This book provides a coherent and accurate account of the complex history of the fixed defences of Sydney Harbour over a period of 175 years.

It draws together the various strands of military, economic, social and political influences which determined the defence thinking of different eras from 1788 to 1960.

This book offers a fascinating account of the dramas behind the building of the defences and how, where and when they were built.

The author has, where possible, used primary research sources to avoid many of the myths and mistakes which, regrettably, permeate many earlier works.

Illustrations of many of the guns mounted in the defence of Sydney Harbour have not survived. The authour has, therefore, with the limited data still available, prepared a series of reconstructions of a number of these.

The remains of many fortifications still exist and this book will enable the reader to visit the sites with a better understanding of their role in the history of the defence of Sydney Harbour.