Specialist volunteers now carry out maintenance checks on Cockatoo Island’s steam cranes on the first Tuesday of every month. Planning to visit on an upcoming maintenance check day? Pop by the Docks Precinct between 10:30am and 1:30pm to see a demonstration of a steam crane that dates to the island’s storied dockyard era (1857 to 1992). Steam and spectacle – plus some toots and whistles – guaranteed!
These iron giants have been restored to their former steam-powered glory by our skilled restoration volunteers. See one of them roar to life on an upcoming maintenance check day.
This small but powerful crane was built by the Morts Dock & Engineering Company in Balmain and installed near Fitzroy Dock in 1891. It features a 9.5m jib, once capable of lifting 10 tons, and is powered by a reciprocating twin cylinder steam engine. Dockyard personnel used it to move supplies and equipment.
Despite being a rare example of an early steam-powered crane, there was a 20-year period (1965 to 1985) when it was powered by compressed air. In addition to being one of the few surviving steam-operated cranes in Australia, it is one of the oldest steam cranes on Cockatoo Island.
These identical twins were built by Priestman’s of Hull, England and installed here during the 1890s. Both are powered by a vertical boiler and steam engine, once moved about along rails, and were operated by a driver with assistance from 2 riggers. Due to their low speed, high torque and traction systems, they were used to tow ships into dock.
The No 2 crane was restored to working order in 2017 by restoration volunteers. These skilled workers also restored the enclosed cabin, installed during the Second World War. The No 1 crane was also restored by restoration volunteers in 2023. Unlike its sibling, it features an open cabin with its boiler proudly on display.
Get to know the historic cranes of Cockatoo Island and how they operated.
Formerly a ship-building complex, Cockatoo Island played a major role in Australia's maritime affairs from 1857 to 1992. Today, 17 steam-powered and electrical cranes survive from this era, which have become a feature of the island’s industrial terrain and Sydney's iconic skyline. Paired with the island's remnant dock facilities, they provide a window into a period spanning 135 years.
Looking to visit, stay at or tour Cockatoo Island? Here are some useful links.
Cockatoo Island is one of 11 historic sites that together form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.
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