The Tank Stream
We know it today as The Tank Stream – an underground curiosity – but it was a vital source of water for the First Fleeters, and before them, the First Australians. Captain Arthur Phillip chose Circular Quay as the birthplace of the new colony, in part because of this freshwater stream running right into the harbour from a swamp at the western end of Hyde Park. Having supplied water and stone tools to the original Gadigal People for tens of thousands of years, it would serve as the main water supply for the first 40 years of Sydney’s European life. But by 1826 it was so polluted that the colonists had stopped drinking from it, and in time it became a sewer, still emptying into the harbour. As the city grew up around the stream, it was covered over with sandstone blocks. Today the Tank Stream lies underground, partially encased in colonial-built tunnels.
Presenters
Yvonne Kaiser-Glass is Sydney Water’s archaeologist. She provides strategic advice and assistance on a wide range of Sydney Water projects that involve excavation in areas of Aboriginal cultural heritage sensitivity (known or potential) and/or non-Aboriginal archaeological potential.
Louise Roberts is the Education and Community Partnerships Officer responsible for tour program and educational resource development. With a background in History and Geography teaching Louise has managed the development of the improved tours and resources for the Tank Stream.
In partnership with Sydney Water.
How to enter
Simply purchase your Sydney Open Pass by 14 October and select the Golden Ticket checkbox on the ticket purchase page to enter the Tank Stream ballot. The more Passes you buy, the more entries you will receive. Sydney Living Museums Members will receive two entries into the draw for every Pass purchased.
Prizes
There are 95 double passes available in this exclusive draw. The lucky winners will be randomly selected to receive a double pass to join one of these Golden Ticket Tank Stream Tours, scheduled for Saturday 3 November or Monday 5 November.
Winners will be notified by email on 16 October 2018.
Terms & conditions
Read the full terms and conditions of this competition.
Important note: Winners will be required to agree to specific entry terms and conditions, including health and safety requirements when accepting the prize. If the winner cannot meet these terms and conditions, they will need to forfeit the prize. Both of these sites are not wheelchair accessible.