What is Cockatoo Island?
Q: What is Cockatoo Island?
A: Cockatoo Island is the largest island in Sydney Harbour in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It is at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers.
Q: What has Cockatoo Island been used for?
A: Cockatoo Island has been a prison, industrial school, and reformatory (a prison for boys). It was also the site of one of Australia's biggest shipyards during the 20th century.
Q: When was it opened to the public?
A: In March 2005, Cockatoo Island was opened to the public for the 'Cockatoo Island 2005 Festival'.
Q: Is there a cost to visit?
A: No, there is no cost to visit Cockatoo Island.
Q: Are there activities available on the island?
A: Yes, visitors can picnic, barbecue, visit a cafe, walk around the island or take an audio or guided tour. Regular events and art shows are often held on the island as well.
Q: What happened in 2008?
A: In 2008 a campsite opened on the island and part of X-Men Origins Wolverine movie was filmed there. The Biennale of Sydney contemporary art show was also held on Cockatoo Island that year with over 80 000 visitors attending over 12 weeks.
Q: Was there an event held in 2009?
A: Yes, in January 2009 The Sydney Festival's "All Tomorrow's Parties" music festival took place over two days with 24 bands across four stages and 11 000 audience members attending. Additionally World's Funniest Island Comedy Festival took place in October 2009 with 200 comedy acts seen by more than 8 000 people
