The N.S.W. contingent in the Soudan.-Sketches on board the troop-ships “Iberia” and “Australasian.”

Scarce c.19th engraving of the N.S.W. Contingent on board the troop ships to the Soudan.

Insets views;
1.-On board the “Iberia,” 5 a.m.-the morning bath.
2.-In the tropics, on board the “Iberia “-sleeping on deck.
3.-Revolver practice on board the “Australasian”.
4. Warrant officer Green reading a chapter on gunnery to the men on board the “Australasian.”
5.-The ‘tween decks of the “Australasian”-exercising.
6.-Feeding time on board the “Australasian.

Contemporary account: The New South Wales Contingent on board the ” Australasian.” During the voyage between Sydney and Suakim, whenever it was practicable, the horses were taken out in turns and walked round the deck for about three quarters of an hour at a time. They seemed to enjoy the change from their close stalls, and it did them good. Sometimes, after the men had had an unusually heavy time of it with the horses, and things became quieter, Colonel Spalding, the commanding officer, would allow the men a spell off of an afternoon. Occasionally opportunity would be taken to deliver a little instructive lecture to the men, in a free and easy fashion. The men were permitted to practice a good deal with the revolver, under proper restrictions. A target was set out over the stern quarter, 18 or 20 feet from the ship’s side ; and at this they fired from the quarter deck at distances of 10, 15, and 20 paces respectively. The apparent distance of such a target is most deceptive, and at first the shooting was very indifferent, but latterly, when the men became more accustomed, some excellent practice was made. . When we were properly under way, and the horses had become accustomed to their position like their masters, they greatly improved in spirits and also in appetite. Owing to the construction of the Australasian it was possible to stand and see the whole of the main deck, with over a hundred horses in two long lines on either side. The excitement among the horses when the forage was being given out was intense. They seemed as impatient and hungry as tigers ; after disposing of their food a calm contentment settled over them all.

From the original edition of the Illustrated Sydney News.  

Collections:
National Library Australia: Bib ID 440095
State Library New South Wales: F8/39-40
State Library Victoria: CINF SLVIC=1853-1872-RARENSL N.S.W.