Three of the four historically significant rhombic antennae located at Birkdale Community Precinct are being removed so they can be safely stored prior to restoration and to enable construction across the site when approved.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said removal of the antennae, subject to weather conditions, was vital for site safety and to ensure their ongoing preservation.
“Also known as the rhombic array, these antennae played an important role in world history,” Cr Williams said.
Installed in several locations from 1943 as an integral part of the former World War II Radio Receiving Station, the array – along with others in Redlands Coast and Brisbane – was crucial for effective communications during the War in the Pacific.
“Records show that the two functions of the station were to listen to enemy broadcasts and receive encrypted messages from Washington DC, which were then relayed directly to General McArthur’s headquarters at Lennon’s Hotel in Brisbane.
“It is thought that the message that the Japanese surrender had occurred, and the war was over was relayed to this very station – you can imagine the joy and exultation of the people working here at the time.
Redland City Council is dedicated to helping \ensure these important World War II artefacts are safeguarded for future generations.”
The historic rhombic antennae arrays are located to the east of the receiving station, well away from the site of the proposed Redland Whitewater Centre which is to the north-west of the receiving station. They are being removed now to simplify the construction of the precinct’s access roads and initial park space.
