CONTRIBUTED BY COL SUTCLIFFE
On Saturday 16 August, the Redlands community is invited to uncover some of the remarkable, yet little-known local stories from World War II at Reflections on VP Day, a free commemorative event at Birkdale State School from 2:00pm to 4:30pm.
Marking 80 years since victory in the Pacific was declared, this special afternoon will highlight the role that Birkdale, Capalaba, and Wellington Point played in the final stages of WWII.
Discover how local farmers and Land Army Girls supported the war effort, how American and Australian troops occupied local landmarks, and how two young Birkdale boys helped spread the news of Japan’s surrender.
Few realise that a secret U.S. Army radio receiving station – built in a Birkdale paddock – was the first in Australia to receive the Japanese surrender message. This high-tech facility, now State Heritage listed, continued operating under top-secret surveillance protocols until 2017, laying foundations for the technology behind the modern internet.
Live music by Redland City Bands, historical displays from Redlands Coast Museum, and involvement from Birkdale Scouts, Capalaba Rotary, and local schools and other groups will bring the stories of our region’s wartime past to life.
This is a rare chance to reflect, remember, and recognise the local legacies of peace, justice and democracy. Tickets are free, but must be booked via Humanitix by clicking here or searching for ‘Reflections on VP Day – Victory in the Pacific 80th Anniversary’ on humanitix.com.
