Located on the shore of the Parramatta River, the Power Station Pump House previously housed the pumps used to pump cooling water to the Balmain Power Station. Ceasing operations in 1976 and demolished in 1998 this old coal-fired power station made way for an apartment complex.
This heritage listed building is in very good condition despite the removal of its interior machinery. Built in 1934, the building is an interesting reminder that power stations previously operated within the inner-Sydney suburbs.
Some confusion often arises, as old copper lettering spelling out “Power Station” have been placed on one of its interior walls. However, these were salvaged from the actual power station and have no relationship to this building.
Locked gates prevent entry, however, the they have widely spaced bars, so it is possible to get a good view of the interior. On one exterior wall, an information board provides a history of the pumphouse.
Getting There
We travelled by bus from the Sydney CBD, getting off at the Rozelle Bridge and walking 10 minutes to the old building. The walk along the river is nice, with well maintained paths. Also in the area, on the other side of Iron Cove Bridge is a monument to the indigenous inhabitants of the area. Consisting of a sculpture of the fish traps used before white settlers displaced the Aboriginal occupants, it’s also worth the short walk to have a look at.
Exterior of the Pump House BalmainPump House on the Parramatta RiverInterior of the Pump HouseInterior of the building
The BP refinery at Carradah Park in Waverton has a rich history that dates back several decades. Here is a brief overview of its historical significance:
The refinery was established in 1926 by the Anglo-Persian Oil Company, which later became British Petroleum (BP). Its location in Waverton, a suburb of Sydney, Australia, was strategically chosen for its proximity to deep water, which facilitated the transportation of crude oil.
During World War II, the refinery played a crucial role in supporting the Australian war effort. It supplied petroleum products to the military and contributed to the nation’s energy security. The refinery expanded significantly during this period to meet the increased demand.
In the following years, the refinery underwent several upgrades and modernizations to improve its efficiency and environmental sustainability. It became a key player in the Australian petroleum industry, supplying a significant portion of the country’s fuel needs.
However, as environmental concerns grew, the refinery faced criticism for its impact on the surrounding area. Issues such as air and water pollution led to community protests and pressure for improved environmental practices.
In 2012, BP announced its decision to close the Carradah Park refinery due to economic factors. The closure marked the end of an era for the facility, and its refining operations ceased in 2014. BP shifted its focus towards fuel importation and distribution in Australia.
Since the closure, the site has undergone a transformation. The refinery land has been repurposed for various purposes, including commercial and residential developments. The redevelopment has aimed to restore and revitalize the area while preserving its heritage.
Current Use
Carradah Park in Waverton has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, thanks to the rehabilitation efforts carried out on the site previously occupied by the BP refinery. The rehabilitation process aimed to restore the natural beauty and ecological balance of the area, making it a welcoming green space for both the local community and visitors to enjoy.
One of the primary goals of the rehabilitation was to address the environmental impacts left behind by the refinery. Extensive remediation works were conducted to clean up contaminated soil and water, ensuring the preservation of the ecosystem and the safety of those using the park. This process involved the removal of hazardous substances and the implementation of sustainable land management practices.
During the rehabilitation, the focus was not only on remediation but also on the enhancement of biodiversity. Native vegetation was reintroduced, creating habitats for various plant and animal species. This has not only contributed to the park’s aesthetic appeal but has also promoted a healthier ecosystem by attracting local wildlife.
Furthermore, the park’s infrastructure underwent significant upgrades to improve accessibility and provide amenities for visitors. New walking paths, seating areas, and picnic spots were established, encouraging people to explore the park and take advantage of its recreational opportunities. The inclusion of sustainable features, such as rain gardens and water-efficient irrigation systems, further reflects the commitment to environmental responsibility.
Walking through the park, information boards explain the area’s past. It’s amazing how much work has been undertaken to transform it from a contaminated industrial site to a beautiful park.
Meandering through the park, several paths lead you through the revegetated bush. Viewing platforms from the upper section provide fantastic vantage points to see Sydney Harbour as well as the bridge and city. From here you can also look down to where giant fuel tanks once stood but have been transformed into green circles.
At the southern end of the park, two old wooded piers, one of which has collapsed are still visible in Berrys Bay. From here we walked to the Coal Loader and its derelict Coal Loading Wharf before finishing our day at Balls Head Reserve.
Information BoardSteps leading into the reserveSign of the Former BP SiteOld pipe next to a walkwayExcavated Wall of the Old SiteThe Sydney Harbour Bridge from the walking trackSydney, The Harbour Bridge and Harbour From Carradah ParkRusty Steel Sculpture in the ReserveOld Oil Storage Tank Rehabilitation From BelowOil Storage Tank Rehabilitation From AboveOld Structure Toppling into Berrys BayOld Wooden structure rotting away in Berrys Bay
Located at Marsden Weir on the Wollondilly River, Goulburn Waterworks is another great attraction to visit in Goulburn. One of four pump-houses built at the same time, the Goulburn Waterworks is the only one with its original pumps. Unfortunately, the other three were sold for scrap
Intending to simply walk around the beautiful building, a volunteer was there, who took us through the interior. Not only is the original pump still there, but it is fully functioning. Lovingly restored and maintained by a group of volunteers, the pump looks brand new.
Built in 1883, the Appleby beam pump moved water from the Wollondilly River to a holding tank where it was around Goulburn. This enabled the town to expand, because previously a consistent water supply was not available. In time, demand outstripped the pump’s capacity newer technology replaced it. Fortunately, it avoided scrapping and we can still see it today.
Located in another section of the building is a Hick Hargreaves horizontal engine. This type of engine was a successor to the beam engine as they are more efficient and able to produce significantly more power on a smaller design. Although not originally part of the waterworks, it was still interesting to see.
The electric pumps that replaced the beam engine remain on site, so we were able to see them as well. Located in a sump, enclosed and painted grey they do not have the elegance of the original.
This was a fun visit, especially as were did not expect to go inside and see the pumping machinery.
Pump HouseOne of the Pump House’s FurnacesFlywheelAppleby Beam EngineThe Beam Engine’s GovernorAppleby Bros. Name PlateHick Hargreaves Horizontal EngineHick Hargreaves Horizontal EngineOld TelephoneElectric Pumps Marsden Weir on the Wollondilly River
To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.
