Cockatoo Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the largest island in Sydney Harbour. It’s located at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers about 10 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay. Going to this Island is a tour of rich history of Sydney. Between 1839 and 1869, Cockatoo Island operated as a convict penal establishment, primarily as a place of secondary punishment for convicts who had re-offended in the colonies. It was also the site of one of Australia’s biggest shipyards, operating between 1857 and 1991. In July 2010, UNESCO proclaimed Cockatoo Island as a World Heritage Site, and has been managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust since 2001.
VIDEO CLIP: Cockatoo Island
What to Do in Cockatoo Island
1. Drop by the Visitor’s Centre
The Visitor Centre is located just near the Parramatta Wharf as you disembark the ferry. Open daily from 10:00am – 4:00pm. Ask the Cockatoo Island volunteers what you can do in the island including tours.
2. Self Guide Journeys
The Highlights Journey provides a snapshot of the key attractions on the island. It’s a great choice for the family. Just for brochures at Visitor’s Center.
3. Guided Tours
For a fee, Cockatoo Island offers two types of guided tours. Please note of the minimum number of people for the tour. They have On-demand Tour and Seniors Tour. Please visit http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/visit/tours/guided-tours to book a tour.
4. Stay Overnight
Cockatoo Island offers one of the world’s great camping experiences!
Cockatoo Island is the only harbour island where you can stay overnight! Cockatoo Island boasts a unique offering of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Visit this page http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/stay/camping-sites for booking and more info.