Sydney Archives - Page 6 of 42 - Destination's Journey

30 November 20239 November 2023

Sub Base Platypus Torpedo Factory

Sub Base Platypus Torpedo Factory

Opened in September 2023, the Torpedo Factory at Sub Base Platypus is an excellent addition to this heritage site. Managed by the Harbour Trust, the old factory was partially demolished and revitalised as an open public space.

Getting There

We used public transport, getting the train to Milsons Point Station and then walking for 10 minutes. If you prefer to drive, there is parking available on site.

History of the Site

Opened in 1942 during World War Two the factory produced torpedoes for Allied forces. Many of the employees were women, due to many men being in the armed forces. Commemorated at the site with murals, it’s a great reminder of their contribution during the war. Post war, the torpedo workshops continued to service the British Navy submarine fleet based at HMAS Penguin and the Royal Australian Navy’s destroyer fleet.

The entire base was closed in 1999 when the Royal Australian Navy moved its Collins-class submarines to Western Australia.

The Site Now

The old factory features several interesting display that explain the site’s history. These range from a Torpedo Mark VIII, information boards and murals with photos and signs from the factory. There is also a car park with electric charging stations.

Our previous blog, which covers the rest of Sub Base Platypus can be found here.

Entrance to the Torpedo Factory at Sub Base Platypus

Torpedo Mark VIII Mod 4 on display Sub Base Platypus Torpedo Workshop — Entrance to the Torpedo Factory at Sub Base Platypus

To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

5 November 202312 January 2024

South Eveleigh Sydney Australia

South Eveleigh Sydney Australia

Located in Sydney Australia, South Eveleigh has undergone significant revitalization in recent years. This transformation has turned an industrial site into a modern and dynamic precinct that combines technology, innovation, lifestyle, and heritage.

One of the major highlights of South Eveleigh is its rich industrial heritage. The site was once home to the Eveleigh Railway Workshops, which played a vital role in Sydney’s early rail history. Many of the original heritage buildings have been preserved and repurposed, offering a fascinating blend of historical charm and contemporary design.

History

Preserved within the workshop building, Bays 1 and 2 showcase a collection of machinery, tools, and artifacts used in the workshops, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the workers. Interpretive signs explain the significance and use of the tools and machinery.

Dating from 1887, the vast locomotive workship contains workshops for blacksmithing, boilermaking, and other essential trades. Importantly, these are not just static museum displays but remain in use. Courses are held locally teaching people these disappearing trades.

Current Use

Today, South Eveleigh serves as a hub for startups, tech companies, and creative industries. A modern high-tech interior provides office space for companies and business, while others house fitness centres and cafes.

A cafe within the main building is surrounded by old machinery and tool racks, while old steam powered hammer presses and boring machines are scattered throughout the office spaces.

A wonderful place to wander around, learning about the past, while surrounded by high-tech enterprises. After taking in the displays, there are cafes, restaurants and a brewery to relax at.

Workshop area. Still in use by hobbyists — Old boiler room

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To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

1 November 20231 November 2023

Bondi Sculpture By the Sea 2023

Bondi Sculpture By the Sea 2023

Running from 20 October until 6 November 2023, Bondi Sculpture by the Sea 2023 boasts 110 sculptures. Placed along the 2 km Bondi to Tamarama walk, they have the beautiful coastline as a backdrop.

Getting There

Because parking is limited at Bondi Beach, we took public transport. Catching the train from Central Station to Bondi Junction we then got the 330 bus to Bondi Beach. This is a very popular event and the bus was very crowded, but they were running regularly, so we didn’t have to wait long.

The Sculptures

With so many sculptures on display there should be something to interest everyone. This year, more use was made of Tamarama Beach, with exhibits on the sand.

Some of our favorite sculptures are in the photos below.