Historical information

Ivor Hele was the Australian official war artist of World War II. This painting depicts the members of 17 platoon 2nd/6th Battalions in their first action of the war. their mission was to "attack and capture Post 11" in order to provide a faint or diversionary attack for the brigades main penetration.
The attack was pressed home with the characteristic vigour of Australian soldiers Prior to the attack the commanding officer demanded that
" No matter what happens to us, when we go forward we shall give the enemy such a thrashing that they will never willingly stand up to an assault by Australian Infantry again."
The Battalion succeeded in its mission and went on to play a vital role in many of the most arduous battles of the war.

Significance

This painting depicts the actions of one of the predecessor units to 5/6 RVR.

Physical description

Large framed print of painting by Ivor Hele shows 17 Platoon 2/6th Infantry Battalion in an Italian trench during the attack on Bardia. The painting depicts the scene after the capture of one of the Italian dugouts by Corporal Brian Latham's Section.

The print is in a large mahogany coloured frame and has a matt finish to the picture. A smaller, separate frame sits below the print and contains the history of the painting. it is in a matching frame and has an olive card backing and the story is printed on an off white sheet.

Inscriptions & markings

A manufacturers label is located on the obverse
" GRAPHIC IMPRESSIONS
239 Burwood Road
Hawthorn Vic. 3122
Telephone 9819 5800

76 Harold Street
Camberwell Vic 3123
Telephone