Hear from citizen heritage sleuths who uncovered an important contributor to North Shore development, the long-forgotten architect, E.S. Garton. They diligently connected the incredible jigsaw pieces that spanned decades of Garton’s life that ultimately reconnected history with local heritage.

Make your way through the murky maritime village of old Millers Point on a historian-led walk that uncovers the fascinating locals, legends and layout of this history drenched hub. This tour will visit convict built pubs, hidden laneways, colonial mansions, shipping wharves and views of the harbour.

Join a guided walking tour and enjoy exclusive access to view the Graythwaite site that sits within Shore, North Sydney. Discover the story of the site from its beginnings as a stone cottage to a grand 19th century estate incorporating a Coach House, the Stables and a former Rose Garden and Hut.

Be inspired by images from the City of Sydney archives to create heritage inspired laser-cut jewellery pieces.

While the Australian Diggers were battling in New Guinea, the gangsters in Surry Hills were battling each other for control of the lucrative vice marketing feeding the US Servicemen. Join a walking tour of Surry Hills and discover the lost (censored) history of when WW2 came to Surry Hills.

City Historian Laila Ellmoos will share how the archive sheds light on the rapid urbanisation of Darlinghurst in the 19th century, and the intricate and intimate interconnections between neighbours, tenants and landlords.

How does a pretty hamlet with windmills, cottages and paddocks transform into an inner-city suburb of Victorian terraces, Art Deco flats and rowdy pubs? Join us for a part how-to, part history talk about exploring the City of Sydney’s archives and connecting its people, places and stories.

Come and immerse yourself in the soundscape of Darlinghurst in the 1920s and 30s with historians Paula Hamilton and Lisa Murray, as they evoke localised sounds and trace how modern living and technology triggered complaints and new definitions of noise.

Use images from the City of Sydney Archives to create a laser-cut printing plate and print your image on our printing press!

Embark on a cultural journey at the Chinese Garden of Friendship during the Heritage Festival. Experience a captivating school holiday workshop, explore an enticing exhibition, join a newly developed Meandering Pathway of Tranquility tour, and indulge in the delights of the new menu.

Step back in time! Join us for a fun-filled cruise of Sydney Harbour aboard historic steamer: 1902 VIP Steam Launch Lady Hopetoun!

Experience the thrill of ocean sailing on a fully restored Tall Ship from the 1870s: James Craig!
Your amazing experience begins as this historic 1874 square rig sail ship leaves her berth at Pyrmont.

Join award winning historian and local resident Dr Ian Hoskins on a walk around one of Sydney's oldest suburbs, where a Pugin-inspired church, early-Victorian terraces and remnants of the once dominant Tooths Brewery survive with the best in contemporary architecture, art galleries and eateries.

Discover the history of East Balmain as Sydney historian Max Burns-McRuvie from Journey Walks whisks you away to an earlier era, with stories of Balmains culture, mystery & colourful characters. You will meet at The Fenwick, be taken on a historical walking tour before returning for a 2 course lunch

Take a guided walk in the Griffins’ Castlecrag and visit the interiors of two beautifully restored homes designed by Walter Burley Griffin.

The Paradise Plan.

A short (14-minute) film that explores connections between Canberra and Castlecrag. It intertwines the aspirations of the Griffins in both places with the history of the Gigante puppets created in their name, as part of the campaign to save Castlecrag Infants School back in 1989.

Join industrial heritage expert and Artefact Principal Dr Iain Stuart on a specially curated guided tour of Jones Bay Wharf in Pyrmont.

Step back in time, join us for a fun-filled guided Saturday cruise aboard historic steamer: 1902 Steam Tug Waratah!
Whether you're a steam enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this cruise is perfect for you!

A guided walking tour that will visit the ' vanished site' but 'vibrant memories' of the old ABC television studios at Gore Hill.

Gore Hill Memorial Cemetery connects the physical heritage of the present to the historical past highlighting those individuals whose achievements forged our future.

'The Balmain Observer' goes inside the Post Office and Court House and takes us on a tour of the original building before it was opened. Explaining in detail the fittings both upstairs and down. An amazing observation from over 100years ago.

At Real History Walking Tours, we love sharing overlooked or unknown stories from the past. Sydney's streets are oozing with incredible historical stories just waiting to be uncovered! Our 1.5-hour walking tours allow visitors to understand the cultural and social history of multiple Sydney suburbs.

Immerse yourself in an evening of Crime Trivia, Cocktails and Sinister Stories of the past.

Historian Max Burns-McRuvie and SILY Bar will animate your passion for true crime stories through a unique series of live events in a heritage setting.

Join us for: Crimes, Quizzes, Cocktails and Connections.

A rare opportunity to explore the restoration work of the last Sydney's double-ended ferry: Kanangra at Sydney Heritage Fleet Shipyard.

Our latest temporary explores the Natural History of Willoughby focusing on local fungi, flora and fauna and the importance of protecting and enhancing the habitat essential for its survival. See how humans connect with nature in restoring local bushland for the benefit of all.

Free 30-minute Organ Recitals on the Award Winning 1890 William Hill & Son Organ: 1pm 2pm, 3pm 
Free Church History Talks 1:30pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 
Display of Church History / Memorabilia in the Church Hall
PWA Devonshire Teas in the Church Hall (only $5) 
Annandale Local History Walk (only $20)

A Place to Call Home: Why heritage houses matter. Artist Marta Madison presents a collection of watercolour paintings depicting Federation and Arts and Crafts style homes (circa 1880-1920), on display at Art Space on The Concourse, Chatswood, 24 April-05 May 2024, 11-5pm. Closed Anzac Day.

Outdoor walking exhibition at Callan Park and Broughton Hall highlighting the history of Repatriation care and veterans at Callan Park.

Come connect with Callan Park. Immerse yourself in its beauty and extraordinary history.

Join Transport Historian Peter Hughes for the book launch of Wheels within Wheels: A history of Sydney’s Buses, is based on documents and reports in the State Library of NSW, State Records NSW and Bus and Coach Association (NSW) and then enjoy the museum at your own leisure.

Peter Pan (1924) restored silent classic presented by Film Heritage Academy with live music (Graeme Costin).

Join this talk and be inspired by the geological wonders of Ku-ring-gai GeoRegion project.

The General (1926) restored black and white silent movie presented by Film Heritage Academy with live music (Graeme Costin).

Join a guided walking tour and be inspired by the geological wonders of the Northern Beaches Long Reef.

View a stunning exhibition of the Art of Paul Rolfe featuring landscapes in Field of Mars Park and Hunters Hill.

Carisbrook will be open during the Australian Heritage Festival on April 20th and 21th between 10am and 4pm.

Enjoy a self-guided audio tour through Carisbrook's 1880s rooms and Devonshire tea or coffee and cake in the sunny courtyard. The gardens are always a delight to wander through afterwards,

Carisbrook will be open during the Australian Heritage Festival on May 18th and 19th between 10am and 4pm.

Enjoy a self-guided audio tour through Carisbrook's 1880s rooms and Devonshire tea or coffee and cake in the sunny courtyard. The gardens are always a delight to wander through afterwards

Delight in the elegance of these original 1930s glamorous evening gowns and accessories.

Connect with the history of this lively Petersham Street with an illustrated talk by the author of the book Palace Street, Gerard Windsor, and publisher Richard Cashman who has lived in Palace and Fisher Street for four decades and has observed changes in the street.

Join Joy Bryan, daughter of Mr Arthur Newling Swain and Council’s resident gardener Adam for a guided walk and talk through Swain Gardens, followed by a morning tea on the tennis lawn.

The Friends of Ethel Turner Society will be hosting tours of Historic 'Woodlands' for one day only on Sunday 5th May 2024. We'll be sharing the built heritage and stories of past resident and blue plaque recipient, famous Ethel Turner, author of the classic, Seven Little Australians.

As a part of the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Festival, The Friends of Ethel Turner will be hosting tours of historic 'Woodlands' Killara.

Follow in the footsteps of Ethel Turner, author of Seven Little Australians and join local artist Marguerite de Fondaumiere to capture the unique character and charm of the beautiful and historic Woodlands House with its late Victorian Georgian and Federation Filigree style.

A guided walk to flesh out the characters and events that contributed to our heritage of Smith Street, Summer Hill.

Eryldene will be hosting its popular Mothers' Day Teas on the weekend of 11-12th May 2024. Treat Mum, Nana or that special loved one to morning or afternoon tea while relaxing in the beautifully serene garden of historic Eryldene.

Take a garden tour with one of our volunteers followed by a delicious morning tea on the verandah while soaking in the serenity of this beautiful, historic garden.

Join us for the Mothers Day weekend at Eryldene.

Join award-winning author Alecia Simmonds as she uncovers a hidden history of love and heartbreak in the archives of law.

This presentation is a fascinating journey through 60 years of bridal fashions and more.

Curious about local history? Ku-ring-gai Library will be presenting a digital display featuring historical photographs from the library’s Local History Collection.

Ku-ring-gai Historical Society holds a vast amount of information on the history of Ku-ring-gai, its buildings, residents and much more.

Discover the history of your house at Ku-ring-gai Library by booking in for a one-on-one tutorial with our Local History Librarian.

Maria Locke is a significant figure in Australian history, yet not as well-known as she deserves to be. The daughter of Yarramundi, chief of the Richmond tribes, Maria went on to have notable achievements in education, the first legally recognised marriage between an Aboriginal person and a settler,

All families have undergone a journey, even if we don't know the full story.

Join a guided walking tour and be inspired by the geological wonders of Ku-ring-gai's Bicentennial Park.

Ku-ring-gai Council presents a program of free and ticketed events for the Australian Heritage Festival which explores the rich history of Ku-ring-gai and celebrates our Indigenous, natural, built and cultural heritage.

In an exclusive event at a private Sydney home, architectural photographer Eric Sierins recalls his time at Max Dupain & Associates, as well as Dupain's connection to Castlecrag. Included is a display of Dupain photographs of selected Griffin homes at Castlecrag.

The Longbottom Stockade, at Parramatta Road and Loftus Street, Concord served many purposes in its lifetime

The Parramatta River has been an essential waterway for Australia’s indigenous population as well as for the early settlement of the colony. Over time settlement followed the river, spreading into surrounding districts in order to secure the best agricultural land and open up the area.

Join our ranger for a historical walk and bush morning tea at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden. Originally used as farming land for strawberries, vegetables and native flowers; the garden is now used for the promotion of the study and preservation of native flora and fauna.

Join us for an Indigenous Heritage presentation and guided walk through the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden presented by the Aboriginal Heritage Office. Learn about how Aboriginal people lived, Aboriginal figures of the area, bush tucker, tools, weapons and shelter.

That Sydney has a rare intact example of a large Edwardian private residential estate surprises many. The Yaralla Estate was developed by the Walker family between 1848 and 1937 as a farm, pleasure garden, residence and one of Sydney’s premiere social destinations. You can see it on our Open Day.

Join a guided walking tour and be inspired by the geological wonders of Turramurra's Sheldon Forest.

Enjoy a tour of Rose Seidler House with Museums of History NSW curator Michael Lech, plus a rare peek at the Julian Rose House with Brian Seidler AM.

Open House and Garden at Mahratta

Join us for a walking tour of Carss Bush Park, where you will discover the rich history of the park and its development over the last century. Led by Local Studies staff, this tour will take you on a journey through time.

Embark on a scenic cruise along the Georges River and discover its unique history with Professor Heather Goodall.

You’ll learn more about Aboriginal connections to the river and environmental activism efforts whilst enjoying a sit-down meal.

Visitors are encouraged to seek out hidden stories, and embark on a journey through history, as your guide reveals tales from the Barker College Archives as you wander through the Barker Heritage Precinct.

The Female Orphan School building has been a key witness to some of the most significant social changes in Australian history. The building has shaped thousands of lives over the two centuries it has stood on the banks of the Parramatta River.

Sutherland Shire is more than the birthplace of modern Australia. Come and see physical evidence of First Nations possession, the arrival of Lt Cook on the 'HM Endeavour' and how the Shire developed from a rural backwater to a thriving modern metropolis.

This talk covers the history of Hambledon Cottage, built for John Macarthur as a Colonial Georgian cottage now 200 years old, including its construction, additions and restorations over these years, as well as its current use.

An intriguing talk, with morning tea, which will showcase many connections between artworks and surveyors, including world renowned and lesser known artists who were also surveyors, plus be delighted with an array of artworks featuring surveyors, many painted by some of our early surveyors.

The inland Port tour experiences connections between Aboriginals and settlers as they work and play around the river port and environs.

Lively power-point presentation, with morning tea, that will bring tombstones 'alive' as some intriguing historical connections are revealed.

Join internationally renown speaker, John Brock, for a captivating talk, with morning tea, which will reveal many historical connections between Australia and the tiny island of St. Helena.

Brinsley's Joinery Shop tours are always of great interest to our visitors. Tours are run on the hour and you will get to see our machinery from the 1920's operating. These machines are still used by our company to produce all types of heritage joinery as well as bespoke timber furniture and joinery.

Join Southern Brass in a journey of connection through music!
In "TIES THAT BIND US: A Symphony of Connection," we embark on a musical exploration of the myriad ways in which music acts as a bridge - connecting individuals, communities, and cultures across the vast expanses of time and space.

There will be lots of variety with what the Sutherland Shire has to show to connect and preserve our history.
From Loftus, Sutherland, Kirawee, Gymea to Cronulla, Kurnell and The Royal National Park there will be something for everyone to see.

Discover the connected history and compelling stories of Parramatta North, located by the Parramatta River, by exploring the restored buildings, cultural and innovation hub and open spaces. Heritage Day is family friendly, with guided tours, talks and workshops, live music, great food, and children's activities.

In 1824, how did a London schoolmaster's wife find herself appointed as the first female Superintendent at the Parramatta Female Factory? And did her actions really lead to the infamous riot of 1827?

Join us as we learn about Elizabeth Fulloon, described by Governor Darling as a woman of 'extraordinary bodily strength and energy of character', who rose to the challenge of managing such

Explore the different meanings of black across a century of fashion, from mourning a loved one, to the chic elegance of the little black dress, at Old Government House's new major exhibition Back to Black.

Connect with the past on a candlelit tour of Old Government House, Parramatta and hear stories of strange happenings experienced by volunteers, staff and past guests.

A walk through one of Parramatta's historic cemeteries where many ‘residents’ have strong connections, good and bad, with the City of Parramatta.

On Saturday, 20th April embark on a captivating journey through time at Woronora Memorial Park's Heritage Discovery Day!
Tour through the historic crematorium, visit the new crematorium, take a self-guided history tour or wander the vast gardens.

Take a step back in time at the Sydney Tramway Museum; a great day out for the whole family. It is a unique attraction in the Sutherland Shire, and has been for over 50 years.

Tram-rides and museum display, plus souvenir shop, refreshments kiosk, picnic area.

Linnwood is a NSW State Heritage Listed house (1891) on 5 hectares at Guildford. The house will be open on Sunday 28 April with various displays of local and historic interest. Devonshire tea provided and visitors are free to roam the house and grounds. Parking on site.

A beautiful walking tour to unravel the mysteries of Dangar Island. Join us for a heritage ferry ride, beaches, bush and the rich and diverse indigenous and colonial histories of 'Mullet Island' from a local expert. Enjoy coffee and waterside lunch .

Join the Heritage Team on a guided tour of the Vintage Village at Fairfield City Museum & Gallery during the Australian Heritage Festival in 2024.

Join us on a guided tour of Cabra-Vale (Cabramatta and Canley Vale) to uncover the fascinating history behind each of these suburbs. Discover parks, heritage sites and colourful Daoist temples along the way... A visit to Canley Vale is a timeless experience for first timers!

Bella Vista Farm sits in spacious, picturesque parklands. Once owned by John and Elizabeth Macarthur it was later farmed by the Pearce family who developed it into a thriving citrus orchard. The farm, preserved in its entirety, sits upon a hilltop with sweeping views of the district.

Discover Era Beach’s cabin community within the Royal National Park on a guided walking tour. The community is an important and rare surviving piece of NSW's social history. Learn about its past of self-regulation, later influenced by external agencies and tenure. Free admission, lunch, and Q&A.

Rock, Stone and Sky: Symposium on rock art, archaeology, and indigenous astronomy. Local experts, researchers and astrophysicist present findings from rock art mapping, archaeological fieldwork in the Mangrove Creek Valley, and tracing the pathways of the celestial emu.

Journey into the waterways of Dyarubbin with historians, writers and storytellers for a morning river cruise exploring the secret histories of the Lower Hawkesbury. Our exploration continues with an afternoon symposium investigating rock engravings, sky connections and the archaeology of Mangrove.

Journey into the waterways of Dyarubbin with historians, writers and storytellers for a morning river cruise exploring the secret histories of the Lower Hawkesbury River.