s the use of money?

Inoculated once more against Cholera. Two more hit on road in last half hour - one seriously. There are more casualties (on the average day) behind the firing line than there are in the trenches. It seems rotten policy to have men drilling and working in exposed places just as dangerous on account of shrapnel as the front trenches are from snipers. Deasley – who said they would never get him – hit by sniper while carrying clay. Lieut. Kerr, who is one of the just returned wounded, hit in stomach by shrapnel. Died 11pm

15 July 1915

15th Snipers busy again. Caught by Darky Goddard this morning – rather severe wound in jaw and arm. Bullet came through loop hole. Squad with Lieut Benson left in Imbros as body guard for Gen Hamilton, a soft job. Payday today and the nap schools are in full swing buying up the 10/- notes. “Backsheesh” issue of cigarettes, a gift from Vicars – London. Loose shell on beach – the toll of the beach is mounting up. Serg.t Dewar back.
Paid  10/- in English Paper money

14 July 1915

Big parcel post -tasted piece of cake - what a novelty! Btn being inoculated against cholera. Abdul sent over a late shell at dusk. Was standing on wharf down at beach when it whistled just over my head and struck a barge behind. The whole beach front was crowded with swimmers who all stampeded for safety. When the stretcher bearer brought off the wounded we saw that only four had been hit. One poor devil had both legs hanging by shreds of skin and muscle - a terrible sight. Said to be Dr Campbell of 8th L.H. Another had foot blown off. Others were not hit. Shell was high explosive - it was a fluke shot for if it had struck the water instead of the barge it would have been harmless. Saw Lieut Doug Fraser tonight on beach.

13 July 1915

Fatigue party is bringing up Naval Long Tom (4.7) should shake up “Beachy Bill” when placed in position. Reported that Ghurkas are on summit of Achi Baba but no visible sign of them. Another uneasy night - jerky rattle of rifle fire all night, reserves standing to. Did 12 hours duty all day.

12 July 1915

A big move expected shortly. 10th are back from Imbros, also other Batns. Demonstration at 8am by 12th Batn Supported by our rifle and machine gun fire. Big assault in progress on Achi Baba continuous roar of artillery and dust is rising along the ridge in heavy clouds. Mail for me, a letter from Effie announcing death of Uncle Angus McMaster on May 19th. Another rally tonight along centre. Intermittent outbreak of firing.

11 July 1915

Young Galway shot sniper (I observed for him. Turk thrown right out of his hole by explosion) in tunnel under Turk's trench. Shot caused small explosion - probably bomb. W Foster firing in evening through same loop hole, had finger of left hand almost severed by explosive bullet. Down on beach bathing, got some packets of cocoa from patrol boats crew. Cruiser bombarding again today aided by captive balloon and aeroplane. Strips of canvas laid on ground in shape of various letters used to communicate with observer. Last night took message round to 11th Btn, down through long sap Pitch dark had to feel my way along sides of trench, very steep and narrow. New firing line not yet completed, so 11th lie out in front of their trenches at night. I could not find their officer. He was out in front with patrol. I groped about for some time along the gully before I came up to them. One sentry nearly pushed his bayonet into me.This evening shrapnel caught some of the 10th Reinf. 1 killed shot through heart. Turk blew up two of our trenches.

9 July 1915

Parcel from home containing knitted belt – rather warm for this weather, but will be appreciated later on. Sharp rattle of machine-gun, rather like noisy motor bikes - about nine o’clock. On duty 1600 – 2400.

10 July 1915

Round to NZ flank. Saw C Cowan, Ernie Snushall, T Horgan. Heard Punch Houblan had hand blown off by bomb. W Wall, Stan Robinson killed on Southern Front. 2nd Aus Bde lost 1600 that day.Trenches here closer than on our flanks. Dead Turks lying right up to trench, which is crawling with maggots. Stench awful. Such is war. Cruiser bombarding this evening. Heard from Sig Crawford of 15th that Nugget Trevena was wounded in chest by shrapnel on beach

8 July 1915

On duty 0800 to 1600. Some shelling from Beachy Bill and howitzer in centre. Dug another possé. Much discontent among Non-Coms and men since Capt Campbell took charge of Coy. Some lost their stripes last week, another reverted to ranks today. Heard there was armistice on Southern Front. Turk lost 5000 between June 28th and July 2nd. 1st Bat returned after 8 days spell at Imbros. They had Fresh meat, veges, bread, no drill, plenty of sea bathing, no shrapnel to worry them – a complete change from trench life.

7 July 1915

Attack with heavy rifle fire at night in centre. Round at L.H. [Light Horse] inquiring if Scotty McLean killed in attack on Gaba Tepe. 5th L.H. lost 22 killed some by shell from monitor on that day.

6 July 1915

In support trenches. Letter from Mary dated 16th April. More shelling this evening. Some of the “Glesco” Territorials belonging to the Howitzer battery hit. 10th Btn leaving for Imbros tonight to spell. 16th left yesterday. Said that monitor silenced big howitzer (11 inch) this morning early, 10th Btn, who are spelling in the galleries, we left on Sunday, had 1 killed, 20 wounded by shrapnel this evening, narrow escape myself. Shell cap went “plunk” over my shoulder. Allen of 15th Platoon had finger cut off by sniper bullet while holding periscope. Flynn issued with loaded rifle blew off finger of left hand (another “accident”?)

5 July 1915

4 hours sapping in ‘B’ tunnel which is a drive down into ‘Allah’ Gully. Is for an  outpost for observation and bomb throwers, and will be link with firing line on next ridge when completed. New howitzers brought up by enemy throwing eleven inch shell. Fired 4 rounds into Shrapnel gully, but not yet located by our Artillery. Had a great win tonight. Discovered parcel of tinned stuff for sale on beach, and bought the lot – pineapple and salmon 2/- a tin, jam 1/-. Hurried back to the trenches and we had a feast right away. Maori contingent landed, a fine body of men. Searched up Walkers gully searching for Gabities brother among NZ boys without success. Sadd-a-bahr heavily bombarded from Asiatic and Kilid Bahr sea base followed by attack which cost Turks 500 killed. 12 inch shells came from Turkish battleship in Straits. One lobbed near Indians in Shrapnel Gully. Issued with a few dates – 6 per man

4 July 1915

Resting all day. A big mail but nothing for me. Cruiser shelled some objective in direction of Chana early this morning. Two mines exploded on crest of Achi Baba at noon. How constantly and wistfully we watch the top of that ridge waiting for the Tommies to come over. Trenches along this Brigade much battered about by shellfire today. Two of ours wounded. Saw one killed around corner, part of 11th Btn.

3 July 1915

Four hours sapping then in firing line all night. Miserable night as there was not sufficient room to lie down and sleep is impossible. Heavy shower of rain. Turkish sniper knocked sandbag out of loophole and also nearly hit periscope. Heard patrol dogs barking and the cry of Turks wounded by some Lyddide the destroyers poured in.

2 July 1915

 Two of D Coy hit by shrapnel, one Lake, broken arm. More heavy firing on Achi Baba. Shower at night, “Stand to” at 3am. On duty all night.

1 July 1915

 9th relieved 10th Btn in their line of trenches. 13th Platoon in firing line. Viewed ridges in front through periscope as snipers busy. Counted nine bodies of our boys lying on slope in a small space. Boots and tunics, equipment etc. stripped off them. On Monday some of them got right up to the Turks trench, and are lying out there still just as they fell. The trench can be enfiladed from Gala Tepe, so if we are bombarded things will be lively in here. One of C. Coy wounded by shrapnel already. Large numbers of NZ wounded on beach last night. Heard that many Turks captured at Quinns Post. All Jettys except the new Pier washed away by high wind and sea.

Inscription on a grave on Shrapnel Green:-
Reflect, old friend, as you pass by,
As you are now, so once was I,
As I am now, so you shall be,
Prepare you then to follow me.

Saw Pearcy of C Coy brought out of firing line with trigger finger blown off – accidentally (?). Reported that Turks lost 1500 killed on Achi Baba last night.

Grave Inscription on Shrapnel Green

Inscription on a grave on Shrapnel Green:-
Reflect, old friend, as you pass by,
As you are now, so once was I,
As I am now, so you shall be,
Prepare you then to follow me.

30 June 1915

1st Bn left for Lemnos last night to re-organise and spell. High wind and dust storm after dark started heavy rifle fire from both sides. Search party from 11th trenches got in a few bodies. General Birdwood complimented 9th on Monday’s action. The object of the attack which was delivered by a squadron of 5th L. H. 2 troops, 7th L. H., 9th and 11th Btns, was to prevent Turkish Reinf. at Eski Kaio from going down to Achi Baba against Anglo French, who were assembling trenches here. Our Artillery fired 1400 rounds in 3 hours, and got onto several bodies of the enemy coming into the open. The 9th attacked across the razor-back ridge in the direction of the Lonesome Pine and Johnston's Jolly. L.H. took twin trenches, lower down Poppy valley.

29 June 1915

Heard 5th L.H. lost heavily in morning in yesterday’s action. They took “Twin Trenches”, but retired during night. Our artillery got onto some Turkish Reinf. coming up from Olive Grove. Many of our dead are to be seen lying up against enemy’s trenches, stripped of equipment and clothes. Saw burial of 17 men, Capt Le Treve and 3 officers of 11th Battalion. Some bodies were brought in during night. Impossible to get those on far ridge. British made good advance yesterday capturing a hill and 3 lines of trenches. Steady bombardment again today. Saw trench on left of 11th being blown up. Turks cross-cut under sap of 1st Btn Engineer and 2 men were killed. Many carried away suffering from fumes. Although the officers were told of the danger the sap was in and were thought to hear the tapping of the Turks’ digging tools, they remained inactive and did nothing to counter the enemy’s move. Some of our “heads” are mighty incompetent.

28 June 1915

Big bombardment on Achi Baba at 12.15 pm B and C coy 9th Bn supplied firing party to join in attack on Turkish trenches. We came back at 4 pm. Casualties not yet known, but saw many wounded. Glennie badly wounded, young Gabites missing. Men are dissatisfied with the operation, as no one was told what to do. The thing seems to have been bungled. D Coy was standing to in support. Poor old Corporal Joe Woodsby (the finest non-com in the 4th Reinf.) was killed early in the action. Also Farance, Sergt. Rainsbury hit in back. Volunteered for party, to go out and bring in wounded – hope we are allowed to go.
Heard this corporal’s evidence at enquiry. When he left the position his section had taken up he was the only one able to get back. All the rest were either dead or wounded.
Crawley wounded, but heard he got in after dark, having include 2 more?. Sg. Hepburn killed, Major Welsh wounded, Lieu Jordain and many others. Casualties total over 140 in B and C Coys. Mon. 4th Reinf. killed Collier, McDonald, Glennie (died of wounds). Wounded - Serg. Warner, Comalleth, big “Bung”.
Heard from Corporal Brown of C. Coy that he saw Gabites lying badly wounded with foot shot off in firing line. He spoke to him when company retired, but he did not answer. Volunteer search party was not allowed to go out by Brigadier. Hepburn, Hamilton, Sullivan Quartermaster Harvey killed, 20 missing

27 June, 1915

City of Glascow Arty one half battery (4 guns, 5 inch howitzer, 50 lb shell, 12oz cordite) put in position. Did good execution.

25 June, 1915

Some Glascow Artillery landed with howitzers. Balloon steamer observing this afternoon. Battleship with 5 destroyers bombarded some object over Olive Grove. Dense column of smoke (said to be Maidos in flames) rising in East this evening. Capt Campbell got slight wound in foot yesterday.

26 June, 1915

Last night changed papers with young Gabites, of Timaru, who is on gallery below me, in C Cy 9th. He was on same station in Q as “Pop” Gunn and joined original 9th. More shrapnel today from above Grove (5500 yds) and high explosive from howitzer on Gaba Tepe. English officer of Indian Mountain Battery on hill top above us killed by one shell. No mail for me today! It makes me envious to see other fellows getting letters. However, Gabites has a Timaru Herald. I think the work is wearing him out – he looks ill.

6 July 1915

In support trenches. Letter from Mary dated 16th April. More shelling this evening. Some of the “Glesco” Territorials belonging to the Howitzer battery hit. 10th Btn leaving for Imbros tonight to spell. 16th left yesterday. Said that monitor silenced big howitzer (11 inch) this morning early, 10th Btn, who are spelling in the galleries, we left on Sunday, had 1 killed, 20 wounded by shrapnel this evening, narrow escape myself. Shell cap went “plunk” over my shoulder. Allen of 15th Platoon had finger cut off by sniper bullet while holding periscope. Flynn issued with loaded rifle blew off finger of left hand (another “accident”?)

24 June, 1915

Shifted once more to another possie, right alongside dead Turk. No smell, as he is built in with sand-bags. More shrapnel among our possies this morning just when roll was being called and men were crowded together.  
McGuinness of D Coy killed outright. McGuiness rolled over and over down the hill like a shot rabbit. They carried him away on a stretcher. His head wobbled and blood trickled from hi sopen mouth. Death is not always beautiful. Serg. Dibble wounded in arm. Bugles Tommy White in mouth, and 2 more in leg and neck. Very safe position we occupy – I don’t think. The Major forgot his dignity and ducked as nimbly as the next man into shelter. All parades cancelled for the morning. 15 killed on beach altogether today - a big tally. The toll of casualties behind the firing line here is far too heavy. E. Galway sent to hospital ship with appendicitis, also Hogg. Sinclair court was jailed for being absent from duty from May 2nd till 26th. He was discovered living in dugout down on beach. Sentenced to two years hard labor. Officially announced that on Tuesday the French succeeded in capturing 600 yds of trenches, including “Haricot’ redoubt.

Popular Trench Song

Down at Anzac, In the night-time
When we go out patrolling
Down at Anzac In this moon time
You can hear those jam-tins rolling
And old Abdul’s rifles rattle,
you can hear his bullets crackle
Down at Anzac.

Chorus

Rollalong Beachy Billy,
Roll along
But you’ll miss us,
In the night-time.” [Popular trench song]

23 June, 1915

Quiet night. Reinforcements put to musketry drill BY NUMBERS
Incredible that such things – the very A B C of drill should be done in the firing line. Saw Dalzell, Carter, Hartley and Curly Evans of Sigs Reinf. Heard J Mann died in Suez on 26th May, buried same day, Military funeral.

22 June, 1915

5th Reinf of 9th arrived. Saw big Jim McConnell with them. Tommies have made another advance of a few hundred yards. Mail day. Got 'Workers' but no letters. A few Canteen stores that were allotted to our Btn, sold out in very few minutes. Secured tin of marmalade. Sold my issue of cigarettes to “raise the wind.” Reinforcements think I must have an awful wound with such a quantity of bandages round my face.

21 June, 1915

An old Turk sleeps with our Platoon
Each night beneath the silent moon
He’s DEAD, you see – but pray don’t swoon
He’s well tucked in with sand bags.

 Rather bad night with very swollen face, severe headache. Off duty again today. At 18.30 last night (2230 new time) 11th Btn and NZ sent up blue and white flares and rockets, which drew an outburst of fire and bombs from the Turkish trenches lasting ½ hour. Steady bombardment at south end of Peninsula attain this morning, big attack on down there. 29 th Divs. did well. Great chase in scrub here after young rabbit. Five men wounded in our “safe” galleries from shrapnel.

20 June, 1915

 More “spelling” in the shape of digging and sapping - “what a rest was are having!” Reported on sick list for poisoned lip caused by flying bit of gravel from shell burst. Treated with Carbolic fomentation. Mate and self had secured a lovely room-for-two possies with good head cover, sloping back and cooking convenience, not to mention fine view of beach and shipping, but when lots were drawn today we had to make room for another platoon and shift back to the galleries adjacent to the dead Turks. Issue with ration of beans today which are more acceptable that the dried vegetables we have been getting – and throwing away on account of the time it takes to cook them, and the scarcity of firewood. Saw some cases of dried figs and dates at A.S.C. depot, but we have not got out share yet. These little extras have to run the gauntlet of many quarter masters.

19 June, 1915

9th relieved by 5th L.H. Shifted round into another gully to “spell” for a week. First days spelling consisted in digging galleries and possies for the whole battalion, clearing scrub, sapping in the trenches and shifting dead bodies from the trenches we have to sleep on. One of our boys was reburied decently on the top of the hill.He had red and white signalling flags (8th Btn) numbered 1081. 5 casualties today in 9th from shrapnel. Also saw two men killed near Hqrs on beach. My lip cut by flying stone.

18 June, 1915

 Heard we are to shift from this position tomorrow. Volunteered for party going out tonight to attack trenches on Gaba Tepe. Notice that most wounded men who return are “nervy” - officers included. Today is 100th Anniversary of Waterloo. At this instant one of own shells has burst prematurely hailing fragments of metal right amongst us. The same gun slaughtered some of the 9th a fortnight ago.

17 June, 1915

In support of trenches “Stand to” from 3 am till daybreak. In afternoon many shrapnel burst among our possies, narrow escapes, plentiful but not a man hit.

15 June, 1915

Signallers reorganised but still have to do duty in trenches like the rest. 24 hours in trenches in firing line. All night the rattle of incessant musketry came up on the wind from Achi Baba. The Tommies must be attacking again. Had short sleep from 4 to 6 (or in the new naval time from 0400 to 0600) when Abdul’s reveille came along in the shape of a 10Mll shrapnel shell which fell in our trench but failed to explode. My mate on observation post is one of returned wounded – not fit for duty for weeks yet, wound only partially healed, but declared “cured” by some incompetent doctor in the base hospital. Wounded men who can use their hands have to hobble about and act as orderlies for their sick mates- 13 in a tent in hospital this chap was in. They must be short of staff.
When the rum came ashore from the wreck all the hard cases collected every dixie and tin they could lay hands on. But one officer was ahead of them, and he staved in the tops of the barrels.
Heard one case were stitching broke loose through want of attention, and patient bled to death. Another lost a foot through wound being left undressed for days, till mortification set in.

14 June, 1915

Shrapnel caught one of our own water party last night. Posted P.C. (a piece of cardboard) home to Molly, and letter in "sugar" from ration packet to F.C.H.. Envelopes very scare here.

Destroyers again shell Gala Tepe from close in shore. Abdul dare not show his nose now but another long range gun from the other side (Gallipoli) still whistles first thing every morning.

(read more - this may have been a 12 inch naval gun at Canakale on Asian's side of Dardanelles)

13 June, 1915

Awakened by the cheerful sound of big guns from a battleship and cruisers lying off Gala Tepe and enfilading the Sari Bair and Bukoli trenches with high explosive, which sent clouds of dust high in air, like Rotorua geysers after two hours engagement squadron with escort of eight scurrying destroyers made back to Imbros base. The navy is very careful with the big boats in these waters since the Triumph and others battleships were torpedoed. In afternoon went round to left flank. Saw W. McConnell and other of the N.Z. boys. Robin Caskey wounded by splinter from periscope. Turks again occupy No. 3 outpost and snipe along beach. Saw six dead mules, result of well -aimed shell.

11 June, 1915

 Another heavy cannonade and attack in centre last night. "Scotty", an Engineer, struck by spent bullet while sleeping in possie next to mine. Flesh wound 4 inches deep. Scotty thought someone threw a stone at him. "Head-acher" a gun with noisy bark posted on ridge behind us, demolished a new gun pit over near Olive Ridge.

10 June, 1915

Wrote letters home - no envelopes, posted it in "Wild Woodbine" packet. Shifted into new possie. Discovered some "greybacks" [lice] on shirt & spent pleasant half hour in the sport of "chatting" a very popular sport here.

9 June, 1915

Abdul fired not one shot a long beach yesterday. Must be husbanding his arm. Quinn's post is still lively every night. Our btn likely to get a turn out there soon. Shrapnel burst among our possies this evening coming from new direction. Many shells dropped harmless into sea.

8 June, 1915

Met C. McDougall, of Timaru just over with N.Z. Reinf.  Capt. Houlkey not dead only wounded. I saw him in Rest Gully.)
Heard result of big bombardment last Friday after fleet and massed batteries had shelled Turkish line, British and French charged, capturing all trenches except extreme left where shell fire had not destroyed entanglements, as a result of this Ghurkas were enfiladed and forced to retire from their captured positions. In centre British Territorial's and Naval Div. made advance of 500 yards along double line of trenches, extending 3 miles; on Right French captured "Haricot" redoubt which they still hold. L.H. went out again last night to try and bring in Lieut. Hanley's body from the twin trench but it had been shifted by the Turks.

7 June, 1915

During night 5th L.H. patrol lying in outpost along beach came under fire officers killed, his body still lying out there. Surprised to meet Alex Jameson, who is in the 5th LH machine gun section. He joined from Proserpine. LH officers name was Hanley; wife and 3 young children. Patrol found more Turks in outpost than they bargained for and had to beat a retreat. One trooper had jaw shattered. Turks get most of their water for trench use from Boghali. The periscope rifle they consider a terrible weapon. Prisoners state they are tired of the war and wish to return to their families. If they retreat their officers shoot them. If they advance to our lines with rifles, our men shoot them; if they come forward without rifles, their comrades shoot them.

6 June 1915

Very quiet night. On N.Z. flank saw J. Trotter, C. Cowan, young Dines. Turks have very strong position in centre, thus -They have 5 consecutive rows of trenches enabling them to fire over the heads of those in front.

Some men are cutting short the time fuse on hand bombs to prevent enemy throwing them back. Noticed artillery pulling big 6 inch howitzers up the hill 40 men hauling on the rope. 

"ANZAC" cove- derived from Australian New Zealand Army Corps
Five more men but on the beach by shrapnel this evening. Our guns seem quite helpless to silence this battery in Olive Grove. 450 Turks captured by British in southern Zone.

5 June, 1915

Attack on Turkish enfilading trenches resulted in this being captured, lost and recaptured. Losses, I fear rather severe. Another narrow escape this evening at A.S.C. depot. Heard shell screaming along beach so fell flat on the sand. Just in time debris scattering over us. One of the 11th had a great gap torn in his side. Several shells have burst over this spot today. 3 killed while bathing, several wounded. Even with the warning of dead men in front of their eyes, some men are not to be deterred from swimming in this place. They seem absolutely callous and indifferent to danger. 31 Turks captured at Quinn's Post.

4 June, 1915

 Booth, Bull buried this morning. Booth pierced by shell. His mate Corporal Knight who lost his leg, bearing up well. Serg Braithwaite compound fracture of arm, Capt Melbourne- shattered hand, Hawker - Haemorrhage of lungs (since dead).
Increased rumble of heavy guns down the coast since 10.30 am. Big bombardment in progress. Slackening off in afternoon. Up Shrapnell Gully for water. Big attack on tonight.

16 June 1915

Spell from the trenches – 24 hours resting, then a day sapping, a day in the supports and trenches again. This routine is monotonous but we must put up with this trench work till the time for advance comes. Strong winds and high seas yesterday which threw up on the beach a number of casks of wine and rum from some wreck. Then news spread like wild fire, and men risked their lives broaching the liquor, 2 killed, 3 wounded by shrapnel while staving in one cask.

3 June, 1915

. “Alphabetical” Davies, a slummocky dull-witted fellow, missing this morning. Heard later he is under guard in the trenches - arrested in a gun pit waving his arms in suspicious manner. There is some one in our lines giving information about gun positions but, “Alphabetical” has not the wit for that game. An Artillery officer has been caught signalling morse through a loop-hole with a glowing cigarette lighter. In the heavy fighting in their trenches lately the 15th lost a Major, and Captain Hughie Quinn, a fine man. Heard Serg Kenyon has been awarded D.C.M; Dr Butler D.S.O. 500 Reinforcements landed early yesterday including 15th. German “Taube” dropped bombs on us yesterday. This ‘dove’ lays high explosive eggs weighing 100 lb. More experience of whizzing shrapnel this morning on the beach. Fragments went screaming past us on the beach, scattering the bathers. At sunset every evening the sea frontage at hqrs is like a popular bathing resort so crowded with swimmers is it.
Watched 11 shells dropped round supply ship. The twelfth scored a hit her stern.
This evening cruiser is sending in broadside after broadside to the north, flames leaping from her gun turrets, wonderful how the roar of these heavy guns cheers us up. Heard graphic yarn from 2nd L.H. of the hand to hand fighting round Quinn’s post. Bombs and hand-grenades used freely. L.H. lost 25 killed 70 wounded in charge two nights ago. Trenches only 10 yards apart in places. Turks scrawl messages in English and throw them into our trenches. One ran like this "If the Australians do not surrender tomorrow we will declare war!" Another asked if it was true the infantry ate their prisoners. The infantry replied "No, it’s the light horse who do that.
This evening very unfortunate accident to 9th. From some as yet unexplained cause, a gun of 9th Btry (Tassies) fired a charge that burst short striking ridge among our posses. 3 killed, 14 injured, including some officers at Hqrs. Officers wounded by premature burst. The Major, Capt Melbourne, Lieut  Wilden and Williams.Ernie Booth who arrived only yesterday killed outright also Bird (both legs blown off). Another of the Divisional signalers Hammond chest and arm, Hansen chest and leg Lit in 4th 9th. Booth was my tent mate at Broadmeadows, also came across on same boat to Egypt. Alarm at 9 pm heavy fire in centre all support ordered to stand to but attack slackened off by 10 pm. One man who was in ration fatigue earlier in the evening pulled out of the trenches in drunken condition -evidently stealing rum, robbing his mates of their ration. A signaller who was talking "Borthy" round the telephone connections when the shell caught them, lost one of his limbs. Good bye, left leg, he said as they lifted him on the stretcher.
Heard that the result of the evening bombardment was the blowing up of a new battery the Turks were putting in position. One Turkish shell picked up contained beach pebbles - evidence of shortage of ammo.
Turkish numerals 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 __-

2 June, 1915

Another rather quiet night on our flank, but centre heavily shelled, with shrapnel, high explosive and bombs. 15th Btn are now only 360 strong, reinforcements included, and have been withdrawn to the beach. Some hundreds of Turks were mown down at Courtney’s and Quinn’s posts Friday night by machine guns. The bright moonlight assisting our gunners to pour belt after belt into the bee-like stream of attackers.
This morning enemy's guns sounded uncomfortably close, Our artillery seemed unable to keep them in check and rarely replies to Abdul's raking fire. There is incompetence somewhere. The cheeky little destroyers, with cool impudence, draw the enemy's fire daily, and are of great assistance on our flank. At dinnertime today the enemy committed a gross crime in deliberately firing on a newly arrived hospital ship. She is painted white, with green bands, and red cross conspicuous, and was well away from the rest of the shipping, so there can be absolutely no doubt about the intention of the gunners. In all four shrapnel were fired at the boat one bursting right above her, with what effect we do not yet know.[Surprising incident, as the Turk fights fair as a rule]
It is reported that a destroyer has rammed a submarine but not yet confirmed. Took off puttees and boots for a while this evening - quite a luxury, but dressed again before turning in. Heavy rifle fire again in centre after dark, with muffled explosives.

1 June, 1915

Capt. Campbell appointed Bat. Quartermaster. Yesterday aeroplane dropped bomb near submarine and destroyers, buzzed round for hours afterwards, without any success. Heard 1 submarine caught in nets at Lemnos. Issued with 2 pkts cigarettes, 1 tin tobacco, box matches, which I gave to mates as the end of the week approaches matches become rare and valuable.
  In attack on centre Friday night when 15th had trench blown in, Turks lost heavily, artillery firing into their columns at known ranges demoralised them and they fired on their own men. Hand grenades were used on both sides, also rifles on stands filled with periscopes. Reported Turkish loss 1500. Had narrow escape on beach this afternoon while carrying ammo from A.S.C. Shell-case ricochetted across road right in front of me, kicking up the dust. Howitzers and Jap bomb throwers busy in centre Hughes battery posted among 9th Battalion trenches, very quiet lately. When in action these guns draw Abdul’s fire and invariably some of our fellows are hit on their possies. Big guns should not be posted so close to the firing line. Heard there is to be an advance very shortly. Our flank it to act as pivot to general movement. Snipers on Gaba Tepe still annoy beach travelers.

May 31, 1915

Fine sunny morning, glassy sea, hospital ship and supply boats lying close to the beach, not a shot in the air, any sign whatever of Abdul. Quite a calm peaceful scene. And at a moment's notice the air may be crowded with screaming shells, the clatter of machine guns, the din of artillery booming and musketry rattling in such fits and starts is the action carried on. Spoke to Doctor at 6 a.m. for touch of dysentery. Treated with table spoon of castor oil and some tablets and light diet of meal. Medical men very careful with this complaint, fearing serious outbreak. Our M.O. Capt. "Gertie" Butler awarded D.S.O. The yarn goes that in the landing, after bandages ran out he tore up his shirt and puttees.
Some officers with the object no doubt of inspiring confidence and keeping up the spirits of the men make a practice of circulating reports that the Tommies will be here tomorrow, that the (Achi Baba) the big fort had been captured, that the Turks are cut off, that we have only a day or two more to hang on to this position, that we will then advance and so forth. Such statements are mistaken and childish. The men know the real facts and are prepared as hang on grimly at all costs. They resent any attempt to bury up their spirits by inaccurate reports. They are Australians and even this trying ordeal cannot suppress the Australian temperament. All along the line pranks are played on the nervy Turkish conscripts. Some outposts have a number of empty tins string together, which they throw out after dark and then pull back with a sudden rattle, which throws the "Terrible Turk" in a terrible funk causing him to waste no end of ammunition.

May 30, 1915

Awakened at 3-30a.m. by cheering and "whoo-hoos" which puzzled me. Thought it came from the water but heard later it was a ruse to draw the Turks fire, making them believe we were charging. Was in NZ lines again. Saw Tom Caskey at Headquarters looking well, also W Johnson. Heard Harold Hay killed by NZ pickets at night while burying dead; they though he was an enemy as he had his head muffled, and did not answer at once in reply to the sentry’s challenge. Poor unfortunate chap. At noon today a coy of 2nd Bat captured a trench in the centre. Enemy bombarded heavily for two hours, but failed to dislodge them. Casualties - about 150.
Burst, of 4th, 9th, wounded in leg while sleeping in his possie. Shrapnel bullet through my cap which was on bush beside me. Heard the rattle of musketry to the south last night very plainly; the Tommies are getting closer. The warships also are creeping up the coast. We could see the shells from their guns bursting along the shoulder of the big fort. The battle destroyers in the bay are doing great work for us. Always on the move, restless, alert, they harass the enemy’s flanks, and keep his outposts in check with enfilading fire. Tonight is dark, with spitting rain, for some time a crackle of rifle along centre, which died down when moon rose.

May 29, 1915 Poem

Last night a sepoy on the tramp
Thought a jam tin bomb was a lamp
So he lighted the fuse and in the morning news
A Lindoo is missing in camp.

May 29, 1915

Yesterday evening shipped along to N.Z. lines on left flank. Deep communication trench cut round trench. Trench follow edge on high ground -very cliffy in places. Saw Robin Caskey - very fat and looking well. He told me Tom was all right also young Denis. J. Trotter, W. M'Connell. Tom Burnett, was killed on the first Sunday at head of gully also C. Stevenson. Saw young Harold of Timaru (at Cape Helles). Two Frasers here also Roy Priest. "Flannel" Dunsford posted as missing. 23rd (Timaru) Regt. lost 140 in landing. Saw N.Z. boy bring down a sniper. At dusk big body of N.Z. infantry moved out to make attack on flank.
After dark came back with donkeys to 9th lines. Our precious potatoes burst out of bags and spilt down hillside. Short ration of spuds today, 2 little ones each man. At 9 pm destroyers came close inshore and shelled enemy on small bluff near our left. 50 men of D Coy 9th volunteered to capture trench which they did without losing a man: bayoneted a few Turks and brought one in alive. Serg. Kenyon, a good man, led them. Our chaps expected to get machine guns in this outpost but they had been shifted. At 3 a.m. Abdul commenced to drop shells on our gully among the possies. One struck alongside dugout next to ours, peppering waterproof sheets and sending a shrapnel through Corp. Cameron's boot. Next shell killed a poor chap coming into his possie with water. Trenches also knocked about. The 9th lost altogether by sunrise 4 killed. Gilmore, Corp. Prendergast, Jones and Wrigley and 5 wounded including Jack O'Donnell of our Reinforcement. He was struck in shoulder in the trenches and is sent to base hospital. I have his mess tin (1828), blanket and sheet. One chap received razor blade in the head and another was struck by heel-plate of rifle so it seems Abdul is short of shrapnel bullets and is charging his shells with odds and ends.
   Further the gunboats nor our batteries seen to be able to silence the guns that are causing so much trouble. Since the submarine scare big cruisers do not come near us, and we miss the protection of their big guns. The Germans are fine marksmen. They have all the ranges to nicety. While raking the beach one day last week a single shell killed 28 mules. In spite of this continual danger men persist in bathing in the most dangerous and exposed spots. Life seems very cheap here. Even the authorities seem very causal and do not take reasonable precautions to avoid unnecessary losses. This morning down to Anzac Cove for fresh water which is supplied by shipping. Heard of Turks mining a trench on the left last night. 19 of our chaps smothered underneath. Trench afterwards retaken (forced back) with the bayonet and one of the enemy's with it. Many casualties. Saw 6 poor fellows laid out for burial on the roof of the hospital - wrapped up in their overcoats -boots and all. Six humble privates and yet they have done more for their country than the most generals plutocrat. They gave their lives - what more could they give!
Posted letters (more to be censored) and "Service" P.C.s.
Noticed Sergt. Gorch get a Timaru Herald in the mail. Will borrow it from him first. Pathetic to see the little heaps of mail for men who will never receive it as some missing, many dead. Major Gen Bridges died at Alexandra on May 19th. Wounded in leg which mortified. Buried with privates by same party. French aeroplane busy bomb dropping daily. The big fort sends up round after round of shrapnel after the Frenchman who eludes it with ease. The shells explode high up and the puffs of white smoke hang in the clear air like silky balloons.

May 28, 1915

Was detailed last night to ration party for Battalion an sent for Indians with pack mules bringing up stores from the beach. Filled water bottle at beach with ship's water, which is superior to the well water here. many graves along shore. Shells burst in A.S.C. depot yesterday scattering stores and killing many. Seven wounded by sniper at “Casualty Corner” near Shrapnel Gully. This sniper is causing trouble. He is in a well concealed "possie" is a good marksman and probably has a silencer fitted to his rifle.
Tea ration - 1 pint per meal very little water issued.
More Australian landed. Heard that 4 were killed on gunboat by that shell the day we came in. 6 a.m. today drew company's rations, a little fresh beef, cheese, jam, a strip of bacon, 2 potatoes, 2 onions, 6 biscuits per man. Made Irish stew which went  high. Very quiet night (moonlight) in trenches. Abdul must be preparing for something.  A few prisoners are coming in - giving themselves up as they are sick of it. Deserters are being encouraged to come in as they sometimes give information.

 Artillery busy today. After dinner yarning to Black when shrapnel whistled past and struck ridge 40 yards behind us, very close to concealed battery. Immediately another rooted into our rubbish heap - too close to be pleasant. Several dropped in the trenches, breaking down a communication trench. Saw one wounded. 2 of the 9th killed by shell fire. This flank misses the protection the old Triumph gave us before the submarine got her.

One chap said he almost cried when he saw her going down it was like losing an old friend. Today destroyers are patrolling very close to point 3 miles north of us, but without drawing their fire. Enemy is now trying to rake punts taking wounded out to hospital ship.

May 27, 1915

The Same Old Jam
I wonder why, when rations come
Though we see apple, strawberry, plum
Of all the different kinds they've got
For us its ALWAYS Apricot!

May 27, 1915

On sentry:
The rain is trickling down me back
The wind has got a bite
There’s not a smoke left in me pack
God help the Turk I see tonight!

May 27 (cont) 1915

They admitted their losses were over 7000. They still hold a very strong fort to the south, between us and the British who are working their way across from the point of the Peninsula. The 9th and 12th hold the Right of the Australian position with flank resting on beach. Left is held by N.Z. forces base is 1½ miles back by tortuous track up ridges and down steep gullies. Rather dangerous in day-time, casualties being frequent. All rations and cans of water are brought up by donkeys after dark. Daily allowance of water - one pint, which must be boiled owing to risk of dysentery and cholera; which is prevalent among Turks. Most of the water came from wells. A limited supply comes ashore in sealed cans from the shipping.
Ration is biscuit, tinned beef, jam and a little bacon. Lined up at Ninth Hqrs to be allotted to companies.
Am in D Coy 15th platoon with Foster and Gillanders. Detailed for rations fatigue party. Met Tommy Reardon, Tasker, Con O'Connor, May, who we knew in Enoggera. They tell us Bert Swallow was not killed but is here somewhere. Camped in dugout for the night, and enlarged it this morning, rigging water proof sheet for overhead cover. Am glad I brought two blankets. Advised by OC to drink only boiled water, be careful about sanitation, and economise ammunition. In the trenches a company takes two days on two days off. Firing is done chiefly at night. During day it is only sniper who fires.

The Same Old Jam
I wonder why, when rations come
Though we see apple, strawberry, plum
Of all the different kinds they've got
For us its ALWAYS Apricot!

Battleships down at entrance to Dardanelles are heavily engaged this morning. Heard the Majestic is torpedoed. Submarine fired torpedo at one of the destroyers we were on yesterday. 600 saved from Triumph. Saw some of the crew in Lemnos. Under fire some of our chaps looked a bit nervous. I do not mind the whizzing of bullets, but the shrapnel makes us all duck.
Sunday 25th April Will always be a red letter day in Australia. The 9th did great things that Sunday. Destroyers are circling round the bay looking for the elusive submarine. There is an occasional shrapnel from the Turkish positions. One just now scattered the bathers on the beach. A French aeroplane has dropped two bombs on a concealed position with what effect we do not know. Last night slept fully clothed, with 200 rounds of ammo in carriers, equipment ready and rifle handy. Some fellows have not had their boots off at night for three weeks. As for washing you never wash and chance the "grey backs".

This is the real thing.

May 27, 1915

On the Gallipoli Peninsula
Landed from Destroyer Grampus yesterday evening at spot Australians stormed on 25th April. We were shelled by enemy's hidden battery with shrapnel. One Destroyer hit (not ours) and 4 killed with 10 wounded among troops. Hard luck to be knocked out before landing. Saw shells bursting on hillside and some killed among dugouts. This position is a series of steep ridges rising straight from the beach partly covered with scrubby bush, partly bare clay and sandstone cliffs. Marvelous how Australians landing party gained a footing on these ridges. Every foot of ground was accurately mapped by Turks with distances marked. Small plots of clear slopes had been cleared of cover to decoy attackers, and then play the hidden machine guns on them. Whole hillside is now a network of dugouts, appearing like a gigantic rabbit warren. Fairly safe from shellfire except lucky shots. Ninth Btn is entrenched on top of ridge about 1½ miles from landing beach at headquarters. Trenches are well built with overhead protection and sandbag loop holes for lookouts. Entanglements in front. Heard of big night attack by Turks in force last Wednesday night. They came on in droves with white robed priests leading shouting their eternal "Allah, allah." Our line reserved its fire till they reached the entanglements and then poured in rapid fire mowing them down in heaps. Turks asked for armistice later and 3000 dead were buried in front of our trenches the other day.

May 26, 1915

4 torpedo destroyers came alongside to transfer us to the Dardenelles, 4 hours journey. Trip unsafe for Derflinger as 3 German submarines out. Australians lost 900 taking Big Hill. Living on dry rations - biscuits, bully beef - jam, since leaving Alexandria. Will be glad to get bit of bread again. Saw survivors from Triumph brought in by destroyers.

May 25, 1915

Arrived at Island of Lemnos about 2500 on board - of different units. Heard Jack Dalgiesh wounded in shoulder. Fine harbour here - over 60 steamers, 12 warships. Heard Triump torpedoed. Australians took Big Hill.

---

(The island of Lemnos was held by Greece, which was technically neutral. However, Allied troops occupied the island and used it to prepare for the April campaign and many returned during the following months. )

May 23, 1915

Left Alexandria. Next day man overboard. The wounded we speak to are all eager to get back into it again. (I don’t think). Six months later, some of them not back yet. Many seem to have been knocked out shortly after going into action.

May 23, 1915

Left Alexandria. Next day man overboard. The wounded we speak to are all eager to get back into it again. (I don’t think). Six months later, some of them not back yet. Many seem to have been knocked out shortly after going into action.

May 22, 1915

Trained to Alexandria (100 of us), Lieut Arrell in command. Boarded Derflinger. Heard Wiltshire torpedoed (2500 on board) (incorrect).
Had a few hours in Alexandria, dined at French buffet. Oysters at 2 piastres a plate.


Notes (The Derflinger was a captured German passenger ship, used as a troop ship to carry wounded from Gallipoli to Alexandria and then troops back to the peninsula.
http://ahoy.tk-jk.net/Letters/GermanMerchantshipSSDerfl.html

Photo, 1915, The Queenslander Pictorial, pg 23