Dunningham Reserve

Dunningham Reserve

2R Baden Street, Coogee NSW 2034

2R Baden Street, Coogee NSW 2034
  • Toilets
  • Picnic tables
  • Litter bin

  • Dogs must be on leash
  • Playground Fenced
  • Coastal Walkway
  • Park seat
  • Sportsfield lights
  • Scenic lookout
  • Monument or memorial

  • Alcohol restrictions
  • Golf practice prohibited
  • Camping prohibited
  • Fires prohibited
  • Removal of flora & fauna prohibited

Alcohol prohibited

A permanent alcohol ban applies at this location.


Dunningham Reserve is located on the northern headland of Coogee Beach. Spectacular ocean and coastline views make this reserve a popular location for photographers and filmmakers in addition to the large number of recreational users.

Fees and charges apply for any commercial use of the reserve. The Eastern Beaches Coastal Walk  pathway runs along the coastal boundary of the reserve and is well used by walkers and joggers.

Other facilities include large grassed areas, picnic shelters, native trees and shrubs, drinking fountains, lighting and a temporary (summer) toilet block.

Drinking alcohol is not permitted in the park.

The Giles Gym and baths was a prominent feature in the reserve for most of the last century. Built in 1928 and under the management of Mr Oscar Giles, the health centre and hot baths became the progressive fitness venue of the time. Sandstone steps led from the complex to the ocean swimming pool below. Due to the deterioration of the buildings, the complex was demolished in 2000. The entry portico has been left standing as a memorial to the Giles Baths complex and in recognition of the significance of the buildings as a landmark in the area.

The portico has become a significant entry point to the newly developed landscape of Dunningham Reserve. Following the bombings in Bali in 2002, the former Giles Gym site has been designated as an official memorial to the victims of the bombing. The site was renamed Dolphin Point in 2003 memory of the six members of the Coogee Dolphins Football Club who died in the bombing.

A bronze sculpture by artist Sasha Reid featuring three linked figures signifying family, friends and community is located on site.  Bowed in sorrow and remembrance, they comfort, support and protect each other. The figures also symbolise life, growth, hope and our strength in unity. Individually, each figure could be easily toppled, but joined together they form a strong and supported whole structure.

The memorial was unveiled by NSW Premier Bob Carr on the first anniversary of the bombings, 12 October 2003. The other elements on Dolphin Point are a plaque on the wall of the restored portico that summarises the tragic events and lists the names of the 20 victims from the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney and a plaque nearby explaining the significance of the naming of the headland Dolphin Point. These were unveiled by Premier Carr and Randwick Mayor Dominic Sullivan on 12 April 2003. Each October, Randwick City Council holds a remembrance ceremony onsite.

Give us your feedback

Contact us online

Last Updated: 25 October 2022
Back to top