Harbour Trust steam crane restoration and activation project Highly Commended

Despite not winning the award in its chosen category, the judges believed it deserved special recognition and recommended it be acknowledged as Highly Commended.

This celebrates the long-term conservation of 3 of Cockatoo Island’s heritage steam cranes, brought back to life thanks to the skill and dedication of our Heritage Restoration Volunteers – a fitting achievement during National Volunteer Week (19 to 25 May).

On the award win, Harbour Trust Executive Director Janet Carding said:

‘The Harbour Trust is honored to be Highly Commended in the Enduring Category for the 2025 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards for Cockatoo Island’s heritage steam cranes. We thank the National Trust for bringing attention to significant heritage places and practices. This recognition further inspires our work in protecting and conserving our places on Sydney Harbour. We celebrate our Heritage Restoration Volunteers for their exemplary expertise to restore and bring 3 heritage steam cranes back to life. The 3 steam cranes stand proudly at Cockatoo Island, and we welcome visitors to come and discover the island’s ship-building legacy and role in defending Australia.’

Want to see our iron giants in action? Join us for our regular steam crane demonstrations, held on the first Tuesday of each month. The next demonstration is scheduled for Tuesday 3 June. Learn more here.