Destination's Journey

Category: Military

  • Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023

    Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023

    Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023

    Held over the weekend of 18-19 November 2023, the Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023 featured both air and static ground displays. The first days was a free community events with flying displays over Nobbys Beach and the Newcastle Harbour. Day Two had a nominal $10 entry fee to the RAAF Williamtown Air Force base where most of the aircraft flying on day one were on display. The Royal Australian Air Force and Newcastle Council did an amazing job of organising this event.

    Getting There

    Parking in the inner city was limited because of road closures. However, the council provided a park and ride from McDonald Jones Stadium, while additional ferries brought people from Stockton where large carparks had been set up.

    Day One

    Commencing at 10:00 AM, the air display was continuous until 12:30. At 2:00 PM it started again and ran through until 4:00PM. By start time, the foreshore and Nobbys Beach were packed. Additional premium viewing was available at Fort Scratchley, providing the highest vantage point on the day.

    Sitting near the surf club we had an excellent view of the displays as they performed just off shore, or flew down the harbour.

    Warbirds

    Flying started with old warbirds and training aircraft, such as the CAC Winjeel, CAC Mustang (a licence built North American P-51 Mustang) and Supermarine Spitfire. Operated by 100 Squadron RAAF, these old planes preserve the history of military flying in Australia.

    Current RAAF Aircraft

    Following the warbirds, the RAAF aerobatic team the Roulettes put on a skillful flying display. They were followed by the current combat aircraft operated by the RAAF. Fortunately we brought ear plugs, because we knew the F-35 and F/A-18F would be noisy. They certainly didn’t disappoint and put on an amazing display of their flying capabilities.

    Closing out the air display were the RAAF’s larger aircraft, the P-8 Poseidon used maritime surveillance, the E-7 Wedgetail AEW&C and the KC-30 MRTT multi role transport and tanker.

    CAC Winjeel A85-439 over Nobbys Beach
    CAC Winjeel A85-439 over Nobbys Beach
    CAC CA-18 Mustang Mk. 23, A68-170 AM-G over Nobbys Beach Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    CAC CA-18 Mustang Mk. 23, A68-170 AM-G over Nobbys Beach
    RAAF Roulettes aerobatic team over Nobbys Beach
    RAAF Roulettes aerobatic team over Nobbys Beach
    Lockheed Martin F-35A and CAC CA-18 Mustang over Nobbys Beach Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Lockheed Martin F-35A and CAC CA-18 Mustang over Nobbys Beach
    Lockheed Martin F-35A over Nobbys Beach
    Lockheed Martin F-35A over Nobbys Beach
    Boeing E-7A Wedgetail Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Boeing E-7A Wedgetail
    Boeing P-8A Poseidon
    RAAF Boeing P-8A Poseidon
    Boeing P-8A Poseidon flying over the Nobbys Beach Surf Club Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Boeing P-8A Poseidon flying over the Nobbys Beach Surf Club
    Airbus KC-30A MRTT of 33 Squadron RAAF over Nobbys Beach Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Airbus KC-30A MRTT of 33 Squadron RAAF over Nobbys Beach
    Lockheed P-3C Orion during the flying display over Nobbys Beach Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Lockheed P-3C Orion during the flying display over Nobbys Beach
    The crowd on the beach while a Lockheed P-3C Orion flies over Nobbys Headland
    The crowd on the beach while a Lockheed P-3C Orion flies over Nobbys Headland
    Lockheed P-3C Orion during the flying display over Nobbys Beach
    Part of the crowd with a Lockheed P-3C Orion flying over Nobbys Beach
    Lockheed P-3C Orion during the flying display over Nobbys Beach
    Lockheed P-3C Orion during the flying display over Nobbys Beach
    Pilatus PC-21 of the Roulettes
    Pilatus PC-21 of the Roulettes
    Boeing FA-18F Super Hornet Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Boeing FA-18F Super Hornet

    Day Two of the Newcastle Williamtown Air Show

    Held at the Royal Australian Air Force Base at Williamtown just north of Newcastle, Day 2 was a non-flying day, although most of the aeroplanes from Day 1 were on display.

    The RAAF provided parking on base, with busses taking people onto the base. This was an excellent idea because the base also hosts Newcastle Airport which provides domestic civilian air services. The buses allowed the airport to keep the runway operating while people were transported to an from the display area.

    Each of the aircraft on display were attended by RAAF personnel who were happy to discus what they do and the jet’s capabilities. We had a great time walking around them all, including the warbirds.

    The Airbus KC-30 MRRT was available for a walk-through but the queue was too long so we just looked at it from outside.

    Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II A35-37 of 3 Squadron RAAF
    Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II A35-37 of 3 Squadron RAAF
    Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet A44-218 of 1 Squadron RAAF Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet A44-218 of 1 Squadron RAAF
    Boeing EA-18G Growler A46-313 of 6 Squadron RAAF
    Boeing EA-18G Growler A46-313 of 6 Squadron RAAF
    Pilatus PC-21 A54-038 of the RAAF Roulettes aerobatic team
    Pilatus PC-21 A54-038 of the RAAF Roulettes aerobatic team
    Boeing E-7A Wedgetail A30-001 of RAAF 2 Squadron
    Boeing E-7A Wedgetail A30-001 of RAAF 2 Squadron
    Boeing E-7A Wedgetail A30-001 of 2 Squadron RAAF
    Close up of the radar housing of the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail A30-001 of 2 Squadron RAAF
    Boeing P-8A Poseidon of 11 Squadron RAAF Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Boeing P-8A Poseidon of 11 Squadron RAAF
    Airbus KC-30A MRTT of 33 Squadron RAAF Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Airbus KC-30A MRTT of 33 Squadron RAAF
    Weapons bay of an Boeing P-8A Poseidon Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Weapons bay of an Boeing P-8A Poseidon
    CAC CA-18 Mustang Mk. 23, A68-170 AM-G Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    CAC CA-18 Mustang Mk. 23, A68-170 AM-G
    Supermarine Spitfire Mk.XVI TB863 FU-P of No. 453 Squadron (R.A.A.F). In its original markings
    Supermarine Spitfire Mk.XVI TB863 FU-P of No. 453 Squadron (R.A.A.F). In its original markings
    CAC Wirraway A20-653 BF-F of the Air Force Heritage Squadron. Painted in 5 Squadron colours. Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    CAC Wirraway A20-653 BF-F of the Air Force Heritage Squadron. Painted in 5 Squadron colours.
    CT-4 Airtrainer A19-077
    CT-4 Airtrainer A19-077

    Fighter World

    Fighter World the RAAF’s museum of fighters aircraft was open on Sunday and free to enter. Several of the fighters were outside the hanger which was great because the displays inside are usually close together. This allowed us to get close to some interesting planes. Most RAAF operated jets were on display from early Gloster Meteors to F/A-18s and an F-111. See out blog on Fighter World for more information and photos.

    Gloster Meteor F.8 in the markings of A77-851, 77 Squadron during the Korean War Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023
    Gloster Meteor F.8 in the markings of A77-851, 77 Squadron during the Korean War

    Our photos are available for purchase on

    To see what else there is to do in the Hunter Valley, please see some of our other stories.

  • Manly to North Head Walk

    Manly to North Head Walk

    The walk from Manly to North Head takes you past some beautiful beaches with views over the coast, through coastal scrub and passes old fortifications. Finally ending at the entrance to Sydney Harbour, it has spectacular views of the city.

    Getting There

    The easiest way to get to Manly is to take the Manly ferry from Circular Quay. If you’re new to Sydney, this is an attraction in itself, because the Sydney Harbour ferries form an important part of the local public transport. During the ferry ride, you get some brilliant views of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge as well as all the other boat traffic on the water.

    Sydney Ferry Collaroy
    Manly Ferry Collaroy
    Opera House From the Manly Ferry Sydney Australia
    Opera House From the Manly Ferry

    Start of the Walk

    Catching the Manly Ferry from Circular Quay, we arrived at Manly Wharf at 9:30 am. We planned our walk to take us along the shore to Shelly Beach where we would follow a track to the Barracks Precinct. Not only would this give us views over the coast but take us past some old fortifications and gun emplacements.

    From the Manly wharf, we walked down The Corso, which is a pedestrian mall leading to the beach.

    Manly Beach

    One of the most popular Sydney beaches, Manly Beach is a great place for a swim or relaxing on the sand. We bought a coffee at a kiosk near the south end of the beach before starting the walk.

    Manly Beach
    Manly Beach

    Manly to Shelly Beach

    Starting at the south end of Manly Beach, the path follows the coastline, which is rocky until you reach Shelly Beach. There are plenty of places with places to look up and down the coast and back to Manly, giving you some amazing views.

    Along the way look out for small metal sculptures of local wildlife. These have been placed on the rocks next to the path.

    About halfway to Shelly Beach, Fairy Bower Pool is a protected ocean pool where you can swim. The pool is also decorated with a sculpture of two fairies.

    Fairy Bower Sea Pool Marine Parade Manly Sydney Australia
    Fairy Bower Sea Pool
    Fairy Statues Fairy Bower Sea Pool Manly Sydney Australia Manly to North Head Walk
    Fairy Statues
    Sculpture of an octopus near Shelly Beach Manly to North Head Walk
    Sculpture of an octopus near Shelly Beach
    Sculpture of an bandicoot near Shelly Beach Manly to North Head Walk
    Sculpture of an bandicoot near Shelly Beach
    Fairey Penguin Sculpture near Shelly Beach
    Fairey Penguin Sculpture near Shelly Beach

    Shelly Beach

    Shelly Beach is a secluded and serene crescent-shaped beach surrounded by nice shady trees. As well as a grassed area to relax on it has a kiosk where you can buy refreshments before continuing the walk.

    From Shelly Beach, the track goes uphill to head along the cliffs to the south.

    Shelly Beach Manly Sydney Australia
    Shelly Beach

    Shelly Headland Lookout

    Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean, this Shelly Headland Lookout provides an ideal spot for photographers because of the wonderful views along the coast. During the whale migration season, it’s also an ideal point to watch them swimming past.

    Coastal view looking north back to Manly Manly to North Head Walk
    Coastal view looking north back to Manly

    Shelly Beach to the Barracks Precinct

    After the flat walk from Manly the track becomes rougher and steeper. From here the track climbs uphill to reach the cliff tops. Winding through the coastal vegetation, it is not as busy as the first section because it is a more difficult walk. We loved this section, as the walk through the bush was much more peaceful.

    At the top of the cliffs, old fortifications dating from the Second World War and earlier can be seen. The track even goes through one of the old walls built to defend the area.

    The track south of Shelly Beach Manly to North Head Walk
    The track south of Shelly Beach
    Old fortification wall at North Head
    Old fortification wall at North Head

    Barracks Precinct

    The Barracks Precinct at North Head is a historically significant site that served as a military base from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century. It played a crucial role in the defence of Sydney Harbor and housed various military units over the years.

    The Barracks Precinct has well-preserved sandstone buildings, which showcase the architectural style of the time. It includes several barracks, officers’ quarters, mess halls, and maintenance buildings. These structures provide a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers stationed at North Head.

    Today, the Barracks Precinct has been repurposed as a heritage site and is open to the public for exploration. Visitors can wander through the historic buildings, learn about the site’s military history through information boards which are dotted around the area.

    In this area and continuing to North Head, the walking tracks are generally well paved and often consists of boardwalks or paved roads. When we visited, the banksias were in flower adding a touch of colour to the walk.

    Main barracks building and parade ground
    Main barracks building and parade ground
    Banksia in flower
    Banksia in flower
    Banksia in Flower Manly to North Head Walk
    Banksia in Flower

    Fortifications

    Many of the original fortifications were dismantled and the guns sold for scrap when they were no longer needed. Fortunately, some are still in place so that visitors can see them. Several large gun emplacements are open to the public, but when we visited others were being repaired.

    A great way to get a feel for the area’s past is to take the underground tunnels tour. We did this several years ago and highly recommend it. You walk through the tunnels and underground sections of the fortifications as well as getting into areas the general public cannot access.

    Old Fortifications Manly to North Head Walk
    Old Fortifications
    Old Fortification undergoing restoration
    Old Fortification undergoing restoration
    9.2 Inch Gun
    9.2 Inch Gun

    Memorial Walk

    Winding through the coastal vegetation, the Memorial Walk commemorates Australia’s military heritage. Not only are there great sandstone memorials but the path is inlaid with bricks commemorating individuals or military units.

    Memorial Walk
    Memorial Walk
    Memorial for Australian Peacekeeping Operations
    Memorial for Australian Peacekeeping Operations

    Fairfax Lookout

    The end of our walk took us to Fairfax Lookout with its stunning views of Sydney and Sydney Harbour. The site was named after Sir James Fairfax, a prominent Australian businessman and philanthropist.

    View of Sydney and the Harbour from Fairfax Lookout Manly to North Head Walk
    View of Sydney and the Harbour from Fairfax Lookout

    Other Places to See in North Head

    If you have time, Q Station, the old Sydney Quarantine Station is worth a visit. We did a guided tour here some time ago, which took us through the history of the site and most of its buildings. The old quarantine station cemetery is also a great place to see.

    Getting Back

    After finishing our walk, we decided to catch the bus back to the wharf as it stops right outside. Alternatively, you could walk back via Q Station. We had an excellent tour there a few years ago and highly recommend a visit.

    Our photos are available for purchase on

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

  • Headland Park Walking Track

    Headland Park Walking Track

    Headland Park Walking Track

    The Headland Park Walking Track is a scenic and historic trail that runs from Balmoral Beach to Georges Head in Mosman, Sydney, Australia. The walking track is approximately 4.5 kilometers in length and offers stunning views of the harbour and surrounding coastline. The portion we walked was approximately 2 kilometers long.

    Starting at Balmoral Beach the track winds its way along the coast, passing through beautiful parks and natural landscapes. As you make their way along the trail, you pass several historic landmarks as well as outstanding views of Sydney and the Harbour.

    How to Get There

    We parked at Balmoral Beach where we found a long duration park area. This was great because most of the parking there had a 2 hour limit which is not long enough. Sign posts placed along the track give direction to the differing destinations you can get to. Well maintained, the track varies from flat sections to very steep ones. The climb up from Balmoral takes in around 300 steps. Although more spaced out on the other side of the ridge, it descends another 300 steps. Remember you will need to climb them all again on the return walk.

    Sign Post
    Signs on the Track
    Stone steps
    Stone steps on the Walking Track
    Track
    Part of the Track

    Spectacular Views

    If the going starts to get tough, there are many places to stop , relax and take in the spectacular views over Sydney Harbour. If you take some snacks and drinks, it’s a great place to stop and refuel.

    View Over Sydney Harbour from the Headland Park Walking Track
    View Over Sydney Harbour

    Georges Head Battery

    The Georges Head Battery is a historic military installation that dates back to the early 1900s. It was built to protect Sydney Harbour from possible attacks during times of war. The battery features a range of structures, including gun emplacements, ammunition stores, and command posts. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its history through interpretive signs and displays.

    There are more great views from here too, with the main CBD area and Circular Quay in Sydney visible.

    Cannon emplacement overlooking Sydney Harbour at Georges Head
    Cannon emplacement overlooking Sydney Harbour at Georges Head
    View Over Sydney Harbour from Georges Head
    View Over Sydney Harbour from Georges Head

    Gunners’ Barracks

    Another significant feature of the Headland Park Walking Track is the Gunners’ Barracks, which is a historic building built in the early 1800s. The building served as a barracks for soldiers stationed at Georges Head Battery, and later as a residence for military officers. Today, the Gunners’ Barracks has been restored and transformed into a luxury restaurant and event space, offering visitors a unique dining experience with stunning views of the harbor.

    From Georges’ Head you can look down onto the restored buildings before continuing along the track.

    Gunners' Barracks Headland Park Walking Track
    Gunners’ Barracks

    6 Inch Gun Battery

    Georges Heights 6 Inch Gun Battery was constructed in the early 1900s and was designed to protect the entrance to Sydney Harbour from naval attack. Steep sections around the gun emplacement are fenced off, but access available about 20m further along the track. This allows you to enter the emplacement and see the gun up close. If you miss the gun and see the sculpture park, you have gone too far. The gun site is almost directly in front of the Sculpture Park.

    6-Inch guns emplacement Headland Park Walking Track
    6-Inch guns emplacement

    Sculpture Park

    The Headland Park Walking Track also features a sculpture park, which is home to a range of contemporary art installations by Australian and international artists. Scattered around a large grassed area, the sculptures are surrounded by buildings that used to house military personnel who manned the local guns.

    Sculpture
    Wooden Sculpture Headland Park Walking Track
    Wooden Sculpture
    Sculpture Headland Park Walking Track
    Sculpture
    Sculpture Headland Park Walking Track
    Sculpture
    Old Military Buildings
    Old Military Buildings

    Chowder Bay

    We ended our walk at Chowder Bay on Sydney Harbour. Several cafés and restaurants with views of the harbour give you a choice of places to eat. We bought take away coffees and drank them overlooking the small beach before tackling the return walk.

    Overall, the Headland Park Walking Track is a great place to visit for anyone interested in history, nature, and art.