Item 05: George Edward Edmondson notes, 1915 - Page 3

[Page 3]

enthusiastic sightseers who welcomed the Soldiers by hearty cheering. We pulled out from the wharf at 2.30 to immense cheering & hand waving. This scene will be remembered as long as life lasts. Our journey along the Australian coast in the direction of Cape York was not one of any great moment. Thursday Island was our first port of call. The boys expected to be put ashore here but they were sadly disappointed. It is not usual to allow troops ashore from a troopship until their destination has been reached. The need to adhere to this rule was forcibly exemplified practically at Colombo our first port of call. The troops were allowed ashore on the second day of our stay at this interesting port with the understanding that all men were