Fort Scratchley is a fascinating part of Newcastle's military history. Built looking out over the ocean in Newcastle East in the late 1880's, the original purpose of the installation was to prepare…
Fort Scratchley is a fascinating part of Newcastle's military history. Built looking out over the ocean in Newcastle East in the late 1880's, the original purpose of the installation was to prepare Australia for a possible attack by Russia!
The only time guns were fired at the Fort was during World War II. On the night of 7-8 June 1942 the Battery's 6-inch guns fired two salvoes at a Japanese submarine that bombarded Newcastle with about two dozen shells, becoming the only coastal fortification to fire on an enemy Naval vessel.
Today, the Fort is a historical museum, and its narrow, underground tunnels are fascinating to explore. This is a must-do for visitors of all ages.
