4 November 2024
Army History Unit – South Queensland held a morning tea to celebrate the 160th anniversary of Victoria Barracks, Brisbane, last month.
Commander 7th Brigade, Brigadier Giles Cornelia, hosted the event on October 23.
Established on October 27, 1864, it was formerly known as Green Hills Barracks after British soldiers from the 12th Regiment of Foot (East Suffolk) marched up to occupy the new barracks overlooking Brisbane.
Selected for its strategic position and accessibility, the site played a crucial role in the region's defence by serving as a military headquarters.
In 1885, the barracks was renamed in honour of Queen Victoria. The original buildings featured Victorian-era architecture, characterised by an open veranda.
Over the years, the barracks grew to accommodate the expanding role of the military in the region.
One of the last buildings erected on the site, a communication centre, was constructed in 1967 to provide a communication link between Australia and Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
During both World Wars, Victoria Barracks was pivotal in training troops and supporting war efforts.
It helped facilitate the mobilisation of soldiers and served as a military hospital and supply depot.
Army Museum manager Major Murray Nelson said the barracks was a place where people from all walks of life visited to reflect on the region’s history.
“Today, Victoria Barracks is still a working barracks, which also showcases our rich military history with the Army Museum, which is well supported by our dedicated volunteers,” Major Nelson said.
“The site is also a popular destination for tourists and locals interested in Queensland's history.”
