AdBlock Detected

It looks like you're using an ad-blocker!

Our team work realy hard to produce quality content on this website and we noticed you have ad-blocking enabled.

Tag: Sydney

Posted on

Federation Cliffs Walk Sydney Australia

Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk

Federation Cliffs Walk

The five-kilometer Federation Cliffs Walk offers spectacular coastal views, with sandstone cliffs, a lighthouse and a shipwreck memorial.

Getting There

We chose to use public transport to the Federation Cliffs Walk, as this meant we could start at one end of the Walk and finish at the other, without having to return to the starting point. A ferry from Circular Quay took us to Watson’s Bay Wharf, where we started the walk, while the return trip was by bus to Central Station, from Diamond Bay Reserve.

The Gap Lookout and Walking Track

From Watsons Bay Wharf, we made the short walk to the Gap Lookout, where we started our walk. From the lookout, views of the cliffs and out to sea are amazing. Well-made and maintained walkways make the track easy to walk and from here heads south to Bondi and beyond.

Wreck of the Dunbar

Launched on 30 November 1854, the Dunbar was a first-class passenger and cargo carrier. On the night of 20 August 1857, the ship approached the entrance to Port Jackson from the south, but heavy rain and a strong gale winds made navigating difficult. Possibly mistaking The Gap as the port’s entrance, the captain ran the ship onto the rocks. Of the 122 people on board, only one survived.

As a result of this tragedy and the loss of the Catherine Adamson at North Head nine weeks later, the Government built Hornby Lighthouse.

Containing one of Dunbar’s anchors, a memorial stands on the cliffs above the wreck site.

Dunbar Memorial
Dunbar Memorial
Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk
Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk

Signal Hill

Constructed in 1892-1893, Signal Hill Battery was one of many defensive forts built around Sydney. Originally armed with a BL 9.2-inch (234 mm) Mk VI breech-loading counter bombardment British Armstrong disappearing gun, the fort operated until just after World War Two. By this stage the original gun had been replace by two six-inch guns. Fortunately, the 9.2-inch is on display at North Head, near the Memorial Walk.

Memorial plaques give tribute to those who served here as well as providing historical context for the structures.

This is a great place to stop on your walk to understand some of Sydney’s history and admire the fantastic views.

Cliff Top Fortifications
Cliff Top Fortifications

Memorials

Walking along the Federation Cliffs Walk, you will come across many memorials, it is worth stopping to view them. Some are for loved ones lost overseas, while others commemorate the locations of fortifications or the service of military regiments.

Lieutenant Grieve's Memorial
Lieutenant Grieve’s Memorial

Macquarie Lighthouse

Designed by James Barnet and built from 1881 to 1883, Macquarie Lighthouse is 26m tall. Heritage listed, it is still fully operational and under the control of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. The white tower makes an outstanding photo when set against a deep blue summer sky.

Macquarie Lighthouse on the Federation Cliffs Walk
Macquarie Lighthouse

The Grave Of Edmund Barton

Sir Edmund Barton, GCMG, PC, KC (18 January 1849 – 7 January 1920) was an Australian politician and judge who served as the first Prime Minister of Australia, in office from 1901 to 1903. Located in South Head General Cemetery and marked by a cross headstone, Barton’s grave is difficult to find amongst all of the others found there.

An interesting place to visit because of the historical importance of Barton.

Edmund Barton's Grave
Edmund Barton’s Grave

Diamond Bay Reserve

Federation Cliffs Walk offers many superb views of the ocean and cliffs. One of the best is at Diamond Bay, where walkways and a viewing platform provide excellent views. Fishermen have constructed stairs and a gateway on the cliff face. The walkway provides a safe place for photographers

Waverley Council encourages visitors to Diamond Bay Reserve to stay away from the cliff’s edge. A 27 year-old woman past away recently after slipping when taking a photo on the cliff’s edge. Fencing and signs are there for your safety.

Sea Cliffs at Diamond Bay
Sea Cliffs at Diamond Bay
Stairs on the Diamond Bay Cliffs
Stairs on the Diamond Bay Cliffs
Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk
Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk
Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk
Sea Cliffs on the Federation Cliffs Walk

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

Our photos are available for purchase on

Posted on

Sydney Park and Old Brick Works

Sydney Park Brick Kilns

Sydney Park

Originally a landfill site and the location of a brickworks, Sydney Park is now a beautiful public space because of its landscaped gardens, meandering paths and wetlands. A total of 40Ha of ugly landfill was transformed into beautiful parkland, making it a wonderful place to relax and let the kids run around. With barbeques, playgrounds and open spaces, it’s a great place for a day out.

Getting To Sydney Park

Located around the park, several car parks which provide easy access. The closest train station is St Peter’s, directly across the road from the old brick kilns.

Old Brick Works and Chimneys

Disused for over 60 years, the now heritage listed brick works, provide a landmark near the St Peter’s train station because of the tall chimneys. During our visit, graffiti had defaced some of the lower kilns and buildings, which was very disappointing, taking away some of the appeal of the area.

The chimneys provide great photo opportunities and we spent some time here while we took pictures from different angles.

Sydney Park Brick Kilns
Old Brick Kilns
Sydney Park Brick Kilns and Chimney
The Old Brick Kilns and Chimney
Sydney Park Brick Kilns Chimneys
Old Brick Works Chimneys
Old Machinery Near the Brick Kilns
Old Machinery Near the Brick Kilns

Wetlands

Several creeks flow through the park, which along with the City of Sydney’s water reuse program creates lovely wetlands. Bridges, viewing platforms and meandering paths allow visitors to admire the wetlands as they walk through the park. Keep an eye out for birds, because the wetlands attracts many of them here.

Wetlands
Wetlands Area
Sydney Park Brick Kilns and Chimneys
The Old Brick Kilns and Chimneys Behind the Wet Lands

What Did We Think?

We found the park to be a great place to enjoy a walk through the landscaped gardens, which provide great photo opportunities. The heritage listed brickworks were interesting to see. Access from St Peter’s station made getting there easy from central Sydney, which we appreciated.

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

Our photos are available for purchase on

Posted on

Sydney Tramway Museum Australia

Brisbane Dreadnought 180

Sydney Tramway Museum

Located in Sydney’s southern suburb of Loftus, the Sydney Tramway Museum, is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Hosting a collection of trams from Sydney, other Australian and some international cities makes this museum a must-see for tram and train lovers.

  • Control Box Sydney Tramway Museum
    Control Box Sydney Tramway Museum

Getting to the Sydney Tramway Museum

In addition to its on car park, the museum is conveniently located adjacent to the Loftus Railway Station, making it easy to get to.

Tram Rides

With many of the museum’s trams in operating condition, it is great that they offer tram rides. The cost of the ride is included in the entry fee. Travelling in two directions, initially towards Sutherland and then into Royal National Park, where it stops at an old station. At the station, you disembark the tram for 5 to 10 minutes before the return trip. This was great fun and will appeal to families with children, as well as tram enthusiasts.

  • Sydney O Class 1111 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney O Class 1111 Waiting to Pick Up Passengers

Gift Shop

Setup in an old tram, the gift shop offers a huge range of souvenirs, mostly tram related. From the usual postcards and fridge magnets to publications dedicated to trams, there should be something to suit everyone.

Sydney Tramway Museum Gift Shop Sydney Tramway Museum
Gift Shop at the Sydney Tramway Museum

Sydney Tramway Museum’s Collection

Undercover in an old workshop, and well maintained, the collection is accessible for a real hands on look. Most trams have boards near them, explaining the history of the tram, adding to the experience. Importantly, it is possible to board some trams, except when signs prevent it to avoid damage.

Sydney Trams

C Class Trams

Built in 1896 by Bignall & Morrison and acquired in 1955, C 290 has been restored to original passenger condition from 1996-97. Operational for special events, it is the oldest operational electric tramcar in Australia.

  • Sydney C Class 290
    Sydney C Class 290
  • Sydney C Class 290
    Sydney C Class 290
  • Sydney C Class 290
    Tram 290 a Sydney C Class
  • Sydney C Class 290 Interior
    Sydney C Class 290 Interior
  • Sydney C Class 290 Interior
    Sydney C Class 290 Interior

Built in 1898 by Hudson Bros and acquired in 1961 Tram C 29 is operational for occasional service.

  • Sydney C Class 29 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney C Class 29
  • Sydney C Class 29 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney C Class 29

F Class Tram

Built in 1902 by Clyde Engineering acquired in 1953 tram F 393 operates for special events. Owing to its use as a driver training tram, it is the only F class car remaining.

  • Sydney F Class 393 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney F Class 393
  • Sydney F Class 393
  • Sydney F Class 393
    Sydney F Class 393

N Class Trams

Built in 1906 by Meadowbank Manufacturing Company and acquired in 1953 tram N 728 is operated for special events.

  • Sydney N Class 728
    Sydney N Class 728

O Class Trams

Built in 1909 by Meadowbank Manufacturing Company and on loan from the Powerhouse Museum tram O 805 is operational for special events.

  • Sydney O Class 805 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney O Class 805

Built in 1912 by Meadowbank Manufacturing Company and acquired in 1958, tram O 1111 is operational in regular service.

  • Sydney O Class 1111
    Sydney O Class 1111
  • Sydney O Class 1111
  • Sydney O Class 1111
    Sydney O Class 1111

L/P Class Trams

Built in 1900 by Clyde Engineering as an F class car and converted in 1910 to an ‘L’ type tram, and again in 1926 as an ‘L/P’ type, tram L/P 154 was acquired in 1950. It currently representing trams from the Newcastle system. Operational in occasional service, it is known as the oldest preserved tram in the Southern Hemisphere.

  • Sydney LP Class 154 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney LP Class 154

Brisbane Trams

Built in 1924 by T Gardiner and Son and acquired in 1958, tram 180 ‘Dreadnought’ is in regular service, mainly during the Summer months.

  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180
    Brisbane Dreadnought 180
  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180
    Brisbane Dreadnought 180
  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180
    Tram Stop and Brisbane Dreadnought 180
  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180
    Brisbane Dreadnought 180
  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180 Interior
    Brisbane Dreadnought 180 Interior
  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180 Interior
    Interior of Brisbane Dreadnought 180
  • Brisbane Dreadnought 180 Interior
    Brisbane Dreadnought 180 Interior

Ballarat Trams

Built in 1908 by Meadowbank Manufacturing Company acquired in 1974, ‘Single-Truck’ tram 12 is operational for special events, but remains in “as is” condition.

  • Ballarat Single-Truck Sydney Tramway Museum
    Ballarat Single-Truck

Overseas Trams at the Sydney Tramway Museum

San Francisco PCC “Torpedo”

Built in 1948 by St. Louis Car Company San Francisco PCC “Torpedo” tram 1014 was a Bicentenary gift from Sydney’s sister city San Francisco in 1987. It is the last remaining “Torpedo” PCC in original condition. During our visit it was out of service, waiting parts.

Nagasaki 1054

Built in 1952 by Nigata Iron Works Nagasaki 1054 operated on the Sendai and Nagasaki tramway systems. Operational in occasional service it was acquired in 1992..

  • Nagasaki 1054 Sydney Tramway Museum
    Nagasaki 1054

Berlin 5133

Built in 1969 by the East German Railways and acquired in 1996 Berlin 5133 operates an occasional service.

  • Berlin Tram 5133
    Berlin Tram 5133
  • Berlin Tram 5133 Interior
    Inyerior of Berlin Tram 5133
  • Berlin Tram 5133 Controls
    Berlin Tram 5133 Controls

Works Cars

134s Sydney Scrubber Car

Built by Ritchie Bros. in 1899 as D class passenger car 112, it was converted to a scrubber car in 1930. Scrubber cars use carborundum blocks to ‘scrub’ the railhead clear of debris. Acquired by the museum in 1961, it operated in 1978/9 to clean the Eastern Suburbs railway tracks and again in 1983 for a similar purpose along the Cronulla line. With the implementation of the new Light Rail line, it was used in 1997 to ‘scrub’ the tracks around Haymarket. It is still operational when required.

  • Sydney Scrubber Car 134s
    Sydney Scrubber Car 134s
  • Sydney Scrubber Car 134s
    Sydney Scrubber Car 134s

141s Sydney Breakdown Car

Built by Meadowbank Manufacturing Company in 1911 as O 1030 and converted to a Breakdown car in 1955, Breakdown Car 141s is in occasional service.

  • Sydney Breakdown Car 141s Sydney Tramway Museum
    Sydney Breakdown Car 141s

Buses & Trolley Buses

AEC 3-Axle Double-Deck Trolleybus

Trolleybus No.19 is an AEC 3-Axle Double-Deck trolleybus,built in 1937 by Ritchie Bros Pty Ltd. The museum acquired it in 1978, when it was rebuilt and partly fitted out, by apprentices of the then State Rail in Chullora from 1982-1988. It is Sydney’s last remaining double-deck trolley-bus.

  • AEC 3-Axle Double-Deck Trolleybus No.19
    AEC 3-Axle Double-Deck Trolleybus No.19
  • AEC 3-Axle Double-Deck Trolleybus No.19 Sydney Tramway Museum
    AEC 3-Axle Double-Deck Trolleybus No.19

What Did We Think?

This was a great place to visit, because of the amazing collection of trams, and the accessibility of the displays. The tram ride was a great bonus, making this museum a great place for families to have fun and enthusiasts to enjoy the trams.

Click on these links for more photos of:

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.