Eaglehawk Neck is a narrow stretch of land only 400 metres long and 30 metres wide joining the distinctive north and south land areas that form the peninsula. It was important in the decision to build the Port Arthur Convict Site because the very narrow neck of land gave very minimal opportunity for convicts to escape by land.  Walk around the historic site or allow your dog to have a swim at 24h off leash beach.

This isthmus was once guarded by a line of ferocious dogs to prevent convicts escaping across the Neck from the nearby penal colony. The slightest disturbance would set the dogs barking and alert the soldiers. (There were dogs on platforms in the water as well). The convict bushranger Martin Cash was one of the few to escape the dog line – twice, earning him considerable prestige amongst his peers. The area also included a guardhouse, a store, a jetty (the remains of which can still be seen) and military barracks for the soldiers living here.

The only remaining building to survive from the period of military occupation on the Neck is the Officers’ Quarters. Built in 1832, the building is the oldest timber military building still standing in Australia. Today it houses a museum that depicts life on the Tasman  Peninsula during the 1800’s. The museum is open 7 days a week and is free of charge.

Discovered by Theodore | @gizmo81 – thanks for the pawsome contribution!!