The Battle of Elands River was a significant military engagement during the Second Boer War, marked by a tense 13-day siege. It began when a contingent of around 500 soldiers, comprising Australians, Rhodesians, Canadians, and British troops, established a position at a supply dump located at Brakfontein Drift. This strategic location was quickly surrounded by a formidable Boer force estimated at between 2,000 and 3,000 men. The besieged troops faced continuous attacks, leading to severe shortages of supplies and a precarious situation that heightened with each passing day.

British command recognized the urgent need to relieve the beleaguered forces. Consequently, a British relief column was assembled, conducting a daring advance toward Brakfontein Drift to lift the siege. The relief operation was characterized by fierce engagements as the British aimed to break through Boer lines which had established strong positions around the encircled troops. After persistent efforts and several skirmishes, the British forces successfully breached the Boer encirclement, restoring freedom to the trapped soldiers and showcasing the resilience of military cooperation among the diverse forces involved.

The outcome of the battle underscored the challenges faced in the broader context of the Second Boer War, which was marked by unconventional warfare tactics and high casualties on both sides. It also served as a pivotal moment for international military collaborations, illustrating the varying degrees of commitment and coordination between the Commonwealth nations involved in the conflict.