The island has been expanded over the years from 12.9 hectares to 17.9 hectares. The sandstone knoll that is Cockatoo Island has undergone extensive cutting and filling to create distinct upper and lower levels.
Prior to 1788, Cockatoo Island was heavily timbered with red gums and was a home to thousands of sulphur crested Cockatoos. Indigenous people would have used the island during this period although no record has been found. The island was used as a prison during 1830s and 1840s.
The conditions for convicts on Cockatoo Island were harsh and the work was tough. From 1839-40 convict labour was used to cut deep into the rock and construct silos for storing the colony’s grain supply.
Cockatoo Island became the Commonwealth Naval Dockyard in 1913. By 1918 a new power house was built, and is powerful enough to allow the de-watering of the Sutherland Dock in around three-and-a-half hours.
It is close to ten years since Cockatoo Island was last used. The Harbour Trust has been decontaminating the island and rehabilitating many of the buildings and structures on the island.
The vision for Cockatoo Island is to revitalise this unique place as a landmark harbour attraction that has the potential to become a great cultural centre.
Electricity, water and sewerage have been reinstated on the island. Four new electrical substations have been installed to handle all future power requirements of the island.
The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust is spending millions of dollars on decontaminating and rehabilitating the island.
Cockatoo Island contains important evidence of the history and development of Australia. Located at the meeting of two rivers, it has magnificent harbour views and is a visual landmark with its distinctive silhouette.
In July 2007, Veolia Water Network Services was engaged to rehabilitate approximately 1 km of deteriorated sewer pipes scattered all over the Island. This total length comprised of 150 mm, 225mm and 300 mm diameter pipes. The pipes were rehabilitated using CIPP, UV curing system.
The Veolia Water Network Services crew was able to maintain high quality standards as always despite the intricate access conditions and high rates of water and sand infiltration. This project was completed on time and within the established budget without compromising any safety.
To accomplish the mission successfully, Veolia Water Network Services employed the use of its latest state-of-the-art combination units and vacuum suckers.