Woolwich Dock and Parklands

Moocooboola. “The meeting of the rivers.” That’s what the Wallumedegal people called this place, Woolwich Dock and Parklands, long before the clang of hammers and the chug of steam engines echoed across the water. Here at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers, Woolwich Dock and Parklands holds a rich maritime history, intertwined with the stories of the land and its people. Woolwich Dock itself, the heart of this vibrant area, dates back to 1901. It stands as a testament to Sydney’s shipbuilding prowess. The dock was built by Morts Dock and Engineering Company, who carved out a massive basin from the Hawkesbury sandstone. Imagine the sheer scale of the project. They excavated 85,000 cubic metres of rock to create this impressive dry dock, once the largest in Australia. The dock officially opened with a splash on December 4, 1901, when the Neotsfield, the only deep-sea ship registered in Sydney at that time, was the first vessel to be serviced. It was truly an “all-Sydney affair”, as even the fuel powering the dock came from the nearby Balmain coal yard. Woolwich Dock and Parklands played a vital role during both World Wars. Here, passenger vessels were transformed into troopships, ready to carry soldiers across the seas. Damaged ships limped into the dock for vital repairs. This wartime activity fueled growth in the surrounding area, with new houses and even the Woolwich Pier Hotel springing up to accommodate the influx of workers. The Morts Dock and Engineering Company eventually ceased operations in 1959. The site was then purchased by the Army in 1963, ushering in a new era for Woolwich Dock and Parklands. The Army utilized the dock for their water-based transport operations, adding new structures and equipment. Their presence lasted until 1997, when they moved their operations to Townsville. Today, Woolwich Dock and Parklands has been returned to the public. The maritime legacy lives on. Skilled tradespeople continue to repair and maintain boats within the historic dry dock. You can even witness these maritime giants being lifted in and out of the water. The surrounding parklands offer a peaceful retreat. Goat Paddock and Horse Paddock, dotted with majestic Port Jackson fig trees, provide breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. Enjoy a picnic, take a stroll along the scenic walking paths, and soak in the history of this remarkable place. Woolwich Dock and Parklands. A place where rivers meet, history whispers, and the maritime spirit endures.