Defence of Sydney Tour

Tour

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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 300 kilometres of coastline during the Second World War.

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 walk along Australia's Memorial Walk and marvel at heritage gun emplacements, once capable of firing 26.4 kilometres. Finally, your 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 specialist volunteers faithfully restored it.

What's Available

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Cultural and Theme Tours

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Other tours by Guided Tours of North Head Sanctuary

North Head Discovery Tour

Get a taste for North Head Sanctuary in Manly – and explore a Second World War era structure off limits to general visitors – on this bite-sized tour, ideal for new visitors including families! Accompanied by a knowledgeable volunteer tour guide, you'll discover North Head's Barracks Precinct, including its iconic parade ground, and get a chance to dip your toes into its fascinating military story. From there, you'll be introduced to the area's delicate but vibrant landscape and be lead inside the Observation Post – a historic military landmark that was recently restored with the help of specialist volunteers.

Third Quarantine Cemetery Tour

Established in 1881 for victims of a smallpox epidemic, the Third Quarantine Cemetery at North Head Sanctuary, Manly, is included on Australia's National Heritage List as a significant example of the nation's evolving quarantine practices. By the time of the cemetery's closure in 1925, more than 240 people had been interred there, having succumbed to ravages including influenza, the bubonic plague, smallpox and scarlet fever. During a 60-minute tour of this historically-rich site, a knowledgeable guide will share stories of those who succumbed to the ravages of smallpox, the plague and other epidemics. Attendees will also experience the natural beauty of this final resting place, including unspoiled views of Sydney Harbour.

Where you'll be

North Head Sanctuary Visitor Centre

Manly NSW 2095

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