What is the history of the site?
Lawson North was the location of the Belconnen Naval Transmitting Station, commonly referred to as ‘Bels’. Bels was integral to communications through World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars.
There were 26 cottages on the site, known as 'The Patch’, which housed Navy personnel and their families. The cottages were demolished in 1989 as development of the neighbouring suburb of Kaleen enabled the Navy personnel to live elsewhere.
The land and buildings have predominantly been unused for almost 15 years. Currently there is no public access to the site.
DHA is exploring opportunities for private and/or community uses of the conservation land and heritage buildings. This includes restoring and repurposing these fascinating historical buildings.
Images courtesy of the Australian War Memorial
Item copyright: Commonwealth of Australia copyright