Sun Sept 24: Information gained during past month disclosed that planes intended for our use were diverted to assist in the transportation of Macarthurs Hqrs to Hollandia. Iat is fairly likely that from Cape Gloucester no more intended for the Halmaleras and by losing air transport we missed out on the invasion. Hence our stay at Sandgate and our no longer being no one priority.

[This is a reference to Macarthur’s controversial headquarters in Hollandia New Guinea established in September 1944 which was widely criticised for its luxury.

The reference to Sandgate is Sandgate Queensland an RAAF training facility https://www.ww2places.qld.gov.au/place?id=136%5D

Thurs Oct 5: Operators went to Pinkenba to obtain G.I.T [?] experience.

Fri Oct 20: Recalled to Sandgate to commence hardening course.

Mon Oct 23: Hardening course commenced.

Fri Oct 27: Marched as a unit in our greens through Brisbane in support of 2^nd Victory Loan.

[?] Fixed bayonets and half webbing impressive but heavy showers spoilt the march.

Fri Nov 10: Signal recd granting the unit leave. Sixteen days leave commenced from 1600 today.

Sat Nov 11: Caught troop train 2.15 pm to Sydney.

Mon Nov 27: Arrived back at Sandgate and greeted with news that technical personnel to proceed to Essendon with gear.

Tue Nov 28: Another airman and myself left by 1800 goods train escorting gear.

Mon Dec 4: Arrived at Dynon Rd. goods yards Melbourne after a very tiring, slow trip. Longest halts in the journey were 12 hours at Broadmeadows owing to railway shunters strike. Four hours at Sydney, four at Goulburn, Moss Vale, Cootamundra, Junee and Uranquinty and 24 at Albury & 5 at Seymour. (rest of technical personnel left Brisbane by troop train on Wed. Nov 29^th for Essendon.)

Tue Dec 5: Gear transported to Essendon and commenced erection thereof.

Sat Dec 9: Gear in good operational order and to be handed over to civilian authorities but to be worked by RAAF.

1945

Sun Jan 28: Gear has been worked during the past month and photo sent to civilan aircraft control room for checking.

Wed Jan 31: Type of gear (L.W. G.C.I Mark 1) unsuitable so dismantling begun on Mon 29^th. Left for Croydon by 1330 train to obtain new gear.

Thur Feb 1: Arrived Croydon and commenced receiving new gear.

Fri Feb 16: Personnel left for Brisbane by troop train. 1030

Sat Feb 17: Arrived Sth. Brisbane and proceeded to Sandgate to join 111 M.F.C.U.

Thurs Feb 22: Cholera injections received. Six weeks pay to be given on Wednesday.

Mon Feb 26: It was intended to leave [?] on Thurs, Mar 1 on an expected month long boat trip. However, today notified that due to the incomplete formation of 111 MFCU this group will not accompany present invasion forced.

Tue Mar 6: 2^nd cholera received.

Thurs Mar 15: Despite receiving a months pay today it seams unlikely that we will be leaving or at least a few days. The gear which had been erected a few days ago was pulled down and packed away last month.

Fri Apl 6: Most of the boys left on 2^nd lot of pre-embarkation leave (only Eastern States allowed to go), the previous move having been cancelled.

Tue Apl 24: At 1700 announcement that we were to move shortly. We were to have started toughening up course at Scarborough tomorrow.

Thurs Apl 26: Commenced loading onto wharf.

Sat Apl 28: Loading onto Liberty Ship (Simon Bamburger) commenced.

Sun Apl 29: Were on night shift at the wharves.

Wed May 2: Transported in semi-trailers from Sandgate embarking on Simon Bamburger and being billeted below deck over the hold with a sheet of wood as a bed. We cast off moorings at 1740, unescorted, and headed for the Pacific Ocean passing North tip of Moreton Island at 2030. Our lost news of the war was the Death of Hitler and invasion of Borneo, at Tarakan. (Blackout on board at night).

Thurs May 3: 0945 passed tip of Fraser Island. Sea calm, 30% cumulus. Heading 9 [degrees] E of N. So far facilities for ablutions messing and washing are disorganised and difficult. The latrines are rather primitive. Sleeping in holds promises to be stifling. Started taking Atebrin [?]

Fri May 4: Passed the Tropic of Capricorn last night. Direction due North. 0830 Direction N.N.W. Slight improvement in living conditions, but reading matter very scarce. Much time spent in playing cards. Numerous gambling games running. Rain in evening, storm brewing.

Sat May 5: Calm again. Calculations give latitude of Cooktown at 1200 but 350 miles from land. News announced that Germany was ready to surrender. Rain tonight.

Sun May 6: From 1230 to 1480 speed reduced from 11-12 knots to 1-2 knots whilst searching for the entrance through Long Reef. 1415 reef sighted to starboard. Steered west but no opening so altered course to E and found entrance to Bramble Haven and turned north. At 1800 passed between Du Perre Group and Le Jeune Is, heading N, for the Conflict Group. Rained all day, strong cold wind.

Mon May 7: At 0600 mountains of Ferguson Island seen at about 50 miles to port. Vakula Island sighted, closely followed by Kiriwina Islands, passing two or three miles off Kitawa Is, which had a medium size wrecked vessel at southern tip. Tip of Kiriwina passed at 0900. Course changed from N.W. to WNW, then 310 [degrees]. 1400 – 1600 entertained by corvette at apparent target practise. Flares were let off presumably for the benefit of a 22 ship convoy which soon after 1630 appeared on the starboard horizon, evidently coming from the Bougainville direction. By 1730 the convoy had altered course and was following us for a while tahen veered to the west. At about 1830 convoy escort opened rapid fire at what is believed to have been a submarine. About fifty shots fired. Sped increased to 13 knots. Convoy was composed of troops from U.S. The first planej since me left was sighted – tonight had navigation lights on.

Tue May 8; 0600 sighted Huon Peninsula ahead and New Britain to starboard. Passing up St. Victory Strait. Tolikawa [?] Island (a single mountain towering out of the sea) and Long Island were sighted. All are terribly mountainous, gashed by ragged ravines and rising almost sheer from the sea. Yesterdays convoy was ahead of us this morning and then veered between Long Is. And Tolikawa Is in the direction of the Admiralities. Long Is. Passed at about 1300 at a few miles distance showing the precipitous mountains clearly. Crown Is visible as a volcanic mountain . On the Huon Peninsula may be seen the Finisterre Ranges rising up to 13000 ft. Sis [?] was passed this smorning and Astrobe Bay is visible in the distance. 1800 level with Bagabay Is. 1945 level with centre of Karker Is. [?] during day. Has been hot but showers at night.

Wed May 9: Kairiri Is passed about noon 30-40 miles to port. Estimated at right angles to Aitape [?] at 1700. Calm. No escort so far.

Thurs May 10: 0545 (Dutch New Guinea time) steamed through the entrance to Humboldt Bay near Hollandia. Excellent anchorage with scores of crafts. Anchored 3 miles from the shore. Mail not taken off. 115 weighed anchor and headed along the coast. Still unescorted.

Fri May 11: 0630 island of Jappen [?] sighted to port. 1215 passed 3 miles south of Rasi Is with rest of Padvido Group visible. Biak Island visible to starboard. Entered Bay opposite Urfu at 1515, dropping anchor less than a mile off the shore at 1630. Whereas Jappen Is was reasonably mountainous. Biak is mainly flat. The area still bears the scars of its bombardment on both mountain and coconut palm area. Behind the line of warships is a coral strip with another more to the point 247[?] [degrees] S . Curtiss Commandoes and Liberators were landing at an average rate of more than one every two minutes for several hours. This continued far into the night.

Sat May 12: All day the three strips of Biak [Biala?] are a hive of industry as the transports continually stream in and out on the route between the Phillipines and southern bases. Incidentally we did weigh anchor at 1200 for a while but no escort available. At night there was a carnival spirit on board the ship – sivy [?] games, roulette wheel.,, housie housie, crown and anchor and numerous poker games.

Sun May 13: An Aussie army troopship arrived today and also another one the Gordon dropped anchor. There are three Aust. Corvettes here now and a couple of RAAF beaufighters were sighted. At 1745 we weighed anchor and travelled a convoy with the two troopships and corvettes passing W of Noumfour.

Mon May 14: Continued all day at reduced speed (about 8 knots) heading slightly W of W.N.W. passing the Equator at about 1900. At 6600 we were opposite Manokawari [?], losing sight of the mainland about midday. Final concert held tonight. These concerts were held every night during the trip – the boys supplying the items.

Tue May 15: Still at reduced speed. High hopes that tonight is our last night on board.

Wed May 18: 0630 sighted Morotai on our port bow. 0730 passed between tip of peninsula and bottom island. The anchorage presents the stupendous spectacle of an invasion armada assembling with literally hundreds upon hundreds of ships, cruisers, destroyers, corvettes, barges and other types of landing craft. Many were crammed full of men and equipment. 0825 dropped anchor. From 1000 to 1130 we transferred to a large barge to proceed to shore, arriving at 1200. By 1215 we were landed by truck near 2 ACS and before long coconuts became the centre of attraction. The island is covered with coconut palms, pawpaw trees and camps. North of the peninsula the perimeter is approx 12 miles long by 7 miles deep. About 1730 we were transported to 3 RPP passing strip after strip crowded with a/c. After a decent meal visited the local pictures show, an open clearing in the forest. Dutch currency is used in all forms of transactions.

Thur May 17: At 0915 returned to our dumping point. Coral is the basic rock on the peninsula and on coast may be found living coral with its coral fish and other marine life. The remnants of the old Jap defence system still exist. The amount of war material within this small perimeter is positively stupendous. The activity never ceases, night or day. Tonight, still without tents and only the more fortunate with stretchers, survived a heavy tropical downpour. Those who did have tents had to erect them in teaming rain.

Fri May 18: During the early hours of this morning another heavy downpour made thins uncomfortable. A B24 bombing force was seen leaving on a mission followed by B 25’s, P 40’s, and spitfires and beaufighters are continually passing over in massed formation. About midday our gear commenced to arrive from the wharf and continued through the night.

Sat May 19: Working in shifts day and night as our gear arrives from the wharf.

Sun May 20: All units commenced to erect gear. Worked until 2200

Mon May 21: Still working on gear which is taking some effort to become operational. No items for personal affairs.

Tue May 22: Gear O.K. except communications. Commenced dissembling.

Wed May 23: Communications O.K. Packing near completion. Forward echelon loading for a practise invasion. Regularly before breakfast liberators of 13^th A.A.F. & RAAF leave for raids on Borneo, returning just before evening meal. Fine weather, cool nights for the tropics. Currency sighted so far have been the brass 1c, nickel 10c, or 1/10 guilder (worth 4’), silver 25c or 1/4 guilder (10’) – notes 1, 5 & 10 guilders at 3/4 a guilder.

Thurs May 24: Gear packed and ready to load on to LST’s but practise has been cancelled. Told today that gear will shortly be going aboard LST (landing ship tanks) so this is the real thing. Every day reveals more of the staggering amount of equipment on Morotai, especially planes. Some of the boys were paid in straits. Settlement dollars this afternoon, as they are due to pull out early tomorrow morning. Our kit bags were loaded onto a truck with tents whilst our stretchers went earlier.

Fri May 25: Only some of the advance party of 111 embarked on LST’s and are waiting the bay. The rest of of us were paid in Straits Settlements dollars. Currency sighted nickel 5 & 10 c notes 50c and 1, 5 and 10 dollars. One dollar is worth 2/11 Aust. Emergency rations were issued today. Natives are brown, short, slim and are Malayan in appearance. They live in community huts with a woven bed the full length of each side. The huts are about 50-60 ft long and are thatched. Negroes (including 93^rd Infantry division) have taken over the perimeter defences, although 9^th Division Aust are actively patrolling beyond perimeter. Reports constantly occur of Jap’s sneaking well into the perimeter slitting the throats of sleepers, also of Japs. Japs found in meal queues, picture shows, etc. There are RAAF and Army and American nurses and W.A.C.’s on the island.

Sat May 26; All around the peninsula and bays L.S.T.’s are still being loaded in preparation for the coming offensive on Labuan and Brunei. Slowly the invasion fleet is accumulating, before very long, we too should be loading.

Sun May 27: A squadron of P 47’s each equipped with two spare belly tanks have arrived to join in the affray. RAAF units still outnumber the Yanks.

Mon May 28: My 21^st birthday. Day spent quietly playing cards. At the so-called perimeter on the Eastern seaboard to where the 9^thDivision camps start, extending for about 4 miles beyond up to some native villages which are virtually in non-mans land. From tip of peninsula to the perimeter in this sector is 17 miles. N.E. I ( ?) troops are attached to the 9^th Divvy and recently went out on patrol after some Japs that had raided a village just over over the hill from the end of the camp. Late tonight were informed that seven of us (including myself) were to accompany 166 in the aussault echelong.

[On top of the page with this date it says 166 Radar]

Tue May 29: Arising at 0430, breakfast at 0500, About 0600 a Liberator was seen just on the point of take off to slew [?] to one side of the strip and instantaneously burst into flames. Ammunition exploded like erratic fusillades. Ten minutes later most of the bomb load exploded in a devastating roar that shook the ground for miles around with the blast. A large column of black smoke and earth rose skywards, followed by another explosion. An hour later the plane was still burning. By 0930 we seven left the camp area with 166 and 90 odd other personnel for the 9^th Division pre-embarkation assembly area. At 1420 we moved back to the slips in front of nine L.S.T’s being loaded with assault men and materials. Matilda tanks and alligators accompanied the streams of men. At 1630 we embarked with some 9^th Divvy troops on LST 1025. By 1910 [?] we had left the beach head and then headed around the peninsular to the main bay, there to drop anchor amongst the scores of other L.S.T.’s. The Simon Bamburger was built for cargo only, modified to carry 300 and transported to 950 men. This LST was built for material with a few men, and is carrying 450. However, we have hot and cold fresh water, iced drinking water and stretchers.

Wed May 30: Just before 1300 we cruised through the maze of L.S.T.’s, corvettes, destroyers, troopships, etc and islands, to a point on the S.W. corner of Morotai between two chains of islands, The Yankee food on board is the “goods” and life, though boring is tolerable. Playing cards occupies most of the time as reading matter is scarse[sic]. MemberWes of the 2/28^th (W.A.) form alarge part of the Army on board. The men sleep amongst the tanks, in the hold, or under in or top of the trucks on deck, besides every available square foot of deck space. The whole plan of this and other operations are now known down to the smallest detail. B29 sighted, also rocket ships.

Fri Jun 1: Following yesterdays complete inactivity, today, after early breakfast we moved to the centre of the bay at 0620, and at 0740 our alligators joined in the second wave of the gathering assault craft in a practise preliminary invasion. All were packed with assault troops, 16 alligators in 1^st wave then 12 in 2^nd, a 3^rd & 4^th followed by 13 waves of M.S.C’s all 3 minutes apart. Heavy rain tonight drenching many of the men.

Sat Jun 2: About 0830, moved around the peninsula to eventually beach at our original slips and reload, our alligators, returning to bay later on.

Mon Jun 4: No mail received since boarding L.S.T. because our unit aboard another L.S.T. and no means of getting mail across. After another day of inactivity yesterday, except docking to take on water, we weighed anchor at 1200 today and led the invasion fleet through Morotai Strait between Rani [?] Island and Halmaheras, [?] both Jap held. With the North Loloda Is. To the S.W, the convoy assembled in their correct order. First line was a Ranger, L.C.D. (landing craft dock), the Admirals Master radar control ship was the “Rodney Mount” (34 radars aboard and controlled the invasion of Normandy) and four large transports. Our line (a Ranger and 6 LSTs was second. Behind us stretched row upon row of ships to the horizon. As far as can be seen this convoy is 86 strong. (An L.S.T. alone carries 20 D.A. [?] guns.) Tropical storm during the night, giving many boys another drenching.

Tues jun 5: Early morning Karekelong [?] Is. to port. Encircling the Kanio [?] Is. group course altered from 320 [degrees] to 295 [degrees]. By dusk we were passing the Mearies [?], the last of the Kanios [?]. Incidentally we are with “D” Company of the 2/28^th. Rough seas spray over deck. Heavy roll. Celebes sea.

Wed Jun 6: Mindanos about 60 miles to starboard most of the day. Basilan Is. sighted on port bow at dusk. A very cold day.

Thur Jun 7: Entered Basilan St [?] about 0300, passing the lights ofthe city of Zambounga at 0430, leaving the Sts at about 0600. Our last sight of the Phillipines for a while were the Sangbry Is. as we entered the Salu [Sulu?] Sea.

Fri Jun 8: At 0600 we were passing North of Cugayan Sulu [?] and accompanying islands. Although we have passed 120 [degrees] long. our watches for the purpose of synchronisation remain as at 135 [degrees]. Just before 0900, altered courses from 280 [degrees] to 325 [degrees]. Mangall Is to port at midday ( about 30 miles). Our usual P 61 escort replaced today by P 38’s. Today the navy continues the bombardment of Labuan due to have begun yesterday and also minesweeping the channels has been completed – only 34 mines located. Some of our envoy have been repelled whilst en route by a tanker picked up at Zamboanga. An island on the distant horizon at midday resolved itself into Balabak later on. By 1600 [?] when course was changed to 250 [degrees] the mountains of Palawan were visible on the starboard horizon, with the flat islands of Bugug, Manangula, Ramos [?] and mountainous Balabak. Swinging between Kormiran Is, it was noticed that all had fine beaches and good vegetation. At dusk course was 230 [degrees] and heading into Balabak (at 1600 we were 8 [degrees] N our furthest point north) strait. North of Jap held Banguay [?] and Balambagan Is and thence to the South China Seas, passing about 20 miles from Borneo proper, and 13 miles from Balambagan, heading about 8 [degrees] W. Some PT boats joined us at Komiran and we expect to pick up the bombardment squadron during the night.

Sat Jun 9: The day dawns clear with the over 10000 ft. Mt Kinabulu of the Crocker Range of Borneo standing sheer from the horizon. Early morning saw the decks cleared for action in preparation for tomorrow’s invasion. Boys busy smearing clothes with mite repellent. 1700 bombardment squadron of 24 ships joins convoy. 1800 Four whales sighted swimming between lines of ships. News received that a minesweeper “Salute” damaged but afloat near Labuan – another large number of mines recovered. Naval forces report that Labuan beach cleared of all underwater obstacles.

Sun Jun 10: Z [?] day has arrived. After a night under a canopy of stars (lucky because there was no covering or deck) we arose at 0430. At 0530 we entered the waters of Labuan below Victoria Harbour with Hamilton Point to port. At 0655 a lone enemy plane dropped a bomb harmlessly in the water amongst the starboard side of the convoy. A A (including 3.7’s) opened up but the plane escaped. 0700 we dropped anchor. There are at least eight islands around Labuan. 0730 Rocket ships filed past. 0745 Buffaloes take to water. Presumably at the same time similar preparations are being made at Brookton Beach and Muara Is. Smoke can be seen over Labuan. At 0805 right on scheduled time the cruisers Phoenix and Hobart lying 1-8 miles behind us, with three destroyers anchored 150 yds to the left, 1 mile in front, one mile to the right opened fire on Brown Beach. (We were anchored 3000 yds off shore). Brown smoke from 18 6” and 27 5” guns like N. O2 fumes while shells burst on the beach in white flashes and columns of dust. The 6” shells from the cruisers could be heard swishing through the air overhead. 0810 five L.Z.I. [?] Rocket craft carrying 4’ 5” rockets put in a three burst plastering the beach. An L.C.I mortar opened up on Hamilton Point near a Jap shipwreck that was giving light resistance. In the meantime columns of smoke could be seen over Brookton, while a Catalina and some float planes circled overhead spotting for the navy. Heavy A.A. over Cape Ramsay at 0830. At 0845 while the bombardment squadron concentrated on Victoria township clearly visible 4500 yds away and 14 Liberators unloaded their cargo seen falling in clusters, the first wave of assault craft moved off the starting line, 4000 yds from shore, at a rate of 133 yds per minute. 0850 6 Liberators bombed Hamilton Point. 0855 bombardment intensifies. 0903 Rockets give another 3 minute burst while six Beaufighters straffed the beach with 1200 yds to go. 0910 while 6 Liberators over Hamilton Point single Jap A.A. shell burst below the tail of one Liberator, apparently damaging it as after its run it headed off on its own. Six red flares seen from the area of beach while three white star shells floated down over the cape, marking positions of the landing. 0915 the first craft touched the beach. 0920 five Liberators bombed the Hamilton Point again. LCI mortars still firing. 0928 air raid siren sounded – false alarm. 0942 lasts of the nine waves of craft ashore and bombardment ceases. 0955 the navy finished off their quota of 1860 6” shells and 2400 5” shells. 1000 Lone liberator bombed Hamilton Point again. No Japs sighted on landing. Five Jap float planes wrecked near beach. All told the total number of men ashore and intended to go ashore in the next few hours totals 8100. During the course of the operators many leaflets were seen floating earthwards. The opposition from the wreck [?] was later found to be a machine gun rest. According to schedule by 1015 the 2/28^th and 2/43^rd battalions should hold a line along the canal and be preparing for a drive to the airstrip. At 1200, more waves of assault craft went in possibly taking the 2/32^nd battalion which are reserves. About 1330 two columns of oil smoke arose from the interior adding to the pall of smoke still hanging over Victoria and the beach. 1450, 4 Beaufighters divebombed on enemy position, whilst others used their cannon. At 1545 we weighed anchor and with Beaufighters straffing overhead landed at Blue Beach alongside of the just captured Victoria Docks. 25 pounders and mortars were directed at both Hamilton Point just across the harbour and the airfield which was the objective of a destroyers 16 5” shelling about 1500. The 25 pounders were just off the beach. After waiting for the water to recede a little (men from some craft had to wade chest deep in water) unloading of the trucks commenced and we followed at 1700. Machine guns then opened fire and mortars increased as a destroyer and rocket ship went into [block?] Hamilton Pt. Jap mortar positions, while under their cover 11^th Commandoes went over in assault waves. By dark Hamilton Point had been taken. We marched inland 1/2 mile to crossroads. One way a bridge had been blown up and the other was still under sniper fire. At least one casualty was seen. While walking to this spot we were able to assess the damage to the area. Victoria had been wiped out, most trees had been cut in two or sliced by shrapnel, craters pitted the area. In the suburban area every house had been damaged although some were still inhabitable. Many others had been burnt to the ground while one had its roof removed and deposited some 20 yds away still intact. There had been street lighting before but now all wires were down. The houses were of a good type and well furnished. From the ruins could be found refrigerators, wireless parts, marble topped tables, full length mirrors, wardrobes, pottery beautifully coloured chinaware, glassware, woven mats cushions, basket chairs, kitchen utensils, baths with oriental mosaic, quaint jugs, hosts of odds and ends such as torches, gramophone records, two way adaptors, trinkets and even invasion money. Evidence of Jap occupation were in dozens of books, cardboard boxes, drums, and in the street signposts. Fires were still burning – 25 pounders still [?] in action & rifle fire in sniper areas as we settled down to our emergency rations. Soon after came news that the airstrip had fallen except for a machine gun nest at the southern end. Later as our own camp area was still under fire, we moved around to 111 M.F.C.U [?] site to camp for the night, near some 25 pounders which opened up with a deafening roar on a few occasions. The other section lost the way in the dark and settled in at the B.B.C.A.U headquarters, where were gathered the living of the local population – Malays, Chines, Hindus. Most women were Chinese and the children mixtures. One truck [?] became lost and received a sniper’s bullet through its centre. Previously a Malay had been found near our first resting place wounded twice and with gangreen. Another Malay saluting and grinning had walked through our area but was captured before he reached the Jap lines. He was well-fed as are the rest of the pro [?] Japs – the others are skinny wretches.

Map of Labuan.

Mon Jun 11: This morning Beauforts sprayed the island in 10 yd strips with DDT. RAAF Libs and Beaufighters still give cover. At 0945 a destroyer shelled Jap last ditch stand along the perimeter the 2/28 reached in their first phase. About 500 Japs are trapped in this area and Don Company are taking most of the punishment. The 43^rd completed the second phase and are helping the 28^th in the third. Unfortunately it is this area where we intended to have [?] our site, so plans may have to be changed. Some natives seen this morning were living skeletons and had to be carried. About 1015 six B 35’s went over the island to straff[sic] and bomb. About 1530 we moved out to our intended site settling up our camp on the most western edge of the advance in this area. All day sporadic fire from 25 pounders, machine guns and rifle fire from 25 pounders, machine guns and rifle fire kept pegging away just behind us. Round about 2300 whilst personally on guard (we had a bren gun and six rifle guards on all night) one chap started seeing “Japs all around him” and let his rifle go for its life firing a number of shots. Although there was no answering fire at the time later during the night army patrols fire shots presumably at snipers and snipers bullets came fairly close to our area. (In fact a couple could be heard passing overhead). Then the 25 pounders opened up for a couple of hours giving salvoes up to 20 strong. Next morning there were reports that 3 Japs were captured during the night at the expense of two injured Australians.

Tue Jun 12: The Japs have been driven back through the mangroves to the upper reaches of Victoria Harbour less than a mile N.W. of us. Beaufighters kept up continuous bombing and strafing from 0930-1000 continuing again later. Liberators joined in and the 25 pounders opened up, machine guns and automatics followed with rifles. Later on Beaufighters brightened [frightened?] things by more bombing and strafing while the 25’s fired many shots. Reports say that the landing on Brookton has taken them to Brunei. We are camped amongst three native houses with five more just beyond the doover, which was erected today. Souvenirs galore have been collected by both army and air force men on the island. Most natives are being taken to the native compound as they are recaptured from the Japs who use them as shelter. Many are shot in the foot to prevent them working for us. A house nearby which received a direct hit and is still fuming has, judging by its stench, a dead body in it. A strip has been constructed just below us and Auster [?] observation planes are using it. Tonight we had an alert for a while but no planes seen.

Wed. Jun 13: During the day the Jap pocket was casually shelled and bombed. About lunch time another red alert but no planes. During afternoon snipers fired overhead and our guards went after them, but army patrols were already out. Around our camp today and yesterday one Jap, two natives and four unidentified bodies have been burnt in petrol and buried. More work done today making camp more like “home”. Reported that “Black Widow” shot down enemy plane 5 miles off coast about 2100.

Thurs. Jun 14: Activity against Japs very quiet. About 2000 Air Raid Alert. Plane picked up on Radar but did not come very close and turned for home again. 2215 air raid alert again. Plane seen coming in by radar about 4000’. At 2240 searchlights picked it up overhead and a/a batteries opened up. The sky was filled with bright flashes for about 1/2 minute when plane was seen to bank over and dive into the sea about 4 miles away. (Personally, I was in bed when the firing commenced and by the time that I had got out and found my steel helmet everything was over.) It was also reported earlier in the evening that snipers had infiltrated into part of the Australian territory so our guards were doubled.

Fri Jun 15: I made an excursion over part of the island this afternoon. I travelled along MacArthur road until I came to an M.P. prohibiting any further progress. He said that there was a pocket about one mile around the corner. On the way back I looked through several houses. One had been used as a distillery and dozens of bottles of evil smelling liquid were lying around. Several of the places had been used by the Japs as storerooms. There were bags and bags of rice and wheat, also much tea, as the Japs weren’t starving. All these places showed that the Japs lived no better than pigs. The tables and floors didn’t appear to have been cleaned since the Jap occupation of the place since 1941. Filth was everywhere and the stench was terrific. Some of the houses had once been beautiful homes, with marble floors and a lot of oak fittings. It was learnt during the afternoon that when the British blockaded the place about three months ago no food was allowed the native population. The reality of the war was brought home by seeing three A.I.F. graves alongside the road.

Sat Jun 16: It was learnt today from the Commander of the Labuan area that the fighting has reached one of the toughest areas the ninth divvy has fought in. The Japs have retreated to the swamp area and troops after them are wading through waist dep water and mangroves. The area is heavily booby trapped and three trucks were found with 500 lb booby traps. Booby traps are everywhere even in high trees. (Incidentally this area is about one mile from our camp on the other side of the mangroves.) About 1530 one of our guards was shot in the back by a bullet whilst walking near his tent. It is not known if a stray friendly shot or sniper. A number of men from the camp went out but nobody seen. Jap woodpecker heard several times during the night. The beach area of Labuan is now a hive of industry. There are also a number of cargo vessels in the harbour as well as the L.S.T’s [?]

Sun Jun 17: Jap pocket still being subjected to heavy mortar barrages. The first aircraft landed on the strip about 1000 hours. Much credit must be given to the A.C.S.[?] which repaired the strip. It had been heavily booby-trapped and was blown to pieces with bomb craters and mines. In fact, reports came to hand today that three bull-dozer drivers were killed by snipers last night. About 1430 five B25’s dropped bombs on the Jap pocket. An ammunition dump must have been hit because a pall of black smoke arose into the air. Soon afterwards 25 pounders and mortars opened up on the Japs that were probably driven from their foxholes. There are only supposed to be about 40 or 50 left but they have burrowed in and are hard to shift. Air Raid alarm given during the night (about 2200) but no planes seen. During night star shells were dropped over Jap positions at intervals. The light from these showed our camp up like daylight. Guns and mortars still pound Jap lines.

Mon Jan 18: Two spitfires crashed while landing on the strip this morning. We learnt tonight that late this afternoon some Japs managed to get through the thickest portion of the mangroves and eight were seen only about 400 yds of flat ground and 250 yds of swamp separated them from us. An AIF platoon was placed on this side of the mangroves. During the night 25 pounders just behind our camp opened up several times disturbing the nights sleep. H.M.A.S. Shropshire shelled Jap area today.

Tue Jun 19: Returned today to 163. This unit followed from Morotai in a convoy which entered Labuan Harbour on the morning after Z day. The unit landed on the island about two days later and have set up quite a nice camp near the strip.

Wed Jun 20: Visited the strip this afternoon. Quite a good strip this afternoon. Quite a good strip has already been laid and many planes are already here. (Four Dougs, a Wirrawang and three spits landed while I was there.) Bulldozers etc. are at work widening and lengthening it. The strip has been built at the side of the Jap strip which is covered with bomb-craters, some of which are about thirty feet deep. Many Jap planes are lying around, also the two spits which crashed a couple of days ago. One of these was in a terrible mess. It is a wonder that the pilot came out alive. A trip around the island today revealed a hive of activity. Camps are everywhere and construction work is forging ahead. One can hardly believe that ten days ago it was more or less a desolate waste. The news today disclosed that three Japs killed trying to infiltrate our lines were found to be carrying 30 lb bombs strapped to their backs. Six B 25’s again dropped bombs on the Jap pocket while I was viewing the strip about 1/2 mile away and the debris could be seen quite clearly as it arose high into the air. Two spitfires shot down a Jap “Oscar” sixty miles out to sea, about 1800.

Thur Jun 21: A red alert was sounded about 0030 hours. Two planes came to within 20 miles of the island but turned for home. This may have been a ruse, however to force the blackout to allow the Japs to infiltrate our lines because during the early hours of the morning Japs were seen in several parts of the island. “A” and “C” company have been occupied with pocket on the hill on the other side of the main strip. Several days ago they captured it but the Japs counter-attacked and retook it. The A.I.F. attacked again and again but failed to dislodge them. “A” and “C” companies late last night withdrew 600 yds leaving a gap through which they hoped the Japs would go. It was their intention to get the Nips out in the open and finish them off. They came out of the pocket but somehow eluded the trap. Marching alongside of the strip in column of route about 50 Japs reached Houe [?] Rd after leaving 11 as a detachment near the strip. They were challenged by one guard as they marched down the road but they eliminated him. Passing the Jap P.O.W cage near H.Q. Ordnance three Japs dropped out in an attempt to release the four prisoners, while the rest continued toward the beach. Before reaching there their identity was established and firing broke out over the island about 0430. The march of death then ended in a banzai charge right down to the beach area. The A.E.M.E. [?] wiped out 11 in one go. Some Yanks (they have been arriving during the last couple of days are occupying the remnants of Victoria) managed eight. Other units got bunches of four or five until about forty were stacked all over the area. The 11 were accounted for on the strip and the three at the P.O.W. cage. Five more penetrated 111 M.F.C.U. lines agut only one was killed by an A.I.F. member of a nearby A/A battery. This morning there was a noted increase in the number of troops carrying their rifles and owens with them. By midday all the bodies had been removed and their remains disinfected on the ground. At least four swords, two binoculars, souvenired plus many other less prized items – watches, money etc. The Japs killed about 6 Yanks and at least one RAAF. They slashed a number of tents in the hope of getting someone in bed.

Fri Jun 22: Last night many shots were fired by guards by guards on duty, ben [?], thompson, owen, machine, rifles, and grenades. Extra guards had been placed on all camps (I was on from 0430-0630). Most of these shots were at nothing but a few Japs were caught in the beach area. Today a lone Jap entered the orderly room of an army unit near the beach area, and slit the throats of two men before he was killed.

Sat Jun 23: A few Japs were shot during the night. Many shots were fired at our own soldiers and airmen, demonstrating that the men are becoming jittery. One instance is of the guard next to us firing at the one coming to relieved him. Ever since I have been on the island I have had much more fear of being shot by our own men than a Jap> I was on the shift from 2030 – 2230 tonight – it was bright moonlight and all camps were alight – however about 2210 rifles and machine guns opened up in various places on the island. A detachment of Indian Sikhs rescued from Brunei has arrived and is preparing for action. They are noted for their fighting especially at night. Two tanks with flame-throwers were brought into action near one of the Jap P.O.W. camps (near the Army Canteens Service) this afternoon to exterminate about six Japs surrounded there. I was at work this afternoon at the beach helping unload the Simon Bamburger (yes the same old ship which I had hoped to never see again). After finishing work four of us went up the road to view the ruins of Victoria. While there a lone Jap fired two futile shots amongst the A.I.F. working on the oil tanks nearby. (He was about 150-200 yds from us). He was in a hole under a house and was waist deep in water. The army was on both sides of the house. The army was on both sides of the house. They opened up on him and killed him but an Australian soldier received one of our shots in the shoulder, wounding him.

While in the town Alligators were seen going up the river to attack a few Japs believed to be present. The unit commenced loading their gear onto trucks today in preparation for a move presumed to be Miri. [?]

A red alert was sounded about 1900. Two spitfires were seen to go out and return in about half an hour. (Unknown whether a kill was made). Another false alert about an hour later.

Sun Jun 24: Investigation into the recent scene of the Jap pocket showed only dead Japs. The 8’ shells from the Shropshire about a week ago had caused devastation. Now roads and camps are springing up in these areas. Labuan island has mushroomed into a vast camp, crowded with men and materials, while toads are rapidly criss-crossing the island in an irregular pattern, Most of the previously cultivated areas are now overgrown by a new jungle. Despite this there are still a few Japs around amongst small thickets left between camps. One has stolen a Thompson Gun, while another knifed an Air Force man. Two Jap P.O.W’s in the cage near the town were shot with 45’s (probably Yank) so they have been moved to the top cage where they have been placed under the care of the Indians, who are extracting vengeance for the treatment received since being captured in Singapore. The Japs are being forced to build their own barbed wire walls with bare hands – anyone lagging receives a lash from a leather strap wielded by a grim bearded Indian.The Yanks are even more jittery than 166 and now every Yank tent has been barricaded with sandbags, barbed wire and a machine gun post. Most troops are still walking about armed. There are now 43 Aussie and 7 Yank graves in the war cemetery. Since Thursday’s “do” we have had five shifts of four guards each night. Occasionally nearby units fire on each other and there have been several casualties caused.

Most of the gear was loaded onto trucks after dark this evening (our usual time for shifting!) but no-one knew where the trucks had to go to be unloaded onto the barges. Were pulled out of bed to finish loading gear at 11pm up all night.

Mon Jun 25: Left camp site at 0730 for beach. When we arrived the last of the trucks were in the process of being loaded onto L.S.M. (landing ship motors) 139. However the tide was too high and the last two trucks stalled in the 3 1/2 ft of water. The L.S.M. then went into the bay. After lying around all the morning we were taken aboard LSM 139 by a small barge about 1300. At 1330 a small barge carrying one of the two trucks arrived but in the process of transferring it the barges parted slightly and the truck was for a balancing between the first barge and the sea. They managed to tie it down in time but then the problem of hauling it occurred. All sorts of methods were tried until about 1630 athe barges proceeded to shore and a crane restored matters. In the meantime the contents of the truck had with some difficulty been unloaded onto our barge. Another truck was obtained on shore and it was loaded together with the remaining truck.

We weighed anchor at 2000 and as we sailed out of the bay with the full moon shining like a twinkle on the water our last view of Labuan was the sight of hundreds of lights from the various camps. It is rather funny to think that up here right near the front line there is no blackout while down south a blackout was in force with the Japs many miles away.

Most of us left Labuan with a tinge of regret. We had seen developments start and it promised to be such a good little island to camp that there was a feeling that a good thing was being left behind.

Summing up the fighting on Labuan. It was a very easy campaign. If there had been any sort of enemy heavy guns or aerial cover things could have been very tough. A red alert occurred about 2100. An enemy kite was supposed to be in the vicinity.

Tue Jun 26: About 0300 the two destroy escort left. It was said that they had two submarines cornered. The two L.S.M.’s continued on their way. Upon awakening the first sight to greet us was the huge cloud of smoke coming from the fuming airfields of Seria. At 1020 all guns had a practise shoot. At 1230 we entered the Bay of Lutong. A sunken Jap ship was partly emerged from the water.We beached at 1300. Some of the men waded ashore to set up the camp site. The others stayed to unload the ship of its gear and rations. At 2300 we arrived at our camp site. A cruiser was shelling the shore south of us all the time. There is a blackout here all night as the army expect the Japs to counter-attack at any moment.

Wed Jun 27: The erection of the doover was commenced as well as setting up the Latrines, showers, etc. The camp has been set up on very flat country. There are no trees in our area. The camp was once a garden and the ground was very undulating where the drainage had been. However it is only about 150 yds from the sea.

Thurs Jun 28: The setting up of the doover was completed. Visits around the area of Lutong showed that the place had been destroyed of any suitable buildings. The large oil-refining plant was a total wreck. Huge boilers and miles of pipe were a mass of ruins. A power house which had been used by the Japs was still in fairly good order with some machinery which could be put to good use. The houses in the township were still in fairly good condition and were occupied by the natives, who consist mostly of Chinese and Malayans. There are many wrecked buildings in the vicinity which are providing good timber and roofing iron for the camp. There is also plenty of material here that could make a person down south envious. Practically everything in the building and tool line is procurable just by picking it up from amongst the ruins.

Fri Jun 29: We found that the tactical disposition of the troops was as follows. The 2/13^th btn landed here last Wednesday against no opposition. They have advanced to theier furthest extent for a force of their size. Patrols have found Miri unoccupied but there are insufficient troops to occupy it. Other patrols have located strongposts inland from Miri a little. We are on a peninsula formed by the South China Sea and Miri River. There a few Japs near the tip in the Malay settlement and more across on the west bank of the Miri River. “A” Company patrols have reached South Knoll behind Miri. “B” Company patrols are moving towards the Dalum Pumping Station while “D” company have tonight accomplished the task of linking up with forward patrols from the 2/17^th at Baram Point advancing from burning Seria. These oilfields are clearly seen burning from here at night. A little north of us (about 1/4 mile) may be seen oil refineries, while the smashed pipeline to Miri passes a hundred yards from us closer to the shore. Apart from a few bomb craters and a few burnt or wrecked buildings (no homes) there is little sign of past military activity near our camp site. Whereas at Labuan all cars and trucks were badly smashed, here the army have for their own personal use many civilian sedans (latest models) besides Jap trucks and cars. All the Japs did to them was to remove the wiring. Cases of new Jap rifles have been found. First delivery of bread, baked in this area, was made today. An auster landed today on the strip at 1857 – departed1909 – the first to do so.

Sat Jun 30: £1.500.000 worth of damage has been incurred by the Oil Co which had a huge modern plant littered with workshops and laboratories as accessories. The place is mostly twisted steel framework and battered distilling tanks.

Continued in book no 2.

This is the best I could get. D [=Jim’s Aunty Dot]

Continued from book no 1.

Sat Jun 30: cont: However there is a mass of machinery and tools scattered throughout the area. There is also a telephone exchange still with a large proportion of its equipment intact. There are Jap radio parts with everything from valves to walkie-talkies; garages with cars, trucks and parts, generators, motors in fact machinery of all types and purposes. Most of the homes are well-built, the greater majority of the natives well-fed and decent. Like Labuan fire and pines line the foreshore but unlike Labuan there is a slight surf here and the soil is sand, rather than muddy.

This area is exceptionally quiet – no sound of a shot except the daily naval shelling. With only 1800 men holding perimeter about 9 miles by 3 miles deep and patrols beyond this line, there are very few left to control the interior so that on the sand tracks round about, there is very little traffic. We are still the only R.A.A.F. to arrive. The combined arrangement of 163 and the Fighter Direction Post of 111 M.S.C.U, [?] which came with us, is now fully operational as from 0930 hours.

Sun July 1: Apart from the still burning Seria oilfields, there has been no sign of activity since Friday. A few patrols go out and seldom sight Japs. Natives are returning in streams to Mire, carrying their belongings on their shoulders. Some are emaciated and have been ill treated, but the majority seem well fed. Tonight we had a tropical downpour that inundated our area.

Mon July 2: News of the long awaited 7^th Divvy landing at Balikpapan [?] has arrived. The natives said today that the Japs were never a very strong military force here. There were many Jap civilians working here. About 20 Australian prisoners of war were also held captive in the area (their whereabouts are now unknown). Many of the natives, especially the Chinese can speak English fluently.

Tue July 3: About 0500 this morning a lone Jap plane bombed and strafed the hospital at Miri causing some casualties. For some unknown reason our radar failed to pick it up. At present the town of Miri is picketed and practically no troops can enter it. This is to enable the natives to return and collect their gear before it is looted by the soldiers. There are four natives in the compound interned for their Jap sympathies. The natives here reported that 200 Japs in a pocket near Canada Hill are preparing for a breakout. Accordingly the defences in this area have been strengthened. Troops guarding the northern perimeter have been withdrawn leaving this area with only a small force of guards. The jungle road from Seria is being used by jeeps. This gives a land link between Brunei and Miri. There are many monkeys in the jungle bordering the perimeter.

Wed July 4: Travelling to Miri one passes by the native compound area to the loop in the Miri River where it connects its two almost parallel courses. Here an ancient ferry, in appearance like the old Chinese houseboats transports vehicles and men across (The smashed bridge is near completion again). The roads are machadamised and in a reasonable state of repair. Houses and gardens line the route until the oil wells are reached where the clusters of oil derricks and towers are absolutely undamaged, but are overgrown with vines and creepers. From there, one arrives at the bottom of Canada Hill (Pujut [??] Ridge) which is covered with thick jungle. Monkeys are sighted in this vicinity. Miri lies just beyond with the sluggish river separating the almost untouched Malay settlement in the peninsula and the Jap devastated Chinese settlement on the town side. Most of these houses have been gutted by fire, not bombed, as the foundations are still standing. As at Lutong, the Japs have maintained a scorched earth policy by destroying all decent homes. 25 pounders and 75 m.m. fire over Canada Hill into the Jap pocket. This morning 24 Mitchells made two bombing strikes on the pocket. Quite a lot of Jap booty is also in this area. At Lutong 3 Aussie 3.7” captured at Singapore have been recaptured. An Indian P.O.W camp was at our now northern perimeter and most of them are now re-equipped and ready for action. Round about the airstrip there are at least 13 wrecked Jap kites including one captured DC3 passenger. Also one medium bomber had evidence of being made in Germany.

Thur July 5: Just after 0600 while personally on shift two Jap planes came in about 10 miles apart. The first bombed and strafed near Miri. The second unloaded its load between Miri and Lutong and strafed an area about 2 miles from our camp. The plane heard overheard after it had finished its run. The radar only picked these up 10 miles away, though it followed them out.

325 Radar which came here with us moved to its site at Miri today.

Fri July 6: The camp is in fairly good order now. All tents have wooden floors, have been equipped with home made and scrounged tables and chairs. A fly proof mess has been built and an elaborate system of piping has been constructed for a water system. A well has been dug from which water is pumped into a tank built on a 12ft stand. From here water is run, to the showers and to a tank at the mess.

Sun July 8; There has been an occasional raid on the Jap pocket during the pasts few days but today 6 Beaufighters and 4 Liberators and twelve spitfires dropped 500lb bombs. The defenders of the pocket have now been identified as a complete company of about 150 men. It is believed that some Japs disguised as natives are wandering amongst the allied lines. Apart from this, there is evidence that watchful natives are communicating our activities to the Japs, as it is seldom the enemy walk into our ambushes or booby traps, although they move in the area when the trap is removed. Most of our booby traps get natives, monkeys or dogs.

The first mobile picture show screened today.

Wed July 11: Two A.C.S. officers have arrived to select the site of an air strip, south of the present one and running parallel to the coast. The Jap pocket is gradually moving away, although a detachment once attacked an Aussie patrol at a cost to the Nips of 28 killed. Occasional bombing and strafing raids are made on their positions. The local Miri hospital and x-ray plant is in a repairable condition and is intended for use as an army hospital. In Miri the Malay Settlement is in god condition and indicates that here at least the Malays are wealthy and lived well using all modern conveniences such as refrigeration, gas stoves, electric appliances of all types, modern chromium plated or polished wood furniture, tiled floors, sewerage etc – even air conditioning. There are many sections of the Miri River that are scenic. Crocodiles have been sighted.

The strain of 24 hours a day continuous running is causing the doover to crack up in many places with the result that we have had long breakdowns.

Thur July 12: The doover broke down completely today – being off all day.

Fri July 13: About 20 Lightnings continued the harassing actions against the Japs. There seem to be more Japs killed by the Dyaks then by the Aussies, the former often bringing in a bag full of heads. Four L.S.M.s arrived today with the advance party of the A.C.S. but they didn’t land as it has now been decided to abandon the idea of constructing a strip here. The doover started again today. Tomorrow we commence our new roster with two shifts of 24 hours on, 24 off. Whilst on seven hours a day will be operational and the other seventeen standby. All but seven of 111 M.F.C.U. will shortly return to Labuan.

Thur. July 19: It was thought that the Japs would make a counter-attack this morning but nothing happened. Planes still continues to strike at the Jap positions which are becoming further south. A few days ago 15 Japs were supposed to have been sighted between Lutong and Mire but they escaped into the bush. However, their numbers are few and far between.l

Sun July 20: An army concert team “6 Dominoes” put on a show tonight.

Fri July 30: During the past few days large numbers of Liberators and some super-fortresses have been observed flying south over the area. Apparently they are softening up some area. Apparently they are softening up some area for a new invasion. The weather has been good lately and all the boys have been spending as much time as possible fishing and on the beach. The beach is flat and solid and good games of football and cricket are possible. The water is, at the moment, dirty from soot, debris etc from allied bombing brought down the river. However some good swimming is possible. Pictures are held approximately once weekly.

Sat July 31: At 0450 this morning, while personally on shift an enemy plane was picked up proceeding north, well inland. 0458 second enemy plane picked up in the south. 0510 third enemy plane picked up in south. Both these planes circled about 180 [degrees] at 25 miles from us. While the third remained circling, the second came in dropped a bomb over Miri and strafed. After it had gone out the third one came in and likewise dropped a bomb and strafed. The first one was later picked up returning from the north again well inland. No damage or casualties were reported.

A visit to Miri today showed the place to be hive of activity. The natives are at work rebuilding the destroyed homes and the Oil Co has set up an office where dozens of typewriters are in action already.

Wed Aug 7: Signal arrived saying that we were to be ready to travel by L.S.M. to Brookton at an early date.

Fri Aug 10: Commenced to pull doover down this afternoon and pack barracks equipment away. The latest war news of the last few days (the new Atomic bomb and Russia’s entry entry into the Japanese War) has raised everyone’s hopes of an early conclusion of the war. There are varied ideas on the thoughts of leaving but the majority are sorry to be parting so soon. The camp is such a good set-up and the areas though quiet, is quite bearable.

Sat Aug 11: Last night’s announcement that Japan is willing to surrender if she can keep the Emperor has caused much excitement and speculation as to whether it will be accepted and when we get home, etc. The packing up of the doover completed this morning. Originally we were to commence loading tomorrow but it has been postponed a few days. General Sir Thomas Blamey visited the district this morning landing by Catalina.

The local army band has been giving many performances lately. It is composed of stretcher bearers, and the band could easily compete against some of the southern bands. There has been very little in the area since we landed.

The natives reported today that the Japs have two or three planes in the bush, about thirty miles south, which probably accounts for the fact that the raids were never picked up very far away.

Mon Aug 13: The rest of the gear was packed away today. News that the Japanese were ready to surrender was received this afternoon. The boys celebrated with this week’s issue of beer – two bottles (these issues have been received nearly every week up here.) A local Chinese boy has been working for us ever since we landed here. There were tears rolling down his cheeks this afternoon when he farewelled us all – showing how well he had been treated compared with his former treatment.

Commenced loading gear onto L.C.T. 1314 at 1900. The barges are getting smaller and smaller each time we move. The loading was finished at 2330. While on our way back to camp to collect our gear heavy rain started and everyone was soaked. It was too wet to board the boat then so we slept for the night in what had been the kitchen – men were on the floor, under and on the shelves and everywhere.

Tue Aug 14: We were taken out to LCT 1331 by duck at 0900 in the morning. Before we left camp the natives were there in force collecting everything that we had discarded! There was no gear on board this barge so tents went stretched across to keep out the sun. Departed at 1400 in a convoy consisting of our two barges and a gun boat escort. At 1500 a stray mine was sighted to the starboard at 150 yds from our barge and blown up by gun fire from the brats. Shrapnel flew overhead and the explosion rocked the boat. At 1850 we circled for about an hour waiting for two more L.C.T’s to join us from Baram [?] Pt. The burning Seria oilfields could clearly be seen at right.

Wed Aug 15: We pulled into Labuan at 1700. The news that the war was over came at 0800. After the C.). had talked with IAF [?] RAAF we were told that we still had to go to Brookton. The first barge with gear in it left but ours was unable to pull out. Word then came through that we were to stay. We proceeded out to [?] M.F.C.U. site and slept for the night under their orderly room. The other barge returned in the evening after getting to within 200 yds of Brookton Beach. We commenced to unload it at 1800. When nightfall came all the ships in the harbour fired off [?] lights and rockets. Searchlights played their beams across the sky and some ships set their fire hoses off with lights shining on them. Ships bells were rung and large guns fired a few rounds – and what was happening while everyone was celebrating victory? – we were working unloading the barge. Work was completed at 2000 and we retired for the night.

Thurs Aug 16: Set up camp with 166 today. They are near 111 but still a separate unit. However they have not improved their camp since we left and it was nothing to speak about then. Their set-up is nothing like we had at Lutong. 111 is an extensive unit. There seems to be no end of buildings and tents. All rifles and tin helmets were handed in today – the first step.

Fri Aug 17: Received a parcel from the Comforts Fund today – the first that I have received from them. It contained one tin salted peanuts, one tin sliced peaches, one plum pudding, a tin of Christy’s talcum powder, a tin of tobacco, one jar of Ingram’s shaving cream, a housewife[?], a packet of razor blades, a handkerchief, a washer and writing paper and envelopes.

Sat Aug 18: It rained incessantly last night and today. It has rained fairly frequently at night here, I believe, but this is one of the first days that it has rained during the day.

111MFCU put on a concert this evening in a hall erected just near our tents. Some very good artists took part too.

Mon Aug 20: Our operators started to work with 166 operators today on a 24 hours on, 72 hours off roster, three operators on a shift, but the phone has to be answered day and nigt, even though the unit is on standby except between 1300 and 1700.

Tue Aug 21: There is very little to do around the unit. The boys are all concerned about the lack off exercise. The main talk is on what day we will get home.

The mail position is much better here than Lutong. Letters reach here from Sydney in three or four days, whereas they took from eight to twelve days there.

Wed Aug 22: Went on a hiking excursion around the island today. From our camp we made our way to the part of the island occupied by 316 Radar about ten miles away. From there we started to come back via the beach, but rocks prevented the journey by this route, so we climbed up through steep jungle covered ground and after winding in out for some time eventually reached the beach again near where the ninth divvy is camped. There is a fairly good beach here, and they have built dressing sheds etc which reminded one of home. Several A.M.W.A.S. were seen on the beach. We received a lift back by truck passing the unused Timbali airstrip.

This hike showed what the Allies have done to improve the place since they arrived, unlike the Japs who let it deteriorate. Good roads are running in all directions. The airfield is now completed and appears to be very firm Planes are everywhere both fighters and transports. On other parts of the island, also, improvements have been made, -Stores and warehouses constructed, the rubble from the bombing cleared away, and all unhealthy native huts demolished.

During our hike we saw the busy as well as the peaceful side of the island. Most of the troops are concentrated in one section of the island, while in the other are the natives who are going about their normal work as though nothing had happened. This section of the place was not touched by the invasion and all farms are intact.

Thurs. Aug 23: The names of the personnel in the unit are as follows. These men have all been with the unit since its formation. When we formed there were a few others who have since been posted. The personnel are:

F.H.W. [?] Surman, F/Lt. C.O.

Ian [?] Robjant, W/O. Senior Radar Mech.

Walter Watts, Sgt. Medical Orderly

Ray Maddern, Sgt. Senior Radar Operator

Tom Lynch, Sgt, Stores clerk

Jim Kenton, Sgt. Guard sergeant and station W.O.D. [?]

Gordon Lee, Cpl. Radar mechanic

Harry Turner, L.A.C. Radar mechanic

Les Percy, Cpl. Radar operator

Ray Harrington, L.A.C. Radar operator

Bob Woods, L.A.C. Radar operator

Allan MacRae, L.A.C. Radar Operator

James Vernon, L.A.C. Radar Operator

Mene Holden, Cpl. Wireless Telegraphist

Don Oliver, L.A.C. Wireless Operator Mechanic

Les Dickman, Cpl. Clerk

Ron Taylor, L.A.C. Fitter. D.M.S [?]

Ted Baker, L.A.C. Driver. Motor Transport

Earl Shiels, Cpl. Cook

Stan Jacobsen, Cook

Harold Crofts, L.A.C. Cooks assistant

Albert Wright, L.A.C. Cooks assistant

Frank Kelly, Cpl. Guard

Wally Cummins, Cpl. Guard

Jim Comer, L.A.C. Guard

Bill Grilk, L.A.C. Guard

Bill Gilbert, L.A.C. Guard

Tony McMahon, L.A.C. Guard

Roy Hodder, L.A.C. Guard

There are three new radar operators posted to the unit (the unit has been two short all the time) but only one has arrived so far.

Fri Aug 24: A double beer issue (four bottles) was made today – one of them free, as a victory gift. Most of the boys were quite merry tonight.

Sat Aug 25: Two of the operators went to 342 Radar on loan today, and the other three – Percy, Woods and myself went to 316 Radar, situated on the other end of the island, about ten miles form the town area. We were bedded down temporarily in some of the tents until a tent could be found for us to erect. The camp is on a high hill and commands an excellent view of the sea. There is a good beach at the foot of the hill and the sea is excellent for swimming, although the surf is not much. The area is fairly free of mosquitoes and shorts and no shirts is permissible during the day, unlike where 163 are where shirts can only be removed while working.

Sun Aug 26: Commenced shift work on their gear this evening. The gear LW/AW is well set up and it is a pleasure to work it after our gear.

Mon Aug 27: Put a tent up for ourselves this morning and by lunch time we were well settled in.

Grace Fields and her concert party appeared tonight. We had tea at 1500 and arrived at the concert area at 1700. A large crowd was already there but nothing in comparison with the crowd that had arrived when the concert commenced at 2000. Local artists provided the first part of the show. When Gracie was to come on it started to rain heavily and although easing off afterwards was raining all through the performance, ceasing when she finished. Once the boys were soaked through nothing deterred them from giving her a rousing reception.

Tue Aug 28: Went to the pictures tonight to see what should have been “Laura”. This is the fifth time that it has been advertised but has always failed to appear. The road from here to the other end of the island where practically all camps are is very bumpy. Siting in the back of the truck for the ten miles is certainly an experience, in fact it is much more comfortable to stand.

Sun Sept 2: The peace treaty with Japan was signed today, so the war has now officially ended. During the past week there has been very little doing. We have been working shifts of 6 hours on and 24 off. Filling in time between shifts is a problem. For my part most of the time has been spent doing shorthand reading whatever is available + playing cards and chess. A sports meeting was held on the beach this afternoon. It was only a local affair (this unit) but there was some very good talent. The only race which I looked like winning was the 220 yds walk, but I was disqualified for going too fast and breaking into a jog.

Wed Sept 2: Volunteers were called for today for men to go to Japan. 81 Wing has been chosen to go and 111 M.F.C.U. and its radars come under this wing. The period to be spent in Japan was from 12 to 18 months. If the period had been shorter I would probably have volunteered.

Sat Sept 8: Hiked from the camp through the bush along what had been a railway line in 1910. All that remained of the line now were the milestones and a tunnel still in good condition. On the other side of the tunnel it was intended to go on to the disused brick kiln (from where the railway bricks were obtained.) and a lagoon but we lost the track after scrambling though dense undergrowth, finished on a hill some distance from our intended course. The railway was built to serve a coal mine but it appears that no large deposit was found – only odd seams.

Mon Sept 10: 80 Catalinas are supposed to have arrived to take home prisoners of war from these areas. Troops are leaving here every day to take up occupation duties on various parts of Borneo. Long service men are still being sent home, and although many rumors are current, nothing definite has been heard about other men going home.

Wed Sept 12: Visited No 3 today. They were playing volley ball against against 342. Volley ball has become a very popular pastime among the units. Nine Catalinas arrived today with prisoners of war from Singapore. Men who have completed their period of tropical service up here are being sent home now.

Sun Sept 23: Things have been very quiet lately. The camp life is the same old routine of very little work, with the spare time being devoted to sport of every description, together with the age old ‘spine-bashing’ of course. Prisoners of war are still being flown here, and the hospital ship “Manumba” has arrived with many sick prisoners, They are being accommodated at the 2^nd/6^th A.G.H. [?] until they are well enough to proceed home.

Sun Sept 30: This end of the island has now been opened to the rest of the troops on the island on Sundays. Previously other troops were forbidden up here because the coral trucks were numerous to allow other traffic on the narrow road. However the coral trucks do not run on Sundays now, on which days jeeps and trucks from everywhere are to [be] seen along the beach.

Work is in full swing now building a bomber strip along the present strip. The A.C.S. are doing a marvellous job because there were many craters and gullies to be filled in. It is presumed this strip is so that Liberators can land to help fly some of the men home.

Wed Oct 3: Word was received this afternoon that this (and the other) radar stations were to cease operations.

Thurs Oct 4: Commenced to pack away the spares etc. No official word yet received to demolish “doover’. The truck is running in to the pictures every night now (except Sundays).

Wed Oct 10: Packing up of doover and barracks gear commenced. Posting of men from the radars has commenced. One operator from here has been posted to T.A.F. [?] RAAF for clerical duties. Learnt today that 163 has had over half its men posted. So far none of their technical men have left.

Thurs oct 11: The gear is being carted into 111 M.F.C.U. for storing.

Sun Oct 14: The last of the gear and personnel moved in to 111 MFCU this afternoon. The other two boys and I rejoined our old unit. There were many regrets about leaving the 316 camp site, easily the best on the island. Conditions are much hotter in here and transport is hard to get to the beach. It is easy to thumb a lift but the beach is in such a direction that one truck is very unlikely to be going all the way to it and thus two or three trucks are necessary.

All 163’s guards have been posted, also the clerk, both cooks, two of the operators (both with over four years service) and three W/T’s. All these with the exception of the operators have gone to other units on the island.

Fri Oct 25: All the remaining personnel from all the radars were posted to 111 M.F.C.U. as from today. The only remaining members of 163 radar were four operators, thre mechanics, a stores clerk, and two messmen.

There is nothing to do all day but read and go swimming, and after tea, volley ball matches are usually held. Very few personnel are leaving the island at present, and tension is being caused by the lack of any official explanations.

Sat Nov 3: Received my posting to 1^st I.A.F. RAAF (Tactical Air Force, RAAF) today for clerical duties. This leaves only eight members of the old 163 not posted. This station has begun to show some signs of life now. All barracks gear is being disposed of, and radar gear is being sorted out and labelled “Bankstown” in preparation for the units move to that place.

A shortwave radio station known as “Radio Labuan” opened about ten days ago, but was superseded by 9AF on the broadcast band on Thursday night. Excellent programmes have been presented by both stations.

Mon Nov 5: Left 111 for IAF RAAF, until another operator at 1430. We had some difficulty on arriving in finding a spare place in the tents to camp. So many men have been posted in lately that the place is full. However we are temporarily in the sergeants quarters.

Tue Nov 6: Commenced work today in the Aircraft Operational Room which deals with the movement and control of all aircraft in these areas.

Fri Nov 9: We both moved to two spare beds in the airmens tents today. A number of men from B.P.S.O ( a lot of them radar operators) were today posted to 9TM utensils, tools etc arte D, so BPSO has completed most of its postings. The mess here is much better than 111 MFCU.

Pictures are only held three nights weekly now. To save transport no trucks are allowed bring personnel to the pictures which probably accounts for the dreased number of shows.

The Melbourne Cup was run last Tuesday and a full length film of it was shown here on Wednesday night (fast work.)

Sun Nov 11: Visited 111 today. A lot more of their men have been posted and they are in the midst of disposing of surplus equipment. It seems a waste but it would take years to get it all back to Australia. Technical equipment is being kept but tents blankets, comforts such as sheets, pillows, gmes are being burnt, while kitchen utensils, tools etc are being dumped in bomb craters. The latest order is that only a few men of 111 will go back as that unit, and the gear will be taken to an air Stores Park until shipping is available. Rumours are still prevalent as to where all the other personnel will go.

Fri Nov 23; 20 personnel of 111 got away by boat this afternoon, en route to Bankstown where they will form the nucleus of the past-war fighter sector. Three members of 163 were among the number – Ray Harrington, tom Lynch and Gordon Tee, and also Flt Surman who is C.O. of the sector. All the other 111 men are going around to 84 O:B:U: to stay until they go home (having been posted as surplus to area requirements.)

A large number of air men on the island were posted south the other day. They should be home by Christmas but it looks as if those who are left will see Christmas here. An aircraft carrier was due at the end of the month but word has been received that it has been diverted.

Wed Nov 28: Received my posting to No 2 P.D. W.E.F. 21/12 this morning, and was cleared this afternoon. There are about 1400 men on the waiting list I believe. A large number of men have [been??] posted during the last few days with postings effective from 21^st Dec. It appears that this unit with others is being cleaned out except for skeleton staffs of a few men.

Thurs Dec 6: The Manoora sailed today with 250 RAAF personnel on board. Two Victory ships are dure in tonight. Men going home now are those whose names went on the waiting list on the 20^th . Mine went on it on the 28^th so it is getting close.

Mon Dec 10: The two Victory ships sailed this morning with 300 RAAF personnel on each. Men posted the day before I was posted were on the ships so my name should not be too far down the list now.

Sat Dec 15: I am the only clerk left in the A.O. [?].R. now . My hours of duty have been 1200-1400, 1700-1900, and 2200-0800 (sleeping). I went around to T.M.O. [?] yesterday and found out that men posted on the 27^th are now going by plane. AS I was posted on the 28^th I should be near the top. How some men posted on the 27^th go on the Victory Ships remains a mystery.

The food is much better lately.

Sun Dec 16: At 1300 an announcement made that a dozen of us (myself included) were to report to 9TMO at 1500 hours. Upon reporting we weighed our gear (after throwing away a blanket mine came to 48lbs) and then went around to the pool.

Wed Dec 19: The last couple of days have been spent cleaning up the camp area etc. I received may travel instructions tonight.

Thurs Dec 20: Awoken at 0430, breakfast 0500. Left transit camp 0515 for Tmo [?] where our gear was inspected by SP’s. Departed from Labuan airfield at 0745 in Ventura numvber A59-68. There were 16 passengers on the plane and conditions inside were very crushed. As the only window in the plane was in the tail and I was about half way along. I had a very poor view. The average speed was 170 m.p.h. and the height for most of the way was 10,000’. The plane arrived at Balikpapan 1050, refuelled and departed 1145. WE were over the sea for most of this hop and although not quite so high it was cld enough. Landed Darwin 1730 (Labuan time) , 1800 ( Darwin time.) We were given a medical examination by quarantine authorities and then proceeded to 2 RPP transit camp. The meals at this camp are very good – fresh meat, butter, etc.

Mon Dec 24: We would probably have left on Saturday but a RAAF Douglas from Morotai to Darwin was lost on Thursday and all available planes have been searching.

Tue Dec 25: Christmas Day, and it is raining . A very good Christmas, dinner was served, Turkey with all the extra bits such as almonds and muscatelles.

Thurs Dec 27. All transit personnel are required for duties each day. This fact, combined with the fact that mens names are called out at any time for aircraft travel has prevented me from leaving the camp to see Darwin township. Received travel instructions at 2330 tonight.

Fri Dec 28: Was woken at 0230, breakfast 0300, left transit camp for 87MO 0330. Departed Darwin in Douglas CUY 0515. I was the only RAAF passenger on board – all the others were army personnel. I had a good view this time and could see the rivers houses etc quite plainly below . 1345 (Darwin time) , arrived Cloncurry , where the plane refuelled and luch was served. Departed at 1130 for Archerfield. When the plane started to cross the mountains flying conditions became very rough, and we were flying blind all the time. Word was received that Archerfield drome was closed so we’ve turned for Charleville where we landed in perfect weather at 1700 . As no service barracks were available were stayed for the night at Corones hotel, one of the most modern and best equipped in the town.

Sat Dec 29: Dept Charleville at 0730 , and arrived Archerfield at 1015, encircling Toowoomba on the way. I decided to spend the new year in Brisbane, so went out to Uncle’s and left the RAAF authorities alone.

WED JAN 2 – 1946: Reported to the RTO and was placed on the next days troop train.

Thur Jan 3: Dept CHPBORN [?] Junction 1430.

Fri Jan 4: Arrived Central 1400 (30 minutes early) and went straight home.

Mon Jan 7: Reported to Bradfield Park and was granted 28 days leave, thus concluding my tropical adventures.