Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 136]
-2-
4. On 11th September the Commandant, 1st Military District wired as follows:-
"Names of officers detailed Captain Simcocks Marks and Lieutenant Willmott". and on the same date the following telegrams were received from Commandant, 1st Military District:-
"G. 83 Stop Your Oa 599 stop Townsville reports owing to shortage of water on "Kanowna" troops and crew placed on daily allowance one gallon 2nd September; all satisfied except firemen their greivance hardship to carry water from engine room. On September 7th deputation (Chinese Customs?) men demand fresh water to wash with and refused to work without. Condensed water available in the engine room. Speed being considerably reduced, impossible to maintain that ordered by Naval Officer. Signal then hoisted 'Crew in state of mutiny'. Officer commanding troops instructed (obtain) volunteers and proceed direct to Townsville; practically all troops volunteered and good speed maintained. No complaint by troops regarding water and Officer Commanding reports favourably on their behaviour. Ship arrived Townsville 2 a.m. September 10th and is anchored in the bay, if necessary come wharf for water and stores sufficient guard will be provided."
"G. 86. In continuation my G. 83 stop. Townsville reports discontent aboard 'Kanowna' owing uncertainty movement and proximity homes which they are not allowed to visit full stop Troops are unwilling to continue work firemen and possibility obtaining firemen locally reported very doubtful full stop Further instructions requested". To which the following wire was sent:-
"W. 2009. Your E. 1749 As you hired Kanowna you will hand over to owners as soon as possible."
on 16th September, the Commandant, 1st Military District, wired:-
"G. 94. Telegram received from Ogden Secretary firemens union Townsville begins firemen closely imprisoned six days Kanowna charged mutiny liberated without trial or investigation demand fullest inquiry their behalf ends have replied this is a matter for the civil authorities.
"G. 95. Troops disembarked from Kanowna and in camp at Townsville pending return of equipment and issue of pay stop Major Aitken reports civil authorities have taken