100th anniversary of the Battle of Beersheba
The Australian Light Horse demonstrated exemplary courage, dedication and ingenuity when they charged the Turkish trenches to capture the town of Beersheba. In 2017, Queenslanders held many exciting events to commemorate how these incredible men and their horses changed the tide in the Middle East at the Battle of Beersheba during the First World War.
In Pursuit of Beersheba commemorative ride
When: 19–23 September 2017
Where: Barcaldine, Ilfracome, Longreach and Winton
Throughout September 2017, the Queensland Mounted Infantry Historical Troop (QMIHT) joined other troops from across Australia and New Zealand to honour the Australian Light Horse with a series of commemorative activities throughout Central West Queensland.
During the In Pursuit of Beersheba commemorative ride, more than 90 riders and their horses travelled a 288km route from Barcaldine to Winton, stopping at Ilfracombe and Longreach. In each town, the riders were welcomed by the locals who joined together for a range of commemorative activities, including mounted parades, memorial services and re-enactments.
Ceremonies and re-enactments for Queensland school children
When: Tuesday 31 October 2017
Where: Australian Outback Spectacular, Oxenford
On the 100th anniversary of the historic charge of Beersheba, over 1700 school children from South East Queensland attended a commemorative event featuring excerpts from Australian Outback Spectactular's Salute to the Light Horse performance, a dramatic retelling of the Australian Imperial Force's efforts at Beersheba.
In addition to the remarkable horses and talented performers of Australian Outback Spectacular, the event included educational interviews with descendants of Lieutenant General Sir Harry Chauvel, an appearance by the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry), and a special commemorative ceremony. It was an informative and memorable experience that gave many Queensland children an Anzac tale to share among family and friends.
Many thanks to Australian Outback Spectacular and the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry) for their support of this commemorative event.
Freedom of Entry parade
When: 28 October 2017, 10am
Where: Adelaide Street, Brisbane
On 28 October, the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry) exercised their right to Freedom of Entry to the City of Brisbane. The ceremonial parade is the most honourable distinction that a city may bestow on a contingent of the Australian Defence Force.
It’s fitting that this parade was held close to the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Beersheba. The 2nd/14th is the modern iteration of the Australian Light Horse, and they proudly carry the battle honours from Beersheba.
For those on the sidelines, it was spectacular to see the Regiment in all their might, particularly the four monstrous M1A1 Abrams tanks—the first time these massive armoured machines have ever been through the Brisbane city streets.
After an inspection by the Lord Mayor outside King George Square, the parade powered along Adelaide Street to the delight of the gathered crowd. After the parade, the Regiment joined RSL Queensland in hosting a family fun day at South Bank to further raise awareness of the Battle of Beersheba.
