In 1963, the US leased an area of North West Cape, Western Australia, for the establishment of a VLF Communications Station, as part of its world wide nuclear submarine force communications network. The area's cloud-free atmosphere suited to VLF transmissions. The base was subsequently named the Harold Holt US Navy Communications Base, named after the former Prime Minister of Australia - who mysteriously drowned while he was in office. The town of Exmouth, which is quite remote, was originally constructed in 1964 as a support town for the base.
More ...

AMP Tower, Sydney, NSW

Part of the Centrepoint shopping complex, at 305 metres, AMP Tower (1981) is the tallest public building in the Southern Hemisphere, an honour it seems set to retain for some time if not forever. Its shaft, designed to withstand excessive winds and earthquakes, houses a 1,474 step staircase and three double decker lifts which give access to the nine level turret. The turret contains two restaurant levels, two observation levels, a 162,000 litre water tank which aids stability on windy days, and a 30 metre high spire which functions as a radio mast. Entry fee applies.
Location: Market Street, Sydney, NSW

Swan Bells, Perth, WA

The Swan Bells' distinctive design resulted from a major architectural competition for a bell tower as part of the City of Perth's Barrack Square redevelopment in the 1990s. Its historic ring of bells was gifted to the people of Western Australia as part of the national Bicentennial celebrations.
The Bell tower is one of the largest musical instruments on earth – custom built to house the 12 historically significant bells of Saint Martin in the Fields church, the parish church of Buckingham Palace in Trafalgar Square, London, which are recorded as being in existence from before the 14th century and recast in the 16th century by Queen Elizabeth I. The Bell Tower was designed by William Hames, Executive Chairman of Perth based architectural firm Hames Sharley (WA) Pty. Ltd. The 82.5 metre tower has three main viewing levels. The $5.5 million tower was officially opened in December 2000.
Location: Barrack Street Jetty, Riverside Drive, Perth, WA

Callington Mill, Oatlands, Tas

The mill at Oatlands in Tasmania has become a symbol of the iconic Georgian era town. Built in October, 1837 it is one of only four remaining in Australia and the third oldest. With the apex of its 4 blades reaching 25 metres above the ground, the mill ground local produce at the rate of half to one tonne of grain per hour. A steam driven mill with its on French burr millstones was begun in 1845 to ensure production in calm weather. Around 1900 the mill was stopped and the boiler remained unstoked as better methods of milling were introduced. the sails were removed and the roof and interior were gutted by fire. The mill has been restored and is now under the protection of the National Trust.
Location: Oatlands, Tas

The most significant landmark at Point Gellibrand, near Williamstown in suburban Melbourne, is the Timeball Tower that was constructed in 1849 as a lighthouse to guide ships past the nearby reef. The time ball, which had been located elsewhere at Point Gellibrand, was moved to the top of the lighthouse in 1861. Dropped at one o'clock each day, it allowed ships' chronometers, which were vital for navigation, to be corrected. This service ceased in 1926. In 1934 a 10-metre-high cylindrical brick tower was constructed to house a more powerful light and a navigation beacon. This extension and equipment were removed in 1987.
Location: Battery Road, Williamstown, Vic

Telstra Tower, Black Mountain, Canberra, ACT

Also known as Black Mountain Tower, Telstra Tower rises 195 metres above the summit of Black Mountain and provides 360 degree views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside. Situated in a nature reserve with many undisturbed animals, Telstra Tower provides Canberra's visitors with unique views of the city and the opportunity to dine in Canberra's only revolving restaurant, Alto (bookings essential; 02-6247 5518), as it plays a vital role in Australia's telecommunication network. The view at night is particularly spectacular. A hands-on exhibition within the tower tells the history of telecommunications in Australia. In 1989 the World Federation of Great Towers invited Telstra Tower to join such distinguished monuments as the Blackpool Tower in London and the Empire State Building in New York. Entry fees apply.
Location: Black Mountain, Action, ACT

Carillon, Canberra, ACT

This full functional bell tower on Lake Burley Griffin was a gift from the British government to the people of Australia to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the National Capital, Canberra. Queen Elizabeth II officially opened the National Carillon on 26th April 1970. The 50 metre tall National Carillon tower underwent refurbishment including renovations of interior function facilities and the addition of two extra bells in 2004. The carillon is in regular use, chiming every quarter hour and playing a short tune on the hour. It is played on a regular basis during the year by both local and visiting carillonists. It is often used to celebrate national days and is played in conjunction with other events such as Australia Day (26th January). All styles of music are represented, from compositions specially written for the Carillon to popular song arrangements and improvisation. The best place to listen to the carillon is suggested to be within 100 metres of the building, though the sound can usually be heard much further away in the Parliamentary Triangle, Kingston and Civic. Website
Location: Aspen Island, Lake Burley Griffin, Kings Avenue, Canberra