History
Blamey Barracks, located in Kapooka, New South Wales, is primarily known for its association with the Australian Army’s recruit training. It has served as a training facility for the Australian Army since its establishment in 1951.
Blamey Barracks was named after General Sir Thomas Blamey, one of Australia’s most distinguished soldiers. Blamey was born in Wagga Wagga where he commenced his military career when he was appointed Second-In-Command of the Cadet Unit at Newtown Public School (now South Wagga Public School), where he was a teacher.
Blamey is the only Australian to have attained the rank of Field Marshal and was Commander-in-Chief of the Australian Military Forces during World War II.
Traditional name and significance
The Wiradjuri name ‘Gabuga’ (pronounced ‘GA-buh-gah’) means ‘eggs’ in Wiradjuri language. The traditional name and story of this land conveys that it was a sanctuary for the Bustard birds and that Wiradjuri peoples would come to the area to collect the eggs. The traditional name and meaning was lost over time but the significance of this land remains important to future generations of Wiradjuri peoples.
Blamey Barracks dual naming factsheet (PDF, 568.48 KB)
Artwork
In the heart of Wiradjuri country, Gabuga, meaning 'eggs', symbolises food gathering and renewal. Each year, the sacred Bustard bird laid its eggs, and the Wiradjuri peoples carefully collected some for nourishment, leaving enough for the next generation. The Gugaa (Goanna, the Wiradjuri totem) also hunted these eggs, creating a delicate balance of survival and respect.
Over time, new footprints appeared on the land, from all over Australia and beyond, symbolizing a diverse convergence of cultures. Despite these changes, Gabuga's significance endures. It remains a place of birth and renewal, where peoples from all walks of life come together and are metaphorically brought out of their shells, becoming proud members of the Australian Army, connected by the timeless traditions of the Wiradjuri peoples.
About the artist
The artist, Owen Lyons, has a deep connection with the land of Wiradjuri Country and is passionate about the area. His art reflects his ties to the area and communities within from the regional cities of Griffith to Wagga to the vast landscape that spans the mountains in the east, to the wide plains of the west of beautiful Wiradjuri Country.