The Rocks is the oldest neighbourhood in Australia, filled with buildings from 1815 on, all bearing witness to a varied, quirky, story-rich past. Join us exploring these winding paths, discovering these twisted stories, from all time periods over the last two hundred and forty years – the convicts of the First Fleet, the pubs, the ship workers, the plague, the Green Bans of the 1970s, up to all that’s provided for today’s tourists. Please note that a moderate level of fitness is required. Meet at the entrance to Wharf 6 (Circular Quay) 10 minutes before the tour starts so it can commence on time.
This walk will go ahead whatever the weather, except where the guide deems there to be a threat to health and safety. In this situation you will be contacted with an alternative date. Please ensure your mobile phone number is up-to-date with WEA before enrolling and ensure that you have it with you on the day in case the tutor needs to contact you.
- Circular Quay/Sydney Cove, First Fleet Park: 1808 map
- Nurses Walk, Mundy Place, Susannah Place
- The Big Dig, Foundation Park, Rocks Square
- Argyle Cut, Garrison Church, Hero of Waterloo pub
- Millers Point, Dawes Point, Playfair St
- Kendall Lane , Suez Canal
- Museum of Contemporary Art, looking toward the Opera House
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Discover key events in the history of The Rocks
- Know the location of artworks, heritage sites, memorials, souvenir shops, and other facilities
- Hear stories that illustrate the personalities that represent the values of The Rocks.
