on 19 december, the 19th brigade crossed the danmap river and began moving towards the east to cut the main japanese line of communication. a series of minor actions followed, but no significant engagements took place, and at the end of four weeks the australians had reached wallum, about east of aitape. a week later, on 24 january 1945, the 16th brigade relieved the 19th, while the 17th brigade continued the advance towards the west through the torricellis.