| Accession Number | P11238.001 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Photograph |
| Object type | Colour - Toned black & white print |
| Place made | United Kingdom: England |
| Date made | 1917-1919 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain
|
Group portrait of an AIF entertainment troupe known as "The Aussies", dressed as Pierrots. ...
Description
Group portrait of an AIF entertainment troupe known as "The Aussies", dressed as Pierrots. Identified, far right, is 6408 Private (Pte) Ernest Alfred (Nick) Nicholls, 8th Battalion. A 26 year old picture operator prior to enlisting, he embarked with the 20th Reinforcements from Melbourne on 11 September 1916. Following training in England, he proceeded to France where he joined the 8th Battalion on 24 December 1916. After taking ill, he was hospitalised on 23 February 1917 and transferred to several hospitals in France before being evacuated to England. On 20 March 1917, he was admitted to the 1st London General Hospital Camberwell and then spent the remainder of the war either in hospital, in a convalescent facility or in a training brigade. Whilst at Perham Downs camp in England, he formed "The Perham Stars" with fellow servicemen, entertaining the troops there. The group later renamed to become "The Aussies" concert party, touring hospitals and camps. Pte Nicholls was discharged from the AIF in London on 20 September 1919. This image is part of a collection relating to the service of Pte Nicholls. [See images P11238.001 to P11238.015.]