Watch the animation to see the full range of the twin, 6-pounder gun installed at Georges Head in 1942.
Georges Head and Obelisk Casemates
Sydney Harbour National Park
On Sydney's doorstep
The construction of defence fortifications at Georges Head started in the 1880s with the Armoured Casemate, the large black building alongside Chowder Bay Road.
During the Second World War (WW2) a gun emplacement with underground magazine and tunnels with a 3 storey observation tower were built here and at Obelisk Bay. A boom net was installed across the harbour to provide an added layer of protection.
The purpose of the twin 6-pounder gun installed here in 1942 was to cover the harbour from attack by torpedo boats.
The harbour was also protected by private vessels commandeered by the navy and modified with machine guns and depth charges.
What happened to the fortifications?
As WW2 escalated against Japan in the Pacific, active service crews left Sydney for the action. Our defences were operated by militia and the Australian Women's Army Services crews.
At the end of the war these coastal defences were shut downand the evolution of air-power and long-range missiles made coastal artillery like this one redundant.
Visit:
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Georges Head
Find out about Sydney's military history on a visit to Georges Head and Middle Head. The Georges Head military relics will both fascinate and amaze you.