WOMEN FOR WAR.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 192, 18 September 1914, Page 4

WOMEN FOR WAR.

AUSTRALIA'S VOLUNTEERS. "The latest outcome of the spirit of patriotism now stirring Australia is the formation of a corps of lady volunteers in. New South Wales," states the Sydney "Evening News," describing a movement which was briefly mentioned in a cable inessage last week. The force is to consist of no fewer than 5000 women between the ages of 16 and 32, who will undergo military drill and learn the use of the rifle. The idea originated with Miss E. White, daughter of Mr J. E. White, of North Sydney, and she is receiving support in influential quar-

ters. Only on Thursday she enrolled 500 members at the headquarters, 39') Elizabeth Street, City, the use of ( these premises having been given by Mr W. E. Allison. It is proposed first of all to raise 1000. "The uniform will be a navy blue jacket and three-quarter length skirt, with a purple collar and cuffs and purple stripes down the skirt. The cap will be peaked and blue in colour, with a purple band. Tanned boots and stockings will be worn. On the front of the cap will be the letters, 'A.L.V.' "It is felt that the formation of this corps will have an inspiriting effect on our .lads. It is intended that a company of the' A.L.V. shall head our troops when they leave for the front and also welcome them on their return. The lady volunteers will attend charitable and military functions, and collect moneys from door to door for the Lord Mayor's and other patriotic funds, and take part generally in charitable and beneficent work. A portion of the force (A Company)—which is to be a permanent one —will be ready in a few days. , "In reply to a question as to whether the A.L.V. would enter the fighting line, the hon. secretary (Miss White; said they would not go abroad, but in case of an invasion of this country they would take part in its defence, and be found using the rifle side by side with the men."