Summary

Booklet issued in September 1914 containing a complete roll of the first Victorian Contingent to "the Motherland", documenting Australia's offer to send troops to Great Britain after the declaration of war, and the response by Victoria. Around 6,700 men volunteered within three weeks to take part in an "expeditionary force", and gathered at a camp at Broadmeadows in preparation for sailing on one of 26 troopships being sent by Australia. The booklet was produced as a souvenir to the "gallant men who responded so readily to the call to arms. Theirs is the spirit that has built up the greatness of England's empire." The wish that they have a "speedy and safe return to sunny Australia" underlines the naivety or innocence of the times.

The booklet also mentions that a secondary expeditionary force is being assembled, so may have also functioned as an inducement to enlist.

Physical Description

Printed booklet with red and blue cover depicitng a Union Jack flag. Text in blue and red.

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