This was essentially the repeat of a walk I had been on back in 2019. Like that one, this one was led by Brian Everingham for the National Parks Association of NSW. Both walks were both interesting and enjoyable with a mixture of great scenery, history and Nature.
In the party this time, as well as Brian were – Valerie, Sue, Suzanne, Lydia, Judith, Kye, Jennifer, Graeme and Jenny, Chris and Mary, and myself.
We met outside Milsons Point Station, and were soon on our way. Along Alfred Street we noticed these old cottages –
They date from 1901 and are the last examples of the original development in the Milsons Point area.
The original Milsons Point railway station was close to this site, below the present bridge, to connect with ferry services across to the city. This was before the Sydney Harbour Bridge was constructed.
While construction of the bridge was being undertaken, the station was moved further back along the line – close to Luna Park. The railway alignment used then was the siding now used for stabling trains.
We then walked past the historic swimming pool – that was once used in the Empire Games. It is now being reinstated.
We then walked past Luna Park.
Along trisection are a number of small sculptures of cartoon figures.
And there is also some Nature to observe.
We then visited Wendy’s Secret Garden, a beautiful and interesting spot.
And then we continued along the foreshore, passing the old slipway when boat construction was an industry of Lavender Bay.
We continued around Blues Point.
We noticed along the seawall – some artificial habitat has been included for crabs and other marine life –
The next stop was the Sawmillers Reserve. Here we rested and had morning tea.
There is an old wreck at the Reserve –
we continued on through a nice park, which was once a BP Oil Storage Facility.
The highlight of this walk is going around Balls Head. This is an intact bushland remnant and has fine views of the city.
Here you can get a great view of the architect designed Blues Point Tower –
And you can also see Goat Island –
We continued on the lower track and arrived at the Coal Loader.
Here, we noticed the small holes on the sandstone blocks. These were used to grapple the blocks when moving them into position by a crane.
The far side of the Coal Loader provided a view of HMAS Waterhen – the Navy base.
This pier looks like it is is need of some refurbishment –
And we looked at the Aboriginal engraving nearby.
We then headed to The Grumpy Baker at Waverton for coffee and a snack. From there it was a short walk to the station.
Many thanks to Brian for leading this interesting walk once again.
And a useful book for local history is Trevor McAllister’s “Exploring Hidden Sydney”.