Governor Maquarie was the 4th territorial governor of New South Wales. He’s attributed responsibility for straightening out and building the major roads and thoroughfares through the City. His wife, after whom at least one road is named, convinced the convicts to carve her a “chair” out of the rock at the end of the road so she could sit and watch the harbor.
Bear in mind, this was 1810, and she was probably a bit bored, since there wasn’t much in the way of civilized society besides the convicts that were stationed here.
It’s said to be THE place from which to see the New Year’s fireworks, since it’s got a great view of both the Opera House and the Bridge, with the fireworks set off in the harbour just between the two.
