LOCATED in the Scenic Rim adjacent to the village of Canungra, Kokoda Barracks has earned a rightful place as a national icon of our military history.
Initially approved on November 3, 1942, the barracks was established to train Australian soldiers in Jungle Warfare fighting and tactics due to the areas topography.
It played a crucial role in the preparation of our soldiers for the harsh conditions they would face during World War II.
After the war and subsequent lack of threat from the South West Pacific, The Jungle Training Centre (Kokoda Barracks), was no longer required and was eventually disbanded in mid-1946.
In early 1954, the uncertainty of events in South East Asia, prompted Australia’s Army Headquarters (AHQ) to support the establishment of a jungle-training centre to prepare Australian troops for operations in South East Asia.
At that time, negotiations had commenced for the formation of the South East Asia Treaty Organisation (SEATO) and the possible role of the Australian Army in British Commonwealth Strategic Defence Forces in Malaya.
Unlike the initial establishment of the jungle warfare training at Canungra, this new plan was for a permanent training centre for both peace and wartime scenarios.
This brought the need for new realistic training facilities that would stand the test of time. Included in the redevelopment was Army staff accommodation and married quarters to support members’ families and civilian staff.
It was not until 1974 that the former School of Military Intelligence moved to Kokoda Barracks, Canungra. Later known as the Defence Intelligence Training Centre, the tri-service intelligence-training organisation moved into a purpose built facility established in 2003.
Today, Kokoda Barracks is home to the Land Warfare Centre (LWC) where Australian Army officers and non-commissioned officers participate in all-corps training prior to promotion and the Defence School of Intelligence.
In this November’s edition of The Canungra Times, we remember the fallen and honour the sacrifice of those who have served Australia.
We pay respect to the Canungra community who have and continue to support the service people of Australia in their training at Kokoda Barracks.
On the 11th hour, of the 11th day, on the 11th month, Australians pause in silence for a minute to remember the bravery and sacrifice of the people who lost their lives while serving Australia and its allies in wars, conflicts and peace operation.
The Rouse
They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
A reminder, the Vietnam Memorial is now located at the front of Kokoda Barracks and is accessible to the public for reflection.
