Camp Columbia in Wacol served as a key military hub for American and Dutch forces during World War II. After the war, it became a migrant reception centre, reflecting its evolving role in Brisbane’s history.
Camp Columbia is a significant historical site that reflects its various roles throughout the mid-20th century. Established in 1942 as a United States Army base, it played a pivotal role in the Pacific theatre during World War II and later became a migrant reception centre and refuge.
Establishment of Camp Columbia
During World War II, the United States Army established Camp Columbia at Wacol as part of its strategic operations in the Pacific. The camp was the headquarters for the Sixth United States Army, known as the “Alamo Force.” Built by engineer Sir Manuel Hornibrook, it housed about 5,000 personnel. It featured essential infrastructure, such as water pipelines from Darra and a sewerage system.
Camp Columbia was a key staging ground for troops. It provided them with training and equipment before deployment to Pacific battlefields. It also hosted an Officer Candidate School to train soldiers for leadership roles.
Dutch Occupation and Post-War Transition
After American forces left in 1944, the camp was handed over to the Netherlands East Indies Government-in-Exile. Dutch military units and agencies, including the Netherlands Forces Intelligence Service (NEFIS), used the site for training and administration. This is supporting military operations and planning during Indonesia’s post-war transition.
The Dutch remained at the camp until the end of World War II. The camp later served as a reception and rehabilitation centre for civilians and military personnel.
Wacol Migrant Centre: A New Role
After the war, Australia faced a migrant influx. The influx prompted Camp Columbia’s transformation into the Wacol Migrant Centre. From 1949, the camp provided temporary housing and training for displaced Europeans. This includes those from Eastern Europe and the Netherlands. The centre housed around 1,600 people, sometimes exceeding 2,000.
Photo Credit: Peter Dunn OAM via OzAtWar
Residents lived in repurposed military barracks with communal facilities like mess halls and shared bathrooms. English classes and employment training were offered to help migrants integrate. The camp remained an entry point for new Australians until its closure in 1987.
Community and Cultural Impact
American troops in Wacol during the war left a cultural impression. They introduced locals to American music and social practices. Community dances and events hosted at nearby halls helped maintain morale and build connections.
After the camp’s conversion, the migrant centre became a hub for multicultural interaction. Migrants from various backgrounds built new lives in Wacol.
Legacy and Preservation
Some of Camp Columbia’s infrastructure remains at Wacol. The community continues to honour the camp as ANZAC Day approaches on 25 April. The site also now houses the Wacol Military Museum, where visitors can explore artifacts and learn more about the camp.
Published 8-Apr-2025
