Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SIGHTS
Circular Quay
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
See CLICK HERE .
NOTABLE BUILDING
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS
See CLICK HERE .
GARDENS
MRS MACQUARIES POINT
(Mrs Macquaries Rd; Circular Quay) Adjoining the Royal Botanic Gardens but officially part of
The Domain, Mrs Macquaries Point forms the northeastern tip of Farm Cove and provides
beautiful views over the bay to the Opera House and city skyline. It was named in 1810
after Elizabeth, Governor Macquarie's wife, who ordered a seat chiselled into the rock
from which she could view the harbour.
PARK
Mrs Macquaries Chair , as it's known, remains to this day. Clouds of sulphur-crested
cockatoos disturb the peace with their raucous caws during the day, while at night it's a ro-
mantic spot for an after-dinner stroll. Open Air Cinema is held here in the summer months.
BENNELONG
Bennelong was born around 1764 into the Wangal tribe, the westerly neighbours of the Cadigal who lived around
central Sydney. Captured in 1789, he was brought to Governor Arthur Phillip, who hoped to use Bennelong to un-
derstand the local Aborigines' customs and language.
Bennelong took to life with the settlers, developing a taste for alcohol and European food, and learning to
speak the language of his new 'masters'. Eventually he escaped, but he returned by 1791 when reassured that he
would not be held against his will. He developed a strong friendship with Governor Phillip, who had a brick hut
built for him on what is now Bennelong Point.
In 1792 Bennelong went on a 'civilising' trip to England, and returned in 1795 with a changed dress sense and
altered behaviour. Described as good natured and 'stoutly made', Bennelong ultimately was no longer accepted
by Aboriginal society and never really found happiness with his white friends either. He died a broken, dispos-
sessed man in 1813, probably as a result of his affection for the bottle.
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