At 36 Bridge Street, Macquarie Place Park is a small green space filled with traces of Sydney’s early history. Find the obelisk that marked the starting point for measuring roads from the city, plus an anchor and cannon from the Sirius, the First Fleet’s flagship. A plaque records trees planted by Queen Elizabeth II during her 1954 visit. Look for the “Distance of Your Heart” installation too: 60 bronze birds are set along Bridge Street, with 12 in the park. Benches offer a place to pause near Circular Quay.
The obelisk and Sydney’s road distances
Macquarie’s obelisk marks the original measuring point for public roads connecting Sydney with neighbouring towns. Its distance markings use miles. The monument offers a tangible link to the city’s early transport routes and makes a useful starting point for exploring the park’s other memorials.
The Sirius and the First Fleet
An anchor and a cannon salvaged from the Sirius, the First Fleet’s flagship, are among the park’s historic objects. A plaque also records trees planted by Queen Elizabeth II during her 1954 visit to Australia. Together, these markers connect the site with Sydney’s early settlement and a later royal visit.
Finding the bronze birds
“Distance of Your Heart” places 60 bronze birds along Bridge Street. Twelve are within the park, including the area around a bench bearing the installation’s name. The remaining birds are spread along the street, so allow time to search beyond the park’s small grounds.
Small details in the park
At the northeast corner, an iron dome marks a former public toilet that has been filled in. An original well is another detail to look for. The compact park also has trees, green space and benches, with pubs and restaurants nearby.
Preguntas frecuentes
What historic objects can you see at Macquarie Place Park?
The park has Macquarie’s obelisk, an anchor and cannon from the Sirius, and a plaque about trees planted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1954.
Where can I find the bronze birds?
The “Distance of Your Heart” installation has 60 bronze birds along Bridge Street. Twelve are in the park.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow around 30 to 60 minutes to see the monuments and look for the bronze birds.
