WWI Guinea veterans honoured in Sydney

Descendants of World War I veterans have commemorated their service in Australia's first military engagement with a small parade in Sydney.

The Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force (AN&MEF) was formed 11 days after Australia's declaration of war on Germany on August 4, 1914.

Numbering 2000 sailors and soldiers from regular, reserve and militia forces, the AN&MEF left Sydney Harbour for German New Guinea on August 19, 1914.

Their journey to what is now known as New Britain in Papua New Guinea marked a series of firsts in the war: they were the among the first killed, first wounded and first decorated for their service.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott, represented at the parade by Speaker Bronwyn Bishop, said in a message the AN&MEF's feats had been overshadowed by the later defeat at Gallipoli and victory on the Western Front.

Of the volunteer soldiers, six were killed and four wounded in the battle to capture Rabaul from the Germans.

"For them, the war began in German New Guinea," Mr Abbott said in his message.

"Their capture of Rabaul was our first victory, but it was our loss."

Marchers carried five Australian flags in the parade, each representing 20 years since World War I began.

Governor-General Peter Cosgrove said in a message to the gathering the soldiers led from the front when Australia faced its first big national trial.

"They serve in our nation's military uniform, and they do so in addition to their civilian work," he said.

"I have great admiration for their ability, courage and diligence."

The group of about 40 descendants was presented with a medal of commemoration, and was accompanied by a light horse brigade and armoured military vehicles.