The erection of the gallows at the Darwin Gaol began with the excavation of a pit 14 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 12 feet deep. While this work was in progress, a fence several hundred feet long was erected in the gaol boundary so that the infirmary was enclosed. The accused were notified that the sentence would not be commuted and were advised of the date of the execution. Arrangements were made with a priest, medical officer, and coroner for their services after the execution. Road blocks were worked out to prevent traffic from going past the gaol. Police witnesses were required for the execution and recruited. Under guard, the condemned men were awakened, dressed, and given breakfast. A religious ceremony was conducted. The hang-man, kept under guard the whole night, entered a room adjoining the gallows. The press was not aware of the execution until it was over.