OUR HERITAGE AT RISK -  AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY - 2007

Place:    Belconnen Naval Transmitting Stattion

Threat:  Devaluation of Heritage Values and Destruction 

Significance:

Important for the design and development of Australian Naval Communications in Australia 1938-2005 illustrating the significant role the base played in naval communication and Australia’s defence during and after World War Two.  A rare example of the technical development of Australian Naval Communication during its operation.  Highly valued for its social and symbolic associations by members of the local community including former Naval personnel.

 Risk:

The station is obsolete and no longer in service.  It is on the Commonwealth Heritage List, but the three main LF masts (integral elements) have recently been removed with permission from Minister for Environment & Heritage.  Defence intend to dispose (sell) the station, equipment & land and its future use and conservation is extremely uncertain.

 Desired Outcome:

The buildings, transmitting equipment and ancillary equipment to be retained in situ to represent the station at the level of technical development when it ceased transmitting.  Former HF aerials to be reinstated.  A representative sample of the former LF aerial towers be placed, together with connecting equipment at the rear of the current station building.  The whole remaining site, including the grasslands, to be opened for public visitation.  The current buildings and grounds, where appropriate, to be utilised as a radio communications museum