Statue of Thomas Mort, Sydney

This status in Macquarie Place Park in Central Sydney, just behind Circular Quay, commemorates an imperial pioneer.

The plaque states:

"THOMAS SUTCLIFFE MORT

Born: England 1816
Arrived: Austraiia 1837
Died: Australia 1878

A pioneer of Australian resources. A founder of Australian industries.
One who established our wool market

The first to make exports of perishable food possible by refrigeration and to provide docks for the reception of the World's shipping.

A founder of the Australian mutual provident society.

And foremost in every movement for the are and welfare of his fellow citizens, who in gratitude erected this monument to his memory."


Mort was a fascinating example of the Victorian entrepreneur. His dry dock and engineering works was an early example of employee shareholding. HIs freezing works at Darling Harbour was the first in the World.

This statue was placed here in 1883 following a public meeting which resolved to show its respect and esteem in which Thomas Mort had been held.