Double the charm, double the beauty. That’s the essence of Double Lagoon. It’s a name that hints at a unique geographical feature. This harbourside suburb of Sydney boasts not one, but two formations. These formations are nestled between Point Piper and Darling Point. A miniature point interrupts them.
Double Bay, where Double Lagoon resides, wasn’t always a high-end shopping destination. In the early days of European settlement in 1788, Double Bay served as a haven. Fishermen sought shelter here, regularly casting their lines into the harbour. Farming also took root. By 1814, farms spread through the valleys. They reached Woollahra, Bondi Junction, Bellevue Hill, and Point Piper.
Imagine the scene. Charles Amos Messenger established the first boatshed on Sydney Harbour at Balmain. He then floated it to Double Bay. Double Bay’s early life revolved around the Messenger boatshed. Charles Amos was a sculling champion. He won titles in Victoria and New Zealand. He even contended for the world championship.
His sons, Dally and Wally Messenger, were also prominent figures. They rowed people across Sydney Harbour from their boatshed. One notable passenger was William Bede Dalley. He was the acting premier of New South Wales in 1885. Dalley even owned a castle in Manly.
Today, Double Bay is known for its affluence. It’s often called “Double Pay”. This nickname reflects the high incomes of its residents. Upscale fashion labels line the shopping streets.
But Double Bay also holds historical treasures. Several sites are heritage-listed. These include Gladswood House, Overthorpe, and Fairwater. They also include houses at 4 and 6 Wiston Gardens.
The area’s transport options are plentiful. Ferries connect Double Bay to Circular Quay and Darling Point. Buses run along New South Head Road. They link to Bondi Junction, Watsons Bay, and the city. The closest railway station is Edgecliff. It is located on New South Head Road.
Double Bay’s connection to sports is also noteworthy. Dally Messenger, a famous rugby league player, was born and raised here. He attended Double Bay primary school. He became a local celebrity.
As you explore Double Bay, remember its layers of history. From its humble beginnings as a fishing haven to its current status as a luxury destination. Double Lagoon represents the suburb’s unique geographical charm.