Wollongong Harbour

This is a fine example of colonial coastal port construction. The original harbour was designed by Colonial Engineer George Barney and was constructed under his supervision between 1837 and 1844, using convict labour; it became the main port for shipping produce from the Illawarra region.

Subsequently, Belmore Basin – within the harbour, was designed by E O Moriarty, Engineer-in-Chief, Harbours & Rivers, and constructed under his supervision between 1861 and 1868.

Belmore Basin was important in the development of the local coal and coke trade When completed there were three staiths capable of loading 3000 tons of coal per day and there was 1,748 feet of wharf frontage, enough for about 15 vessels.

Wollongong Harbour from the air.

Wollongong Harbour.

An early view of sailing ships at Wollongong.

The Engineers Australia plaque at Wollongong.

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Wollongong Harbour location map.

Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Historic Engineering Marker (HEM)
Award Date	28 April 2001
Heritage Significance	Belmore Basin is a fine example of a Victorian harbour. The construction of the harbour is characterised by stone seawalls and retaining walls which remain intact and in very good condition today.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet	Available here.