Wentworth Park commemorates rich history
Inner city residents looking for some fun in the sun are in for a treat this Sunday, 21 October, as the annual Wentworth Park Community Games rolls up.
Now in its fifth year, the Games promises novel family-orientated entertainment. Residents of Glebe, Pyrmont, Ultimo and Forest Lodge will again relive old-time rivalries and battle each other in a myriad of matches to achieve the coveted Gum Boot Cup.
These matches include gum boot throwing competitions, scavenger hunts, wine glass racing and table tennis.
Pet dogs can be part of the action in competing against canine compatriots for the prestigious Wenty Park Mongrel Cup.
“We wanted to bring the community together and make them more aware of the park – because it is a big park – and of its history with the greyhounds, where it hosts dog-racing competitions,” event coordinator Mary Mortimer said.
“It is the only event in Sydney that allows other dogs to come and race on the greyhound track, which as you know is a very prestigious racetrack. It’s a dog owner’s thrill.”
Competitions aside, organisers hope the day will encourage residents to celebrate Wentworth Park’s rich and colourful history.
Originally a wetland into which the creeks from Glebe and the ridges from Pyrmont and Ultimo drained, the area transformed into a veritable “dumping ground” when European settlers arrived. set up industry such as abattoirs, a tannery and a distillery in the area.
It was the stench from these industries that prompted the local government at the time to reclaim the land and create the area that is now the park. Initial uses of the park were for sporting matches, movies and speed car races. An American Army Camp also used the area during World War II.
Local schools in area will be setting up food stalls to aid their fundraising efforts. The event will be held on Sunday from 11am to 2pm.
By Adra Anthoney
