The rich and varied history of the site, including its indigenous, military and natural history, has been preserved in the landscaping, street and park names, and the public art spread throughout the precinct.
Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the traditional area inhabitants, through the Turrbal Association, to understand the significance of the site and to investigate ways of working together, to celebrate the Turrbal people’s traditional use of the land.
A significant portion of the Kelvin Grove Urban Village occupies the former Gona Barracks site and other areas. In recognition of this unique history, some heritage areas of cultural significance, including buildings and spaces on the upper parade ground area, have been preserved. The military history of the site has also been recognised in public artworks developed in consultation with the Returned Services League (RSL) and in the street and park names.
The natural heritage of the site is recognised through the stands of old Grey Gum and Tallowood trees, which reveal the original vegetation on the site. A selection of these trees have been conserved and are part of the parklands. The Turrbal Association has also provided valuable input into the native vegetation chosen for the site.