Pre 1770 |
The traditional owners of what becomes the City of Rockdale include the Cadigal, the Gwegal and the Bidjigal
tribes. Known as 'Water People', these tribes inhabit the
Bay area for thousands of years before European settlers arrive. Some local suburb
names, such as Kogarah meaning ‘a place of rushes’, are influenced by
Aboriginal words. |
1770 |
Lieutenant (later Captain)
James Cook, aboard the Endeavour, visits Botany Bay, and disembarks to explore nearby Cooks River and Wolli Creek. |
1788 |
The First Fleet arrives. On board the ships are marines, convicts, supplies and livestock. The Europeans reject Botany Bay and set up camp in Sydney Cove.
|
1790s-1840s |
Land grants are awarded to early settlers. |
1845 |
A Parliamentary inquiry hears that of the 400 members of one clan of Botany Bay Aborigines, only three are still alive. |
1870s-1890s |
Botany Bay becomes a resort for the wealthy and fashionable people of Sydney Cove.
|
1878 |
Mrs Mary Ann Geeves, superintendent of the post office attached to the general store, gives the name "Rockdale" to the area at the intersection of Bay Street and Rocky Point Road. The area becomes the centre of the Council's activities, although the name is not formally accepted until after the railway station is built in 1884.
|
1965 |
Captain Cook Bridge opens. |
1995 |
Rockdale is declared a City. |
