This New Sydney Walking Track Showcases Unspoiled Harbour Views and Over 200 Years of Military History
Need somewhere new for a stroll? This three-kilometre walk is the final piece of the Bondi-to-Manly trail.
A new walking track has opened in Sydney Harbour National Park, and in addition to incredible harbour views, it's shining a spotlight on the harbour's military significance. The three-kilometre track, which connects Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh with Georges Head, is dotted with a fascinating array of historical defence artefacts, with some dating as far back as 1801.
The opening of the track marks the first time that the two harbourside reserves — located in Mosman — have been formally linked to one another, and is the final piece of the proverbial puzzle on the Bondi-to-Manly walk. The $9.5 million project was implemented over six years, and can also be accessed via Chowder Bay.
And while the postcard-perfect harbour views might be the initial drawcard for this new walking track, there's plenty more to see along the way. Walkers will be able to discover over 220 years of Sydney's defence history, with restored structures on the trail dating from 1801 to the Vietnam War. The trail has also been fitted with new signage and digital animations that tell the story of the area's historical significance.
WWII military fortifications like the Inner and Outer Defensive Ditches — which were carved around the headland to protect against land-based attacks — and restored twin 6-pounder gun casemates are open to explore. Walkers can also take a look inside The Engine Room and its notorious 'tiger cages' at Middle Head's Outer Fort — this site was re-purposed in the 1950s and used for training soldiers to resist torture during the Malayan Emergency and, later, the Vietnam War.
Other highlights include a number of new lookouts, as well as a new bridge across the Outer Defensive Ditch that offers front-row views across the foreshore and inner harbour. The restored 19th-century buildings of the former NSW School of Artillery are also open to visitors, showcasing their original appearance from 150 years ago.
"Middle Head and Georges Head have been part of Sydney Harbour National Park since 1984, but until now, they have never been connected via walking tracks to other harbourside reserves," said Chad Weston, Manager of Sydney North Area NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
"This major new infrastructure project has significantly improved visitor accessibility and safety, and those who appreciate history will be impressed with how some of Sydney's most significant historic fortifications have been conserved."
The Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh and Georges Head walking trail is now open in Sydney Harbour National Park. Find out more about the new trail at the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
