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Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site: A Coastal Fortress with a View

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Explore a 19th-century coastal defense with panoramic views at Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site in Bellerive, Tasmania. A blend of history and scenery.

Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site in Bellerive, Tasmania, is a 19th-century coastal fortification offering a glimpse into Australia's military past. Built in the 1880s to defend Hobart from naval threats, it provides stunning views of the Derwent River and kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Explore the well-preserved remnants of the fort, including gun emplacements and underground passageways, and enjoy a picnic amidst the lush greenery.

A brief summary to Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site.

  • Visit during sunset for stunning views over the Derwent River and Hobart.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site has uneven surfaces and slopes.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic vistas and historical features.
  • Check for local events or guided tours to enhance your experience.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park area surrounding the battery.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hobart City, take Metro Tasmania bus route 600 towards Bellerive. Alight at the 'Bellerive - Gunning St' stop, which is closest to Gunning Street. From there, walk south on Gunning Street for approximately 10 minutes until you reach 20 Gunning St, where the Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site is located. A single bus fare is approximately $4 AUD.

  • Walking

    If you are in the Bellerive area, you can walk to Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site. From Bellerive Beach Park, walk along Bellerive Quay towards the north and head towards Gunning Street. Follow Gunning Street until you reach 20 Gunning St, where the site is located. The walk from Bellerive Beach Park is approximately 1 km and should take about 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From anywhere in Hobart, you can take a taxi or use a ride-share service to reach the Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site. Request a ride to '20 Gunning St, Bellerive TAS 7018'. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $17 - $21 AUD.

  • Driving

    If driving from the Tasman Peninsula, take the A3 highway towards Bellerive. Once in Bellerive, turn onto Gunning Street and continue until you reach 20 Gunning St. Parking is available on-site, but be mindful of any parking restrictions. Parking is free.

Discover more about Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site

Kangaroo Bluff Battery Historic Site, located in the suburb of Bellerive, is a significant historical landmark that offers visitors a unique blend of military history and scenic beauty. Constructed in the late 19th century, the battery was designed to protect Hobart from potential naval attacks, supporting the Queens Battery and Battery Point battery. The impetus for its construction arose from fears of a Russian invasion, spurred by the appearance of Russian warships in the Derwent River in 1873. The battery, completed in 1884, features solid stone construction and masonry facings, with underground passages that once housed magazines, stores, and loading galleries. Although the underground sections are now bricked up, visitors can still explore the well-preserved channels and imagine the lives of the soldiers who manned the fort. The site includes the remains of gun emplacements, offering insight into the strategic importance of the battery. The battery was manned by Tasmanian Artillery Company volunteers but never fired a shot in anger. In 1901, the battery was transferred to Commonwealth control, and by 1930, the Clarence Council took over the area for use as a public park. Today, the site is managed by the Parks and Wildlife Service and serves as a major tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Derwent River, kunanyi/Mount Wellington, and the city of Hobart. The site is ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls, offering a peaceful retreat with a rich historical backdrop.

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