History & Heritage | Suburbs of North Sydney | Business Info
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History & Heritage

The original inhabitants of the North Sydney area were the Cammeraygal and Wallumedegal Aboriginal clans.

Europeans settled the area from 1805, when the first land grants were made. Development was slow due to the rugged terrain, limited access and limited agricultural potential. Commercial activities included farming, lumbering and boat building.

Access was improved in 1830, when ferry services began across Sydney Harbour. Land was subdivided and sold in the 1850s, with some growth in the 1870s and the 1880s.

The opening of the North Shore Railway Line from St Leonards to Hornsby in the 1890s was an impetus to growth. The opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge spearheaded development from the 1930s.

Post World War II economic growth and immigration provided impetus for growth in the 1960s and 1970s.

Growth and development in medium-high density residential sector and the North Sydney CBD commercial and office development accompanied this.

The cultural aspects of North Sydney such things as historic buildings and landmarks, streetscapes, community events, pedestrian networks, parks and views have been identified and initiatives made to protect these.

North Sydney City Council has identified specific cultural resources and included them in its planning controls. North Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2001 and North Sydney Development Control Plan 2002 provide the controls for the development of heritage items, all buildings in conservation areas, and all other cultural resources throughout the Council area.

The Stanton Library's Heritage Centre Services include extensive historic archives on the local history of the area, such as historic photographs, subdivision plans, publications, Council rate books, and heritage leaflets/walking tours on aspects of North Sydney's heritage and history.