Item 02: Voyage on H.M.A.T. Berrima to German New Guinea, 1914 - Page 15

[Page 15]

"Scharnhorst" sunk. This is one of Germanys best ships in the pacific an armoured Cruiser of --- Guns. she been reported to have onshore, disabled & sunk several times. So far I believe her afloat and in hiding or she may the phantom ship reported off Cape horn or the flying Dutchman. She would no doubt prove a valuable addition to our Australian fleet and would be a good price for the "Australia" to capture.

Wednesday 26th August 1914

at anchor off Palm Island HMS "Sydney & Encounter" in port. Troops drilled onboard & onshore same as yesterday. getting in to good form & ready for a fight. 5.30 pm Boat race between Naval and Military. The former won by   ½ mile.

Thursday 27th August 1914

at anchor Palm Island HMS "Sydney & Encounter" in port. Naval and Military drilled onboard & onshore same as yesterday. in the evening had recreations, Concerts, etc.

Friday 28th August 1914

at anchor off Palm Island. H.M.S. "Sydney & Encounter" in port. Troops drilled same as yesterday. Boat races & sports in the evening. A mail closed onboard today at 6.30 pm. Sent letters to Sydney.  no news of our movements allowed to be sent. or they would be censored.