Between 1788 and 1800, the point was used as a fishing and hunting ground for European settlers and as a source of ballast for ships returning unladen to Europe, hence the name Ballast Point. In 1800 the point was part of a grant to colonial surgeon Dr William Balmain (1762–1803) made by Governor John Hunter. A year later, Balmain sold his entire holding to John Gilchrist for five shillings and the area then became known as Gilchrist's place. In 1833, Gilchrist transferred power of attorney to Frederick Parbury who, three years later, commissioned surveyor John Armstrong to lay out sub divisions. This survey formed the basis of sales between 1836 and 1841.