Australia’s Strangest Military Operation
The Great Emu War
Did You Know? Australia Once Went to War with Birds!
Australia is known for its rugged landscapes, dangerous wildlife, and laid-back culture, but did you know that it also has a history of waging war against… emus? Yes, you read that right. In 1932, the Australian military took on a unique challenge: battling an overwhelming emu invasion.
The Unlikely Enemy: Emus Invade Farmland
In the early 1930s, after World War I, many Australian soldiers returned home and took up farming in Western Australia. However, a group of over 20,000 emus—large, flightless birds native to Australia—started migrating from inland regions to the coast, crossing into farmlands. These giant birds trampled crops, knocked down fences, and wreaked havoc on the farmers’ livelihoods.
Operation Emu War: A Military Misfire
The government decided to take action, deploying soldiers armed with machine guns to the affected areas. The idea was to curb the emu population and protect the farms. But emus, being surprisingly fast and agile, proved to be a tougher opponent than expected. The birds would scatter in all directions at the sound of gunfire, making it nearly impossible to target them effectively.
After several failed attempts and a comical series of events that involved chasing emus across the countryside, the military operation was called off. The emus had won, and the “Great Emu War” went down in history as one of the most bizarre conflicts ever.
A Laugh Over a Beer
So, next time you crack open a cold one with your mates, you can share this gem of Australian history. It’s a reminder that sometimes, no matter how tough the job seems, a bit of humour can go a long way. After all, a flock of determined emus can outwit even the mightiest military!
Need Edge Protection Equipment?
Australian Scaffolds is available day and night, seven days a week. Our expert team of scaffolders has decades of experience. We strive to make it simple. To find out more, call us on 1300 919 905.
Other Products & Services
- Scaffold Hire
- Mobile scaffolding
- Sydney roofing solutions
- Acrow props
Our Guarantees
- Provide after-sales service
- Treat all customers with respect
- Stand behind the quality of our products
- Formulate solutions to any work-related problem
