Beyond Circular Quay

While disembarking from the tender ship at Man 'O War Steps in Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour, I caught snippets of a conversation where someone marveled, "It's truly remarkable to witness firsthand the iconic emblem of a city we've long linked with it."
Isn't it widely acknowledged that when we think of Sydney, Australia, it's almost instinctive to imagine the iconic Opera House and the lively Harbour? These landmarks are undeniably striking. The Opera House's architectural beauty and the dynamic atmosphere around the harbour, with ferries, eateries, and even those adventurous enough to climb the bridge, offer a distinct experience.

Yet, on this particular journey, we chose to reconnect with our longtime friends, Milton and Gleness, and venture beyond the typical Sydney landmarks for a refreshing change of pace. So, we ticked off another item from Jeff's "bucket list" by embarking on a unique,fast-paced Sydney ferry from Wharf 5 along the Parramatta River to Cockatoo Island. This island holds a significant historical background, once serving as a convict penal establishment and naval shipyard since the early 19th century. Initially functioning as a convict prison from 1839 to 1869, it later transformed into a prominent shipbuilding and repair hub until 1991. Cockatoo Island boasts a range of attractions including heritage structures and a waterfront cafe where we enjoyed lunch. The staff on the island were exceptionally accommodating during our visit, providing valuable insights into the island's significance. We thoroughly enjoyed the unique ferry service to and from the island, which offered unparalleled views of stunning riverside homes, yachts, and picturesque rock walls lining the waterway.

Upon our return to the bustling city on a Friday night in Sydney, we relished a delightful evening dining by the harbor.

I must mention, I savored a splendid Pumpkin Salad with goat cheese, and pecans (umm) alongside cocktails and wine, celebrating our reunion with our fellow travelers on a gorgeous summer night in an atmosphere reminiscent of a perfect southern evening in Australia.