Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay, on the end of Sydney's South Head peninsula. Named after Robert Watson (1756–1819), formerly of HMS Sirius, who beached his three vessels at Camp Cove for many years because of their being potentially sold by the Provost Marshal.

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Camp Cove, Watson's Bay, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Camp Cove, Watson's Bay. The first landing place by Europeans in Port Jackson - 21 January 1788. Captain (later Admiral) Arthur Phillip landed here after exploring the area for suitable sites, having discovered that Kurnell (Botany Bay) had poor soil, no fresh water, shallow water near the shore (so the ships could not be moored conveniently close), and was buffeted by strong winds.

( Kurnell had been suggested some 17 years earlier, though to be fair, they'd come onshore on the other - more sheltered - side of the bay, and at a different time of year. )

Arthur Phillip Australia beach Camp Cove NSW pano Sydney Watson's Bay

Scott Bird Heritage Photography

Documenting Australia's rich Aboriginal and European history.

Watsons Bay