Fort Scratchley
Fort Scratchley is one of Newcastle’s most significant historic sites. Perched on a hill overlooking the coastline, it has played an important role in Australia’s history for more than 200 years.
The site began as Australia’s first European coal mine before becoming a military fort in 1880, built to defend the coast against a feared Russian invasion. In 1942, Fort Scratchley made national history when its guns returned fire on a Japanese submarine during the bombardment of Newcastle.
Today, Fort Scratchley is a popular visitor attraction owned by the City of Newcastle and managed by volunteers from the Fort Scratchley Historical Society.
The Fort also includes a Function Centre offering a unique setting for events, with panoramic coastal views and an historic backdrop.
Visit Fort Scratchley
Entry to Fort Scratchley is free.
Visit the Fort Scratchley Historical Society website to view opening hours.
Management of the site
Fort Scratchley was originally owned by the Australian Government as a defence establishment. When defence use ended, the City of Newcastle became the site manager.
In January 2004, the Australian Government and the City of Newcastle agreed to restore the site before transferring ownership to Council. The Fort closed to the public in April 2004 during restoration works.
Restoration was completed in 2008, and ownership transferred to Council on 30 June 2008.
The Fort Scratchley Historic Site Plan of Management guides how the site is conserved and used. It aims to protect cultural heritage values while supporting community access and park use.
Download the Fort Scratchley Historic Site Plan of Management (939 kB, PDF).
