A Sunday Fun day on the Sydney Ferries: Unveiling the Mystery of Kissing Point #Sydney Ferry #KissingPoint Mystery #Local History
Ah, Sydney on a Sunday! There’s nothing quite like it – the crisp air, the sparkling harbor, and the gentle chug of a ferry gliding along the Parramatta River. One Sunday in Sydney, I found myself on one such ferry journey, soaking in the captivating views and the city’s infectious buzz.
These ferries, you see, are like the city’s buses on water. They weave their way through the harbor, stopping at wharves (those sturdy platforms by the riverside) that act as stations. Just like buses have their designated stops, these ferries have theirs, connecting different parts of the city.
Circular Quay, the starting point of my journey, is a hive of activity. Here, ferries of all shapes and sizes jostle for space – sleek River Cats, spacious River ferries, and even majestic tall ships. From here, you can choose your adventure: a thrilling ride to Manly, a historical exploration of Cockatoo Island, or a visit to the iconic Taronga Zoo.
My destination that day was Parramatta, but the journey itself was half the fun. As the ferry meandered down the river, it paused at various wharves – Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, and others. But one stop in particular piqued my curiosity: “Kissing Point”.
Intrigued by the name, I snapped a quick picture with my phone. Asking fellow passengers about its origin proved fruitless, with some offering vague explanations about a nearby park. It wasn’t until I returned to Circular Quay and chatted with a group of senior citizens that the true story began to unfold.
Apparently, back in 1794, this spot was known as Eastern Farms. But legend has it that the name Kissing Point arose from the way heavily laden boats would bump against a rocky outcrop here, as if “kissing” the riverbank. Over time, the name stuck, and by the early 19th century, it encompassed a much wider area.
The story doesn’t end there! It turns out there’s even a place called Kissing in a district of Germany. This little bit of trivia sparked a wave of laughter and lively discussions among my fellow passengers. Who knew a simple ferry stop could hold so much history and intrigue?
So, the next time you find yourself on a Sydney ferry, keep your eyes peeled for Kissing Point. It’s a reminder that even the most ordinary places can hold hidden stories waiting to be discovered.
Text and Photos (by Ashok Karan)
- Kissing Point Ferry Station
- Aboard the Sydney Ferry
- My trusty Opal Travel Card
Text and Photos by Ashok Karan
Website: htpp://www.ashokkaran.com
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