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Australian Heritage Festival: '200 tons per hour': a guided tour of the Balls Head Coal Loader

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Event description

Join historian Dr Ian Hoskins and explore one of the most significant industrial heritage sites on Sydney Harbour. Walk through the tunnels of the Balls Head coal loader and experience the newly launched app which brings the working of the mechanised coal loader to life. 

The Balls Head Coal Loader was the most advanced facility of its kind in Australia when it began operating at the end of 1919. Contemporary with the famous finger wharves of Walsh Bay and the redevelopment of White Bay, the Coal Loader was part of the modernisation of Port Jackson. Historian Dr Ian Hoskins will lead you around the Coal Loader site and put the place in the context of the history of Sydney Harbour. You will walk across the coal platform, along the waterfront and through the tunnels. Visitors will also be introduced to the new app which brings the workings of the coal loader to life. Proximity to the Coal Loader cafe means you can enjoy coffee and cake beforehand or lunch afterwards. Alternatively, you can enjoy a picnic before or after at Balls Head Reserve.

Booking essential – limited to 15 places for each group only! We cannot take drop-ins on the day and all participants must be registered with their own name and contact details.

Cost: $0 to take part however ONLY book if you can make it.

COVID-19 Advice: Please do not attend if you are suffering any COVID symptoms or have been asked to isolate. Please keep 1.5m distance from other guests and the tour guide. The Coal Loader is a registered COVID-safe venue.

What to bring: BYO keep cup and reusable water bottle etc. Wear close-toed shoes and weather protection as needed.


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Refunds are available up to 1 day prior to the event