RAAF 220 Radar Station, Bones Knob

RAAF 220 Radar Station at Bones Knob became operational in 1943, and was one of five British-designed Advanced Chain Overseas (ACO) radar stations constructed in Queensland during World War II: four being completed (Benowa, Toorbul, Charlie’s Hill [Queensland Heritage Registeropen_in_new 601716] and Bones Knob) with a fifth not completed (Paluma). The former WWII RAAF 220 Radar Station stands at the summit of a timbered hill called Bones Knob, located about 3km west of Tolga.

Surviving elements at Bones Knob comprise two concrete igloo buildings, a smaller concrete igloo, and concrete and steel footings of one radar tower. The two main semi-circular reinforced concrete igloos are 11.20 metres long by 7 metres wide, and are spaced 55 metres apart in parallel alignment. Attached to one is a small lean-to. Entrances to both igloos are sheltered under recent bow-roof verandahs. A smaller reinforced concrete igloo, probably for a generator, is located about 250 metres south of the transmitter and receiver igloos.

A timber tower over 40m high was originally located alongside each igloo. Only the base of the northern tower was visible in 2007. The tower footings comprise four 1 metre square concrete foundations, each containing two steel members about 1.5 metres in height.