War Relics

During World War II, the Atherton Tableland had army camps scattered about where soldiers recovered from battles fought, or prepared for their next assaults, probably in New Guinea. There was a large army hospital situated at Rocky Creek, just past Tolga. On Sunday the three of us, Mrs W., myself and the family guard dog drove out to Rocky Creek where a very pleasant area has been created among the trees to commemorate all those who served in the area which had been home for a while for many Battalions. Granite boulders have been set up, each with a plaque detailing the specifics of each army group -- corps' colour patches, battle areas served, etc. One half of the area has been left clear of trees to provide a camping and rest area for caravans. This is practically free, as a gold coin donaton is all that is asked for. It is extremely popular during the main Summer touring season.

The way in which the memorial area has been created and maintained deserves praise. We have driven past so often without realizing just how much thought and effort has been put into the place. Our main reason for driving out was to have a closer look at the area and, in particular, to get some photos of a corrugated iron "igloo" which had been built as a Recreation Hut that would have been able to cater for a very large number of soldiers and nurses for movies, games and dances. It is one of the few remaining examples of this style of easily constructed building left. There are still a few in Atherton which are occupied. The Recreation Hut was owned and lived in by a private family after the war and they must have really rattled around in its huge area. Later it was donated to the Shire Council. Its size and situation out of town meant that upkeep was a most expensive proposition, so the igloo was forgotten and left to rust and deteriorate over the years. Council cannot afford to renew the old place to serve the community in any way, so it has been passed along to the State Government. One feels that any idea of renewal will prove to be costly and daunting, so it is likely to be left to decay further until it is no longer safe and has to be destroyed. A very significant link with the history of this country, and this area in particular, will be lost forever. So, that is why we have stored a memory or two before it is too late.

Despite a little bit of drizzle which seems to have become almost permanent here during the last fortnight, we had a pleasant morning. More excursions are planned.