 In October, battles took place at Palliser's Hill, and then later at Johns' Knoll where the Australians first managed to capture the knoll and then held it against a determined Japanese counterattack.In November, the 25th Brigade relieved the 21st as the offensive was maintained, and later in December and into January heavy fighting took place around Shaggy Ridge, a long spur dotted by several rocky outcrops.The Japanese had established numerous strong posts and positions along the ridge, blocking the Australian advance towards the coast, where they were aiming to secure Bogadjim and Madang.