Manly’s much-loved heritage kangaroo statue has its head back and, for the first time in more than 70 years, its ears too. The statue was damaged in February, when its head was removed. Repairs began in April and were completed in June 2026 by Sydney stone artist Daniel de Chellis from De Chellis Artistry.
The sandstone kangaroo, located on Kangaroo Street, was erected in 1856/57 and was commissioned by Henry Gilbert Smith. Standing about 15 feet, or just over 4.5 metres high, the carving has been attributed to either Charles ‘Percy’ Pickering or Thomas Youl.
The restoration involved months of research to source the best sandstone match. A special ageing technique was then used so the new stone would blend with the original weathered sandstone.
The repairs were designed to be robust and minimise the chance of further damage. However, due to the statue’s position on a rock shelf, it is difficult to protect it with fencing or other barriers.
Over the years, several stories have emerged about why the kangaroo was installed in this location, including to attract people up, to show them the beautiful view, and as a landmark to steer by when returning from fishing.
Henry Gilbert Smith’s wife used to sit and admire the view from that spot, and that the kangaroo was erected in her memory.
That the tail-less ‘roo marks the spot where the last kangaroo in the district was shot.