Parklands Honours Fearnley’s Impressive Feats

By Kate Myers on March 10, 2016 in News

Photo: Esteban la Tessa

As far as Aussie legends go, wheelchair racer Kurt Fearnley is right up near the top of the list. The three-time Paralympic gold medallist has represented Australia at four consecutive games, and has also completed the Kokoda Track, a testament to his determination and ‘never give up’ attitude.

It therefore came as no surprise when Kurt’s name was put forward for renaming of the recently upgraded cycle track and barbecue area at Centennial Park, highlighted as an area of deficiency in the park’s Master Plan 2040.

“The project not only connects our park visitors through improved facilities and amenities, but eventually all of Sydney with a wider program to create a new entranceway to Centennial Park near Fearnley Grounds linking Grand Drive to the forthcoming light rail station on Alison Road,” Kim Ellis, Executive Director of Botanic Gardens and Centennial Parklands, said.

The new facilities include the already popular Greenhouse Café and a permanent base for Centennial Park Cycles, a set-up inspired by the pre-existing kiosk and cyclist pavilion that stood from 1908 until it was destroyed by fire in 1946.

On January 18, a special naming ceremony took place at the site, providing an opportunity for the community to witness the dedication of the upgrade.

Mr Fearnley, a regular user of the park and its cycle way, was on hand to receive his accolade.

“It is an absolute honour to have a precinct in Centennial Park named after me,” Mr Fearnley said. “The Parklands hold a very special place in my heart – it is where I go to train, to think, to cycle and to breathe.”

Minister for the Environment Mark Speakman said it was Mr Fearnley’s exceptional achievements and work as a representative for all individuals with disabilities that made him an obvious choice for the naming of the grounds.

“Many elite athletes have trained and competed here over the years, but it was Kurt’s passion and the inspiration he embodies as a disability advocate for so many Australians that saw his name proposed through our public naming competition,” Mr Speakman said.

It is hoped that the project marks the beginning of a successful upgrade of adjacent areas, particularly the learners bike track and playground, as well as a connection to the light rail stop and a new bridge across Kensington Pond.

Whatever the outcome of the proposed plan, the opening of Fearnley Grounds pays tribute to an inspirational athlete, who is now immortalised in an iconic and central community facility.