School Holiday Fun At Cockatoo Island: Convicts, Cranes, Camping and More!

These school holidays, escape to the heart of Sydney Harbour for a fun-filled day at Cockatoo Island! Between Saturday 1 July and Sunday 16 July, there will be a range of exciting activities for all ages that vividly bring the island’s history to life.

These include the island’s annual Crane Day (5 July), which is a rare chance for families to see the island’s mighty ‘Iron Giants’ in action, as well as Convict Sounds (10 July) – available for one day only, this popular sensory experience will transport kids and kids at heart to the island’s turbulent convict era (1839-69).

Meet The Island’s ‘Iron Giants’

Travel to the era when steam power ruled – and meet one of Cockatoo Island’s ‘Iron Giants’ – with Crane Day (5 July)!

Between 10:30 am and 2:30 pm, visitors to the island will be able to see the No. 2 Travelling Steam Crane in action for FREE. This metal behemoth, like the nearby Mort’s Dock Steam Crane, has been restored to its former steam-powered glory by a skilled team of volunteers.

Steam crane demonstrations are scheduled to run five times during the day (10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm) and typically last 10 to 15 mins each. Plus, knowledgeable guides will be on hand to share information about the other historic cranes located across the upper and lower island.

Where:  Docks Precinct, Cockatoo Island
When:   Wednesday 5 July 2023
Cost:     FREE

Channel Your Inner Convict

Convict Sounds (10 July) is a unique way for families to learn about Cockatoo Island’s turbulent convict era (1839-69). Here’s the fun twist… Parents and children alike will get to participate in the creation of a historic soundscape!

As you explore convict-era buildings, including the Mess Hall and Convict Quarters, a knowledgeable guide will share historical anecdotes and prompt you and your kids to get playful and recreate sounds from the island’s former gaol.  The hour-long experience will culminate with an orchestra of noises in the Turbine Shop, meaning you will also get to time travel to the island’s golden dockyard era. Think whispered conversations, catchy convict ballads, the percussive clank of machinery and hand tools…even animal noises!  

Where:   Visitor Centre, Cockatoo Island (meeting point)
When:    Monday 10 July | 10:30 am OR 1:30 pm
Cost:      $26 Adult | $16 Child (12 and under)

Learn more and book tickets to Convict Sounds.

Embark On An All-Ages Tour

In addition to Convict Sounds, four guided tours are available across Saturday and Sunday, meaning weekend warriors can enjoy a crash course in Cockatoo Island’s history. There are multiple tours for families to choose from, including a night tour and a tour for visitors with low mobility. 

Where:  Visitor Centre, Cockatoo Island (meeting point)
When:   Weekends
Cost:     $25 Adult | $16 Child (12 and under)

Learn more and book tickets at Cockatoo Island.

Camp In A Spectacular Setting

Cockatoo Island is such a rich source of adventure that it can be difficult to experience everything in a single day… but don’t worry! The island’s waterfront campground is a cost-effective way for families to extend their visit! 

Bordered by historic landmarks and within walking distance of two harbourside cafes, the campground is an ideal home base for families seeking to explore every nook and cranny on the island. 

The ‘BYO tent’ option is ideal for families on a budget. For a hassle-free stay, choose the basic Camping Package – it includes a pre-erected tent for two adults and two small children. Plus: Campers have access to the fire pit, showers and a sheltered kitchen. 

Where:  Northern Apron, Cockatoo Island
When:   All year
Cost:     From $50 per night

Special Offer: Book 2 or more nights in Cockatoo Island’s campground and receive 10% off your stay! To take advantage of this deal, select the 'Stay Longer and Save' rate when making an online booking. The offer also enables you to redeem 2 Audio Tour tickets (including headsets and maps) for the price of one.

Take Advantage Of The Island’s Free Activities

Once you’ve enjoyed the Crane Day festivities, Convict Sounds or one of Cockatoo Island’s family-friendly guided tours, chances are your family will be eager to learn more about the historic destination. Here are some free activities that will help you and your kids burn off some steam and extend your understanding of the largest island on Sydney Harbour. 

• Talking Object Tour: While exploring Cockatoo Island, look out for the turquoise "Hello" signs inviting you to engage in a lively and informative text message conversation with some of our most iconic objects and landmarks. Scan the QR code on the sign or text the advertised phone number to start a conversation.   
• Kids Activity Book: Let your little explorers tap into their creativity with a free activity book, available from the Visitor Centre (while stock lasts). It includes challenges that encourage outdoor exercise and learning.
• Giant Chess: What’s better than playing a game of chess in your living room? Playing a game on our giant, outdoor chess board, surrounded by Sydney Harbour! Head to the island’s Eastern Apron, it’s your move!

Learn more and plan your trip to Cockatoo Island.

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