Field Notes: The Hipcamp Team Takes Cockatoo Island

Brooke recaps a one-of-a-kind Hipcamp team campout under the stars in Sydney.

Part of the Hipcamp team spent two nights together on an island in the middle of Sydney Harbour, and I’m happy to report we all survived—no one was voted off the island!

As a remote company, we make it a priority to gather in person several times a year. That’s how the Australia-based team—along with Hipcamp Founder & CEO Alyssa Ravasio—recently gathered to camp together on Cockatoo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site right in the heart of Sydney Harbour.

I booked deluxe waterfront tents for everyone, making it an easy and comfortable glamping-style experience. The tents were well-equipped with stretcher beds, linens, towels, and lanterns, so all we had to bring were our clothes and some food. Even better, meals were a breeze, as the island’s two cafes made team breakfasts and coffee runs effortless.

What stood out most about Cockatoo Island were the conveniences—think hot showers, flushing toilets, instant hot water in the camp kitchen (no need to bring the Jetboil for morning coffee or instant noodles!), spotless barbecue facilities, and a central campfire pit lit every night. The entire island was impressively clean and well-maintained.

During our visit, we took part in a guided tour of the island. It was fascinating to learn about Cockatoo Island’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed convict history and its rich shipping heritage. For a bit of fun (and maybe a little fright), we also shared ghost stories inspired by the island’s after-dark ghost tours, which are available at certain times of the year.

Other highlights included watching an outdoor cinema-style movie in one of the historic buildings (showings run nightly at 7pm and 9pm) and participating in a team mobility session organised on the island’s lawn under a big shady tree.

For meals, breakfast and lunch at the island’s cafes were quick and convenient. Dinner, however, was a standout experience. Sharon from the Cockatoo Island team arranged for us to travel by private transport to Woolwich, where we enjoyed a six-star dinner at Deckhouse. The food was exquisite, and the views of Sydney Harbour were unmatched. If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend reaching out to Sharon to arrange a personalised booking like this—it elevated our experience and made the trip unforgettable.

Ultimately, what made the trip so special was the chance to spend quality time together as a team in a relaxed setting, doing what we love most—camping. Cockatoo Island proved to be the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and adventure, an ideal spot for team retreats or just a memorable getaway.

Consider a camping trip on Cockatoo Island for your next adventure!