Tour summary:

Established in 1936, North Fort is a remnant military complex at North Head Sanctuary in Manly.

Strategically placed at the northern entrance to Sydney Harbour, the fort was part of a defence system that spanned 300km of coastline during World War II.

The Defence of Sydney Tour is an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the men and women who served at North Fort. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will marvel at heritage gun emplacements, once capable of firing 26.4km, and descend into the 200-metre-long military tunnel complex. Finally, our guide will demystify an underground bunker once shrouded in secrecy: The Plotting Room. As you explore this facility, concealed within bushland, you’ll hear how our specialist volunteers faithfully restored it.

Tour Conditions 

• The 90-minute North Fort tour includes paved bush tracks, stairs, and approx. 20 minutes in underground tunnels, and in another 20 minutes in the underground Plotting Room. Please note, access to and from the tunnels and plotting room are accessed by stairs (approximately the equivalent of two flights of stairs).
• There is no access for mobility devices in the underground tunnels.
• The tour will proceed regardless of weather. Please wear suitable walking shoes.
• Groups must comply with all directions of the guides who have the duty of care to determine if any of the group is not mobile enough to participate in the tunnel section of the tour.
• A good level of fitness and mobility is essential for participants to enjoy this tour.

DATE: Thursday 23 May 2024

TIME: 10.45am for an 11.00am start

Finish: 12.30 pm, Lunch /Coffee Spot at the Bella Vista Manly, which is located inside the Heritage Listed North Fort Building at the picturesque North Head Sanctuary overlooking the majestic views of the Sydney Harbour. Bella Vista brings together a fresh and healthy brekkie, our own coffee blend and delicious flavours of homemade traditional and modern Italian cuisine. Bella Vista is the perfect escape from busy city life residing in the serene and majestic North Head National Park surrounded by beautiful wildlife and flora.

MEET: Location

• North Head Sanctuary Visitor Centre (located in the North Fort precinct), North Head Scenic Drive, Manly.  Click here for location on Google Maps.

COST: $11 per adult/$8 per senior (over 60) – please let me know which category you are paying for when you send me a copy of your receipt.

Guide: Barry!

RSVP TO: Caren Trafford: [email protected] . Please add your phone number and the name of the outing: Defence of Sydney: May 24

Caren Trafford, Monthly Activity Organiser

RSVP BY: 18 May 2024. Please include your mob number.

PAYMENT OPTIONS:

Payment Option 1 (Preferred): By Credit Card through the Payments section of the website

Payment Option 2: Online (direct deposit) into the SWIC bank account

Account Name: SWIC Inc.

BSB No: 062-005

Account No: 11889493

Description: Defence of Sydney:     Initial and surname