Who We Are

Friends of Sydney Harbour believes that the Harbour is arguably the most beautiful public space in the world. And as our late patron, Ian Kiernan, AO declared, “The harbour belongs to everyone.”

Friends of Sydney Harbour was formed in 2012 from public meetings which called on the NSW government to reject a proposal for a “floating heliport” to be moored in the harbour. A subsequent independent report commissioned by the government found damming evidence of inadequate planning, processes and outcome, with scant regard for due procedures, departmental review nor community concerns for safety, noise, and a complete lack of consultative processes. The “floating heliport” was rejected, and new regulatory standards reviewed and adopted by all relevant public authorities.

Since 2012 Friends of Sydney Harbour has been an important voice for the harbour, and an advocate for several community groups concerned with inappropriate development, overcrowding, pollution, water safety. See full list under Projects & Achievements.

We have always have been, and remain an independent, non-political, community based, not for profit group.

David Morris - Deputy Chair

“I believe that "the world’s most beautiful public space" will need to be increasingly defended against inappropriate development.”

Mark Gaudin - Secretary / Treasurer

"Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s great assets which can and should be shared by everyone in a safe and harmonious manner. I believe in working with the community to ensure the amenity of Sydney Harbour and its surrounds."

Robyn Bushell - Committee Member

"As a person who works at the interface of heritage management, tourism planning and community development I appreciate the many challenges in ensuring Sydney harbour remains the wonderful and accessible place it is. This requires very careful and responsible stewardship and advocacy'

David Pescud OAM - Committee Member

"Having been a sailor on Sydney Harbour for the last 30 plus years, I believe it is our responsibility to protect and ensure accessibility for all to the beauty of this iconic precinct with its unique natural assets now and for future generations."

Kathrina Doran - Committee Member

"The breathtaking Harbour was the key reason we fell in love with Sydney and decided to make it our home. I believe we have a social responsibility to ensure our native asset is protected, not only for our generation but for the next generations to love, share and appreciate."

Will Manning - Committee Member

"Having grown up on the Harbour, currently working on the Harbour and committed to ensuring a future on the Harbour for my kids, I believe we are socially and morally bound to look after Sydney Harbour for all"

Mark Buchanan - Committee Member

“Sydney Harbour has long been acknowledged as one of the world’s most beautiful places. It is vital to protect and preserve it for future generations, and to ensure that it can continue to be enjoyed by everyone.”

John Molyneux - Patron

“We were galvanised into community action by the NSW government’s failure to listen to Sydneysider’s concerns.”

Rodney Northam

"I have had a connection to Sydney’s Harbour and waterways throughout my life; rowing at school and on to the 1964 Olympics, later making a career sailing in my father’s wake, and now on the harbour aboard my Halvorsen motor boat."

Get in Touch

We welcome your inquiries and feedback. Connect with us to support the preservation of Sydney Harbour's beauty and enjoyment for all.

Contact

info@friendsofsydneyharbour.org.au