In 1910 when the first buildings were erected on the land, this one in the photograph below was constructed for the purposes of weapons training and as a magazine for small arms ammunition.
(Photo: © 1979 National Trust of Queensland; R Stringer)
WWI saw the building become Northern Command Training School, a tactical training centre for all ranks, and the building was used for this purpose until after the Second World War. During WWI accommodation for soldiers must have been scarce - many of the men lived like this.
(Photo: State Library of Queensland and John Oxley Library; #35264)
After WWII the building became a supply depot, and in 1960 it was converted into a residence for the senior RAEME officer in the state. It now operates as a chapel - the sign on the lawn in front says "All Saints Chapel erected 1910 as School of Musketry".
(Photo: © 2013 the foto fanatic)
I took advantage of the Army's Open Day on 14 April to visit Gollipoli Barracks to take this picture of the chapel which is in terrific condition. It was a busy scene on the grounds with people clambering over helicopters, trucks and all manner of huge guns. Although I didn't see it, I believe paratroopers dropped in as well, making the army's first open day here in a decade a great success.
It is Anzac Day on Thursday and I thank all military personnel, past and present, for their service.
LEST WE FORGET
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tff
I'll have to remember Army Open Day next year. The kids would love it.
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