Media Release

Morrison rallies community taskforce for Cook's 250th anniversary

Thursday 6th May 2010

Local Federal Member for Cook, Scott Morrison has invited Shire community leaders to join the Cook 2020 Taskforce which would aim to ensure Cook’s Landing Place properly reflects its status as the birthplace of modern Australia in time for the 250th anniversary of Cook’s Landing.

“April 29, 2020, will mark the 250th anniversary of Cook's landing at Kurnell and the birth of modern Australia. This should be the most significant national celebration since our Bicentenary,” Mr Morrison said.

“We need to realize the full opportunity of this once in a generation event to bring a national focus to rehabilitating the Kurnell Peninsula to ensure it reflects its true status as the birthplace of modern Australia.

"While recent improvements are welcome they represent a modest start to what is needed. There is significant work still to be done to overcome decades of neglect.

“The Taskforce will draw on representatives from our federal and state parliaments and local councillors with a direct interest in Kurnell, together with local indigenous, business and community representatives in the area.

“The first item of business for the Taskforce will be to agree on a submission to federal, state and local governments to support works and initiatives as part of a comprehensive Cook 2020 celebration programme.

“These works could include: a new and additional monument to be opened on the 250th anniversary, a new world class museum of Pacific Discovery to house a new and permanent Cook exhibition in association with the National Maritime Museum, a new world class indigenous interpretive centre established parallel to the museum of Pacific Discovery celebrating indigenous culture, and an on site venue with major catering facilities.

“In addition to these facilities and events, I believe we should also take the opportunity to upgrade local infrastructure at Kurnell to deliver a broader community legacy from the anniversary including re-establishing a wharf at Kurnell/Silver Beach to provide ferry and launch access and a proper heritage drive on Captain Cook Drive, with a separated cycle way, from Elouera Road to Kurnell.

“The Taskforce would also seek to approach respected local, state and national individuals to serve as Cook 2020 ambassadors to help us achieve our ambitious goals.

“We have ten years of opportunity before us and there is much to be gained by getting started as early as we can. Together we can make April 29, 2020 a truly national celebration all Australians can be proud of,” Mr Morrison said.