Hobart coastal defences, Military fortifications in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Hobart coastal defences are a network of twelve permanent batteries positioned along the Derwent River near Hobart, connected by underground tunnels. Each battery was equipped with cannons and designed to stop potential attackers approaching from the sea.
Construction of these fortifications began in 1804 when British colonial authorities wanted to establish a permanent military presence on the coast. The batteries were gradually expanded and updated until 1942 to prepare for different perceived threats.
The fortifications show British military engineering from the 1800s, with structures that reflect the building methods and weapons technology of that era. You can still see today how colonial authorities turned their defensive strategies into stone and metal.
You can visit several preserved battery locations spread around Hobart along the coast. Most sites have information panels that help you understand what you are looking at.
The Mulgrave Battery, completed in 1818, was later equipped with more advanced 32-pounder cannons after initially having only basic ship guns. This upgrade shows how defensive technology evolved while the site was in operation.
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