Rodd Island Escape
Monday 19 February 2024
Overview
Date: Monday 19th February
Time: 10.00am - 3.00pm
Relax, walk, create art on this unique island destination with Sydney views from every direction.
What to Bring
• your own liquid refreshments
• hat / sunnies / camera / jacket / sun cream / hand sanitiiser
• art gear if you wish to create in this unique setting.
• optional - outdoor stool
Included
• National Park entry fee
• Private group water taxi (Rodd Island/return)
• Delicious Lunch
$220
Venue & Travel
Rodd Island, Sydney
10.00am depart by private water taxi from MCA steps, Circular Quay to Rodd Island (15 mins)
3.00pm return by private water taxi from Road Island to MCA steps Circular Quay (15 mins)
About Rodd Island
Rodd Island lies west of the Harbour Bridge in the centre of Iron Cove on the Parramatta River. Named after Brent Clements Rodd, who attempted to buy the island from the government in 1842 and even placed a deposit of 17 pounds. However, the transaction was never completed and it became part of the first public recreation reserve in Sydney Harbour in 1879.
Between 1888-1894, the island was a laboratory for scientists from the Pasteur Institute, researching the chicken cholera microbe to control Australia's rabbit population. Louis Pasteur sent his nephew, Doctor Adrien Loir to conduct the experimentation in Australia. Pasteur was interested because he had been conducting similar research in France and Henry Parkes had offered a 25,000 pound reward to anyone who could solve the rabbit infestation problem. However, the research received an unfavourable report in 1889. The facilities were then used to manufacture sheep and cattle vaccines for anthrax and pleuro-pneumonia.
Sarah Bernhardt's dogs were briefly quarantined on Road Is. during her 1891 world tour.
After 1894, the laboratories were demolished and the research station residence was converted into a dance hall, which still stands, along with two summer houses and a gazebo constructed in the early 20th century.
In 1944, during WW11, the island was used as a training base for the US army. In 1982 it became part of the Sydney Harbour National Park and doubled its area by reclaiming land from the bay.
