De-Islanding: The peninsularisation of islands in Sydney Harbour (1818–2023)

Abstract

The effects of securing islands to mainlands or other islands via fixed links have been discussed in Island Studies for some time. Debate has often concerned the extent to which islands are ‘de-islanded’ by various forms of links, the extent to which forms of island(ish) identity persist in human perceptions and/or official discourse around such locations and whether the latter effect the perception, management and administration of these locales. A British colony was established on Indigenous land in (what is now known as) Sydney Harbour in 1788 and colonists began modifying various islands soon after. While there is one bridged island in Sydney Harbour (Rocky Point), the most dramatic alteration of locales has involved the infilling and linkage of islands to the Harbour’s shores. Following an overview of the various islands of Sydney Harbour, the article examines the historical development of five areas that have been affixed to shores by infilling and now comprise peninsulas: Berry Island, Darling Island, Garden Island, Glebe Island and Tubowgule. The article examines the nature of development of the former islands, public and policy issues concerning their use and development and the differing nature of residual island(ish) identities accruing to the sites.