Heritage Tours of Cockatoo Island’s Powerhouse
In our latest Sydney Open Series event, the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust is opening the doors to Cockatoo Island’s Powerhouse.
Usually off limits to the public, the powerhouse is a heritage-listed facility that powered Cockatoo Island’s historic dockyard throughout the 20th century. This guided walking tour will explore the building’s Federation Romanesque style of architecture and technologies from yesteryear, including its rare collection of electrical, hydraulic power and pumping equipment. You’ll also hear from the Harbour Trust’s Heritage Architect Sam Talas about the heritage works underway to conserve this important landmark.
Members get more: Members enjoy presale access and a 20% discount on tickets.
Safety briefing
Cockatoo Island is a former industrial site with steep inclines, trip hazards, and unmarked and uneven surfaces. This Sydney Open Series tour will take visitors to part of the lower island and into the powerhouse building. While the lower island is generally accessible for people with wheelchairs and mobility scooters, the powerhouse is not accessible to people with wheelchairs or mobility aids. Visitors must adhere to the safety directions issued by Harbour Trust Guides, Rangers and Security.
Please note the following access requirements for entry to the powerhouse:
- Access to the powerhouse is through a small door where visitors must bend over and step over the threshold (approximately 30 cm in height).
- Visitors must be accompanied by a Harbour Trust Guide when inside the building.
Related
Sydney Open Series
Building on the Sydney Open program, this series offers talks, workshops, and tours throughout the year, with a focus on history, architecture, design innovation, sustainability, and heritage