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Image credit: 'Cockatoo Island from Balmain, near the coal mine' (watercolour, 1864) by Charlotte McNeilly, State Library of NSW (Call No. V1/Har/Coc I/1)

Harbour history

Harbour history is your one-stop shop for articles delving into the layered stories of our protected places on Sydney Harbour.

Discover where each of our beloved destinations fits into the Australian narrative and become acquainted with the historical and contemporary figures who are associated with each place. 

Historical places

Our historic destinations on Sydney harbour feature buildings, landmarks and other objects that will transport you to bygone eras. Delve into the history of our protected places and discover why they have enduring significance for First Nations peoples.

[Image: 'Cockatoo Island, Parramatta River' (illustration, 1842) by John Skinner Prout, National Library of Australia, Rex Nan Kivell Collection (NK4395/11).]

Historical people

Meet the historical people connected with our places on Sydney Harbour. Read informative and entertaining articles on notable and obscure historical figures. Written by our knowledgeable volunteers, you will find articles on Bungaree, Lachlan Macquarie, Captain Thunderbolt and more.

[Image: Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps During "Smoko" at Chowder Bay (1945). Australian War Memorial collection (089236.)]

Helpful links

Learn more about our extraordinary places on Sydney Harbour with these links, resources and experiences.