Topic: Militia - Military Orders
As the Kitchener Report of February 1910 plan unfurled itself, problems began to emerge regarding the nature of units, their locations and the ability to service an area with adequate coverage. All the things that happen when theory meets reality. The consequence was a change in some of the formations. This was outlined in Military Order No. 2 of 1911. A copy of the order is reproduced below.
One can see all the initial flaws being ironed out. For example, in South Australia, the removal of Kangarilla from No. 4 Squadron, 17th ALHR (Australian Light Horse Regiment) and its replacement with Morphett Vale in South Australia makes geographical sense. The good men of Kangarilla must have had a dreadful time attempting to parade with the full squadron. There are many other such alterations.
At Ayr in Queensland, it was recognised that there were sufficient men to form half a squadron for the 15th ALHR. Rather than 6th Squadron being confined to two troops from Townsville, Troops 1 and 2, Ayr was given provision to raise a further two troops, they being Troops 3 and 4.
In a larger change, in Victoria the 11th ALHR was split into two new formations, the 11th and 19th ALHRs. This additional regiment forced a change to the Brigade structure which followed in its wake.
With a recognition of a changing world, Electric Companies were increased in size. Such a move reflected the growing demand for electrical facilities upon the new battlefield.
Citation: Changes in Militia Structure, Military Order 2, 1911
