New walking track captures Sydney views and heritage

A new walking track, linking Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh and Georges Head, is now open in Sydney Harbour National Park showcasing the area’s military significance and providing visitors an iconic scenic harbour experience.

The 3km walking track immerses visitors in over 220 years of Sydney’s defence history with a collection of restored defence structures, dating from 1801 to the Vietnam War, and installations, including signage and digital animations, bringing to life the site’s rich past.

This $9.5 million project, implemented over six years, delivers the missing link between the headlands, and connects to Chowder Bay and the Bondi to Manly Walk, creating a seamless walking experience for visitors.

Visitors can walk through restored World War II twin 6-pounder gun casemates and military fortifications such as the Inner and Outer Defensive Ditches, which were carved around the headland to protect fortifications from land-based attacks.

The track includes several new lookouts such as ‘The Belvedere’ and a new bridge across the large Outer Defensive Ditch, offering stunning views across Sydney’s foreshore and inner harbour.

Visitors can also see the re-furbished 19th century former NSW School of Artillery buildings sitting as they would have 150 years ago.

The Engine Room, located at the Outer Fort at Middle Head, was re-purposed in the 1950’s to prepare Army officers for possible capture and interrogation during the Malayan Emergency and later Vietnam War and holds the notorious ‘Tiger Cages’.

Quotes attributable to Chad Weston, Manager Sydney North Area NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service:

“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.

“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.

“New interpretation signs have also been installed at key points along the new walking track that help bring to life the layered history of the site.”