Hunter's Hill is Australia's oldest garden suburb and a place of national heritage significance. It has a fascinating history. When proclaimed a borough in 1861 it was already known as the 'French Village'. The many early stone houses and buildings are still set in leafy gardens and streets and are close to enchanting bushland areas, including Kellys Bush and Boronia Park.
The area is renowned for its village atmosphere and the sense of belonging shared by the community.
Called in aboriginal times 'Moocooboola' - the meeting place of the two waters, Hunter's Hill lies on a peninsula in Sydney Harbour surrounded on three sides by the Lane Cove and Parramatta rivers. Its local government area is small (575 hectares), yet it contains seven distinct localities - Boronia Park, Gladesville, Henley, Hunter's Hill, Huntleys Cove, Huntleys Point and Woolwich. The population is approximately 14,000, 25% being under the age of 18.
This is a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
There are many places of interest, most of which feature on the sixteen walking trails developed by the locals. Examples are the National Trust's 'Vienna Cottage' (1871), the Council's former Marist Father's retreat 'The Priory' (1857) and the Harbour Trust's Woolwich Dock (1901). Cockatoo Island which lies nearby is now also open to the public. Of special interest are the historic Churches and Schools which continue to play an important role in the life of the community.
The many community groups, always welcoming to new members, embrace diverse interests - history, heritage, theatre, music, arts, sports, seniors, youth and the environment to name a few.
A wide variety of shops and businesses, including restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs and specialty shops, can be found in the village areas of Hunter's Hill, Woolwich and Boronia Park, or in the major shopping district at Gladesville.
Transport on the harbour by ferry is a real delight. There are three wharves, Woolwich, Huntleys Point and Alexandra Street. Buses also regularly service the area from the City and Chatswood.
To find out more about the above, and what's on, the local news and gallery of photos, click on the tabs to the left. Also view and support the many businesses and community groups listed under the Business and Community pages above.
Hunter's Hill entry by Beverley Sherry in the Dictionary of Sydney - click here
Gladesville entry by Margaret Farlow and Angela Phippen - click here
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