Brisbane Day Trips Fort Lytton
Brisbane – Queensland - Australia
Half day trip to Fort Lytton
Should you visit Brisbane’s significant historic coastal fortification?
Defending Brisbane – the birthplace of Queensland’s military history
A Sunday is a great day to step back in time at the significant historic military Fort Lytton, part of Brisbane’s front-line defence against any enemy during the 19th century. We did just that.
Tucked away in grassy embankments, the small but noteworthy park holds a pentagonal fortress and the remains of a waterfilled moat that provided essential protection to Queensland and therefore Australia’s coastline from 1881 to 1945. It was essential in safeguarding shipping lanes and ports from the possibility of enemy raids.
Although Brisbane had less than 100 000 people at the time the fort was built, its annual trade was worth more than four million pounds. Can you imagine what it must have been like to protect a country and its assets in those times? It also played a significant role during WWI and WWII.
Although we wanted to make use of a guided tour, unfortunately there weren’t any available at the time we were there and we had not pre-booked.
There is a brochure with a self-guiding trail, which we used that explains all the various sites.
We, at this typical 19th century fortress found the bunkers, interpretation and display of important aspects of Queensland’s military and social history from 1879 to the 1950’s, interesting. Spending a couple of hours strolling around and looking at the museums we learnt a little about Fort Lytton and Brisbane’s military history.
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Museum at Fort Lytton
Although a small site, ambling through the various museums that house military memorabilia and Australian artillery in some of the historic buildings and sheds, we found far more history than anticipated. Even a bit of South African history was included at Fort Lytton. The Queensland Government was the first of the Australian Colonies to offer assistance and troops in the Boer War that took place in South Africa between 1899 and 1902.
The original fort, some of it still existing today, consisted of approximately a hectare of ground that held gun pits, tunnels, triangulation stations, various buildings and other structures. The main fortification is embedded in a defensive earth mound which was surrounded by a moat that was 10 meters wide and filled with water. Some of this is still visible today.
Unfortunately many of the fort’s historic buildings were destroyed such as the former Post and Telegraph Office.
For history buffs, this little site has a wealth of historical information. Do delve deeper.
If you put aside half a day to get the most out of your visit, and you pack your own picnic, you would also be able to relax in the grounds, have a bite to eat and enjoy some of the views of Brisbane.
The museum is cared for by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers.
Should you visit Fort Lytton? If you are interested in history and wars then it is a definite yes. We found the fort interesting and would like to return but I would advise to book a guided tour where you can find more information about the site and its historic past.
Read here for TripAdvisor’s reviews about Fort Lytton.
Some interesting recent history:
We came across these boots and wondered about them. Nothing was mentioned in the brochure, so I did some research.
Turns out the bronzed boots commemorate the life of Zach Robba, a 23 year old Queensland Park Ranger.
He was working for the parks on North West Island, 75 kilometres northeast of Gladstone. Whilst swimming after work with some of his colleagues, he was fatally attacked by a shark. Why place his boots at Fort Lytton? Presumably because it is a Queensland National Park.
In memory of Zach Robba
When can you visit Fort Lytton?
The fortress is only open to the public on Sundays and most public holidays.
There are also events such as lantern tours, enactments and guided tours for groups of 10 or more available by appointment only. Contact Fort Lytton National Park on (07) 33934647 for more information.
You do not need a guided tour to walk around the museum, although it is recommended if you would like to immerse yourself into its history. Booking is essential for guided tours. The grounds are free to wander at your leisure within the times that access is allowed.
Where is Fort Lytton?
The fortress is situated on the southern bank of the Brisbane River, close to the coastline in the suburb of Lytton just south of the Port of Brisbane.
Need to know information about Fort Lytton
1. If you want to spend a few hours at Fort Lytton, you will be able to buy some light refreshments and snacks from a canteen. Alternatively, pack a picnic or snacks and sit at the picnic spot on the banks of the river.
2. The grassy pathways are not easily negotiable for strollers and wheelchairs.
3. Check the Fort Lytton website for information about regular and occasional reenactments, gun firing as well as nighttime tours.
4. Subject to availability of volunteer guides, you can book free guided tours for Sundays. Donations are gladly accepted.
5. A self-guided tour is suitable if you want to stroll around the fort and discover its secrets for yourself. Make sure to pick up a brochure with the relevant information.
6. Fort Lytton is open on most Sundays except for Christmas, New Year and Good Friday. Admission is free from 10 am till 4 pm.
7. There is free parking available on site. The nearest train station is Wynnum North and there is no public transport to Fort Lytton National Park.
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About the Author
ALMA VAN AS | ROAMING FOX
Alma is a South African travel blogger and writer now residing in Australia. She hopes to inspire you with facts and fables about her adventures, road trips and international travel.
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