What is Cockatoo Island most known for?

Cockatoo Island is most well-known for its historic convict penal establishment and shipyard, which operated from the 1830s until its closure in the early 1990s. During its operation, the island served as a place of punishment and labor for convicts, housing both male and female prisoners. The island's convict history has left a significant impact on its present-day character and heritage. Cockatoo Island is now a popular tourist destination and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors interested in its historical and cultural significance.