Curlew Camp, Sirius Cove

         

Tom Roberts, Curlew Camp

Over the weekend I took the ferry to Mosman to join a walking tour to see the site of a camp used by a number of well known Australian artists including Tom Roberts and Arthur Streeton. 

A family who had a store in the city used to come to this spot to camp in the late 1800's.  Artists met the store owners and were invited to join them at this beautiful spot.

         

         

Tom Roberts

There were about six tents scattered amongst the bush wherever there was flat ground.  They had a dance floor, piano and dining tent and there was even a cook providing meals.  

The artists loved  painting en plein air but would also go into the city to paint portraits. At the end of the day they would take the ferry to the closest stop and then whistle or call cooee for someone to row out and pick them up.

         

Arthur Streeton, Sirius Cove 1890

Of course there are no tents or buildings left at this camp site but engraved in a big rock  are the words Curlew Camp, 1890.

                                     

A little sketch done at Sirius Cove looking at the Sea Scout hall and boats.