The isthmus of land only a few hundred metres wide at Eaglehawk Neck is the reason Port Arthur was chosen as the site for a prison – the tiny strip of land was easily patrolled, and in those times few were able to swim and make a break for it that way.

A line of dogs, tethered at short intervals, roused the soldiers if anyone tried to get by.

The Officers Quarters has been restored as a museum interpreting the history and life at Eaglehawk Neck. The 1832 quarters is reputed to be the oldest wooden military building remaining in Australia.