Up to the Tower

The Bloke promised we'd do some more sections of the Great South West Walk. Along a stretch of 250km, there's lots to choose from. We'd gone as far eastwards as the Portland Lighthouse already and spotted another landmark beyond - a water tower. During the week we'd learned that it was possible to climb it and we've learned one more thing - it's no longer a water tower and now houses the Portland World War II Museum.

 The tower was built in 1932 and is 25m high.

 You can get there along the beach, along the clifftops and by Tram

Excellent....it's open right now!

A beautiful hedge version of an ADF crest at the entrance

A staircase has been constructed internally and there are a large number of displays on various landings. These included uniforms from all service arms including the Women's Land Army and Nurses. There were story boards, photos, badges, copies of letters from POW's, telegrams from the Ministry of Defence and all kinds of memorabilia.

 

Looking down

Suspended model plane with an intricate backdrop skillfully painted on the internal wall of the water tower.

Other scenes on the tower walls depicting naval and aerial engagements. 

There has been such a lot of effort put in by volunteers to create this unique memorial to Australian wartime efforts and trials!

Since the Bloke had done the 'down' part of the day's activities when he dived on the boat, he was excused from the 'up' part. Ascending the stairs was beyond his comfort zone and I was left to explore beyond the first landing alone. Well, someone had to do it!

The Bloke was wondering if I'd make it to the top...

....and was on the lookout for me.

This isn't the first clifftop bowls club we've seen.

Do the players even notice their glorious surroundings?

 

Stunning views on another flawless day.