This short film by Cate Shortland is a snapshot of a relationship in its last days.

Billy has saved a fellow recruit from drowning, so his commander gives him a reward, a history book Australia and the World War, written by SH Perry.

Billy Austin (played as a boy by Leo Meagher) and his pals march out of school after a reluctant day inside.

Billy has been summoned to report for military training, which he does not want to do. At the army camp, Billy (Keith Gategood) feigns illness, with a bad cough.