Does a hike up a mountain with amazing scenery, wildlife, views from the top and WW2 history interest you?
Well the Fort walk on Magnetic Island is a must then!
This Fortification was built in 1943 during World War 2, when Japan advanced into the Pacific.
After the bombing of the US naval base at Pearl Harbour prompted America and Australia to declare war on Japan.
After a review of our coastal defences identified Townsville as a strategic port and military base needing additional defences and manpower.
The US brought over troops, guns and searchlights to help with security of the port
In 1942 the threat from Japan become a reality for Townsville as three separate moonlight air attacks by long range "Emily" flying boats coming from Papua New Guinea. They dropped 21 bombs but fortunately none of them hit their targets.
So Australia and the US built this Fort with the quickness. To keep the Japanese at bay.
On this hike you will see the heritage listed remains of the old Fort that was anchored into the granite Rocks.
This circuit track is 4km and takes about 2 hours including time to take in the scenery.
It is best to do this hike in the morning or afternoon as it's very hot in the middle of the day.
Make sure you bring some water with you. And some bug spray as the march flies are relentless!
The trail is sealed and not that hard of a walk. Its gradually up hill until you hit some stairs.
Take your time as there is different viewing points up the hill. And make sure you keep your eyes peeled for koalas having a nap in the trees above.
The first viewing point is a look out over Arthur Bay. Man this bay is amazing! It has a reef right next to the rocks that you can swim out to. I will do another blog about Arthur Bay so stay tuned for that.
As you make your way up the hill you will pass the old mess for the Fort.
Then the powder keg where they would store all the ammunition.
Further up you will find a gun emplacement.
This is where a French 155 millimetres M3 guns on Panama carriage mounts sat. These things would definitely cause some damage!
Also at this point I noticed a koala chilling in the tree just watching me haha they are so cool.
A bit further up the hill you will find another gun emplacement.
Then as you climb the stairs to the top.
You finally reach one of the two Forts.
The first is the look out.
The second is the command post.
These both have amazing 360 views!
This Fort operated from 1943 to 1945 as the Pacific war ended.
Lukily not a single shot was fired in anger from this Fort.
If you ever get the chance to visit Magnetic island I highly recommend this walk!
This walk was definitely my favourite from magnetic Island. And we saw 7 koala's on this hike 😊🐨🐨🐨🐨🐨🐨🐨
Straya AF 🤙🇦🇺
Happy travels.
