Putney

Putney is a lovely spot on the Parramatta River, about 12km or so north-west of Sydney's CBD. It is a suburb rich in riverside parks, two of which are spiritually significant to Aborigines. Originally a forest of predominantly mahogany and grey box trees, forest gum and tea tree brush, today Punchbowl is intensively residential.

Just a kilometre or so downstream from the Ryde Bridge, Kissing Point Park is acknowledged as an Aboriginal burial ground and the site is said to contain the remains of Bennelong, who was befriended by Governor Arthur Phillip. Under Phillip"s patronage, Bennelong went to England where he was presented to King George III before returning to Sydney where he died at Kissing Point in 1813. Originally a forest of predominantly mahogany and grey box trees, forest gum and tea tree brush, today Punchbowl is intensively residential.

Another few minutes downstream is Glades Bay Park which preserves Aboriginal drawings. Putney Park is a popular picnicking spot - complete with electric BBQs, a children"s wading pool and, if you're in the mood for a bit of adventure, the longest slippery dip on the river.

Putney is in the Ryde municipality which covers most of the land between the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers which, of course, are part of Sydney Harbour.