Free DigiTalk: The Vernon and the Sobraon

Quick overview

Between 1871 and 1911, Cockatoo Island hosted two nautical school ships: the ‘Vernon’ (1871-1892) and the ‘Sobraon’ (1892 to 1911). These ships operated industrial schools for wayward, neglected, and homeless boys.

With a wholesome curriculum of academic work, trade-training and sport, these ships – effectively the first Public Industrial Schools in NSW – sought to rescue the rising criminal generations from further degradation.

Join Sydney-based historian, author and teacher, Sarah Luke on Wednesday 14 April as she discusses the research that fuelled her latest book, Like a Wicked Noah’s Ark: The Nautical School Ships Vernon & Sobraon. Sarah will delve into the daily workings of the two ships, and discuss some of their most interesting alumni. 

• When: 1pm to 2pm, Wednesday 14 April 2021


• Where: Cockatoo Island


• Meeting Point: Success Room, Building 30, Cockatoo Island. Upon arrival walk through the archway and the meeting point is the first building on your left. 


• In-person presentation: Due to limited space bookings are essential


• Participate online:  This talk is also being delivered via the ZOOM webinar platform so you can tune in from home, for further inforamtion see: DigiTalks

About the presenter

Sarah Luke is a teacher and historian. Her first book, 'Callan Park, Hospital for the Insane', was shortlisted for the 2019 NSW Premier’s History Award (Community and Regional History Prize). Her second book, 'Like a Wicked Noah’s Ark: The Nautical School Ships Vernon & Sobraon', was published in 2020.

Plan ahead

For information about getting to Cockatoo Island, including by public transport, see: Cockatoo Island – Visitor Overview. This webpage also contains information on public facilities and nearby visitor parking.

Related: Harbour Trust DigiTalks and the Harbour Trust website.