White Bay Power Station: Sydney’s Historic Landmark Transformed into a Vibrant Arts Hub

The White Bay Power Station once produced electricity for Sydney’s tram and train networks, and most of the city as well. Now, this grand industrial castle has been repurposed as a thriving arts and entertainment precinct. 

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In 1912, construction began on a new power station at White Bay with the laying of the first bricks. As Sydney grew rapidly, its burgeoning rail transport system required increased electricity. The White Bay Power Station was completed in 1917. The large building, featuring distinctive chimney stacks and a Federation Anglo-Dutch style facade, made a striking impression on the White Bay shoreline, not far from Sydney Harbour. 

This coal-powered behemoth produced the bulk of Sydney’s electricity for many decades, receiving upgrades in 1923–1928 and 1945–1948 to keep up with demand. 

With an increase and diversity in power suppliers around the city, White Bay Power Station eventually became redundant and was decommissioned on Christmas Day, 1983. It was Sydney’s longest-serving power station. 

Despite being acknowledged as a landmark, the power station building faced an uncertain future following its closure. It avoided immediate demolition due to the significant decontamination efforts needed to ensure the site's safety. Subsequently, in 1999, White Bay Power Station, along with several original pieces of machinery, was formally included in the Heritage Register. 

A New Chapter: Saving and Restoring a Heritage Landmark

In 2000, Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (now Placemaking NSW)  purchased the entire site for $4 million. As part of an overall plan to conserve the White Bay area, Placemaking NSW carried out extensive restoration and preservation of the power station buildings, surrounding structures, and the equipment that had been saved, much of which had unique historical significance. 

But it wasn’t until 2021 that any real future purpose for the power station manifested itself. Thanks to a major injection of funds and imagination, the White Bay Power Station was now being envisioned as a vibrant arts and culture hub. Its massive dimensions would house large-scale exhibitions and be a venue for entertainment and cultural events. 

Reimagined as an Arts and Entertainment Hub

Its transformation is expected to be a long-term work in progress, but in the meantime, White Bay has already begun its new role as an arts precinct. It made a magnificent debut in March this year when it hosted the Sydney Biennale, with the raw industrial features and machinery being one with the showcase of international artworks on display. 

Since opening, the power station has also hosted the Auto Live car show, Sony Scene Tradeshow, the Power Up Festival, and two Ministry of Sound club nights, among many other events. Ministry of Sound will return in April next year with a more extensive program of events still to be announced. 

Robert St, Rozelle

www.whitebaypowerstation.com