History
The fortification was built in 1877 and became part of the Sydney Harbours outer defences. At the time this method of fortification was considered to be the most efficient way of defending this entry point into Sydney Harbour.
The two cannons that were first placed at the site were 9 inch; 12 ton RML cannons that were “muzzle loading”, this meant that the explosive charge and projectile had to be loaded into the barrel from the same end. The cannons could discharge shells weighing 249 pounds (113kg) as far as South Head (Watsons Bay); 3,000 yards (2,770 metres).
As technology improved, these cannons were replaced in 1889 by much lighter weight guns that could fire an 80 pound (36kg) projectile for 3,170 yards (3,000 metres).
From 1903 to 1907 the fortifications were upgraded to allow for the installation of two BL 6 inch Mark 7 guns that were “breech loading” which meant that the explosive charge and projectile were to be loaded into the rear of the cannon. They could fire a 100 pound (45.4kg) shell a long way out to sea; up to 14,000 yards (12,900 metres).
The underground rooms of the fortifications were used to store ammunition and charges which were brought along Military Road, giving the road its name.
Read more about this topic: Lower Georges Heights Commanding Position
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