Newington Armory stands as a remnant of Australia’s military and naval history. Established in 1897 as a gunpowder magazine, it later became the Royal Australian Navy Armament Depot, playing a crucial role in supplying explosives and ammunition to the armed forces.
Over the decades, the site saw extensive modifications, including land reclamation and the construction of wharves, workshops, and ammunition storehouses. It played a vital role in wartime efforts, housing both Australian and U.S. military stockpiles, with operations spanning both World Wars and the Cold War era.
By the late 20th century, shifting defense strategies and urban development pressures led to the depot’s closure, aligning with Sydney’s bid for the 2000 Olympic Games. The site was officially decommissioned in 1999, and today, it is preserved as part of the Sydney Olympic Parklands.
These photographs capture the historic infrastructure, from old munitions storehouses to the remnants of the small-gauge railway that once transported ordnance across the site. This collection preserves the echoes of a facility that once played a crucial role in Australia’s defense history.
Own a piece of history. Explore the collection below.
