FAMILY LIFE

Robert Samuel Dinsey, known as Herbert, was born 8^th November 1891 (his birth date is shown as 8^th November 1892 on his attestation but his birth was registered with NSWBDM in 1891) in Murwillumbah, son of John & Mary Jane (Heaslip) Disney. Robert’s parents had moved to the area in 1869. His father was widely known and highly respected in all parts of the district and his mother was prominent in the Red Cross. Both parents are listed on the Banner St Memorial, Murwillumbah which lists the 2348 pioneer settlers of the Tweed district. He was one of 5 children. His brothers, Frederick & George Eric Dinsey also enlisted.

ATTESTATION

He was single farmer, eager to do his bit. He travelled to Brisbane on 29^th May 1915 to complete his application which showed his next of kin as his father, John, of Skinners Rd, Murwillumbah. His medical showed he was 23 years 6 months old, 5ft 11 inches tall (1.8m), weighed 181 lbs (82kgs), with a fair complexion, blue eyes & brown hair.  His eyesight was good

The Examining Medical Officer stated that Robert “can see the required distance with either eye; his heart and lungs are healthy; he has the free use of his joints; and he declares he is not subject to fits of any description. I consider him fit for active service.”  On the second page of the Attestation Paper, he made the following oath in the presence of the Attesting Officer: “I, Robert Samuel Dinsey, swear that I will well and truly serve our Sovereign Lord the King in the Australian Imperial Force until the end of the War … SO HELP ME, GOD.” 

Herbert was Methodist and had 4 vaccination marks on his left arm & a scar above his shin on his left leg.  He was enlisted as a private into the 15^th Infantry Battalion – 8^th Reinforcements with service No 2577

TRAINING AT RIFLE RANGE CAMP, ENOGGERA

As was the case with men from the Northern Rivers district in New South Wales, they trained at Rifle Range Camp, Enoggera near Brisbane. The Barracks Block was built as accommodation for men in two dormitories, each 36 feet by 22 feet (10.97 x 6.7 metres). Beds or bunks were not provided, instead each man slept on a palliasse with ground sheet on the floor. For many it was their first time away from home. Men from every walk of life, from clerks and teachers to factory and shop workers, were crammed together

Now training for the new recruits began. Firstly, the men received their vaccinations for smallpox, rabies & plague, (Herbert already had been vaccinated, then a recruit had to be inducted into military forms of discipline, command, and order. This was partially achieved through a program of basic training carried and, in a sense, was maintained for a long as a man was in the service. It involved marching and drilling with the rifle, cleaning and caring for personal equipment and being supervised and inspected in ways quite different to ordinary civilian life. For example, no boots should be allowed to get in a bad state of wear but must be sent to the bootmaker without delay for repair. Men who were found with hair long and unshaven had to have a haircut and shave

Secondly, after basic training there followed the far more serious exercise of turning a man into a fighting soldier at least partially prepared for the kind of warfare he was about to experience overseas. The topics and exercises in the syllabus of training were a world away from their former lives and included daily physical training, entrenching, wiring, firing rifle grenades, firing the Lewis light machine gun, dealing with gas attack, using hand grenades, using the bayonet, and the routines to be followed in the trenches.

This training was then put into practice during what were called ‘Field Days,’ when men would practice using the skills they had acquired in mock attacks both by day and by night. How well men had learnt to use their weapons, in cooperation with each other in training, would be tested in the harsh reality of the front line. Training would take several months

The recruits were issued with their uniform: a khaki woollen jacket, heavy cord breeches and the famous slouch hat – turned up on the left and featuring a plain khaki band, chinstrap and “rising sun” badge. A soldier’s equipment also included a dixie (mess tin), water bottle, mug, .303 Lee-Enfield rifle and bayonet.

VOYAGE OVERSEAS

He embarked at Brisbane, Queensland aboard HMAT Kyarra on 16 August 1915. The epic voyage across the ocean has been described as “the longest journey to war in the history of the world.” They thought it was the start of a new adventure- for many it was their first time so far away from home. However, after some time at sea the biggest problem turned out to be boredom. On-board, Officers organised rigorous training drills and exercise sessions for the men. They were expected to do their own washing, sweep the decks and carry out other chores

Attempts at breaking up the boredom, apart from the regular drill, varied. Shipboard activities included regular church parades and concerts. Troops engaged in lifebelt drill; a cookhouse on deck; soldiers on fatigues peeling potatoes 'spud bashing'; going to the dentist; barber, pay day; soldiers cleaning personal equipment; medical inspection. Sports and recreation included boxing, deck quoits, draughts. Also, the commanding officer's morning inspection; kit inspections; submarine drill; recreation such as the on deck 'open air' library, deck billiards, pillow fighting and card games including Nap. As well, conditions on the ships were cramped and the risk of illness was constant. 

Three hearty meals a day were served; breakfast usually consisted of porridge, stew, and tea. Lunch included soup, meat, vegetables, and pudding. Meat, bread with jam and tea was served for dinner. Many of the troops experienced bouts of seasickness on the voyage. The crossing the Equator ceremony, ‘Neptune’s Journey,’ was played-out on each troopship.

GALLIPOLI CAMPAIGN (OCTOBER–DECEMBER 1915)

After joining the 15th Battalion on Lemnos, Dinsey would have been transported to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where the battalion was still holding positions at Anzac Cove. By late October 1915, the 15th Battalion was stationed in the Shrapnel Gully and Russell’s Top areas, primarily engaged in holding the line, strengthening defences, and coping with worsening weather. Although the major offensives had ended with the failure at Lone Pine and Hill 60 in August, daily life was still dangerous due to enemy sniping, shellfire, and the harsh winter conditions beginning to set in.

EVACUATION FROM GALLIPOLI (DECEMBER 1915)

In December 1915, the 15th Battalion took part in the orderly evacuation of Anzac. This was a remarkable feat of military planning, carried out without alerting the enemy. Dinsey would have been part of this evacuation—either in the early stages or the final withdrawal—which took place between 18 and 20 December.

He would have returned to Lemnos Island, where the men were rested, deloused, and reorganised.

EGYPT AND REORGANISATION (JANUARY–MARCH 1916)

Following the Gallipoli campaign, Dinsey and the 15th Battalion were transferred back to Alexandria, Egypt, in early January 1916. There, the AIF underwent a major reorganisation and expansion, as the Australian Imperial Force prepared to join the fighting on the Western Front.

In this period, the 15th Battalion trained at Tel el Kebir and later Ferry Post, focusing on trench warfare tactics and discipline.

DEPARTURE FOR THE WESTERN FRONT JUNE 1916

Dinsey would have sailed with the 15th Battalion from Alexandria aboard the Transylvania on 1 June 1916, arriving at Marseilles, France, on 8 June 1916. From there, the battalion moved by train and marched to northern France, settling into billets and rotating into the trenches for familiarisation

WESTERN FRONT & TRENCH WARFARE

The soldiers now found themselves fighting the Germans in trench warfare. On the Western Front in 1914–1918, both sides constructed elaborate trench, underground, and dugout systems opposing each other along a front, protected from assault by barbed wire. The area between opposing trench lines (known as "no man's land") was fully exposed to artillery fire from both sides. Attacks, even if successful, often sustained severe casualties. Trench warfare created a living environment for the men which was harsh, stagnant, and extremely dangerous. Not only were trenches constantly under threat of attack from shells or other weapons, but there were also many health risks that developed into large-scale problems for medical personnel. Apart from the inescapable cold during the winters in France & Belgium, trenches were often completely waterlogged and muddy, and crawling with lice and rats

The time soldiers spent in the trenches varied depending on factors like their army's rotation system and the intensity of the conflict in their sector. On average:

·      Front-line trenches: Soldiers typically remained here for about 4–6 days at a time. This was where the fighting was most intense and the conditions were the harshest.

·      Support and reserve trenches: After time on the front line, soldiers were rotated to these positions for around 6–12 days. These trenches were set further back and offered slightly better conditions.

·      Rest periods: Soldiers were then moved away from the trench system entirely for rest, training, and recovery, often lasting several weeks, depending on operational needs.

The rotation system helped prevent complete physical and mental exhaustion, but the constant dangers of trench life meant there was rarely any true respite.

The battalion moved through the Armentières sector, sometimes referred to as “the nursery sector,” as it was considered quieter. However, patrols, trench raids, and shelling were still common and dangerous.

BATTLE OF POZIERES – JULY–AUGUST 1916

By late July 1916, the 15th Battalion was committed to the Battle of the Somme, specifically the ferocious fighting for the village of Pozieres. The Australians were tasked with capturing and holding the vital ridge near the ruined village.

Herbert would have faced intense artillery bombardments, machine gun fire, and hand-to-hand fighting. The 15th suffered heavy casualties during this period—over 600 men—but succeeded in its objectives.

The psychological toll of Pozieres was enormous, as British General Rawlinson himself described the bombardment there as the worst endured by any troops in the war.

MOUQUET FARM – AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 1916

Following Pozieres, the battalion was drawn into the brutal attacks around Mouquet Farm, part of the continued push to capture German strongpoints. These attacks were marked by muddy ground, confusion, and massive losses. Despite limited tactical gains, they sapped German resources. Herbert survived this punishing phase, marking him as a seasoned and resilient soldier.

WINTER 1916–1917: REST, REFIT AND TRENCH ROTATION

After the Somme battles, the 15th Battalion moved north into Belgium and then back into France. They rotated in and out of the frontlines through the Le Touquet, Houplines, and Flers sectors. This period allowed for training, rest, and rebuilding.

The winter of 1916–17 was one of the coldest in decades, with snow, sleet, and frozen trenches. Sickness and frostbite were common, but the battalion maintained its strength.

Hindenburg Line Operations – Early 1917

In March 1917, the German army made a strategic withdrawal to the newly constructed Hindenburg Line—a heavily fortified defensive system. The Allies cautiously advanced and probed the retreat.

The 15th Battalion was involved in these operations, including reconnaissance patrols, occupying former German positions, and occasional skirmishes. This was a tense and uncertain period, as the enemy had left booby traps and fortified rearguards behind

April 1917 – Battle of Lagnicourt

On 15 April 1917, the Germans launched a surprise counterattack at Lagnicourt, striking five Australian battalions, including the 15th. Although initially pushed back, the Australians regrouped and repelled the attack, inflicting significant losses on the enemy.

PROMOTED TO LANCE CORPORAL APRIL 1917

Herbert’s conduct during this period would likely have contributed to his appointment as Lance Corporal on 29 April 1917—a recognition of his reliability, endurance, and leadership under fire

MAY–JUNE 1917 – HOLDING THE LINE IN THE YPRES SALIENT

During this period, the 15th Battalion was in Flanders, alternating between front-line duties, support trenches, and rest. Skirmishes, trench raids, and artillery exchanges were common. It was a tense waiting period as the Allies prepared for a major offensive.

PROMOTED TO TEMPORARY CORPORAL MAY 1917

On 10^th May he was promoted to temporary Corporal

CONFIRMATION OF PROMOTION JUNE 1917

His promotion was confirmed on 5th June 1917. It was backdated from when Cpl Steele J. was promoted to Sergeant. This indicates that Herbert was stepping into a leadership role likely vacated by a battlefield promotion

BATTLE OF MESSINES – 7 TO 14 JUNE 1917

While the 4th Division (to which the 15th Battalion belonged) was in reserve, they were likely involved in support roles: carrying parties, casualty evacuation, and consolidation tasks. Massive mines under German lines were detonated at the start, signalling one of the most well-prepared attacks of the war.

Even if not in the initial wave, the 15th Battalion would have faced gas shells and German counter-shelling in the aftermath.

HOSPITALISATION JUNE 1917

Herbert was hospitalised on 19^th June & rejoined his unit on 8^th July- this confirms he had a period away, possibly for illness or a minor wound, though not specified on his attestation

BATTLE OF POLYGON WOOD – 26–27 SEPTEMBER 1917

The 15th Battalion was heavily engaged here as part of the Australian 4th Division, pushing through German lines to consolidate gains near Polygon Wood. This was a major assault through thick mud, shattered tree stumps, and under heavy shellfire. Herbert, then a Corporal, would have led small groups of men under harrowing conditions. Many acts of bravery were recorded in this action

WINTER OF 1917–18 – HOLDING THE LINE, FRANCE

The battalion spent the winter months along the Somme front, rotating through sectors such as Hébuterne and Morlancourt.

Bitter cold, trench foot, and gas alerts were common.

Herbert was promoted to Temporary Sergeant on 20 March 1918, likely reflecting his reliability during this challenging time.

GERMAN SPRING OFFENSIVE – MARCH–APRIL 1918

Defensive Operations around Hébuterne

In response to Germany’s major spring assault, the 15th Battalion took up defensive positions and helped stabilise the line. There were many localised counterattacks and the threat of a full German breakthrough.

Counterattack at Dernancourt – 5 April 1918

The 15th Battalion took part in a counter-attack along the Ancre River.

Intense hand-to-hand combat and coordinated defence against the German advance.

Villers-Bretonneux – April 1918

The 15th was held in reserve during the Second Battle of Villers-Bretonneux (24–25 April), but may have supported in rearguard or relief roles.

APPOINTED TEMPORARY SERGEANT MARCH 1918

This was in place of Sgt. Barden H., who was listed as sick from 18 Feb 1918. Herbert's promotion here reflects the battalion’s trust in his leadership during an intense phase of the war

PROMOTED TO SERGEANT APRIL 1918

Herbert was promoted to full Sergeant on 11 April 1918, just before these crucial engagements. This date is especially notable: the First Battle of Villers-Bretonneux had just occurred (April 4–5), and the Second Battle was looming. Promotions during this time often reflected bravery or leadership under fire.

BATTLE OF HAMEL – 4 JULY 1918

While not all battalions were committed, parts of the 4th Division were engaged in this well-coordinated, short, and sharp battle led by General Monash. The 15th may have supported with flank security or consolidation of newly captured ground.

BATTLE OF AMIENS – 8 AUGUST 1918

This was the launch of the Allied Hundred Days Offensive, a major turning point in the war. The 15th Battalion attacked near Harbonnières and Chaulnes, under a coordinated push of infantry, tanks, and aircraft.

WOUNDED IN ACTION – GASSED

It was during this action that Herbert was wounded and gassed. This date marks the start of the Battle of Amiens, a key turning point in the war and the beginning of the “Hundred Days Offensive.” Herbert was likely caught in one of the early gas attacks of this renewed push against German positions.

HOSPITALISED

He was admitted to the 2nd Stationary Hospital, then to the Lines of Communication Hospital. This gas attack likely caused significant injury, as he was out of frontline service afterward

AWARDED THE MILITARY MEDAL, AUGUST 1918.

On 30^th August Herbert was awarded the Military Medal. This is a prestigious decoration for bravery in the field, typically awarded for acts of gallantry and devotion to duty under fire. The medal was promulgated in the Commonwealth Gazette No1 dated 2^nd January 1919. It was likely for actions during the Battle of Amiens or the lead-up operations. It was officially gazetted in AIF List 379Y, dated 30 August 1918. While the citation is not in his record, awards at this time typically recognized bravery under fire, leadership during battle, or saving comrades while wounded.

5 SEPTEMBER 1918 – DISCHARGED TO BASE DEPOT

After recovery in hospital, Herbert was discharged to the Base Depot in France, marking the end of his front-line service. The "Base Depot" usually referred to one of the large Australian Infantry Base Depots (AIBDs) at Le Havre, Rouelles, or Étretat on the French coast. These were staging and holding areas for:

·      New reinforcements arriving from England

·      Wounded or sick men recovering

·      Soldiers awaiting return to duty or repatriation

After being gassed on 8 August, Herbert would have needed weeks of monitored recovery, even after discharge from hospital. Effects of gas (especially mustard or phosgene) could linger: lung damage, coughing, eye problems, weakness. Medical staff at the depot would have reviewed his fitness for return to the front

Given his rank of sergeant, Herbert would likely not have been idle. He may have assisted in training or overseeing new reinforcements or performed administrative or quartermaster roles (e.g. gear checks, roll calls, supply issue). He possibly supervised convalescent parades, light drills, or depot maintenance tasks.

SEPTEMBER 1918

By September 1918, the war was beginning to turn decisively in the Allies' favour, and casualties remained high. Soldiers like Herbert were reassessed for either return to duty or transfer to England. Given his recent gassing and proven leadership, he may have been:

·      Considered medically unfit to return to the line.

·      Held back to avoid further strain, as the AIF was beginning to scale down its numbers of battle-hardened but wounded men.

COMMAND DEPOT NOVEMBER 1918

This culminated in his transfer to England on 1 November 1918, arriving at No. 2 Command Depot, Weymouth, where men waited for repatriation or reassignment

HOSPITALISATON VENEREAL DISEASE MARCH 1919

On 26^th March he was admitted to the 1st Australian Dermatological Hospital (A.D.H) No. 20. The ADHs were specialised hospitals for skin and VD-related conditions, and No. 20 was in England. The sense of adventure, the loneliness, and the loss of family life that overwhelmed many of the overseas volunteers during the First World War often found them on leave in large cities or small towns where alcohol and women were plentiful, and a lack of available prophylaxis allowed the spread of diseases such as gonorrhoea and syphilis to reach epidemic levels. Historians claim that the average incidence rate for this disease in the AIF was around 12 per cent

Treatment for VD was a punishment in its own right. Special hospitals for VD patients were set up and often regarded as deterrent. Patients would be treated with Salvarsan and mercury which offered uncomfortable and sometimes serious side effects such as jaundice and convulsions. Other treatments included irrigation, which was painful and undignified resulting in many men to opt for chemical treatment instead. These long and uncomfortable stays in VD hospitals often averaged between 50 and 60 days, with most patients recovering and returning to the front. However, Herbert spent 104 days in this hospital

18 JUNE 1919 – DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL TO DEPOT NO. 20

Final transfer out of hospital suggests Herbert's health had improved. He was now in the administrative system awaiting repatriation.

ADMITTED TO WEYMOUTH

Herbert was marched into Weymouth Command Depot awaiting a ship home. After the Armistice, the Australian Prime Minister Billy Hughes insisted Australian troops be repatriated (returned home) as quickly as possible. This logistical challenge was enormous with 135,000 troops brought home from Britain in 147 voyages, and 16,773 troops from the Middle East in 56 voyages, mostly on a first come, first go basis. There was a lack of suitable ships to transport personnel home and many had to wait many months before they were headed back to Australia.

RETURNING HOME

Herbert disembarked at Sydney from the Arjana on 9^th October 1919. He was discharged on 10^th December 1919.

FOR HIS SERVICE

For his service Herbert was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and the Victory Medal and his name is recorded on the Dungay Public School WW1 Honor Roll

HOME LIFE

After returning home from the war, Herbert built a family life in Queensland. He married Ethel Adelaide Peters in 1922, and together they raised four children, born between 1922 and 1932.

SERVICE IN WORLD WAR II

In a further act of service, Robert enlisted again during the Second World War on 12 April 1942 in Bundaberg, joining the 10th Battalion, Volunteer Defence Corps. He was discharged on 26 August 1944.

DEATH

Tragically, on 3 April 1956, Herbert was killed in a horrific railway accident while working on a track repair gang. Walking between the rails with his back to an oncoming engine travelling at 10–12 mph, he was struck by the cowcatcher and thrown beneath the train. The engine had to be lifted to recover his body. He was buried in Bundaberg General Cemetery, in Plot General - Section D11D, Grave No: P3198.

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