Assigned to the 5th Field Artillery Brigade, he shipped to the Middle East in November, serving in Egypt during the Sinai and Palestine campaign before being transferred to the Western Front in April 1916.

Promoted to major at the time of taking his command, his unit suffered gas attacks in fighting near Ypres but his leadership skills ensured his post remained in Australian hands.

[5] Following the conclusion of the war, Beavis remained in England to undertake ordnance and artillery training and in August 1919, married Ethel May Blumer.

Following a period of time at Australian High Commission in London, he and his wife returned to Australia in 1922 where he served in a number of staff and regimental positions.

He repeatedly recommended encouraging development of the private sector in manufacturing prior to the outbreak of hostilities (at the time expected to occur in the Far East by 1939).

He served in the Middle East on the staff of Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Blamey, the commander of the AIF, holding a number of supply related positions.

He was tasked with co-ordination of private and government manufacturers and producers to provide logistic support for Australia's soldiers, both at home and overseas.