See and do 
Featuring an informative narrator, immersive sound effects and archival interviews with former workers and residents, this self-guided tour paints a vivid picture of the island’s bygone days across 26 audio stops.
You’ll learn about the poor living conditions of convicts incarcerated in the island’s former penal establishment, and the hellish plight of the young women raised in the Biloela Public Industrial School for Girls and the Biloela Reformatory. You’ll also hear about the feats achieved by the thousands of workers employed at the island’s enormous shipyard during the 20th century and the enduring significance of the island for First Nations Peoples.
The audio tour is available on demand from the Visitor Centre between 10am and 4pm daily. The tour is $5 per person and includes an audio unit, headphones and a special map. We also accept private bookings for groups of between ten and 30 people. To arrange a private booking for our audio tour, complete our enquiry form.
There is no age restriction on the audio tour; however, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult as the tour contains mature themes.
The tour contains stories (and may contain images and/or visuals) of deceased people.
The tour involves a steep incline and some uneven surfaces, and it is not suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. A moderate level of fitness and mobility is required.
Suitable walking shoes and wet weather clothing (if needed).
In light of recent Government advice surrounding COVID-19, this tour is being suspended until further notice...
Our priority is to limit the transmission of the virus and ensure the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff. We will review the situation regularly as advice evolves.
Looking to visit, stay at or tour Cockatoo Island? Here are some useful links...
Harbour Trust
Visit overview
Cockatoo Island
Headland Park
Macquarie Lightstation
North Head Sanctuary
Sub Base Platypus
Woolwich Dock and Parklands
