Cockatoo Island is the largest of several islands that were originally heavily timbered sandstone knolls. Originally the Island rose to 18 metres (59 ft) above sea level and was 12.9 hectares (32 acres) but it has been extended to 17.9 hectares (44 acres) and is now cleared of most vegetation. Called Wa-rea-mah by the Indigenous Australians who traditionally inhabited the land prior to European settlement, the island may have been used as a fishing base, although physical evidence of Aboriginal heritage has not been found on the island.
There are opportunities for students to exercise their imagination, participate in outdoor activities and engage with the living history of the island. Plus, our waterfront campground features excellent amenities students and teachers, including hot showers and a sheltered kitchen with barbeques, boiling water, fridges, microwaves and seating.
See Gallery – https://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/en/see-and-do/stay/waterfront-campground/#mod-5320
and Video – https://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/media/1621/header-video-_-cockatoo-island-hero.mp4
ACTIVITIES
- Join a historic tour – Cockatoo Island offers regular program of tours for people of all ages and interests, including our all-ages Haunted History, Crooked Character and Convict Precinct tours as well as on-demand audio tours and our adults-only paranormal tour, Ghostyard.
- Stay a night (or longer) – Surrounded by landscaped gardens with sweeping views, our apartments and holiday houses marry heritage character and with modern amenities. Meanwhile, our campground represents an opportunity to sleep under the stars in the heart of the world’s best harbour.
- Enjoy a picnic or barbeque – Pack a meal and ascend to Biloela Lawn in the Historic Residence Precinct for unspoilt vistas. Alternatively, take advantage of the lower island’s barbeque facilities, shaded seating and sprawling green space.
- Pick up a kids activity book – Visiting with kids? Head to the Visitor Centre for a free activity book. Suitable for kids aged 12 and under, the book includes challenges such as Convict Clues and Ship Shape, which encourage interaction with the island’s rich history.
- Discover Shipyard Stories – Located in Biloela House on the upper plateau, Shipyard Stories is an exhibition of archival imagery celebrating the island’s storied maritime history.
- Shoot some hoops – Play a game of basketball at our harbour-side court, a short distance from the ferry wharf. Basketballs can be hired from the Visitor Centre for $5.
- Exercise your brain – What’s better than playing a game of chess in your living room? Playing a game on our giant, outdoor chess board, surrounded by Sydney Harbour! Head to the island’s eastern apron, it’s your move!
- Watch movies – Located in the historic Convict
Precinct, our Campground Cinema is an opportunity for campers to kick back in a
plush bean bag and enjoy a free selection of films. The cinema can comfortably
accommodate up to 30 people. Group cinematic experiences can be arranged
through the Accommodation Team ($5 per person – includes popcorn).
- Share campfire stories – As night falls, gravitate to the warmth of our campground firepit and share stories, both spooky and funny, as you enjoy flame-roasted marshmallows. Note: Marshmallow bags (including sticks) are available for $5 from the Visitor Centre.
- Play vintage lawn games – A true test of hand-eye coordination and depth perception, corn hole is a game where players take turns attempting to throw beanbags into a raised hole. We also offer highly addictive variations on the classic ring toss game (Finska, Quoits and Hoopla) and Frescobal – a paddle ball game popular in Brazil. All games are available from the Visitor Centre.
- Go kayaking – Make a grand entrance by kayak at
Slipway Number 2 where the historic ships were once built. Kayaks can be left
at this slipway, but please remember that items are left at your own risk so
take any valuables with you. Kayaks are not available for hire on Cockatoo
Island.
Food & Drinks
Societé Overboard – Just a short stroll from the ferry wharf, this
family-friendly venue offers breakfast and lunch plus a selection of hot and
cold drinks, including beer and wine. For more information, call (02) 9555
5586, 0434 372 260 or email societecatering@bigpond.com.
Marina Café & Bar – Head to Camber Wharf in the historic Docks Precinct to
arrive at this relaxed, family-friendly venue. The Marina Café & Bar serves
coffee, food (breakfast, lunch)and alcohol (wine, cider, craft beer) seven days
a week. Note: the food truck/kitchen menus are available Thursday to Sunday.
Last food/alcohol orders are 30 minutes prior to close time. For more
information, call 1300 228 326, email enquiries@cockatooisland.cafe or visit
the Marina Café & Bar’s website.
Source – https://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/