Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbor is a great place full of surprises, history and entertainment. Located at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers, off the coast of Western Australia, it is a former imperial prison, a reformatory, and was an industrial school for girls. It is a rugged sandstone island spread over16 hectares, and is the largest of eight islands in Port Jackson.

One of Australia’s biggest shipyards during the twentieth century, it is a great historical place too. There hasn’t been any maritime industrial activity since 1972.

It is named because of the presence of Sulphur-crested cockatoos and as one views the old artifacts belonging to the island’s past, one can feel the lives and times of the convicts and the aborigines who lived there long back.

The island is dotted with historical buildings like residences, workshops, wharves, slipways and the prison buildings which are nominated for UNESCO’s Heritage sites. The island gives a breathtaking view of Sydney Harbor. Regular free ferry services from Circular Quay ensure that visitors can explore the intriguing places as they please. There is a campsite and a café at the island.

The entry to the island is free but the audio guide, which costs $5, is worth its money. It gives a comprehensive insight into the harsh conditions endured by those who ever lived on the island, and then there is the fascinating naval history. It is a very well preserved site and though the place is not marked properly, the map is something very useful. One should carry sunscreen and plenty of water and also wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes.

Cockatoo Island started allowing people in to view the place in 2007 and is under the management of Sydney Harbor Federation Trust. The trust organizes guided tours on the weekend when you can walk through the barracks, the docks and view the shops. For people who want to stay on the island, camping facilities are also available at Plate Yard . The island is disabled friendly though the surfaces are uneven at some places. There are volunteers at the station to help the tourists.

A team of rangers& island security controls the island. Beer and wine is available there but otherwise bringing alcohol is not allowed. Neither are BBQ. One can not take the pets there. Golf, swimming and fishing is prohibited there and visitors are allowed to spend night only in restricted camp sites. There is a complete list of inland Etiquette which one is supposed to follow while visiting.

The island has first world class waterfront camp site on a national heritage-listed island, ten min. from the Sydney Center and easily connected by ferries. There are also two historic houses with all the facilities for those who do not care for camping.

It is an experience of a lifetime to explore the hidden treasures from the history and watch the magnificent Harbor scenes while touring the Cockatoo Island.

A pride and major landmark of NSW Australia, this place is worth a visit.