Ferguson's Cottage

Ferguson's Cottage is a weatherboard house with an iron roof located near South Coffs breakwater in Coffs Harbour. The original kitchen section remains visible, showing how residents lived and worked within the small space.

The building was constructed in 1912 by the New South Wales Department of Public Works as a temporary office during South Coffs breakwater construction. After the project ended, it was converted and used as a residence.

Evelyn Ferguson turned this house into a gathering place where Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people met and built relationships. It became a space where different communities came together to connect.

The cottage is protected under the New South Wales State Heritage Register, meaning its original structure cannot be altered or modified. Visitors should check local access guidelines and visiting hours before planning a visit.

This building started as a temporary construction site office but was never removed and instead became a permanent home. Few similar Public Works Department offices from that era survived and were repurposed in such a way.

Location: New South Wales

Address: 1 Breakwater Road, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

GPS coordinates: -30.31080,153.14000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21