History of Georges Heights

Georges Heights has played a significant part in the artillery defences of Sydney Harbour from early colonial days through to the Second World War.

Initial fortifications were built during the 1870s and were part of a network of outer harbour defences designed to fire at enemy ships as they entered the harbour. The barracks that now house Sally's Place were built for the artillery gunners from local sandstone.

During World War I, the third largest military hospital in Australia operated from Georges Heights. Many of the timber-framed buildings remain today.

Army units on Georges Heights, including the transport group and 30 Terminal Squadron, left in 1997, and the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust was established to manage the vacated land.

For more information on the history of the area please visit: Harbour Trust