Cockatoo Island

Cockatoo Island is a small islet in Sydney that allows you to escape the hustle
and bustle of the city centre. The island has a rich history as it dates back to the
first settlers of Australia and was inhabited by the Eora who kept white
cockatoos, hence the islands name.

Cockatoo is the largest island in Sydney Harbour and is located at the junction
of the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers and accessing the island from Circular
Quay takes only 10 minutes by ferry.

The island is home to the headquarter of an old prison, an industrial school, a
reformatory and a jail. Up until the 90s, the sector was an important area of
commercial and industrial activity, and many of the buildings here have dated
architecture including the prison which is listed as a world heritage site.

The island is also a great place to stay instead of in the city as many
apartments here boast exceptional views of the bay. The island is open for the
public visits every day for free. During Christmas and New Year the island
becomes increasingly popular as it’s a great spot to watch the fireworks over
the by. The island also hosts a popular Film Festival which attracts visitors
worldwide.