| Place | Middle East: British Mandate of Palestine, Palestine, Gaza |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL/21752.001 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Silver-plated brass |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | British Mandate of Palestine: Palestine |
| Date made | c 1941 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
Surf carnival March Past trophy : 2/1 Machine Gun Battalion, AIF
Description
Trophy cup made from silver plated brass with two looped handles attached to either side. Engraved on the front are the words 'A.I.F. SURF CARNIVAL 21.9.41 FIRST PRIZE MARCH PAST'. Engraved on the back is 'WINNERS 2/1 AUST.M.G.BN.'.
History / Summary
This trophy, for the March Past competition, was won by the 2/1 Australian Machine Gun Battalion at a surf carnival held at Gaza beach on 21 September 1941. Whilst serving in Palestine the men of the battalion were proud of their reputation on the sports field. Apart from having fine boxers the unit had a strong hockey team. The battalion's rugby league side had also enjoyed success in England where they won every match they played. The strong surf life saving team won four events at the Gaza carnival including the March Past and two Rescue and Resuscitation events. The trophies were presented to the battalion by Lady Blamey, wife of the Australian commander. One of the team members, Private Arthur Ford, also won the Sack Race that day.