Geographically positioned on the highest point of Warrane (Sydney) and overlooking the harbour, Sydney Observatory is considered a site of significance for the Gadigal. The Observatory has a strong…
Geographically positioned on the highest point of Warrane (Sydney) and overlooking the harbour, Sydney Observatory is considered a site of significance for the Gadigal. The Observatory has a strong documented history of its colonial beginning, detailing historic astronomical and weather monitoring achievements by the people who contributed to its establishment in 1858 and its activities ever since.
Today, the Powerhouse First Nations Directorate, Observatory staff, leading First Nations astronomers such as Karlie Noon and Traditional Knowledge Keepers of Sky Law are working together to enhance public appreciation and understanding of astronomical knowledges embedded within First Nations sky stories.
Visitors can book intimate guided historical tours that dive into stories that have shaped Observatory Hill, including its colonial uses for a windmill, defence fort, signal station, timekeeping service and weather station. The tour takes visitors inside the Signal Master’s Cottage and Observatory wing to explore unique artefacts from the Powerhouse Collection before climbing narrow staircases to see Australia’s oldest working telescope alongside a modern 16-inch telescope inside the astronomy domes.
Allows a person's carer free entry into participating venues and events
Actively welcomes people with access needs.
Advise tour guides of the access needs of guests at the time of booking (includes pick up and drop off requirements)
Caters for people who use a wheelchair.
Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
Offer multiple options for booking - web, email, phone
Train your staff in communicating with people with learning or behavioural challenges
Train your staff in disability awareness
Website meets WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards
Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)