The Chipilly Six: Lucas Jordan in conversation with Ross McMullin

On 9 August 1918, on high ground overlooking the Somme River, an entire British Army Corps was held up by German machine gunners. The battle had raged for 30 hours and more than 2000 Englishmen had fallen. Meanwhile, two Australian sergeants, Jack Hayes and Harold Andrews, went absent without leave and crossed the Somme ahead of the British lines. Gathering weapons and four of their best mates, Hayes and Andrews returned to take on the Germans.

The upshot was an extraordinary exploit as these six men of the 1st AIF Battalion proceeded to accomplish what the British corps could not.

Historian Lucas Jordan has told this enthralling story in his latest book, The Chipilly Six: Unsung Heroes of the Great War. He weaves a compelling tale of the lives of these soldiers, describing their astounding exploit and chronicling their return home and years after service, through a pandemic, the Great Depression, another world war and the very first Anzac Day dawn service.

Lucas will appear in conversation with award-winning historian and biographer Ross McMullin.

Lucas will appear in conversation with award-winning historian and biographer Ross McMullin.

Light refreshments will be provided after the talk and copies of The Chipilly Six: Unsung Heroes of the Great War will be available for purchase and signing.

This event is free for Shrine Friends* and volunteers using their discount codes. Booking essential.

* One free ticket per membership