Macquarie Watchtower

Built in 1822 on the highest point of the headland at La Perouse, for the easy views of the entry to Botany Bay, Troops were stationed in the watchtower to keep watch for smugglers before abandoning it in 1826. 

From 1833 until 1903, the watchtower took on the role of a customs station. 

The tower then underwent restorations and construction of additional buildings to accomodate staff, and by 1864 a pitched roof and surrounding stone wall skillion was completed.

From 1868-1890 it was also used as the Botany Heads Provisional school, and reopened as the La Perouse Public School in 1892, before it relocated to Yarra Road in 1910.

Following a fire in October 1957, the Tower underwent restoration in 1961 where the castilated parapet was added to the top and the windows enclosed. 

This building is on the State Heritage Inventory.