Sydney has an association with submarines that started in 1914 with the arrival of the first two Royal Australian Navy submarines – AE1 and AE2.
This association with torpedoes, submarines and submariners has continued ever since.
As Sydney Harbour was the only place in Australia to have ships attacked by submarines there is a story to tell.
This tour of Sub Base Platypus led by knowledgeable Naval Historical Society Guides describes:
- the site history and story of sub base HMAS Platypus,
- different classes of submarines operated by the RAN over a century,
- the Torpedo Factory which operated on the Platypus site,
- 1942 Japanese midget submarine attack and
- the submarine service and life of a submariner.
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Tour Information
Frequency: These tours are conducted for groups on an ‘as required’ basis on dates agreed between group organiser and the Society.
Location: Sub Base Platypus is located at 120 High Street, North Sydney NSW 2060.
Time: Tours generally commence at 10.30am and conclude at 12.30 pm inside Sub Base Platypus. However, changes can be accommodated to suit a groups needs.
Group Size: from 15 to 25 maximum
Meeting Point: The tour starting location is the submariner’s memorial on the northern end of the Sub Base Platypus wharf.
Mobility: Sub Base Platypus is on several levels. However, there are stairs and lifts, the tour will be on the flat to gently rising surfaces.
Footwear: Sensible footwear is a must.
Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and bottled water: The tour is outdoors. Come prepared, even if the weather is overcast.
Planning your trip: You can access Sub Base Platypus by ferry to North Sydney Wharf or by bus. Please visit transportnsw.info for timetables. There is ample public parking on the site inside the old Torpedo Factory entranced from High Street and clearly marked.
Booking and Payment
As six weeks notice is required to meet Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and Society administrative requirements, group organizers are invited to plan ahead and contact the Society at the earliest opportunity to arrange a tour. Detailed guidance on bookings and the payment process is available via this link.
Cancellation Policy: Although it is possible for the tour to proceed rain, hail or shine if cancellation or postponement is necessary, a cancellation fee of $125 will apply. This is necessary to cover fees the Society has paid to the site operator, Sydney Harbour Federation Trust.
Tour Co-ordinator Contact
Phone: (02) 9537 0038 (Tuesday and Thursday only 0900 to 1500)
E-mail: tours@navyhistory.au