Embarkation at Freddie Beach

Freddie Beach is between Tsimba Ridge and Soraken peninsula, where the swell is broken by the various islands, coral, and otherwise that can be seen in the distance in the painting. The large island is Taiof, and the low one in front of it but nearer is Saposa. Several effective observation posts were situated on Taiof, which gives good views of Buka. Saposa was the main base in the area for water transport. The painting shows a daily, morning scene. A succession of barges would come in at this point and collect men and supplies for the various forward areas. Here, stores are being taken from a 3-tonner whilst a jeep waits to unload goods from its trailer. Men carry cases, one has two baskets of pigeons, a common sight. Other men await barges to take them to their units.