Captain James Cook Discovered Norfolk Island 247 years ago

How long is it since you have been out to the northern end of Norfolk Island? Out to beautiful Captain Cook Lookout Memorial Reserve in the National Park? There are picnic tables and a BBQ area, a fantastic boardwalk and toilet facility, these were built a couple of years ago. The area is not just the start of the National Park Bridle Track, it is the famous landing place and monument to Captain James Cook.

The viewing areas next to the car park have excellent information signs and show where Captain Cook anchored, which is known as “The Cord”, looking towards Duncombe Bay. If you wander down the grassy slope you will come to a stone cairn which was erected in 1953. The plaque reads:

“Captain James Cook, RN, on his second voyage around the world discovered and named this island, Norfolk Isle, landing in the Vicinity of this point on October 10, 1774.”

Cook was the first recorded European to sight Norfolk Island, while sailing in command of the HMS Resolution from New Caledonia to New Zealand. Cook took possession of the Isle as he had done with all the others he had discovered and named it “Norfolk Isles” in honour of that noble family. Next morning Cook came ashore and gave his first detailed description of the Island. The tall Norfolk Pine was of value to England and needed for the ship building and flax plants for sails for the English ships.

If you stroll down to the lower viewing area you have a stunning view towards Bird Rock, Elephant Rock, Cathedral Rock and more. This is a lovely place to watch the sea birds, have a nice afternoon break looking for passing whales or trying to spot a turtle in the lovely clear blue water. Don’t forget to take your camera, and if it is windy hold onto your hat.

In 1974, the bicentenary of Norfolk Island’s discovery saw the first monarch to visit Norfolk Island, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips arriving on the Royal Yacht Britannia. Also attending the celebration was the Australian Prime Minister EG Whitlam and his wife. The Queen attended a traditional island picnic and other functions.

The road out to Captain Cook Reserve is closed for maintenance at present, check for updates for when the road will re-open again. If you feel energetic and fit, you are welcome to explore the coastal tracks in the Norfolk Island National Park, which also has wonderful views, and the Bridal Track walk is a return track to the Captain Cook Reserve. Pack refreshments, to take on your walk, you will need drinks and food on your return walk plus remember your sun protection.

When visiting Norfolk Island, add this beautiful historic area as a must place to visit. Take a drive out to the beautiful “Captain Cook Lookout Memorial Reserve” in the Norfolk Island National Park and enjoy a picnic under the shade of the trees.

The history of Norfolk Island is so interesting, this week is 247 years since Captain James Cook first discovered this small island in the Pacific, the Rock we call home – Norfolk Island.

Betty Matthews

October 2021