Crowd Pleasers: events for everyone Endangered bushland comes ...

Crowd Pleasers: events for everyone

Endangered bushlandcomes to life

Family Trees – the nextgeneration

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Events in parks and gardens generally arousea range of responses from the communityand the hosting of such events in CentennialParklands does no less.

Centennial Parklands supports an excitingannual program of music concerts, circuses,outdoor cinema and sporting events, whichencourage participation from all ages andgroups in our community, attracting visitorsfrom across Sydney and further abroad.

In the last financial year, Centennial Parklandshosted 23 significant events, with an

estimated 159,000 patrons, not includingthe many patrons attending events at theSydney Cricket Ground, Aussie Stadium andEntertainment Quarter. More than a quarterof these were charity events, raising inexcess of $1 million in fundraising. This trendis continuing into the 2005-2006 year.

While many event fees only cover costs tothe Trust, any additional revenue raised fromevents assists Centennial Parklands to plantnew trees, improve amenities and maintaininfrastructure. Often the question is raisedabout any damage to the Parklands afterevents. The Trust requires the payment of abond from all event organisers and uses thesefunds to remediate sites when required.

All events must be consistent with the Trust’sPlan of Management and these events aremanaged to minimise impact on theParklands, visitors and local residents. Forexample, the route of the annual Walk toCure Diabetes which attracts up to 10,000people, was altered last year to allowCentennial Park’s Grand Drive to remain

open to vehicles throughout the day.

In recent issues of Parklands, I invitedreaders to experience the summerentertainment line-up and I reinforced theParklands careful management andconsideration of these events. In this issue,the background to events is explored moreclosely in our feature article, ‘CrowdPleasers’ on page 6 and a review of recentevents is on page 5. We also have lots moreinteresting information on the Parklands inthis issue as well as our regular features.

The change in season from the heat ofsummer to the crispness of autumn is awonderful time in Centennial Parklands and Iwish you a cool, calm and contented autumn.

Steve Corbett

Director and Chief ExecutiveCentennial Parklands

Contents

2 Parklands Autumn 2006

Directions

Parkbench 3

Endangered bushland comes to life 4

New chair for CCC 4

Events Wrap-up 5

Crowd Pleasers:

events for everyone 6

Twitcher’s Corner

– Yellow-tailed black cockatoo 8

A Walk in the Park with Kylie Kwong 8

Tree of the Season

– African tulip tree 9

Mobile Food Van

– A Family Affair with Food 9

Healthy Parks 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 AODavid LeckieYvette PietschAllan YoungJohn WalkerSarah WhyteMargaret Varady AO

Editor: Rachel [email protected]

Contributors: Debbie Kruger, Julie Hunter Ward,Trevor Waller

Photography: Chris Gleisner Printed on recycled paperCover: Exploring the Café playground environment

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3Parklands Autumn 2006

Parkbench

Signage face liftThe first of Centennial Parklandsnew identification signs havebeen installed at Paddington andRandwick Gates brandishingCentennial Park’s perimeterfence with a clear sense of place.Identical installations are in placeat Moore Park at the corners ofAnzac Parade and Dacey Avenue,and South Dowling Street andDacey Avenue.Look out for the new street signage along some of Centennial Park’s internalroads which should assist people in wayfinding.

More newamenities open inCentennial ParkCentennial Parklands has builtanother three new publicamenities as part of the ParkImprovement Plan, in addition tothose recently opened facilitieslocated on Dickens Drive and Grand Drive.The new facilities are located at McKay Sports Grounds, Centennial Squareand north of Musgrave Pond. The former buildings at McKay SportsGrounds and Musgrave Pond have been demolished now that the newfacilities are complete.Like those at Dickens and Grand Drives, the new facilities are stylish, low-maintenance buildings which respect and complement the Parkland settings.The design also includes ecologically sustainable features: natural light andventilation; natural and recycled materials; and a landscape bio-filter to treatgrey water.

Traffic slowing devices to be trialledCentennial Parklands will be trialling a number of traffic slowing measures atkey intersections within Centennial Park, following a recent speedmonitoring campaign undertaken by Rangers revealed that a high proportionof motorists and cyclists were exceeding the 30 km/hr speed limit and failingto stop at stop signs.Visitor research shows that an increasing number of visitors are travelling tothe Parklands by car, and with the concentrated interface between dogs,horses, cyclists and pedestrians, safety is of paramount concern. A speed hump will be installed at the stop sign across Parkes Drive, at theintersection of Grand Drive, opposite the Café; and the intersection of Hamiltonand Grand Drives will be modified to improve visibility for traffic joining GrandDrive. Pending the success of the trial at these locations, modifications may alsobe installed at the York Road and Randwick Gates entries.Advice was sought from local traffic police as to the appropriate design andlocation of these devices.

A change of directionTraffic conditions along Carrington Drive inCentennial Park have been modified as part of atrial to improve pedestrian and vehicular safety.Formerly two-way and without a dedicatedfootpath, Carrington Drive is a popular cyclistroute and dog walking area. It has now beenchanged to a one-way road, from WoollahraGates to Paddington Gates, and a section ofroadway has been cordoned off to allow saferpedestrian passage. The start of this trialcoincided with the launch of the MoonlightCinema season which attracts large crowds, sothis will ensure a realistic test for these newarrangements. The section of the road nearPaddington Gates remains two-way to maintainaccess to the Paddington Playground.

Annual Report nowavailable

Centennial ParklandsAnnual Report for2004/2005 is nowavailable. The reportprovides aninformative guide tothe Centennial Parkand Moore ParkTrust’s performanceand achievements forthe past financial year.

It can be accessed via our website atwww.cp.nsw.gov.au/about_us/annual_reports

Grand Drive bubblesalongThe upgrade to Grand Drive is nearingcompletion with the works progressing toStage 6 between Musgrave Avenue andGovett Street Gates. This last stage isexpected to take about one month tocomplete depending on weather conditions.Many features of the upgrade have improvedthe amenity of this historic avenue, includingthe installation of three new wheelchairaccessible drinking fountains and eight newseats at various points.

New identification signage at Paddington Gates

Newly completed amenities at McKay SportsGround, Centennial Park

This year, the Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust welcomesAllan Young as the incoming Chair of the CommunityConsultative Committee (CCC).Allan has already served a two-year term as a member of theCCC and takes over from outgoing Chair, Yvette Pietsch. ‘I amlooking forward to this challenging role,’ Allan says. ‘Being amember of the CCC for the last two years has been a fantasticexperience. It has given me a good understanding of the issuesfacing the community and the park managers, as well as adeeper appreciation of the many cultural, historic andenvironmental values of Centennial Parklands.’A Senior Business Analyst at the Sydney Water Corporation andmember of the National Parks and Wildlife Service SydneyRegional Advisory Committee, Allan and his young family arefrequent visitors to Centennial Parklands for social andrecreational occasions.The CCC is an advisory body whose role is to represent abroad range of community interests to the Trust. Membersmeet about eight times a year to discuss a range of issues arisingfrom their own observations and matters brought to their

attention by the community. During 2005, theCCC was closely involved with thepreparation of the Plan of Management, andprovided advice to the Trust on key issuesincluding recreational opportunities,enforcement matters, conservation, trafficstrategies and infrastructure planning. According to Allan, the year ahead will be justas busy. ‘There will no doubt be a full agendafor the CCC during 2006. Much of thework conducted by the CCC is in responseto matters raised or events that occur inand near the Parklands. We can also anticipate a suite of policyand planning issues to be considered during the year. Overlayingthat core business, the CCC will also look to create better andmore effective communication channels with stakeholders andthe broader community. The challenge will be to revitalise ourefforts to connect with groups and individuals who have aninterest in the Parklands, and search for innovative ways ofengaging with people.’The CCC is always keen to hear from others in the community.To contact the CCC please call (02) 9339 6699 or [email protected]. More information can be found atwww.cp.nsw.gov.au/About_Us

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New chair for CCC

Endangered bushland comes to lifeThere are five sites within CentennialParklands which contain the endangeredbushland community known as EasternSuburbs Banksia Scrub (ESBS) which isprotected under Commonwealth andState legislation. These sites are beingprogressively regenerated and managedfor their unique ecological values and theresults so far have been outstanding.

Following the removal of numerousexotic and non-endemic species and theclearing of the soil surface at the YorkRoad site, some native species haveresponded with a dramatic revival. Ofparticular note is the natural increase inBanksia serrata - from one individual in2002 to four individuals currently, andremarkable increases in other species thatwere previously poorly represented (egBosseia spp, Persoonia lanceolata or lance-leaf geebung). New, previouslyunrecorded ESBS species continue toregenerate, recently including Hakeadactyloides.

John Diamond, a bush regenerator for 15years throughout the Sydney region, is

‘delighted’ by the ‘splendid results’ at thissite, and credits these results to a numberof unexpected events – and good luck.Following the removal of over 100mature pine trees, a storm blew over thesubsequently exposed area ofleptospermum shrubs. This was ablessing in disguise as it allowed access toareas of the site that were previously toothick to penetrate, and the exposure ofthe soil surface encouraged new growth.

Traditional bush regeneration methods haveworked particularly well in this site due to itsresilience. ‘It is a charm to work on – alovely site,’ says John proudly. ‘We havebeen very fortunate that there has been

funding to keep up regular regenerationwork, to keep weed species down and togive the native species the best possiblechance. Other sites are near drains and thesoil is high in nutrients, but this site is drierand therefore does not have the sameresurgence in weed species.’

Similar successes have been achievedwithin the Bird Sanctuary site inCentennial Park, where regenerationwork began in 2004. Several thickets ofLantana camara, 30 medium to largePittosporum undulatum and various othernon-endemic and exotic woody weedswere removed, stimulating strongregeneration of endemic ESBS specieswhich were not previously recordedwithin the remnant. These include Acaciasp, Kunzea ambigua, Wahlenbergia sp,Crassula siebera and Paspalidium distans.

Work will continue at these sites, utilisingthe skills of Centennial Parklandshorticulture team, specialist consultants,professional bush regenerators and acommitted volunteer team.

Park News

Parklands Autumn 2006

New chair of the CCC, Allan Young


Historicstopover forQueen’s BatonRelay

It sounded all White on the nightThe grass of Centennial Park’s Parade Grounds was covered with a patchwork ofpicnic rugs, as a near sell-out crowd of 19,000 people gathered to see MissyHiggins and a great line up of talented support artists.Playing to her largest live gig to date,Higgins was humbled by the massivecrowd of fans, her down-to-earthgratitudes endearing her to theaudience. Fellow ARIA winner BenLee, warmed the crowd with hisupbeat pop tunes and joined MissyHiggins on stage during the main actto perform a duet.The relaxed crowd showedenthusiastic support for this greatnew talent, with the concert beingheld less than a week after Higginswon a fantastic five ARIA awards,including Album of the Year for herfirst album, The Sound of White.

Sydney still loves a ChallengeA total of 6,921 participants from 306 companiestook part in the annual JPMorgan ChaseCorporate Challenge, representing a 19%increase from the previous year. Patron PatrickRafter was among the runners and accepted adonation from JPMorgan for his Cherish TheChildren Foundation. Rafter’s Foundationassigned donations from the event for essentialequipment purchases at the Burns Unit at theChildren’s Hospital at Westmead. Charlie Low of McGrathNicol+Partners was thewinner of the 5.6 km marathon aroundCentennial Park, earning his first title in 17minutes and 23 seconds, staving off JeremeyHorne of Calvary Health Care by just onesecond in an exciting race to the finish line.

Jamiroquai – a funktasticsuccessFollowing a wet and thundery week, the skies over Sydneycleared to a perfect December evening for a capacity crowdof 20,000 who had turned out to see Jamiroquai inCentennial Park. Energetic lead singer Jay Kay thrilled the excited, but well-behaved fans with his non-stop grooves, making commentduring a brief interlude to admire the beautiful backdrop ofthe crescent moon rising over Centennial Park’s Pine Forest.

On Australia Day, hundreds of onlookersgathered in Centennial Park’s FederationValley to witness the Queen’s BatonRelay make its historic trip throughSydney. The Queen’s Baton Relay beganin London in March 2005, on its longjourney through all 71 nations of theCommonwealth en route to theMelbourne Commonwealth Games.The enthusiastic crowd cheered runnerKelly Nao along Centennial Park’s GrandDrive and into Federation Valley, wherethere was an official welcome from localMP Malcolm Turnbull and Professor JohnNiland, Chair of the Centennial Park andMoore Park Trust.After the formal proceedings, the TourismAustralia Young Tourism AmbassadorJodie Anstee continued the Baton on itsjourney through the suburbs of Sydney.The gatherers celebrated in trueAustralian style, enjoying an afternoon offood, music and entertainment.

Events Wrap-up

Runners in the JPMorgan ChaseCorporate Challenge

Kelly Nao, Queens Baton Relay

Missy Higgins concert

As one of Sydney’s most attractive andaccessible outdoor venues, CentennialParklands is a magnet for event organiserswho rave about the picturesque setting,relaxed ambience and convenientlocation.Whether it’s feet, paws or wheels racingin marathons, snacking in villages of foodtents, competing in community sport orenjoying stages delivering music, dance,circus or cinema - there are crowdactivities at every turn.

With this comes the added benefit ofattracting a wide cross-section ofSydney’s population from all over themetropolitan area, especially visitors fromSydney’s outer suburbs. Ensuring suchmagnificent spaces are available to thegreatest number of people is one ofCentennial Parklands broader aims, butall events are planned with carefulspecifications and considerations.BBeehhiinndd tthhee sscceenneess

There is always a serious side to fun andat least three months preparation isneeded for any event, with large-scaleconcerts, festivals and marathons plannedup to nine months ahead. Hiringorganisations work with Parklandsmanagement on all aspects ofcompliance, obtaining appropriatelicences and covering key areas includingsafety, security and emergency planning,traffic management and signagearrangements, sound management, littercontrol and wet weather contingencies.Also crucial is the marketing andcommunications strategy to advise

regular Park users and local residents ofany temporary changes to usual access,and convey details to the general publicattending an event.‘Centennial Parklands is always mindful ofpublic feedback when we are planning,’says Centennial Parklands Events Officer,Anja Simpson. The spring season is thebusiest, with an event held at least onceevery fortnight. However, policy restrictsthe number of large events to eight peryear with a maximum capacity of 20,000

people and theParklands is attentiveto what is going on inthe community atlarge, to minimisedistraction for others.For example, majorevents are not heldduring the HSC periodin late spring. Musicevents are scheduledfor Friday evenings andSaturdays, taking intoaccount traffic

congestion and avoiding the nights beforework and school days.Sometimes events are held on dates thatalign with national programs orinternational events. The Parklands was ahost venue for numerous events in theSydney 2000 Olympic Games and theCentenary of Federation celebrations in2001, complying with the structuredtimeframes for such programs.Similarly, the Juvenile Diabetes ResearchFoundation’s Walk to Cure Diabetes isheld on the same day around Australiaeach October, so there is less flexibilityfor the Parklands toinfluence scheduling,but the event’sorganiser is also keento minimisedisturbance, workingwith Parklands staff andRangers. For example,Sarah Harrison of theJuvenile DiabetesResearch Foundationsays that a differentmarathon course wasused last year,

allowing Centennial Park’s Grand Driveto stay open. And participants are alwaysencouraged to take public transport tothe Parklands so that potential trafficissues are minimised.Nicola Andrews is the MarketingManager for Sporting Spectrum, theevents company that organises theannual JPMorgan Chase CorporateChallenge, a 5.6 km team race open toemployees of corporations, businessesand financial institutions, with proceedsdonated to charity. The Sydney event ispart of a global series, which began in1997 in New York’s Central Park. Nicolasays that safety for runners and otherparticipants is of utmost importance. The

Crowd Pleasers: events for everyone


Community SpiritOne of the first major public musicevents to take place in the Parklandswas in fact a charity rock concert. InMarch 1992, Australia’s topinternational band of the time, INXS,headlined the Concert for Life, whichalso featured Yothu Yindi andCrowded House, raising over$600,000 for St Vincent’s Hospital.While many events generate revenueto maintain the Parklands, today thereis a continued commitment tofacilitating charitable and communityevents, which compromise over 25%of all events hosted. On a smallerscale, Centennial Parklands hostsevents such as the local EasternSuburbs Dog Training Clubs’ annualDog Obedience Trials which drawscompetitors from around the state.

Relaxed crowds at Parklife, Moore Park

Big, Bold and Brassy Concert, 2001

Map of Centennial Parklands

First Aid and Emergency24 hour Ranger service, 7 days. 0412 718 611

Parklands Office8.30 am-5.00 pm Monday–Friday. Located behind Centennial Parklands Café. (02) 9339 6699Fax: (02) 9332 2148 email: [email protected]

Park Information Information, maps and brochures are available from the Parklands Office (behind the café) or the Visitor Centre, weekends 10.00 am-3.00 pm.

How to Get HereBY BUS: Easily accessible by bus. Route 339 from city stations and 355 from Bondi Junction run regular services to Moore Park. Route 378from Central and 380 from Circular Quay runservices to Centennial Park. Phone 131 500for timetable details.

BY CAR: Main gates to Centennial Park open sunrise to sunset. Car Free Days are held on the last Sunday in every season: February, May, August and November. A 30 km speed limit applies on all roads in Centennial Park.

Quick Guide

to the Parklands

Friends are the roots of the Centennial ParklandsFoundation with membership fees providing support forthe environment projects within Centennial Parklands.

Your membership will open the doors to yourinvolvement in caring for Centennial Parklands, clean upand planting days or becoming a volunteer.

By becoming a Friend, you will be joining a special groupof people. You will also have the opportunity to join inexclusive activities and enjoy a discount on the manyactivities and events that are on in the Parklands eachseason. Simply present your membership card to obtainthe special Friends rate.

The benefits include:

� 10% discount at Centennial Parklands Restaurant & Café

� The opportunity to assist as a volunteer on Parklands activities

� 10% discount on Ranger-guided walks

� 10% discount on CentennialParklands merchandise

� Discounts on selected events

� Parklands magazine posted quarterly

� Membership certificate

� Friends events, including annual end of year party

Help support Centennial Park, Moore Park and Queens Park.

Join the Friends ofCentennial Parklands

Membership FormTo JOIN, simply complete and mail or fax the form below.

Title First Name

Surname

Address

Postcode Date of birth

Telephone (BH) (AH)

Email

Membership categories (please tick):Single: One year $55 Family: One year $99

For Family membership, please list family members

Partner

Children

Donation Options:

I would like to make a donation to Centennial Parklands Foundation

$45 $75 $100 $ ________________

I require a tax receipt

I would like to find out how a bequest could help Centennial Parklands

I am interested in becoming a volunteer

Payment details:

Cash Cheque – payable to Centennial Parklands Foundation

Bankcard Mastercard Visa

I would like my membership renewed automatically via my

credit card

Card No Expiry date

Card holder’s name

Card holder’s signature

Send to (no stamp required): Friends of Centennial ParklandsReply Paid 58Locked Bag 15PADDINGTON NSW 2021

For more information phone (02) 9339 6699or email [email protected]

pm/aut06/ins


Park is closed to traffic and no vehiclesmay park on the course. ‘Any changesare communicated to local residents byway of a flyer drop, through Parklandsnewsletters and use of signage.’

Such communication and safety measuresare not restricted to local residents. ‘Amusic concert means liaison with theEquestrian Centre to check whether it issafe to have horse riders in the Parkwhile still maintaining access for riders foras long as possible. Similarly for eventsthat are fenced, we can often providecorridors of public access all the waythrough the period of build, and onlyclose access on event day. DuringMoonlight Cinema, signage assures Parkusers that they can use the BelvedereAmphitheatre until 5.00 pm each day.Once the event activity takes place it’sequally important that it becomes acontrolled environment and gates areshut down.’

LLooccaatt iioonn,,llooccaatt iioonn,, llooccaatt iioonnLocation andatmosphere are keyfactors for musicpromoters choosingthis venue. Recently,concert promoterMichael CoppelPresents has stagedconcerts featuringinternationalperformers Jamiroquaiand Jack Johnson. The

promoter’s production manager, NikTischler, has worked on such concertsaround the world, including Central Park,and favours the Mission Fields inCentennial Park. ‘I think the venue inCentennial Parklands is much nicer and abetter space to operate in,’ he says.‘We’re always looking out for artists toplay in such a venue.’ And word isspreading about the Parklands allure.‘Jamiroquai was completely jazzed aboutit and Jack Johnson was chuffed with thevenue and wishes that there were morevenues like this in the US.’Moonlight Cinema has screened in theParklands for nine summers. ‘Weobviously love the venue for its beautifullocation in the amphitheatre with awonderful view of the screen,’ says AliciaDarvall, General Manager. ‘At duskbefore the film starts you can see theplanes taking off. It’s a wonderful feelingof being in the centre of the city buthaving park all around you.’

CClleeaanniinngg uupp tthhee aacctt

International and local music stars alsoplay in the Mission Fields for the GoodVibrations Festival each February. FestivalManager Michael Long says a full week isdevoted to setting up the site and a fullground management plan ensures thereis no damage to grass or vegetation. Withany event, litter management is a primeconcern and like all event organisers, thefestival brings in a specialist contractor.‘They are there for a week before andtwo days afterwards and they do a fullwaste management plan. We bring inabout 50 skips and about 180 bins. Staffwalk around during the event picking uprubbish.’

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While Centennial Parklands actively seeksto attract new and different visitors to avenue that offers multiple uses andenticements, Centennial Park aloneencompasses 189 hectares and there arestill many spaces in the Parklands whereaccess is unrestricted or affected byevents. Maintaining a balance betweenpassive recreation and providingmemorable moments for one and all isone the Parklands greatest currentchallenges. So whether it is Dame Kiri TeKanawa, Santana, Polo in the Park or anIndigenous Dance performance it ishoped there is an event for everyone.Please see the Events Wrap-up on Page 5for a review of recent events.

Sound, of course, travels across vastspaces.Noise legislation ensures that events withamplified sound comply with strictguidelines set by the EnvironmentalProtection Authority’s Notice ofPreventive Action. The Parklands soundlimits are lower than neighbouring venuessuch as the Sydney Cricket Ground,which makes it more challenging formusic concert promoters. There arelimits and controls on the duration andtiming of rehearsals, sound checks andthe performance.Promoters for all events employaccredited acoustic consultants. Oneconsultant regularly working within theParklands, Steven Cooper, says that thereare different criteria for sound levels at

different times during an individual event.Knowledge and experience of weatherconditions, especially wind direction,enables Steven to work with concertpromoters to place the stage andspeakers at the best angles for audienceenjoyment as well as sensitivity for localresidents.During a music event, Steven will set upmonitoring spots outside variousresidences in the vicinity of the Parklands,and communicate directly withproduction personnel on the event site.‘Our people move around constantly tosee if certain spots increase in noise dueto the wind. These are well-orchestratedevents. If a southerly comes through, allthe noise propagation changes and wehave to change all the levels.’

The starting line, Ride for Life

Circus Oz, Moore ParkSound check

Yellow-tailed black cockatoo By Trevor Waller

One of my favouritemembers of the parrotfamily would have to bethe yellow-tailed blackcockatoo. Duringautumn, these large blackcockatoos form flocks thatmove around Sydney insearch of food. Themales have a blackish bill,a red eye-ring and a dullyellow ear patch. Thefemale has a whitish bill, agrey eye-ring and a brightyellow ear patch. Bothsexes have large yellowpanels in a long tail thatcan be seen when thebird is in flight.

The sight of a large flock slowly flapping overhead is a greatspectacle. Their flight is buoyant and effortless as they wheelthrough the treetops with slow, deep, wing beats andfloating glides. They usually call loudly whilst in flight and thisadds to the exhibition. Their calls are a far-carrying ‘why-eeela’, as well as harsh screeches when alarmed. Whilefeeding the sound of grinding is quite distinctive.These birds can be found in diverse habitats ranging fromcoastal, inland and alpine eucalypt forests, heath, banksia,hakea and acacia woodland and rainforests. They feed onthe seed capsules of native trees and shrubs includingeucalypts, banksias and hakeas. They also feed on exoticpines and can extract wood boring insects from tree trunks.In Centennial Parklands they can usually be seen in the PineForest, Sandstone Ridge or near Lachlan Swamp wherepines and banksias are plentiful.These birds nest in high tree hollows that are deep and wideat the nest floor. The bottom of the hollow is lined withwood chips and the two eggs are laid on these. The femaleincubates the eggs for 28 days whilst being fed by the male.The chick leaves the nest after about 15 weeks.If you hear the distinctive call of the yellow-tailed blackcockatoo in the Parklands, take heed as you will be in for afeast for the eyes as a flock wheels over you.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 (visit www.cp.nsw.gov.au/What’s_On for details).

Park Living

Twitcher’s Corner

Local celebrity chef and restauranteur Kylie Kwong takes time outfrom her busy schedule for some fun, relaxation andcontemplation in Centennial Park.Favourite nook in the Parklands?The Duck Pond – I love ducks and Ilove the fact that there are always littlechildren there too – enjoying thepleasures of ducks squawking andgliding though the water. I love howchildren are entertained and excitedso easily and so innocently. I love theDuck Pond for this reason.Favourite memory of Centennial Parklands?During summer – day-light saving time – playing a few rounds offrisbee with friends after work, then sitting on the grass and eatingan early picnic dinner!What’s in your picnic basket?Organic salad mix, Nolan’s Road Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sea Salt,Lemons, a block of Reggiano Parmeggiano cheese, wine glasses,wine, prosciutto, a salad bowl, water!Who would you most like to take for a walk in CentennialParklands?My great grand-father, Kwong Sue Duk – whom I have nevermet. He was responsible for bringing my family name to Australiaback in the Gold rush era. I’d love to ask him a thousandquestions as we strolled around the Park. I just know that hewould love Centennial Parklands, the space and the serenity – agreat place to think and talk things through.Horses or Dogs?Neither. I do like both. I admire horses yet I do not have apassion for horse riding. I love dogs – especially ‘Kelpies’, howeverbecause I travel a lot it is basically impossible for me to look afteran animal properly.Best part of autumn?Walking through Centennial Park early in the crisp, autumnalmornings or in the late afternoon just before sunset.Walk or ride?I do have a bike, but I prefer to walk – I like the pace of walking.What excites you most about Centennial Parklands?There seems to be this unspoken ‘pact’ between all the peoplewho use Centennial Park for their exercise routines especially –no talking to people passing you by! I love it – it is a space whereyou can have complete peace and quiet, solitude, you can thinkand contemplate life, you can absorb and feel the naturalenvironment and you don’t have to be anyone else exceptyourself.

A Walk in the Parkwith Kylie Kwong


Kylie Kwong

Yellow-tailed black cockatoo

Without a doubt, one of the mostoutstanding flowering trees in theParklands would have to be the Africantulip tree, or Spathodea campanulata.

A member of the Bigonia family, thisspectacular tree comes from tropicalcentral and western Africa, mainly aroundLake Victoria and is therefore suited towarm coastal sites. Curiously, although itis an evergreen tree in the more tropicalclimates, it is semi-deciduous inCentennial Park. It grows to a height ofeight metres, with a single trunk and abroad-domed crown and displayscompound leaves that are dark greenand slightly shiny above, while paler anddull beneath.

The highlight for most admirers of theAfrican tulip tree are the beautiful bell-shaped flowers ranging from yellow atthe base to scarlet near the mouth on

the inside, and bright orange merging toorange-scarlet on the lobes. It is theseflowers that give the tree its latin name‘campanulata’ meaning ‘with bell-shapedflowers’.Although the striking, perfumed flowersare this tree’s most eye-catching feature,the fruit of the tree is also veryinteresting. After the foliage is shedduring the cooler months, the fruit ripensin autumn and persists on the tree,forming numerous, flat, oval wing-shapedseeds that are quite unique.Landscape Architect, Gillian Smart, firstintroduced the African tulip to theParklands as part of the award-winningredevelopment of the CentennialParklands Café forecourt in 1997. This tree is now the subject of muchdiscussion and query from Park visitors,many of whom marvel at the beauty of

the tree and seek advice from ParklandsArborists to see if they can have one intheir own gardens.

Tree of the SeasonAfrican tulip tree

Since the early 1980s, husband and wife team, Robert and JanetCarafa have been operating Centennial Park’s popular MobileFood Van. This family-run business, now involving their nieceDiana Abbonizio, has become a Sydney institution for thethousands that patronise the Park on weekends and publicholidays.With 25 years of experience, the family credit the long termsuccess of their business on the good service, great food andcleanliness of the kitchen. About 80% of their customers are regulars, including many

cyclists and sport enthusiasts – many of whom are on a first-name basis with the staff. ‘Our bacon and egg rolls are verypopular, as well as the coffee,’ says Diana. ‘But despite the food,many people just seem to enjoy eating in the wonderfulsurrounds of the Park.’Whilst operating in the scenic environment of Centennial Park is adrawcard for many customers, nature can have its issues. ‘We had to evacuate the Park one day, when there was a hugestorm and there were branches coming off trees; and anothertime the Park flooded and we all had to go home,’ recalls Diana.‘And working in the 45 degree heat of New Years Day was nofun either – there is no air conditioning in the van, just hot plates!’Given their key location, opposite the Duck Pond, the staff ofthe Mobile Food Van often become defacto ‘Rangers’, dealingwith lost children and dogs, and once even having to help putout a fire that started in the nearby Lachlan Swamp.Continuing in the family tradition, Robert and Janet’s daughterJulie has recently begun working the weekend shifts, and evenDiana’s grandmother has a hand in the business, overseeing thestorage of their equipment and supplies.It seems the combination of family, food and friendly service is asuccessful formula for the Mobile Food Van, so take the time tosample their fare next time you visit Centennial Park.

Mobile Food Van - A Family Affair with Food


African tulip tree in the Centennial Parklands Caféforecourt


Healthy Parks, Healthy People

Healthy Parks Amazing Eels

If you are looking for a new way to maintain your health andfitness over the cooler months, why not dust off the spikes andjoin the hundreds of people who are making the most of one ofthe few athletics facilities that is open to the public for casualtraining.ES Marks Athletics Field, is a facility that is most well known forschool athletics carnivals. But in response to requests made bysmaller groups and clubs, this track and field was opened up forcasual training in November 2004, and the feedback has beenvery positive.Facility Attendant, Llewy Cooper de Vitte, has noticed asignificant increase in attendance, and curiously it is the wetterweather that seems to brings the crowds. ‘Rainy days areusually the busiest because we are one of the few facilities thathas a sealed, all-weather running surface,’ says Llewy. Both thetrack and field are equally popular, and Llewy believes thatirrespective of age, fitness level or ability, the atmosphere at ESMarks is welcoming and vibrant and he would encourageanyone to come along and give it a go.‘We have a variedcross section ofathletes, ranging in agefrom 14 to 72, fromclubs, universities,schools and privategroups,’ says Llewy.‘Some are very seriousathletes whilst othersare training forrecreation or fitness.’Most people train twoto three times perweek, with manyworking out under the guidance of qualified coaches.ES Marks is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from3.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Bookings are not required and fees arepayable at the gate. Adults $4.00, Concessions $2.50. Forfurther information, phone (02) 9339 6699 or visitwww.cp.nsw.gov.au/sports

Healthy PeopleES Marks open for athletes

As part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative and NSWSeniors Week, Centennial Parklands is hosting a free ranger-guided Bike Tour on Wednesday, 5 April. ‘This is a very leisurely tour that is perfect for people who havenot ridden for a while’, says Senior Education Ranger PaulSolomon, ‘and it is a very pleasant way to see the wonderfulfeatures of Centennial Park.’

There will also be free Seniors tours of Centennial Park’sfascinating natural and cultural heritage. The Sydney HarbourFederation Trust is offering ‘Art by the Harbour’, the RoyalBotanic Gardens is running free guided walks and aGrandparent’s Day and Sydney Olympic Parklands is offering a20% discount on bike hire.For more information visit www.healthyparkshealthypeople.com

Although autumn is traditionally a quieter time in naturefollowing the hectic breeding during spring and summer,for the long-finned eel (or Anguilla reinhardtii) it is time forone of life’s biggest journeys – a cross-country tripfollowed by a trans-Pacific swim.Commonly misinterpreted as snakes, pests or menacingcreatures from the deep, these native fish inhabit most ofCentennial Park’s ponds and can often be seen glidingalong just under the surface looking for food. They arepredominately carnivorous, feeding on insects, small fishand even young birds. They are not aggressive, andcontrary to most perceptions, they have very short, plate-like teeth which are of little threat to humans.Eels play a very important role in the pond ecosystem.They help control introduced European carp numbers byeating young fish before they reach breeding age, andassist in keeping bird populations at a sustainable level. A little known fact about eels is the incredible journey theyundertake to breed. During autumn, when there isincreased rainfall along Australia’s east coast, mature eelsmigrate to the coast – and when they reach the sea theyswim to their spawning grounds – in New Caledonia!In Centennial Park, adult eels make their way from theponds down to Botany Bay, sometimes using thestormwater drains that link the ponds, but at times actuallyleaving the water to slide and wriggle overland to the nextwater body. Here they too are compelled by instinct andnature to journey to the warm waters of the Pacific toreproduce their species.

Anguilla reinhardtii - Long-finned eel

Seniors pedal their way to good health

ES Marks facility attendant – Llewy Cooper de Vitte

Help the Parklands by dedicating a treeLike Ted, you too can invest in a dedicated tree and enjoyseeing it grow. There are a select number of trees availablethrough the Centennial Parklands Foundation for dedication thisyear, including Port Jackson and Moreton Bay figs, paperbarksand Norfolk Island pines.

Tree Dedication Packages start from $500 and include acertificate, map and photograph of your tree. Official treededication ceremonies can also be arranged.For more information call (02) 9339 6699, [email protected] or visitwww.cp.nsw.gov.au/foundation_and_friends

For the past two decades,Centennial Parklands SeniorArborist, Ted Hoare has seenhis love of trees grow from anoccupation - into a family legacy.Ted began his working life as aTV repairman, but went on tocomplete certificates in bothhorticulture and arboriculturebefore relocating to England in1984 to study tree surgery. Thisled him to take up the positionof Arborist at CentennialParklands in 1985 – and 20 years on he loves it as much todayas when he started. ‘It’s just great’, says Ted of his job, ‘and itjust keeps getting better.’During his tenure at Centennial Parklands, Ted has beenresponsible for all aspects of care and physical maintenance of thetrees – and managing the tree population. ‘Maintenance revolvesaround public safety, it’s about establishing young trees,maintaining the big trees through pruning, taking care of stormdamage and carrying out pest and disease control,’ he shares.One of his proudestachievements has been theimplementation of a treedatabase with 19 categories ofinformation for over 8,000 trees. Ted has also seen a lot ofchanges. His introduction to theindustry coincided with theadvent of modern arboriculturein Australia. Prior to that, it wasan artisan industry with oldtechniques shared via word ofmouth. But from this it hasevolved to become a scientificdiscipline.

‘There is much greaterawareness today about theissues facing tree populations,’ hesays. ‘Twenty years ago therewas little planning or appreciationof trees getting older.’ Now treesare recognised as the mostvaluable asset in the Parklands(currently valued at $97 million),and processes are in place tomanage this aging treepopulation and renew thecollection for the next 100 years.

Coinciding with his on-the-job love of trees, Ted was one of thefirst people to purchase a dedicated tree for his twin sons,Drew and Tom. ‘I dedicated a tree because I wanted my boysto watch it grow together.’ Ted has photographed his sonsalongside their trees for the past 19 years, building a uniquecollection for the family albums and a special family tradition.Ted believes that a dedicated tree is a way for people to expresstheir love of Centennial Parklands and he encourages people tojoin this program. ‘It helps them to contribute and share their

love - and provides a sense ofownership’, says Ted.Like that of other Park notariessuch as Moore and Parkes,Ted’s contributions will beongoing. ‘I am responsible of alegacy which started over 100years ago and am workingtowards the next 100 years. Mychildren’s children will be ableto enjoy my work.’ And they will have the photosto prove it.


Foundation and Friends

Family Trees - the next generation

Tom and Drew Hoare, 1988 Tom and Drew Hoare, 1992

Tom and Drew Hoare, 1999 Tom and Drew Hoare, 2005

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 (Thuto Sat), 7.30 am – 6.00 pm (Sun) (02) 9663 1064www.mooreparkgolf.com.au

La Trattoria at Moore Park Golf B3La Trattoria 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 Drvs, 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

Total Skate E236 Oxford St, Woollahra (02) 9380 6356

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 [email protected]

Budapest Riding School 0419 231 [email protected]

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 to 5.00 pm. E3

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

Web: www.cp.nsw.gov.auEmail: [email protected]: (02) 9339 6699Fax: (02) 9332 2148Post: Locked Bag 15 Paddington NSW 2021

After hours emergencies: 0412 718 611

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