Preparations for the Anzac Landing

100 years ago - the Allied forces (British and French) gathered in Mudros harbour, Lemnos Island and prepared for the upcoming invasion of the Gallipoli peninsula.

This drawing shows the beach  with low ridges behind, where the Anzac Covering Force was supposed to land. It also shows Gaba Tepe on the right like a fort covered with steep grassy slopes, topped by trenches and barbed wire. The position of Gaba Tepe made the planners anxious because of its potential to expose the landing force to Ottoman enfilade fire.

Arrival in Egypt

One hundred years ago this week the Australians and New Zealanders of the first convoy arrived in Egypt after their long journey by sea.

British and Indian troops already garrisoned the Suez area, so the ANZACs were not required to do that task here. The ANZACs  were supposed to go on to England to train and organise before heading to the fighting in France. However, the allocated accommodation in England had been virtually washed away by torrential downpours, so it was decided to waylay the  force in Egypt until conditions improved in England.  This news was received with bitter disappointment.