The Battle of Beersheba

Last week we welcomed David Lester and daughter, Robbie to our meeting to talk about their amazing journey to Israel last year to follow in the footsteps of David’s father Bruce Lester (“Snow) who rode in the famous Beersheba cavalry charge.

The Battle of Beersheba was fought on 31 October 1917. The Lester family (David, Robbie and Robbie’s two sisters) joined a 180 strong tour group (including riding and non-riding members).

The 100 riders spent three days retracing the route followed by the Australian Light Horse (ALH) regiments in the days prior to the Beersheba offensive; camping out ‘light horse style’ and on October 31 they rode through the streets of Beersheba to attend the official Australian Government centenary celebration of the Beersheba Light Horse Charge.

The Australia and Israel Prime Ministers together with the NZ Governor General were present along with other dignitaries.

Robbie recounted the ride which was undertaken in replica WW1 uniforms. The route was through rough, barren, and dusty country giving even more appreciation of the riders and the horses resilience to survive the conditions.

Robbie commented that the reenactment of the final charge, over 400 metres, (without weapons and at a peaceful walking pace) was in front of a huge audience and was an extremely moving occasion.

Long term friend, Bob Stanley, thanked David and Robbie for their very interesting presentation.

The Club members also enjoyed the opportunity to see some intriguing memorabilia that David and Robbie had brought along for their presentation.