Cockatoo Island is a great place to take the kids. It's a place to play and a place to learn as they explore the wonders of our past. From a real convict prison to the amazing shipbuilding machines, get ready for their imaginations to run overtime with all that there is to discover on the island.

A program of innovative activities presents opportunities for kids and families to engage with the island’s stories, as well as special events and festival programs.

Convict Clues Challenge

Keep your eyes open and pencils at the ready as you search Cockatoo Island for convict clues in this self-guided activity. The activity booklet includes a pull-out map, so children can explore the island and discover what life was like in Cockatoo Island’s notorious convict prison. At each stop children find out the history of a specific location on the island, complete a related activity and then trace a rubbing plate drawing to help them answer the secret convict question.

Collect your Convict Clues Challenge activity booklet and pencil at the Visitor Information Centre, open every day, 10am – 4pm.

Ages: 7 -12 years (younger children may need adult assistance)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: Free

Ship Shape Challenge

Ahoy! Follow the Ship Shape trail to piece together Cockatoo Island’s shipbuilding past in this self-guided activity. The activity booklet includes a pull-out map, so children can learn about the former shipyard whilst also exploring the machinery and buildings that still remain on Cockatoo Island. At each stop children find out about the history of a specific location on the island, complete a related activity and then trace a rubbing plate drawing to help them discover the secret ship shape.  

Collect your Ship Shape Challenge activity booklet and pencil at the Visitor Information Centre, open every day, 10am – 4pm.

Ages: 7 -12 years (younger children may need adult assistance)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: Free

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