Photo: Supplied.
BY JAN NARY
The history of the Redlands in conflict will be the theme of a display and talk at Cleveland Library on April 29. The display will incorporate pieces on loan from the RSL Museum, including uniforms, medallions and precious postcards sent from various arenas of war.
Kristianne Buckley, Local History Advisor at the library, says the presentation will explore not only the Redlands’ military involvement but also its impact on the community left at home.
“We’ll look at the ways the community banded together to keep things running and support each other,” she says. “Much of that in the Redlands centred on agrarian production in World War Two; the region was known as the fruit bowl, and there was a huge contribution made by local farmers and the Australian Women’s Land Army.
“There are special stories connected to the Redlands,” she says. “In the Second Boer War, our men were particularly sought after as rugged individuals and outstanding horsemen. In the Second World War, aeroplanes crashed here, one of which disappeared without a trace. General MacArthur’s headquarters at Willard’s Farm were particularly significant, and a lot of American servicemen were posted here.
“We’ll also be exploring the contribution of veteran Private Arthur Smith. This is an opportunity to honour all the local heroes of those three major conflicts, and we’re hoping that audience members will contribute their anecdotes and memories.”
The talk will take place at Cleveland Library on 29 April 2026 from 11:00am to 12:00pm. This is a free event; however, bookings are required.
