Written by passionate volunteer researchers, our library of articles (below) include comprehensive biographies and entertaining yarns. Some are informed by folk stories, tall tales and hearsay. Others draw on archival newspapers and reliable, first-hand accounts.
In 1871, the former convict penal establishment at Cockatoo Island transformed into an industrial school for girls and a reformatory for young women who had broken the law. Sadly, the reformatory was cruelly mismanaged. Volunteer researcher Michele Harper shares the story of Captain Harris, an American ship master who literally fought for the women of the reformatory.
Bungaree (aka King Bungaree, Chief of the Broken Bay Tribe) is a symbol of significant collaboration between Aboriginals and Europeans. He was also the first known Australian to circumnavigate the continent and the first person described, in print, as Australian. Michele Harper canvasses the life of the celebrated Aboriginal pioneer, diplomat and leader, including his connection to Georges Heights in Mosman.
Cockatoo Island has a remarkable history as a shipbuilding and ship repair facility, contributing significantly to the nation’s maritime affairs between 1857 and 1991. Michele Harper, a volunteer researcher for the Harbour Trust, profiles an esteemed figure from this era – Jack Payne, one-time general manager of Cockatoo Island Naval Dockyard (1921 until 1932).
Harbour Trust sites, including North Head Sanctuary in Manly, occupy a significant place in Australia’s defence narrative. Michele Harper, a volunteer researcher for the Harbour Trust, shares the story of Brigadier Reginal Lee Rex Rabett, CMG – a gunner of renown who contributed to the military heritage of North Head.
Between 1871 and 1911, Cockatoo Island was used to provide boarding and education for wayward or homeless boys and girls. Although many children endured poor treatment, talented swimmer Barney Kieran was one of those who thrived, writes Harbour Trust volunteer Jane W.
Professional boxer. Competitive walker. Convicted forger. Businessman. Hero. Model prisoner. As Michele Harper reveals, John Perry – one of Cockatoo Island’s convicts – was a man with many talents and identities.
Do you believe in ghosts? Ross D, who is a tour guide, recounts a few recent 'encounters' with Minnie, the daughter of Gother Kerr Mann, Cockatoo Island’s superintendent from 1858 to 1870.
Macquarie Lightstation in Vaucluse is home to Australia’s first lighthouse, built over 200 years ago. Michele Harper, a volunteer researcher for the Harbour Trust, reflects on the storied life of Francis Greenway, the convict architect who designed Macquarie Lighthouse.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and Owners of the lands, waters and sky of Sydney Harbour, including the extraordinary places we manage and protect. Today, the homelands of the Borogegal, Birrabirragal, Cammeraygal, Gadigal, Gayamagal, Wallumedegal and Wangal peoples host destinations under our stewardship. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging.
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