Illawong, Sydney, began as "East Menai," a secluded area for 1880s holiday homes accessible by boat, later becoming part of Sutherland Shire in 1921, with significant 1980s development. Its name was officially adopted in 1960/1961 for the new school and suburb, from an Aboriginal word meaning "view of the water". The area, known for its scenic riverfront, features historic sandstone cottages and was shaped by surrounding areas like Alfords Point and Menai, with nautical street names reflecting its Georges River location.
Early Days & Naming
- Indigenous Roots: The area is on Dharawal land, with the Georges River being a significant waterway.
- 1880s-1920s: Known as East Menai, it was a quiet spot for wealthy Sydneysiders' boat-accessed holiday homes, like Cranbrook and Woronora House.
- 1921: Became part of the Sutherland Shire.
- 1960s: Renamed Illawong, meaning "view of the water," for the new primary school, with the name officially approved in 1961.
Development & Features
- Post-War Growth: The 1970s saw increased suburbanization, leading to the adoption of nautical street names in Illawong (like Alfords Point, Bangor, Barden Ridge).
- 1980s: Major residential expansion occurred with new subdivisions.
- Bushfire Prone: The area is recognized as bushfire-prone, as demonstrated by the 1994 fires that affected the region.
- Local Character: Known for its peaceful, family-friendly environment, waterways (Georges River), bushwalks, and schools.
Notable Landmarks & Connections
- Woronora House: An 1890s sandstone home, possibly the oldest in Illawong, built by Edward Head.
- Cranbrook Estate: A large property formerly owned by Robert Fowler (Fowlerware) and later Sir James Joynton-Smith.
- Old Illawarra Road: A historic convict-built road from the 1840s crossed the Georges River nearby at the "Pass of Sabugal"
To locate the GZ you need to solve this puzzle
Bring a pen with you to sign the log.
