ABC Podcasts
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
BONUS | History Listen | Henson Park
BONUS | History Listen | Henson Park
BONUS | History Listen | Henson Park
Tuesday 11th January 2022
Explore Henson Park's journey from a brick pit to Sydney's beloved community hub, filled with rich history and quirky traditions.
29 minutes
Informative
Engaging
Inspiring
Authentic
Hopeful
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Get the buttons here!Henson Park: From Brick Pit to Community Icon
Episode Overview
- Henson Park evolved from a brick pit to a beloved community space.
- The park holds significant cultural importance for Indigenous Australians.
- Local traditions include quirky crowd figures and unique characters.
- During lockdowns, parks became vital spaces for community connection.
- Henson Park is a symbol of Marrickville's identity and history.
"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to the eighth wonder of the world. I give you the one, the only, Henson Park."
Ever wondered what it takes to transform a giant hole into a beloved community space? This episode of Days Like These takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of Sydney's Henson Park, as told by reporter Mike Williams. Once a brick pit supplying Sydney's building boom, Henson Park has become an iconic gathering place for sports fans and locals alike.
The episode dives into the park's evolution, from its beginnings as a water-filled hazard to its transformation into a vibrant sports ground and community hub. The tale is enriched by anecdotes from Gadigal elder Owen Madden, who highlights the park's significance to Indigenous Australians, and Chris Meader, whose family history is intertwined with the park.
You’ll hear about the park’s quirky traditions, like the infamous crowd figure of 8,972 at Jets games, and the unique characters who bring the park to life, including John Trad, known for riding his penny-farthing bike around the oval. The episode also touches on the park's role during lockdowns, offering locals a space to reconnect with nature and community.
Whether you're a history buff or a sports enthusiast, this episode offers an engaging look at how Henson Park became a cornerstone of Marrickville life. So, what makes a place truly special? Is it the land itself or the stories woven into its fabric?