With the aid of numerous historical slides, Mark outlined the development of the early Tasmanian Gunners in the 1850s which later became the Southern Tasmanian Volunteer Artillery with the departure of the stationed British troops.

With Federation in 1901, the safety of the nation became a Commonwealth matter and universal military training for males aged between 18 to 24 was established in 1910.

Mark then described the development of artillery guns including shrapnel bullets, timed detonation of shells, the range of various armoury and even the type of horses required to transport the artillery.

Detailed description of the Gallipoli campaign followed which included artillery usage, maps showing troop deployment, strategies employed and lines of defence.

A fascinating and wide ranging talk which was much appreciated by members.