Does the name Gunnamatta Bay ring a bell? It should. This small bay in southern Sydney offers a unique blend of history, nature, and recreation. Gunnamatta Bay is located off the Port Hacking estuary. It forms a natural boundary for Cronulla, Woolooware, and Burraneer.
Let’s dive into the past. Matthew Flinders and George Bass charted this coastline in 1796. The southernmost point of Cronulla now bears their names. Fast forward to the 1860s, Thomas Holt owned most of the land from Sutherland to Cronulla. The area around Gunnamatta Bay was subdivided in 1895. Land sold for a mere 10 pounds per acre. In 1899, the government named the area Gunnamatta. It means sandy hills. But the name didn’t stick for long.
In 1908, the area was officially renamed Cronulla. Gunnamatta remained as the name for the bay. Interestingly, Cronulla comes from kurranulla. It means place of the pink seashells in the Dharawal language. The Dharawal people were the original Aboriginal inhabitants. Surveyor Robert Dixon named the beaches in 1827-28. By 1840, the main beach was still known as Karranulla.
Today, Gunnamatta Bay is more than just a name on a map. It’s a hub of activity. Cronulla and National Park Ferry Cruises operate from the wharf here. They provide a vital link to Bundeena across Port Hacking. This offers easy access to the Royal National Park.
Nature lovers will appreciate Gunnamatta Park. This park boasts a valuable remnant of bushland canopy. An unusual occurrence of Rough-Barked Apple-Gums thrives here. These trees are more typical of Wianamatta Shale soil. They are virtually extinct in the Sutherland Shire.
Gunnamatta Park offers more than just trees. It has BBQ facilities, gardens, and a playground. It is perfect for family gatherings and picnics. The park adjoins Gunnamatta Bay Tidal Baths. This is a large netted swimming area with a beach.
A word of caution, stingrays sometimes inhabit the waters to the left of the tidal baths. Shuffle your feet when entering the water to avoid them. Fuel-fired barbecues are not allowed here. But you can bring a portable gas or electric barbecue. Dogs are welcome in the park and on the walkways. But they must be on a leash. They are prohibited near the playground and in the tidal baths.
Gunnamatta Bay truly offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing day by the water, this bay has it all.