IATG Famil to Q Station in Manly
IATG has secured a famil at the Q station in Manly for Friday, 25 September.
Details:
Tour start times of 10.00 am or 11.15 am (you can choose either in the booking options)
Maximum 19 per tour so book quickly
Cost $15 per person
Sprawled across the hillside on the very edge of Sydney Harbour, the historic Quarantine Station is not only nested in a beautiful environment of the National Park but its 30 ha site has an incredible history. The transformation from the harsh reality of a quarantine station, the oldest and longest operating one in Australia, to the accommodation and conference centre it is today is remarkable. But what will stay with you is the rich history, the museum full of information about the migrants who stayed here, the diseases that plagued the travelers on the boats, and the conditions of life in quarantine. Many sandstone engravings remain and help connect with the stories of the people who spent time here between 1837 and 1984.
Additional details:
As you will see on the conditions, a mask is compulsory for each person whilst touring, with social distance in place. Each person will have to register prior to starting the tour, bring your mobile phones to make it easier. Wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen, bring a drink bottle.
The cafe will be open at the visitor's centre for drinks and light lunch options. The tour duration is one hour with a guide and will take you through the hospital, heritage buildings and discover the stories of migrants who passed through the doors of the Quarantine Station in its 150 years of operation.
The shuttle bus can only accommodate 4 passengers at the time, thus extending waiting times. It is therefore recommended guests arrive at 9.30 for the first tour to have ample time to walk down to the visitor's centre ( 15 min from the reception/parking area). The bus should be used in priority by less mobile members.
Visitors are free to walk around the site at their leisure after the tour.
Once you come that far from the city (!), make sure you visit the two other significant sites here:
- North Fort is just a few minutes away from the Q Station, there are many walking tracks with beautiful harbour and city views, among amazing natural beauty, and flora in bloom. North Fort was central to defending Sydney from attack during WWII and many fortifications with concrete gun emplacements and tunnels are still visible.The Memorial Walk honours those who have served and supported the defence of Australia in peace and in war. Near the Vista cafe, you can walk through the Third Quarantine Cemetery and see where 240 people were buried between 1881 and 1925, victims of dreadful diseases.
- North Head offers stunning harbour and ocean vistas. The 15 minute Fairfax loop walk is a must! North Head held special significance for the local Aboriginal people and was used for ceremonies and medicinal practices.