When was the last time you explored Sydney’s magnificent harbour? Uncover historical sites, entertainment and spectacular family picnic spots
COCKATOO ISLAND SUNSET SESSIONS | Sydney Harbour
Saturday afternoon live music Sunset Sessions are back on Cockatoo Island until April. Visitors can sit back and chill out with music while the sun sets over the harbour.
Grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cool drink, including alcohol, from the island cafe. Grazing boxes are also available. Bring a picnic rug and a blanket, as it can get cool on the island. Visitors are not permitted to bring their own alcohol.
Travelling by ferry is the best option. The F3 and F8 ferries will get you from Circular Quay and Barangaroo to Cockatoo Island.
MIDDLE HEAD / GUBBUH GUBBUH | Mosman Peninsula
Middle Head to the right of Balmoral is part of Headland Park and once housed army barracks to protect Sydney.
The In Defence of Sydney walk is a 60-minute interactive tour with five stops, currently being trialled. Visitors can use their mobile phones to scan QR codes along the way for an insight into the area’s military history.
You can also scan QR codes at the red ‘Hello’ signs dotted around Middle Head (and nearby Georges Heights and Chowder Bay) and speak directly to iconic objects about their role in Australia’s First Nations, convict, defence and colonial history.
Balmoral is a short walk for a dip afterwards.
SUB BASE PLATYPUS | North Sydney
Once a torpedo factory, submarine base and gas works, there’s lots to explore in the revitalised Sub Base Platypus precinct.
The Torpedo Factory Precinct has a phenomenal view of Neutral Bay and the storytelling space will fill you in on the history.
You can chat with talking objects around the precinct by scanning a QR code on red ‘Hello’ signs, or visitors can take a 60-minute Sub Base Stories Tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Oberon Park has shaded barbeque facilities and seating so you can cook up a few sausages while the kids will enjoy the maritime-themed playground.
For more information on these sites: harbourtrust.gov.au
BERRY ISLAND RESERVE | Wollstonecraft
Berry Island was once separated from the mainland by tidal mudflats. But in the early 19th century, Edward Wollstonecraft built a stone causeway to connect the island to the Wollstonecraft shoreline and Berry Island Reserve.
It was originally a significant fishing, hunting and camping site for the Cammeraygal people and visitors can learn about their connection to the land by taking a walking tour.
The Gadyan Track winds around the island in preserved bushland with native plants, trees and local wildlife.
Berry Island is a green oasis in the middle of the city and an ideal place for a day out. Visitors can cook lunch on the barbeques or enjoy a picnic and the kids can have fun in the gorgeous playground. Visit northsydney.nsw.gov.au
BRADFIELD PARK HERITAGE WALK | Milsons Point
Take a self-guided walk through the heritage-listed Bradfield Park North to learn how the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge affected the local community.
About 3,000 people were affected by the loss of 500 homes and shops, which were demolished to make way for the bridge.
Enjoy the green space and harbour views from the park, which is also a good spot for a picnic and has a great playground.