A World War II observation post at North Head in Manly has been completely refurbished by the Harbour Trust with the help of volunteers. The post, used as a lookout for enemy shipping, was abandoned and crumbling with concrete cancer. Through volunteer efforts and remedial concrete treatment, the post has been restored to its former glory and will soon be open to the public. The North Fort Battery, which housed two 9.2-inch guns interconnected by tunnels and included secret integrated plotting rooms, was an essential part of Australia’s military installations during the war.
Observation posts were crucial in defending against potential naval attacks on Sydney, leading to the construction of the North Fort Battery. The Battery Observation Post was equipped with an optical depression finder that could send target bearing, range, and speed data to the plotting room via underground cables for protection during shelling. Volunteers like retired artillery officer Peter Lawrence worked from wartime photos to recreate the interior of the observation post, ensuring that the restoration did not damage its historical significance. By using measurements from the photos and markings on the wall, they were able to accurately reconstruct the layout and dimensions of the furniture inside the post.
Volunteer efforts, including those from Tony Booth and Peter Lawrence, were instrumental in the refurbishment of the observation post at North Head. Working from wartime photos, the volunteers were able to recreate the interior of the building while staying true to its historical context. The restoration was completed at no cost apart from the remedial concrete treatment needed for the crumbling structure. The Battery Observation Post will be open to the public later this year, allowing visitors to experience a piece of Australia’s wartime history and learn about the important role observation posts played in defending against enemy attacks.
The volunteer-led refurbishment of the North Fort observation post at North Head showcases the dedication and skills of community members in preserving Australia’s wartime history. By using resources like wartime photos and measurements, the volunteers were able to accurately recreate the interior of the post while maintaining its historical integrity. The project, funded by the Harbour Trust, demonstrates the importance of preserving and restoring significant landmarks from World War II for future generations to appreciate and learn from. The Battery Observation Post at North Head serves as a reminder of Australia’s military history and the efforts made to defend against potential threats during the war.
Through the collaboration of the Harbour Trust and volunteers like Tony Booth and Peter Lawrence, the North Fort Battery at North Head has been successfully refurbished and restored to its former glory. The observation post, once essential for monitoring enemy shipping and potential naval attacks on Sydney, now stands as a testament to Australia’s wartime history. The completion of the restoration project, done at no cost apart from necessary concrete treatment, highlights the importance of community involvement in preserving historical landmarks and educating the public about the country’s military past. As the Battery Observation Post prepares to open to the public, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the building and learn about its significance in defending Australia during World War II.
