A newly opened 3km walking track links Middle Head-Gubbuh Gubbuh and Georges Head in Sydney Harbour National Park, showcasing the area’s legendary scenery and military history. 

 

The trail now seamlessly links the headlands along the Harbour Scenic Walk and connects to Chowder Bay near Mosman, and the 80km Bondi to Manly Walk. 

The $9.5 million restoration and development project converges the historical, cultural, and natural features of the area, offering a peaceful retreat from its urban surroundings.

 

Why is it significant?

Culturally significant as the traditional lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, Middle Head-Gubbuh Gubbuh and Georges Head were also used as military fortification sites between 1801 and the Vietnam War. 

Some of these defence structures are now restored. Visitors can walk through World War II twin six-pounder gun casemates and Defensive Ditches which were carved around the headland to protect fortifications from land-based attacks.

New installations like signage and digital animations help interpret the site’s 220 years of defence history. 

Outer Middle Head

Georges Head observation tower and casemate

Chad Weston, Manager of Sydney North Area NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service said, ‘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’, he said.

What about the views?

Beyond the history, the bushwalk offers passage above Sydney’s glistening harbour via a clifftop trail, with numerous secluded bays and beaches not far from reach.

New lookouts, including ‘The Belvedere’ and a new bridge over the Outer Defensive Ditch, give visitors views of the foreshore and inner harbour. Past the Inner and Outer Fort Precincts at Middle Head, the scrubby ridgeline has expansive views towards Manly and Dobroy Headland.

 

New pedestrian bridge over the Outer Defensive Ditch

 

Images courtesy NSW Department of Planning, Industry & Environment

At We Are Explorers we take great pride in presenting content that is fact checked, well-researched, and based on both real world experience and reliable sources. As a B-Corp we uphold high ethical standards and strive to create content that is inclusive, with an an increased focus on underserved communities, Indigenous Australians, and threats to our environment. You can read all about it in our Editorial Standards.