Sydney's Best Film and Event Location: White Bay Power Station

The NSW Government recently invested $100 million AUD to support the extensive remediation works on the heritage-listed building, transforming White Bay Power Station into one of Sydney’s most sought-after event and filming locations.

Built between 1912 and 1917, White Bay Power Station was originally built to power Sydney’s tram system, and later, its rail network. This powerhouse played a crucial role in the city’s development and remained in service until 1984. Though its turbines have long since silenced, its towering brick façade and steel infrastructure has captivated global filmmakers, location managers and creatives for decades.

In fact, this might surprise you: while Baz Luhrmann (2013) The Great Gatsby is synonymous with the glitz and glamour of 1920s New York, some of its most iconic scenes were filmed right here at White Bay Power Station. It was also here, that CATO Location Services, Managing Director, Kieran Cato, was introduced to the film industry, originally joining the crew as Unit Assistant and later becoming American actor and filmmaker Tobey Maguire’s Personal Assistant. It was whilst on this set where he got the idea to start CATO Location Services, formally known as CATO Logistics.

Whilst White Bay Power Station has a cinematic past, it is not just for filmmakers, it is also making a name for itself in the events industry. The Ministry of Sound Testament event recently brought life to the station over two weekends, filled with ‘90s and ‘00s nostalgia. This marked the first time the venue had hosted a large-scale music event.

The highly successful event was made possible through the collaboration of Orbit Company, Ministry of Sound AU, Placemaking NSW and CATO Location Services. From coordinating road closures to directing traffic, CATO Crew played a critical role in transforming the space into a safe and welcoming environment for thousands of music fans by providing Traffic Control Services.

Whether you’re shooting a music video, hosting a fashion show, or staging a film production, this venue offers an exceptional canvas that will bring your vision to life.

Check out our full list of Traffic Control Services here.

Sydney's best film and event location: White Bay Power House, Rozelle. Image sourced from Biennale Sydney.
Sydney's best film and event location: White Bay Power House, Rozelle. Image sourced from Biennale Sydney.
Scene from Baz Luhrmann's 2013, The Great Gatsby shot within the walls of White Bay Power Station.
Scene from Baz Luhrmann's 2013, The Great Gatsby shot within the walls of White Bay Power Station.

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