Alright, you're heading towards Smiths Hill Fort, and you should start seeing it on your right-hand side. Look for a low-lying, cream-colored structure half-buried in the ground with a couple of cannons positioned proudly at different points. The site is nestled on a green grassy hill with a great view of the ocean. You'll also notice some big, beautiful pine trees adding a touch of nature to this historic military site. Keep an eye out for the iron-railed pathways and the emplacements for the cannons.
Now, let’s dive into a bit of fun history about this fort!
Smiths Hill Fort, also known as Wollongong Fort, was built between 1891 and 1893. Back then, folks in Wollongong were on high alert for a possible Russian attack on the harbor-talk about unexpected guests! To stand guard, they built this concealed battery high above the harbor. The fort included underground rooms for storing supplies and ammunition, and even offered shelter. They also set up emplacements for two mighty 80-pound cannons and a quick-firing gun to keep the enemies at bay.
Initially, the fort played a key role in company training and was maintained by the Wollongong-Bulli Half Company. In 1946, it fell into a bit of neglect and was filled with rubble and dirt. But fear not! In 1988, the fort was dug out and restored to its former glory, including the meticulous reinstallation of the two cannons.
So, as you stand here, take a moment to imagine the soldiers who trained and stood vigilant at this very spot, keeping Wollongong safe from hypothetical Russian invaders!
