barublogSikhs in Australia – A Legacy Over a Century Old
Contrary to popular belief, Sikhs have been an integral part of Australia’s history for over 100 years. Few people know that turbaned, bearded Sikh soldiers fought and died on Australian soil during World War II.
Early Sikh Settlers and Camel Train Operators
Long before modern road transport was established, Indian settlers, including Sikhs, played a crucial role in connecting remote areas. They operated camel trains, maintaining vital communication and supply routes between Melbourne and central Australia.
Preserving Sikh Heritage – The Australian Sikh Heritage Trail
The Australian Sikh Heritage Association has taken a significant step in documenting the contributions of Sikh pioneers. In March, they launched the Australian Sikh Heritage Trail at Adenia Park, which features the Western Australia State Heritage-listed Sikh cremation site. This site holds deep cultural significance for both Sikh and Australian communities.
The heritage trail comprises:
- A 500-meter physical trail showcasing historical landmarks.
- A virtual trail allowing users to explore Sikh heritage sites across Australia through an app
Over $100,000 has already been invested in this initiative, and an additional $150,000 government grant has been secured to develop interpretive panels along the physical trail. The public launch is expected by March 2017.
Honoring Sikh Contribution in World War II
The date of the trail launch was chosen to honor Flying Officer Manmohan Singh, the first Sikh aviator who played a key role in a World War II battle on Australian soil. On March 3, 1942, Singh was aboard his flying boat in Roebuck Bay, West Australia, when nine Japanese Zero fighter planes attacked, destroying 22 aircraft. Singh was among the 88 personnel who lost their lives that day in Broome, West Australia.
Sikh Heritage Trail Expansion and School Integration
According to Harjit Singh from the Australian Sikh Heritage Association, the organization aims to spread awareness about Sikh history among Australians and the Sikh community.
- Phase 1 of the trail saw overwhelming support and success.
- Phase 2 includes interpretive signages along the pathway, with a $150,000 grant already secured for development.
- Phase 3 will focus on a digital application to enhance accessibility.
Efforts are underway to incorporate Sikh heritage into school syllabi, and history teachers have shown great enthusiasm for this initiative
The Discovery of a Sikh Heritage Plaque
In 2009, Tarunpreet Singh from the Australian Sikh Heritage Association discovered a brass plaque at the Canningvale Gurdwara in Western Australia. This plaque, crafted in 1992 by John Parker of the Canning Districts Historical Society, was made from 20 kilos of brass to commemorate Sikh contributions.
Tarunpreet’s discovery led him to learn about the former Sikh Cemetery in Adenia Park, Riverton, and the long-standing presence of Sikhs in Australia. His curiosity led to further research, solidifying the Sikh migration story as a key chapter in Australia’s multicultural history.
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