Explosives Magazine – Bantry Bay, Sydney.

DIFFICULTY RATING: EASY/MODERATE (Some steep areas) approx 1km to walk

Description:

The Explosives Magazine is located in Bantry Bay in Garigal National Park. It occupies the western shore of the bay and is made up of a number of buildings, tramlines and wharves. During WWII it was used to house explosives and closed down in 1974. There is no public access to the buildings but the Timber Getters Track takes you down to the eastern shore opposite the buildings. Here you will find a public wharf, toilets, a few BBQ areas and a grassy slope.

Just of the many buildings in Bantry Bay

Parking/Getting there:

You can park at Seaforth Oval which is just off the Wakehurst Parkway in Seaforth.  The track entry can be found at the northern end of the carpark where the interpretation stand and shelter is.  You will note on the map here that the track actually heads on up into Roseville – well worth the effort if you have the time.  Please note that if you decide to go on the weekend during sporting events this carpark maybe full.  There are plenty of places to park in the adjacent streets if this is the case.

Track information and shelter. *Photo courtesy of Wildwalks

Map:

Walking track to Bantry Bay Approx 1km

Time of Day:

The buildings are on the western shore of Bantry Bay in the bottom of the valley so light from sunrise and sunset is not that relevant (although you would benefit from the soft light found at either end of the day) this location is good for overcast days where harsh light is reduced or if you’d rather a bright postcard type of photograph a sunny day will suit you fine.  

Public wharf eastern shore of Bantry Bay.

Tides:

Not relevant really – you can venture down onto the shore but it does not offer a lot – there are some old rusting cables, cogs and trolleys but not much of a rock platform.  As with all tidal zones – watch for slippery rocks and oysters.

Special considerations:

There are no garbage bins here so take all rubbish with you.  The track is steep in parts so allow yourself plenty of time walk back out particularly in the dark.  Bushfires are a concern in summer so check out the fire danger before you enter the park.  Be responsible if having a BBQ and in no circumstance – light a fire when restrictions are in place.

Take water and food as required – from memory there is no fresh water at the bottom.  Take fly and mozzie repellent as a precaution, there are not only buzzing annoyances but ticks as well. Take a torch if setting out or returning in the dark.

Suggested equipment:

A pano head might be useful here as the buildings on the opposite shore are quite spread out.  You may also find a zoom lens good for some close up shots.  Some ND filters might also be handy for long exposures to smooth out the water.  Just remember what you carry in you also have to carry out up the hill!