Sub Base Stories
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Sub Base Stories Tour
Sub Base Platypus in North Sydney hasn’t always been a community recreation and work hub. Previously, the historic waterfront site hosted a gas works, torpedo factory and submarine base.
From the late 1900s until the end of the 20th century, the site met the energy needs of Sydney’s North Shore (1877-1937) and contributed to the defence of Australia (1942-1999). Eager to journey through this layered history? book tickets to our all-ages Sub Base Stories Tour!
Running select Saturdays each month, this 60-minute tour is an opportunity to explore a historic destination that was off-limits to the public for 140+ years! Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the lower and upper levels of Sub Base Platypus, including the Torpedo Factory Precinct.
Unveiled in September 2023, this contemporary precinct boasts a decommissioned Mark VIII torpedo, amongst other historical artefacts, as well a sweeping view of neutral Bay and an original,three-piece artwork that celebrates Country.
To coincide with the Sydney Fringe Festival, the Harbour Trust will run additional Sub Base Stories tours on Sunday 22 September. Tour Sub Base Platypus and stay for the Ghost Between Streams! Visit the Sydney Fringe Festival to book tickets for the Ghost Between Streams performance.
To discover all the guided tours offered by the Harbour Trust, visit harbourtrust.gov.au/en/whats-on/guided-tours/
Quick overview
- Cost: Introductory rate of $21 per adult, $16 per child and $16 per concession card holder. Companion Cards are accepted.
- Day and Time: 11:00am AND 1:00pm, Select Saturdays
- Meeting point: The tour starting location is on Level 2 near the Blue Torpedo (on High Street side), Sub Base Platypus (Torpedo Factory Precinct), 120 High Street, North Sydney, NSW 2060.
- To ensure the safety of participants and Harbour Trust staff, at the discretion of the Harbour Trust, any participant(s) who appears intoxicated, disruptive or displays consistently unsafe behaviour, will not be permitted to take part in the tour, and / or may be asked to leave the tour at any time. Refunds will not be provided.
- Weather conditions: Tours will proceed regardless of weather conditions except in the event of dangerous weather. Participants will be notified via email if the tour is cancelled, and under these circumstances, a full refund will be issued.
- Cancellation / Rescheduling: The Harbour Trust reserves the right to cancel, reschedule or alter tour dates and routes at its discretion. In instances where tours are cancelled or rescheduled, the Harbour Trust will endeavour to contact all pre-booked ticket holders, within a reasonable amount of time prior to the scheduled tour date and time. If the tour is cancelled by the Harbour Trust at its discretion, the Customer may contact the Harbour Trust and reschedule or seek a refund.
- If driving to Sub Base Platypus, please note that parking fees are NOT included in the ticket price. Parking on site is free for the first hour and $5 per hour after that for a maximum of 3 hours.
- First Nations peoples: Our First Nations community are advised that this tour contains stories and images (and may contain images and/or visuals) of deceased persons.
- Site conditions: This tour is suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and prams. Access to Level 3 is via High Street or the lift on Platypus Lane. Light walking is required.
- Safety: All visitors must comply with the safety directives issued by guides, rangers and security staff.
- Age restriction: This tour is suitable for people of all ages. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Suitable walking shoes and wet weather clothing (if needed).
- For information about getting here, including by public transport, see: Visit Sub Base Platypus.
North Sydney, NSW 2060