Item 02: General William Holmes operation orders, 1914-June 1916 - Page 140

[Page 140]

SECRET
"Australia" at Simpsonhafen,  21st September, 1914.
Operation Orders No. 4.
Occupation of Frederick Wilhelmshafen, German New Guinea.

Intentions
1. It is my intention to leave Rabaul at 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday 22nd September, and proceed to Frederick Wilhelmshafen, arriving there early on Thursday 24th September.

Composition of Squadron.
2. The Squadron will consist of "Australia", "Montcalm", "Berrima" (with Troops on board) and "Encounter".

Orders for Steam.
3. All Ships are to have steam for 13 knots by 9.30 a.m. 22nd; for 16 knots by daylight 24th, ("Berrima" excepted).

Cruising Order.
4. On leaving Rabaul, single line ahead will be formed in the order named in paragraph 2.   "Berrima" is to be four (4) cables astern of "Montcalm"  This order will be maintained day and night.

Lights.
5. Ships are to darkened as usual at 6 p.m.

Boats for Sweeping.
6. "Australia" picket boats are to be prepared for sweeping, and are to be ready for hoisting out on arrival if required.

Arrival at Frederick Wilhelmshafen.
7. On arrival off Frederick Wilhelmshafen, "Encounter" will be ordered to approach the entrance flying  a Flag of Truce; a boat is then to be sent on shore flying a Flag of Truce, conveying the Officers carrying despatches to the Authorities.  These Officers, (1 British Staff Officer and 1 German Officer) have ben ordered to embark in "Encounter" before leaving Rabaul.
/"Encounter"