Residents have a brand-new space to exercise, play and relax after the opening of a new playspace in Blacktown.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM officially opened Beryl Simes Smith Park, on the corner of Fourth Ave and Prince St last month, with families able to enjoy the park just in time for the Easter long weekend.
The $2 million park features an outdoor gym, volleyball court, play equipment and undercover picnic areas and is conveniently located near Blacktown Girls High School and Blacktown Mosque.
It is named in honour and memory of former Blacktown Girls High Principal, Beryl Simes Smith, who inspired generations of students during her 40 years in education.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale said, "This park is a wonderful tribute to much-respected Principal, Beryl Simes Smith, who made her mark on our local community as Deputy Principal and Principal of Blacktown Girls High (1958-71).
"Beryl is remembered as someone who instilled a strong sense of integrity, perseverance and ethics in her students.
"She was also a big believer in the importance of a well-rounded education, and even opened a school garden.
"Therefore, it is apt that this wonderful new park and meeting place be named after Beryl Simes Smith."
The park is located just 500 metres from the Blacktown CBD and is surrounded by high-density development.
"This playspace provides a much-needed open space and recreational facility for these residents," Mayor Bleasdale said.
"Families can come down here and have a picnic, watch their children enjoy the play equipment, or have a game of volleyball."
The park also includes new paved pathways and landscaping.
Councillor Julie Griffiths, Blacktown MP Stephen Bali, relative Philip Smart, Blacktown Girls High Deputy Principal Zoe Van-Stolk, former Councillor Kevin Gillies and former students also attended a ribbon cutting to mark the park's opening.
Photo: Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale (third from left) at the official opening of Beryl Simes Smith Park with Blacktown MP Stephen Bali, Cr Julie Griffiths, former students, Philip Smart, Kevin Gillies and Blacktown Girls High Deputy Principal Zoe Van-Stolk.
