Here stands the Owen Magee Plaque a testament to a remarkable man. It’s a small unassuming plaque yet it speaks volumes about Sydney’s history. This plaque commemorates Brigadier Denis Owen Anthony Magee. He was a significant figure in shaping modern Sydney. He served with distinction in the Australian Army. His military career spanned World War II the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He was involved in major infrastructure projects. These include the Woomera rocket range and the Snowy Mountains Scheme.
After retiring from the Army in 1970 Magee became the Director of the Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority. This was a pivotal role in the transformation of The Rocks. The Rocks was then a rundown area. It was a slum district of historical value. Magee oversaw a massive $300 million redevelopment project. This project dramatically altered The Rocks. He faced fierce opposition from residents and unions. This became known as the Battle of the Rocks.
The Battle of the Rocks involved significant conflict. The Builders Labourers Federation imposed green bans. They protested against the demolition of historic buildings. Many historic buildings were ultimately saved. The area was transformed into a tourist attraction. The Owen Magee Plaque doesn’t shy away from this controversy. It reflects the complexities of urban renewal. It highlights the tension between progress and preservation. Magee’s legacy is complex. He is remembered for both his military service and his controversial role in the redevelopment of The Rocks. Before the redevelopment only around 25000 people visited The Rocks annually. Forty years later that number reached 9 million.
Magee’s contributions extended beyond The Rocks. He erected memorials honoring significant figures in Sydney Cove’s history. This included George Barney William Bligh Robert Campbell and Lucy Osburn. He however opposed plans for a monument to Jack Mundey. Magee resigned in 1985 after a conflict with Bob Carr. Even in retirement he remained involved in public debates. He was active in discussions on issues such as the privatisation of the Snowy Mountains Authority. He also voiced opinions on the Very Fast Train project. His book How The Rocks Was Won details his perspective on the Battle of the Rocks. This plaque is more than just a marker. It’s a starting point for a conversation about Sydney’s past present and future. It invites reflection on the delicate balance between preserving history and embracing progress. The Owen Magee Plaque stands as a silent witness to a transformative period in Sydney’s history.