Thursday 27 March 2008

We commence this year's walks programme with an inspection of the unique Cockatoo Island, today a "work in progress" and undergoing major restoration works by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust.

Initially a convict prison, it wasn't long before shipbuilding became the island's major activity, with increasing significance and importance during World War II and thereafter. Naval destroyers Voyager and Vampire were built here, along with HMAS Success and refits to the "T" and "O" class submarines as well as repairs to other ships. Sadly, the dockyard closed in 1992 and recently many of its remaining buildings have been added to the Heritage list. The attraction of this island and its history is compelling and a must to see to imagine its past.

Join us as we assemble at Epping Station on Thursday 27 March 2008 for the 10.24 am train, changing at Central for the Quay to join the ferry at 11.50 am. Lunch will be on arrival and return by the same means with the first ferry leaving at 2.55 pm.