Park ImprovementPlan wins industryaccolade

Trust establishesCyclist LiaisonCommittee

Viva Brasil!

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F C E N T E N N I A L P A R K L A N D S

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parklands

3Parklands Summer 2006–2007

As the year draws to a close, it is timely to

reflect on our achievements and challenges

to date.

Our new Plan of Management 2006–2016

received Ministerial endorsement in

April providing the Parklands with a firm

platform for managing the Trust’s diverse

landholdings and securing essential

government and non-government funding

in the future.

In May we marked the successful

completion of over $3 million of major

infrastructure improvements to Grand

Drive, had our trees re-valued at $164

million and received water savings grants

through the Centennial Parklands

Foundation that will enable works to be

undertaken which will save approximately

12 million litres of town water a year.

Many successful activities and events were

held during 2006 and our visitor research

showed a consistent increase in customer

visitation and satisfaction. A highlight of the

year was National Tree Day in July which

saw over 100 trees and 1000 shrubs

planted in Centennial Park and Moore Park.

The Trust was also proud to receive a

Stewardship Award from the Australian

Institute of Landscape Architect in October

recognising the Trust for its exceptional

conservation of Centennial Parklands through

its Park Improvement Plan 2003–2010. For

more details, see the article on page 4.

Our 2005–2006 Annual Report is now

available and features a detailed overview of

the Trust’s operations over the past financial

year. For a copy of the report, visit

www.cp.nsw.gov.au or call the Parklands

Office on (02) 9339 6699.

I wish you a safe and happy festive season

and all the best for 2007.

Steve Corbett

Director and Chief ExecutiveCentennial Parklands

Contents

2 Parklands Summer 2006–2007

Directions

Parkbench 3

Park Improvement Plan wins

industry accolade 4

Trust establishes Cyclist Liaison

Committee 4

Events Wrap-up 5

Viva Brasil! 6

Twitcher’s Corner – hardhead 8

Column Garden gets a facelift 8

Tree of the Season – rose 9

Pedal Pushers 9

Healthy Parks 10

Healthy People 10

Foundation and Friends 11

Visitor Information 12

Parklands Magazine is published quarterly by theCentennial Park & Moore Park Trust: Locked Bag 15, Paddington NSW 2021 Centennial Parklands is managed by the CentennialPark and Moore Park Trust. Trustees: Professor John Niland AC (Chairman)

Annabelle Bennett AO David LeckieYvette Pietsch Allan YoungJohn Walker Sarah WhyteMargaret Varady AO

The Centennial Park and Moore Park Trustacknowledges the Cadigal as the traditional custodiansof the land that is now known as Centennial Parklands.Editor: Rachel Ely

rachel.ely@cp.nsw.gov.auContributors: Trevor Waller, Julie Hunter WardPhotography: Kristin Clarke, Chris GleisnerPrinted on recycled paperCover: Odilon Farias, a member of the BrazilianSoccer Club

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Parkbench

Improving safety onCarrington DriveA traffic management report iscurrently being finalised whichreviews current traffic arrangementson Carrington Drive in CentennialPark, during normal park operationsand also during the MoonlightCinema season. The use of improvedsignage and line marking is being investigated to increase pedestrian safetyand vehicular flows in normal and event modes. The implementation ofthese changes is anticipated to be ready for the commencement of MoonlightCinema in early December 2006.

Cricket onto a good wicketAfter 80 years of ‘caught-behinds’and ‘LBWs’, the premium gradeturf wicket at McKay Oval hasbeen renovated. These significantimprovements involved excavatingthe soil to a depth of 150 mm tointegrate the new supply ofOberon soil with the existing soilprofile and turfing the surface witha couch grass variety called

‘Conquest’. This reconstruction will greatly benefit our regular cricket hirersand will be completed in time for the second half of the season in 2007.

CCC welcomes newmemberIn September 2006, the CommunityConsultative Committee (CCC) welcomed newmember Dr Don Carseldine. Dr Carseldinehas worked in the field of road safety for over30 years and is a specialist in road userbehaviour. As a regular dog walker and cyclist, Dr Carseldine is a long-term and frequentvisitor to the Parklands and he is lookingforward to working with members of thecommunity to see the Parklands retain theirsafe and predominantly peaceful character.

Golf course upgrades on parThe scheduled improvements to the Moore Park Golf Course are now about tocommence following the completion of theProton NSW Open which was held inNovember. Pending weather conditions, themajority of works are programmed forcompletion by mid 2007. The upgrade willinclude additional bunker drainage and thereplacement of damaged driving range safetynetting. Additionally, a proposed new footpathon Dacey Avenue will be brought forward tothe first stage of work to improve perimeteraccess for the wider community.

Carrington Drive

McKay Oval’s wicket under construction

Moore Park Golf Course

Dog walkers get pat on the back fromRangersAs phase three of Centennial Parklands ongoingVisitor Safety Program, Rangers have beentargeting dog walkers. Rangers spent a four-weekperiod during October and November speakingto park visitors about dog management anddistributing information about the CompanionAnimals Act to inform and educate people abouttheir responsibilities. Areas such as playgrounds,on-leash dog walking areas and ponds were themain focus of the program and the results werevery pleasing. Senior Ranger David Caple, saysthat over the course of the program Rangersspoke to about 175 dog walkers, but did nothave to issue any infringements. ‘Most of the people we spoke to were veryaccepting of the efforts of Rangers,’ David shares, ‘but unfortunately mostadmitted to being unaware of the regulations. This shows a real need forongoing education and communication with dog walkers about our rules’. For information about dogs in Centennial Parklands, visitwww.cp.nsw.gov.au/visitor information/dogs or call the Parklands Office on(02) 9339 6699 for a dog brochure.

Ranger Colin Cheshire discussesregulations with a dog walker

5Parklands Summer 2006–20074

The flavours ofspring

NSW Open returns to Moore ParkFor the first time since 1963, the Moore Park GolfCourse hosted the prestigious Proton NSW Open. This event, held from 9 to 12 November, sawthe cream of Australia’s young golfing talentpitted against seasoned touring professionalscompeting for over $125,000 in prize money. The 2006 PGA sanctioned Proton NSW Openwas the final event on the important Von NidaTour, and gave top finishers an importantexemption into the Australian Open held thefollowing week at Royal Sydney. Spectators enjoyed free entry to the event andtook the rare chance to witness top golf beingplayed out on a quality, public Golf Course so close to the CBD. As part of a special

competition, one lucky spectator walked away with a great golfingaccommodation prize by predicting the winning score of the tournament.Despite the recent dry weather, the course stood up magnificently to thedemands of the five-day tournament – a credit to Centennial Parklands GolfCourse Superintendent, Mal Durkin, and his hard-working maintenance team.

Walkers help find a cure For the fourth consecutive year, theJuvenile Diabetes Research Foundationheld its annual Walk to Cure Diabetes inCentennial Parklands. Held concurrentlyacross Australia on 15 October, the 5 kmwalk aimed to raise awareness and moneyto find a cure for juvenile diabetes and itscomplications through the support ofresearch. The 10,000 strong crowdcompleted the walk with muchenthusiasm. After crossing the finish line,they were entertained with music from Jellybean Jam and treated to a selection offood and drinks stalls.

Ride for Life raises $70,000The wintry conditions did not dampen the enthusiasm of hundreds of riders andspectators who turned out for the thirdannual Ride for Life on Saturday, 5 August.Held in Centennial Park, the event cateredto varying levels of cycling expertise, withseveral different categories of races tochoose from. While the races were verypopular, many people just turned up tocheer on the enthusiastic cyclists some ofwhom were riding in memory of a lovedone and pedalling to raise funds for cancer research. Event founder Rick Christiewas delighted with the success of the event. ‘We raised over $70,000 for theOncology Department at the Prince of Wales Hospital,’ he says, ‘which is afantastic achievement for all involved’.

Now a regular feature of the Sydney‘foodie’ scene, the Sydney MorningHerald’s Good Food Month Spring Picnicwas held at Centennial Park’s BrazilianFields on Sunday, 22 October. Althoughovercast skies greeted early-comers, thesun shone through in the afternoon andbrought with it over 6,000 food-lovers toenjoy the fantastic array of gourmet foodand drink stalls. Picnickers relaxed onrugs and were entertained with smoothSunday afternoon grooves whilst theysampled the tastes of Sydney’s finestprovidores.

Park Improvement Plan wins industry accolade

Trust establishes Cyclist Liaison Committee

The Centennial Park and Moore ParkTrust has been awarded one of the firstever Australian Industry of LandscapeArchitects (AILA) Stewardship Awards forthe Park Improvement Plan. Theannouncement was made at AILA’srecent National Awards Dinner held inMelbourne’s MCG Dining Room on 27October.The Centennial Park and Moore ParkTrust was one of only two recipients ofthis new award which may be granted toany agency responsible for themanagement and stewardship of publiclands. The award acknowledges theintegrity of design while recognising thatlandscapes should be allowed to evolveand may go through processes of change. This award signifies Centennial Parklandsinclusion as one of 26 locations on AILA’snational list of Australian SignificantLandscapes, which include designed sitesand urban spaces that have eitherretained the integrity of the original design

or managed with the clear intention toevolve the design towards defined andarticulated stewardship objectives. The award recognises the rigour andconsultation associated with thedevelopment of the Park ImprovementPlan—a NSW Treasury approved capitalprogram of $50M over a period of sevenyears which will result in significantimprovements across the Parklands. AILAacknowledges that the Park ImprovementPlan ensures a park system that issustainable, attractive, cost effective, safeand of high quality. To date over $25M has been spent onover 60 projects ranging from minorservices upgrades and heritage stonerestoration through to new toilet blocksand major civil projects. The PondRestoration Program and the upgrade toGrand Drive were given special mentionas exceptional projects involving designtesting, community consultation andachieving improved environmental and

social benefits. A four-member Design Review Panel wasestablished by the Trust in 2003 to ensureconsistent and high quality design and toprovide independent expert advice onprojects within the Park Improvement Plan.

The Centennial Park and Moore ParkTrust recently established a Cyclist LiaisonCommittee to provide a formalframework for consultation between theTrust and the cycling groups that useCentennial Park for training. Chaired by Inspector Eddie Bosch fromNSW Police, the Committee comprisesrepresentatives from nine local cyclingand triathlon organisations as well asCentennial Parklands Rangers. Thecommittee will meet quarterly to discussany issues of interest or concern affectingcyclists using Centennial Parklands. A keen cyclist himself, Inspector Boschbrings to the committee a strongknowledge of regulations and an acuteunderstanding of cyclist behaviour. ‘I hopethat through regular communication andcontact with cyclists, the committee canpromote a safe, enjoyable and highstandard of cycling in the Parklands,’ saysInspector Bosch.

Ranger Brian Page acts as the CyclingLiaison Officer for the Trust, and believesthis committee is an important forum forfostering open communication withcyclists as well as encouraging selfregulation within cycling groups. ‘It is anideal opportunity for both cyclists andRangers to discuss any issues andconcerns – and to consult with the cyclinggroups regarding any proposed events,capital works or planning strategies,’ saysBrian. ‘The sport is growing in popularityand we are seeing increased numbers ofcyclists using Centennial Parklands fortraining and recreation. This growingdemand has encouraged the Trust to beproactive in consulting this significant usergroup and to find solutions to any issuesthat arise’. At the most recent meeting held inSeptember, the cycling groupsunanimously agreed that the formation ofthis group was one of the most positive

initiatives to ever be undertaken to safelyaccommodate the needs of cyclists aspart of the wider community. Therepresentatives have already suggested anumber of key ideas that have encouragedpositive changes to cyclist behaviour andimproved safety for all road users. For more information, cyclists areencouraged to contact their clubrepresentatives.

Park News Events Wrap-up

Parklands Summer 2006–2007

NSW AILA President Garth Paterson accepts the award onbehalf of Centennial Parklands

Food-lovers gather for the Spring Picnic

The Proton NSW Open at Moore ParkGolf Club

The Committee will promote a safe and enjoyableexperience for all cyclists

Thousands walk the 5 km circuit

Cyclists pedal for a good cause

Parklife 8

Crowds at Parklife 8

Since its inception eight years ago, Parklifehas grown from a modest gig to a sell-outevent that is an essential date on the partycircuit calendar. Featuring three stages ofinternational artists and local talent, the22,000 young revellers grooved to thelikes of Coldcut, Ian Pooley, Touche andMattafix. Moore Park’s Kippax lakesidesurrounds were the ideal setting for thisincreasingly popular festival, making theOctober long weekend a highlight onSydney’s music scene.

On any given Sunday in CentennialParklands, there are groups of all sortspicnicking and enjoying a social game offooty. Groups of friends may gather for aBBQ or special date whilst othersprepare a festive spread from the picnicbasket to celebrate a family occasion. Butone group of dedicated visitors havetaken the familiar picnic in the park andtransformed it into a regular weeklycultural event that has become a traditionthat binds an entire community.The Brazilian Soccer Club has beencongregating in Centennial Parklandseach week for over 35 years. More thanjust a sports club, the group has fostereda unique tradition for their small but tight-knit community to celebrate thecustoms of their home country and toprovide support and friendship to theirBrazilian counterparts. This now much-loved ritual began in1972 with a modest group of migrantswho sought the security of familiaraccents and a Brazilian way of life. Theirmutual love of football and all thingsBrazilian saw the inception of a weekly

football match on the pitch adjacent toKippax Lake in Moore Park. A smallgroup of 30 players would gather everySunday for a game and a few post-matchbeers. Some would know each otherfrom their home towns in Brazil, whilstothers would meet on arrival in Sydney,with many settling together around thebeachside suburbs of Bondi and Manly.As the community grew, so did thetradition. When the soccer posts atMoore Park were removed to facilitatecar parking, the club relocated toCentennial Park. ‘In those days, the pitchwas called pine grove, field seven,’ recallsOdilon Farias, one of the stalwarts of theClub, ‘but over the years it has come tobe known as the Brazilian Fields, becauseof our Club. The name has stuck andnow it is even on the map’.Odilon and close friend Paulo Dutrawere two of the original founders of theClub and have been mates for over 40 years. They, along with Club DirectorMacario De Souza, grew up in the sametown of Gov. Valadares in Brazil andmigrated to Australia in the early 70s.

Macario organises the Sunday game andbelieves the Club is particularly importantfor new arrivals from Brazil. ‘It providesfriendship and support, and helps peoplefind jobs,’ he shares. ‘We talk aboutBrazil, friends and our occupation –football!’Their youthful looks and athleticism belietheir 60-something age, a trait theyattribute to staying fit and having fun–which seems to be Club’s unspokenmotto. Both Odilon and Macario haveadult sons who grew up watching theirfather’s play football and now continuethis cultural tradition by participatingthemselves.

Viva Brasil!

6 Parklands Summer 2006–2007 7Parklands Summer 2006–2007

The Club congregates every Sunday at11.00 am throughout the year. For many,this weekly sacrament is something theylook forward to all week. Club President,Agenor Muniz has travelled extensively tomany international destinations, but heclaims that the setting of Centennial Parkis unique. ‘There is nothing like it in theworld,’ he shares. ‘I love the fresh air andI look forward to coming here all week’.Like many of the club members, Agenorwas a professional soccer player formany years. He was in the national teamin the 70s and won numerous titlesplaying for Sydney City and Adelaide City.He also coached the State League.Similarly, Odilon and Paulo playedprofessionally for junior team DemocrataSport Club for many years.With credentials like these, it stands toreason that this ‘friendly’ game of footballcan take on the appearance of somethingmuch more professional, attracting a

number of regular spectators. The intensityof the match and the passionatepersonalities encourages a colourfulrange of Brazilian expletives from theplayer’s mouths. But unless youunderstand the language, it all just seemspart of the enthusiasm and of theseardent soccer tragics.This cultural institution even extendsbeyond state boundaries. The Braziliancommunity in Melbourne also boasts acompetitive football team, and each year,the teams travel to each other’s homegrounds for an intercity play-off.Only five or six of the original players arestill involved with the Club. Some havereturned to their homeland of Brazil,whilst others have passed on or takenearly retirement due to injury. Macariostill dons the green and yellow jersey, butOdilon incurred an ankle injury that doesnot allow him to play anymore. Although football is the focus of this

Sunday tradition, the fun does not stop atfull-time. The post-match entertainmentis an experience of its own, involvingfood, drinks, music and dancing. Thegroup’s vivacious and infectious energyincites fun for everybody involved. And a traditional Brazilian churrascowould not be complete without a picnictable filled with tasty South Americandelights including empadinha, pastel,colxinha and pao de queijo all washeddown with a glass of caipirinha, a headymix of rum, sugar and lemon juice, thatwould numb the effect of any match-daybumps and bruises.On special occasions such as Mother’sDay, the team numbers swell to wellover 400 people. The Club hosts SundayMass in Centennial Park, before the usualfootball and festivities. On these days, thewomen prepare an enormous feast. Sundays in Centennial Park have becomethe cornerstone of Sydney’s Braziliancommunity. As new migrants arrive fromBrazil, they are embraced by thisgenerous and welcoming group.‘Sundays in Centennial Park – it’s like alittle corner of Brazil,’ says Macario. ‘Ithelps us keep the spirit of Brazil alive’.Anyone is welcome to come along tojoin the fun. For more information,contact Macario De Souza on 0412 557369. But prepared for lots of singing,eating and drinking.

Enjoying the traditional culture of Brazil

Odilon Farias and Club Director, Macario De Souza

Warming up for the regular Sunday match

The post-match entertainment

The Brazilian Soccer Club

HardheadBy Trevor Waller

On many of theponds in CentennialParklands you willsee a handsome all-brown duck calleda hardhead. Theyare also known aswhite-eyed ducksand are Australia’sonly representativeof true diving ducks.The male is a richdark brown withwhite eyes. Theyhave a large high-crowned head.

The bill is black with a blue-white bar across the tip. The femaleis paler brown and has a brown eye. This makes it easy to tellthe sexes apart. They have a white undertail and a white belly.

Their flight is swift and direct with rapid wing beats. They showa white underwing while flying. On water they have a lowprofile and use their webbed feet to swim. They are a divingduck and dive smoothly underwater to find their food andemerge swimming. The male gives a soft wheezy whistle andthe female a loud harsh rattle.

Hardheads prefer large deep lakes or permanent wetlands withabundant aquatic vegetation, smaller creeks, flooded crops,farm dams and ornamental lakes. They will gather in rafts ofthousands when conditions are good.

Breeding is influenced by rainfall but usually takes place fromAugust to November. The nest is a slightly hollow platform oftrampled reeds above water level. It is usually placed in verydense reeds or other thick vegetation and is thickly lined withdown and can be hidden by a canopy of reeds. The femaleincubates the clutch of 9 to 13 eggs for about 30 days.

There are many hardheads on the various lakes and ponds inthe Parklands. They can be seen in Duck Pond amongst theother ducks. With their distinctive brown bodies and the male’sstriking white eyes they should be easy to find.

Trevor Waller is a bird enthusiast with over ten yearsbehind the binoculars. He is a member of various birdwatching clubs in Sydney, including Birds Australia, andconducts the Parklands Birdwatcher’s Breakfasts eachseason. For details, visit www.cp.nsw.gov.au/What’s On or call (02) 9339 6699.

Two new rose varieties have been plantedin Centennial Park’s Rose Garden. Boththe Chihuly and Graham Thomas rosevarieties were chosen to complement theexisting range of colours on display in theRose Garden as well as for their excellentdisease resistance.Chihuly is a Floribunda (or clusterflowering) rose named after the Americanglass artist, Dale Chihuly. Synonymouswith the work of its namesake, Chihuly is aspectacularly showy, multi-coloured rosewhich was released in 2005. It produces a remarkable floral displaycharacterised by clusters of small flowersat the top of each stem. As the sun hitsthe flowers, they transform in colour froma subtly striped apricot-yellow to adazzling orange and deep red. The foliage

is a deep dark-green withmahogany coloured newgrowth.The Graham Thomas variety isone of the most popular Englishroses, cultivated by well-knownrose breeder David Austen. This modernshrub variety is named in honour of GrantStuart Thomas, a famed English rosarian,garden designer, author and plant expert. The outer petals of this exceptionallybeautiful pure yellow flower interlace toform a perfectly cupped circle shape. Theshrub is very strong growing and flowersalmost continuously throughout the year,exhibiting a pleasant tea fragrance. Thisvariety has been bred from the Icebergrose variety so has inherited very strongresistance to disease.

To see these and many other spectacularrose varieties, visit Centennial Park’s RoseGarden, located at the intersection ofDickens and Parkes Drives.

Plant of the SeasonRose

Park Living

Twitcher’s Corner

Visitors to Centennial Park’s Column Garden will notice that thispopular area is currently undergoing a facelift as part of a threephase project. Featuring improved irrigation, an innovativeflowerbed design and a fresh selection of plant material, the faceliftwill significantly improve the Garden, making it a perfect haven forrelaxing and taking in the scenery.The initial stage of the project involved the installation of animproved automated irrigation system that uses 100% recycledstormwater. This stage of the project, which also incorporatesRose Garden, cost $20,000 which forms part of a grant awardedto Centennial Parklands by the Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability. Completed in October, the second stage of the project involvedthe removal of the outdated square garden display beds and theinstallation of 21 new raised beds, arranged in a modern design.The layout of this new design aims to draw people into the areaby creating an intimate setting. The final stage of the project will be the installation of new plant material, featuring an eclectic mix of native and exotic plant material. This final stage is due for completion by the end of summer.Centennial Parklands Manager Horticultural Estate, Paul Tracey,believes these renovations are timely. ‘It has been a number ofyears since this area has been refreshed,’ he says, ‘this new designwill be perfect for those seeking a relaxing walk and a chance toappreciate a vibrant and colourful garden. Installation of therecycled irrigation system will be of great benefit in ensuring thequality of these spectacular floral displays’.

Column Gardengets a facelift

Cycling is one of the most popular activities for visitors toCentennial Parklands. For those who don’t have a bike of theirown, Centennial Parklands Cycle Hire, located on the corner ofHamilton and Grand Drives in Centennial Park, operates alicensed cycle hire business. Manager Chris Fromberger stocks a range of different mountainbikes, hybrid bikes, road bikes, children’s bikes, tandems, bikes with child carriers as well as the legendary four-wheeledpedal cars. For seniors or less mobile riders, there are also easy-to-ride cruiser bikes with a low step-through which makesmounting and dismounting very easy. ‘Bikes can be hired by the hour, day or week,’ says Chris, ‘butthe most popular is the one to two hour hire periods’.Weekends, public holidays and school holiday periods are thebusiest times, but an increasing number of regular patrons arehiring bikes on weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon,when there are less people around and less vehicles on theroads. For these regular customers, Chris has introduced a verysuccessful ‘Frequent Riders Club’, which offers riders free hireon every fifth visit.Chris and his team have peddled their bicycles to a number oflocal and overseas celebrities including Tom Cruise, RussellCrowe, Nicole Kidman, Scott Cam and Sandra Sully. Each weekthey also cater for 10–20 Korean honeymooners who include abike ride in Centennial Park as one of the highlights of theirorganised tour to Sydney.

Hiring a bicycle is also a popular choice for many local highschool students who bike ride around Centennial Park everyweek for school sport. Players from the Sydney City Roosters,South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Swans football teams alsohire bikes for training purposes. Centennial Parklands Cycle Hire is open seven days from 9.00 am(weather permitting). Prices range from $10–$40. For moreinformation call (02) 9398 5027.

8 Parklands Summer 2006–2007 9Parklands Summer 2006–2007

Chihuly rose

Graham Thomas rose

New display bedsHardhead

Pedal Pushers

Centennial Parklands Cycle Hire

Disguised as witches,warlocks, ghosts andghouls, the Friends ofCentennial Parklandsconverged on theCentennial ParklandsRestaurant for theannual Halloweendinner held on 31October. Over 120 fearsome folk enjoyed an evening offrightening food and spooky encounters served up by a crew ofwait staff resembling the cast of a horror film. Rangersentertained the crowds of costumed children with trick or treattreasure hunts, tug o’warlocks and witches and creepy crawlycraft, along with a magician who performed a display of creepydisappearances and transformations.

10 Parklands Summer 2006–2007 11Parklands Summer 2006–2007

Healthy Parks, Healthy People Foundation and Friends

Healthy Parks Bugs with bite

Netball is one of the most popular participation sports in Australia,New Zealand, Great Britain and South Africa and it continues togrow in popularity throughout the world.The precise timing of the introduction of women's basketball, as itwas originally called, into Australia is uncertain and largely basedon speculation. However, it has come a long way since itsbeginnings in New South Wales in 1929 to become one of thelargest independent sports organisations in the state. Currently,over 100,000 members enjoy netball at all levels.The first Netball Association courts were located at Moore Park inSydney and are still operating today offering both court hire andnight competitions. Mixed and ladies competitions are available onTuesday and Thursday nights with an increasing number of menbecoming interested in the sport.

Although netball is traditionallya winter sport in Australiarunning from April toSeptember, the ParklandsSports Centre has found thegame is so popular they offercompetitions all year round.The Centre can also help finda team to join for new arrivalsto NSW.The newly resurfaced andflood-lit netball courts arelocated immediately behindthe Parklands Sports Centre inMoore Park opposite theentrance to the EntertainmentQuarter (corner of Lang Roadand Anzac Parade). The

Centre is easily accessible by public transport or alternatively,limited parking is available. Netball is a great team sport which helps to keep up your fitnesslevel and is a tremendous way to meet new friends. Forinformation, call the Director of Netball on (02) 9662 3523 or(02) 9662 3526.

Parks WeekFrom 15 to 22 October over 50 events and activities were held across Sydney as part of Parks Week tocelebrate the role that parks and gardens play in our community.Parks Week offered events for all ages and interests including wildflower tours, treasure hunts and self guidedwalks of beaches, beasts and birdlife. The week culminated with a Great North Head Walk, the Sydney MorningHerald Good Food Month Spring Picnic and a Spring Cycle to Sydney Olympic Park.Parks Week is an initiative of the Sydney Parks Group and part of the Healthy Parks, Healthy People program. The program has been recognised by the NSW State Government who have included it as an action in therecently launched NSW State Plan.

Healthy PeopleNetball

The hot, humidconditions of summerare synonymous withone of our leastfavouriteinvertebrates–themosquito. Althoughmosquitos are a crucialfood source for larger

invertebrates, tadpoles, frogs, bats, reptiles, fish and birds,their red, itchy bites are a ‘nuisance’ to most people.However, a recent study conducted by Dr CameronWebb, from the Department of Medical Entomology atWestmead Hospital has found that the diversity andabundance of mosquitos in Centennial Parklands is very lowand there are few habitats suitable for these biting bugs.Special traps–using insulated containers of dry ice, a batteryoperated fan and a collection bucket–were used to collectadult ‘host-seeking’ mosquitoes; and aquatic habitats,including low-lying areas where water may pool afterrainfall, were sampled for mosquito larvae. Only four mosquito species were recorded as larvae andeight species as adults, compared with a total of 50 speciesrecorded across the Sydney basin. Of those collected, 95% comprised one mosquitospecies–a common species known as Ochlerotatusnotoscriptus. Interestingly, this species breeds in containerssuch as blocked gutters and pot plant saucers and accordingto this study, it appears to be utilising the tree-hole habitatsin the hole and hollows of Centennial Park’s fig trees. The most abundant larvae were found in Lachlan Swampand the small open culverts that link the ponds where thewater is shallower, slow-moving and there are fewerpredators such as fish. Although Dr Webb suggests that more intensive samplingand wetter conditions may yield different results, it seemsthe mosquitoes in Centennial Park are unlikely to be asignificant nuisance.

The Centennial Parklands Foundation recently launched acampaign in support of the Parklands Tree ReplacementProgram. The Transplant Appeal is a long-term project to raisemoney for the purpose of transplanting trees now to replacethose that will need removing in future.Most of the tree planting in Centennial Parklands took placebetween the 1860s and the 1920s. These trees grew into

magnificent specimens that have shaded and delighted countlessvisitors. Now though, many of them are aging and some arebecoming unsafe. Drought, poor soils, root compaction and the pressures of theurban environment have led to stress that in turn has allowedpests to cause additional damage. Some trees are under attackfrom a number of diseases. The result is that around 60% ofCentennial Parklands’ 16,000 trees will need to be replacedover the next forty years.

Funds raised from the Transplant Appeal will ensure that visitorsto Centennial Parklands in ten or twenty years do not see alandscape sadly diminished by the loss of major trees. The Appealaims to ensure that the trees planted today reach maturity andreplace the aging giants. If you value the time you spend in the Parklands you might liketo support the Transplant Appeal. All donations for the Appealare directed to the Tree Replacement Program, or you coulddonate $5,000 towards a Transplant Package. The Packageentitles you to plant a 2-3 metre high tree within the Parklandsand have your generosity recognised accordingly. This tree can become a focal point for family gatherings, a landmark in a child’s life, or a personal place for contemplation orcommemoration. Visit www.cp.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 9339 6699 to make a donation. All donations are tax deductible.

Transplant Appeal

Common mosquito species Ochlerotatusnotoscriptus

Young netballers compete at Moore Park

The Centennial ParklandsFoundation has released its first Annual Report.Incorporating keyachievements, significantprojects and financialstatements, this landmarkdocument celebrates thesuccesses and challenges ofthe Foundation’s firstoperational year. For a copyof the Annual Report, visit www.cp.nsw.gov.au/Foundation and Friends or call the Parklands Office on (02) 9339 6699.

Freakish Friends at the Halloween dinner

Foundation’s first Annual Report

Friends celebrate fright night

Please refer to the map insert on page 6 forlocations.

HOW TO GET HEREFive km from the Sydney CBD. Easily accessible bybus, train, car, bike or on foot.

Regular buses from Circular Quay, Central Stn,Bondi Jn Stn and surrounding suburbs. Trains toCentral and Bondi Jn, both a 30-40 minute walk tothe Parklands. www.131500.com.au

Cycle lanes along Darley Rd, Alison Rd, Anzac Pde,South Dowling St, Cleveland St and Federation Way.

CAR FREE DAYLast Sunday of every season (February, May, August& November).

CENTENNIAL PARK GATE TIMES Centennial Park is accessible to vehicles betweensunrise and sunset. Musgrave Ave Gates are closedpermanently to cars.

Primary Gates (Paddington, Woollahra,Randwick & Robertson Rd (entry)March to April 6.00 am–6.00 pmMay to August 6.30 am–5.30 pmSeptember to October 6.00 am–6.00 pmNovember to February 5.45 am–8.00 pm

Secondary Gates (York Rd, Jervois Ave,Govett St & Robertson Rd exit)Weekdays 9.00 am–4.00 pmWeekends as for Primary Gates

FOOD OUTLETS

Centennial Parklands Restaurant E3This fully-licensed restaurant offers fine views withfine Modern Australian food. Open 7 days, 8.30 am–2.30 pm. (02) 9360 3355www.landmarkcatering.com.au

Centennial Parklands Café E3Light meals and snacks served in the open airforecourt. Open 7 days, 8.00 am–4.30 pm(weekdays), 8.00 am–5.00 pm (weekends) (02) 9380 6922

Centennial Park Mobile Food Van E5Light meals, sandwiches, cold drinks, gelato andespresso. Open weekends & public holidays, 8.00 am–sunset.

Moore Park Golf Patio Bar B3Overlooking the first tee, the outdoor Patio Barserves light food and drinks. Open 7 days, 7.30 am–4.00 pm (Mon to Wed), 7.30 am–8.00 pm (Thu to Sat), 7.30 am–6.00 pm (Sun) (02) 9663 1064 www.mooreparkgolf.com.au

The Bistro at Moore Park Golf B3The Bistro serves quality meals and a full variety ofwine and beers. Open Wed to Sun, Noon–5.00pm(Wed to Thu), Noon–7.00pm (Fri to Sun)(02) 9663 1064 www.mooreparkgolf.com.au

RECREATION ACTIVITIES

BBQs and Picnics Unlimited picnic spots, with views of ponds, fieldsand gardens. Free BBQs. First-in basis. BYOportable BBQs with legs permitted (except duringtotal fire bans), portable picnic equipmentpermitted. Bookings required for groups of 50 orover. BBQs located at A3 D5 D6 E2 E3 G4 G5 H5

Cycling and Rollerblading 3.8 km cycle/rollerblade lane on Grand Dr,Centennial Park. Cycle lanes along Darley Rd, AlisonRd, Anzac Pde, South Dowling St, Cleveland St andFederation Way. Off-road cycling circuit for childrenat Learners Cycleway. D5

Helmets required. Three-wheel pedal cars notpermitted in Centennial Park. Four-wheel pedal carspermitted.

Centennial Parklands Cycle Hire F3Cnr Hamilton & Grand Drs, Centennial Park0401 357 419

Centennial Park Cycles G650 Clovelly Rd, Randwick (02) 9398 5027

Woolys Wheels82 Oxford St, Paddington (02) 9331 2671 www.woolyswheels.com

Wildlife WatchingSpot birds, turtles, invertebrates and possums withindiverse natural environments. Ideal locations at D4E5 F4. Please do not feed animals.

PlaygroundsFive playgrounds catering for a range of age groups.A2 D5 E2 E3 H5.

Dog WalkingOn and off leash dog walking areas. BYO dog tidybags to pick up after your dog.

SPORT AND FACILITY HIREQuality sports grounds and facilities for hire forcasual one-off bookings or seasonal competitions.(02) 9339 6699

ES Marks Athletics Field B5400 m running track, floodlit field and covered standwith seating for 1000 people. Changing rooms,toilets, First Aid Room, Officials Room (with PAsystem) and Meeting Room. Casual public training,Tue, Wed & Thu, 3.30 pm–8.30 pm. For hire fortraining or carnivals. (02) 9339 6699www.cp.nsw.gov.au/sports

Golf, Horse Riding and Tennis hire available vialicensed operators:

Moore Park Tennis Courts B3Tennis court hire, coaching, social competitions,racquet and ball sales and ball machine hire. Fourfloodlit courts. Open 7 days, 7.00 am–10.00 pm.0412 123 456

Parklands Sports Centre C4Tennis court hire, coaching, school holiday campsand competitions. 11 floodlit courts. Open 7 days,9.00 am–10.00 pm (summer & Mon to Thu inwinter) 9.00 am–6.00 pm (Fri in winter) 8.00 am–6.00 pm (winter weekends) (02) 9662 7033

Moore Park Golf B3Par 70, 18-hole Group One Championship golfcourse. All weather, day-night Driving Range, Puttingand Chipping Greens, Pro Shop and Golf Academy.(02) 9663 1064 www.mooreparkgolf.com.au

Horse Riding C4 D53.6 km horse track, 3.5 ha of fenced groundsfeaturing showjumping, dressage, lunging and turfhacking, Equestrian Centre with covered arenas, hotand cold wash bays and sand rolls. Riding schoolsoffer lessons, horse hire, pony camps, pony parties,pony leads and guided park rides. Stabling available.(02) 9332 2809 www.cpequestrian.com.au

Budapest Riding School 0419 231 391budapestridingschool@aapt.net.au

Centennial Stables (02) 9360 5650www.centennialstables.com.au

Eastside Riding Academy (02) 9360 7521www.eastsideriding.com.au

Moore Park Training Stables (02) 9360 8747www.mooreparkstables.com.au

Papillon Riding Stables (02) 8356 9866 or0407 224 938 www.papillonriding.com.au

WHAT’S ONRanger-guided educational excursions, children’sbirthday parties, guided tours and workshops,school holiday activities, vacation care programs aswell as sports camps, concerts, festivals and events.(02) 9339 6699 www.cp.nsw.gov.au/what’s_on

FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHYLocations available for commercial filming andphotography. (02) 9339 6699www.cp.nsw.gov.au/venues

EVENTS AND FUNCTIONSLocations available for private and public functionsand events. (02) 9339 6699www.cp.nsw.gov.au/venues

FOUNDATION AND FRIENDSSee insert on Page 6. (02) 9339 6699www.cp.nsw.gov.au/foundation_and_friends

CONTACT USCentennial Parklands is managed by the CentennialPark and Moore Park Trust.

Parklands Office (behind Café), Mon to Fri, 8.30 am–5.00 pm. E3

Visitor Centre, Paddington Gates, weekends 10.00 am–3.00 pm. E2

Web: www.cp.nsw.gov.auEmail: info@cp.nsw.gov.auPhone: (02) 9339 6699Fax: (02) 9332 2148Post: Locked Bag 15 Paddington NSW 2021

After hours emergencies: 0412 718 611

Visitor Information

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