Enoggera and off to war
30 November 1915
Enoggera Barracks, Brisbane
Many of the Dungarees were recruited into the 11th Reinforcements of the 25th Battalion. Others were given specialist roles in other battalions depending on their qualifications and work experience.
On Sunday 12 March 1916, prior to their departure from Brisbane, the 11th Reinforcements were taken on a boat trip to Redcliffe on the ‘Beaver’. They marched from Thompson’s Paddock at Enoggera to the train, and then to Central Station, marching down to the dock for the trip. Food and drink were provided by a range of local companies keen to show their support for the soldiers.
The exact date, ship and route of the men’s departure overseas were not publicised.
News was often spread by less official means, for example, Dungaree Sydney Marsh of Silkstone cabled his parents and they forwarded the news to ‘Queensland Times’ newspaper. Marsh indicated that the 11th reinforcements of the 25th Battalion had arrived in Egypt on 11 May 1916 and were expecting to head to the front in France soon.
An excerpt of Sydney Marsh’s (#4503) service records outlines his activities over the subsequent year. Sadly he did not live to see the first anniversary of his arrival in Egypt. He is buried in the Queant Road Cemetery, Buissy, France.
