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WWII Livingstone Airfield, Camp & Anti-aircraft Gun Site
General
Significance
Description
History
Gallery
Resources
Status
Not Recommended
Type
Place
Nomination Accepted
15/JUN/01
Assessment Report Considered
09/MAR/07
Not Recommended
14/DEC/07
Statement Of Heritage Value
Livingstone Airstrip was developed in early 1942 as part of an aerodrome development program to provide fighter defences for the Darwin area. The airstrip played a vital role in supporting the aerial defence of northern Australia during the only sustained aerial combat over Australia.
Livingstone Airstrip is one of two roadside fighter airstrips developed during the early months of World War II in the Pacific that exemplify the cooperation between Australia and other allied forces to develop and maintain an effective aerial defence for northern Australia. The airstrip was built by American manpower and used by American, Australian and British aircraft and personnel.
While compromised, Livingstone Airstrip, and in particular the squadron camp and anti-aircraft site have the potential to contribute to an understanding of the role of the fighter squadrons, the life of servicemen in a foreign environment and the diversity of units engaged in a common battle in Darwin during World War II.
The squadron camp and anti-aircraft sites highlight the logistical complexity of accommodating personnel and defending assets with no prior existing infrastructure and of the capacity to undertake rapid development of defence infrastructure in a time of national crisis.
Description
WWII Airfield, squadron camp and anti aircraft gun emplacement located approximatley 54 km south of Darwin on the Stuart Highway.
Additional Information