Fort Scratchley, Coastal defense fort and military museum in Newcastle East, Australia
Fort Scratchley is a coastal defense fort and military museum on Flagstaff Hill in Newcastle East. The site features underground tunnels, gun emplacements, and exhibits covering Australian military history from the 1880s to the present day.
The fort was built in 1882 to protect against Russian threats, reflecting tensions between European powers in the region. It became notable for firing on a Japanese submarine during the 1942 shelling of Newcastle.
The site preserves memories of Australian defense history through displays of military equipment, photographs, and documents that show how coastal fortification developed over time.
Plan your visit with sturdy footwear since the stairs leading to the underground sections are steep and the ground is uneven throughout the tunnels. Guided tours provide the best way to understand the site's history and layout.
The fort fired at ships during an actual attack, a rare event for an Australian coastal battery during World War II. This makes it one of the few places in the country with direct combat experience.
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