1854 Fear of Russian invasion sweeps colonies with news of Crimean War and commitment of allied troops.

1860 Governor Bowen arrives, noting "there is not a single soldier in Queensland"; forms Qld Mounted Rifles, renamed Qld Light Horse in 1864.

Qld volunteer defence movement established (Qld Defence Force).

1863 Volunteer troops sail to New Zealand to assist in 2nd Maori War.

1878 Fort Lytton, right, established near Brisbane River mouth in response to Russian war scare.

1879 The four QDF Brisbane infantry companies amalgamate to become First Qld (Moreton) Regiment.

1883 Lt-Col George French appointed commander of Qld Defence Force.

1884 Defence Act separates Qld Defence Force from Volunteer Corps.

1885 Russian and Sudan war scare; Qld gunboats Paluma and Gayundah arrive from England; Steamer Otter, right, purchased as patrol boat for Moreton Bay; river fortifications strengthened.

First men of Qld Artillery sworn in; police volunteer to defend colony if required.

1891 1st Regiment of QDF sent to fight shearers' strike at Clermont and Barcaldine; order given to "fix bayonets and advance at the charge".