White Bay Power Station Timeline

Learn the history of White Bay Power Station from before it was constructed through to its restoration and transformation. This is White Bay Power Station's timeline.
This is a place rich with the stories and heritage of First Nations people, which was originally built on the lands of the Wann and Gadi people.

White Bay Power Station has been a cornerstone of Sydney's industrial past for over a century. The power station initially played a pivotal role in powering the city’s tram and rail networks. Over the years, it was expanded to support various industrial operations, contributing significantly to Sydney’s growth. Decommissioned in the 1980s, the site was later recognised for its historical significance and added to the NSW Heritage Register. Today, the power station is being revitalised into a vibrant cultural and community hub, honouring its industrial past while embracing new possibilities. 
Pre 1788
  • Prior to European settlement Bays West was inhabited by the Wann and Gadi people – a place where ceremony and culture have long been enacted.
1788 - 1860
  • 1788 - 1860: The arrival of the first fleet. The land around the Bays West precinct was divided up and grants issued for farming and agriculture. Sydney's abbatoirs were located close by on Glebe Island from around 1850.
Image courtesy of State Library of NSW.
1912-1917: Construction and early use

  • 1912: NSW Railway Commissioners commenced construction of White Bay Power Station. 

  • 1917: White Bay Power Station opens, initially powering Sydney's tram system and later its rail network.

    Image courtesy of State Rail Archives 0363-000.

1920s-1950s: Expansion and operations

  • 1928: Second stage is completed, enhancing the power station’s capacity and infrastructure. 

  • 1920s: Supports various industrial operations, including wharves for bulk chemical shipping. 

  • 1940s: During World War II, Glebe Island serves as a key staging area for US troops. 

  • 1950s: The Power Station expands to supply electricity to Sydney and suburban residences and businesses.

    Image courtesy of State Rail Archives 0363-000.

1980s-1990s: Decommissioning and heritage listing

  • 1984: The power station is decommissioned after serving Sydney for around 70 years. 

  • 1999: Is added to the NSW Heritage Register, recognising its historical significance to the development of Sydney.

    Image courtesy of Department of Railway Archives E2599

2000s-Present: Restoration and transformation
  • 2000: NSW government transfers the site to Placemaking NSW, marking the beginning of its transformation. 
  • 2021: Significant government investment is made to enable reopening as an arts and culture venue. The Bays West Place Strategy is published. 
  • 2022: Bays West Stage 1 Rezoning Finalisation Report is published, setting planning controls for the development. 
  • 2021-2024: Ongoing remediation and conservation works are undertaken to preserve the site’s heritage and prepare it for community use, transforming it into a cultural hub. 
  • 2024, March 4:  Premier of NSW, Chris Minns officially opens White Bay Power Station.
  • 2024, March 8: White Bay Power Station opens to the public for its first major event, the 24th Biennale of Sydney.