The departure of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) from Albany, Western Australia, was a pivotal moment as Australia prepared to send troops to support the Allied forces during World War I. The AIF assembled in various locations across Australia before arriving in Albany for a carefully organized maritime convoy that would transport them to Egypt. The convoy included a large number of ships, reflecting the scale of this movement and the urgency of the military needs of the Allies as the war escalated in Europe. Among the ships was the HMAT A8 Argyllshire, which became symbolic of this crucial journey and carried many Australian soldiers eager to fulfill their duty to their empire.

The soldiers on board were largely volunteers who had answered the call to arms in the wake of Britain’s declaration of war against Germany. The AIF's training had previously taken place on Australian soil, and now they were eager to prove their capabilities in a foreign theater. Conditions aboard the ships varied, but the soldiers demonstrated resilience and camaraderie as they embarked on this journey filled with uncertainty. Arriving in Egypt would not only prepare them for eventual postings to other fronts but also serve as a staging ground for further military operations throughout the war.

The journey from Australia to Egypt laid the groundwork for Australia's military history, with the AIF participating in significant battles in places like Gallipoli and the Western Front. The experiences gained during this campaign would shape the Australian military identity and serve as a fundamental chapter in the nation's narrative regarding solidarity and sacrifice during wartime.