Jan. 12, 1942 (Monday)

Brisbane, Australia

Raced through the outer reefs and islands early this morning without even stopping to pick up a pilot. The captain thought that if any subs were waiting for us, they pick the pilot boat as the best place.

This harbor, or should I say river, has a very complicated and intricate entrance channel, due no doubt to the numerous reefs and bars.

As we were coming in we noticed a group of buttes of weird shape and design off inland in the distance. They were remarkably like those seen in Arizona and New Mexico.

Saw many different types of jellyfish on the way in, but no sign of any sharks.

Anchored at the river mouth before noon, and after about four hours waiting heard that we wouldn’t proceed to our anchorage, or dock, until tomorrow morning.

The climate is dry and warm here. The sun is brilliant. Heard that they had their last rain in April!