Hill 60 Port Kembla: WWII Tunnels and Illawarra History
Hill 60: The Underground Fortress of Port Kembla
High above the chimneys of the Port Kembla Steelworks lies Hill 60, a site that has served as a lookout for the Dharawal people for millennia. During World War II, however, this peaceful vantage point was transformed into a bristling fortress. For more NSW coastal fortifications, explore Fort Scratchley Newcastle or discover Georges Heights Battery.
Because of the strategic importance of the steel industry, the government carved a massive network of bunkers, engine rooms, and observation posts deep into the sandstone. Today, while the big guns are gone, the "bones" of the fortress remain, offering one of the most atmospheric urban exploration experiences in the Illawarra.
Quick Stats
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Access: Free (Public Park).
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Location: Military Road, Port Kembla.
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Difficulty: Easy (Paved paths to the lookouts) to Moderate (Exploring the bunkers).
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Best For: Military history, 360-degree views, and whale watching.
What to Explore at Hill 60
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The Gun Emplacements: You can walk into the massive circular concrete pits that once housed 6-inch breech-loading guns.
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The "Secret" Tunnels: Look for the steel-grated entrances and concrete stairs leading underground. While some sections are locked for safety, you can still see the scale of the complex that once housed dozens of soldiers.
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The Observation Post: The highest point of the hill offers a "pillbox" view that was designed to spot enemy submarines. Today, it's the best seat in the house for watching the sunset.
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The Aboriginal Massacre Site Memorial: It is important to acknowledge that Hill 60 (Illowra) is a site of deep significance and somber history for the Dharawal people. Take a moment to read the interpretive signage near the summit.
How to Get There
Hill 60 is located at the very end of Military Road in Port Kembla.
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By Car: Drive through the industrial heart of Port Kembla. As you ascend the hill, the view opens up dramatically. There is a large car park at the summit.
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The Coastal Walk: If you are staying in Wollongong, it's a short 15-minute drive south. You can combine this with a visit to MM Beach or Fishermans Beach directly below.
Photography Tips: Industry meets Nature
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The Five Islands: From the bunkers, you have a perfect view of the Five Islands Nature Reserve. Use the concrete arches of the bunkers to "frame" the islands for a unique perspective.
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The Industrial Contrast: Face North-West to capture the glowing lights and steam of the BlueScope Steelworks at dusk. The contrast between the rugged bunkers and the massive factory is a photographer's dream.
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Astro-Photography: Because Hill 60 juts out into the ocean, it has surprisingly dark skies to the East, making it a popular spot for capturing the Milky Way over the Pacific.
Expert Tips for Your Visit
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Wind Warning: Hill 60 is incredibly exposed. Even on a warm day, the "Southerly Buster" can make it freezing. Always bring a windbreaker!
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Respect the Residents: The hill is home to a significant population of hang gliders and paragliders who launch from the slopes. Give them space to take off and land safely.
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Explore Below: After the bunkers, walk down to Fishermans Beach. It's a tiny, protected cove that feels worlds away from the industrial giants nearby. Discover more NSW hidden gems in our complete guide.
