Beginnings

Australia's military history began in 1788 when four companies of the Marine Corps arrived with the convicts in the First Fleet.¹ Between June 1790 and February 1792, the marines were replaced by the New South Wales Corps (later the 102^nd Regiment).²

A small militia detachment was raised at Norfolk Island as early as 1788, and again in 1792. Persistent rumours of a rising by Irish convicts in 1800 led to the formation of Loyal Associations. These Associations were formed, on volunteer principles, at Sydney and Parramatta to assist, if necessary, the New South Wales Corps. They remained in existence almost continuously until 1810 due to the war with France and the convict rebellion at Castle Hill.³

THE BEGINNINGS
..	The British Garrison
Australia's military history began in 1788 when four companies of the Marine Corps arrived with the convicts in the First Fleet.¹ Between June 1790 and February 1792, the marines were replaced by the New South Wales Corps (later the 102^nd Regiment).² A small militia detachment was raised at Norfolk Island as early as 1788, and again in 1792. Persistent rumours of a rising by Irish convicts in 1800 led to the formation of Loyal Associations. These Associations were formed, on volunteer principles, at Sydney and Parramatta to assist, if necessary, the New South Wales Corps. They remained in existence almost continuously until 1810 due to the war with France and the convict rebellion at Castle Hill.³