Autumn Edition 2024

LIVING IN Burwood

Burwood Park has had a facelift!

‘Meeting Places’: Australian Street Art Awards

Burwood is turning 150! 2 6 4

Message from the Mayor

As we step into the promising year of 2024, it’s a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements and moments that were brought to life in 2023.

Last year was marked by numerous accomplishments, from hosting 36 events that brought together over 30,000 attendees to significant environmental strides, including the planting of 4,000 shrubs and over 600 trees, this is in addition to the over 2,500 trees we have already planted over the past 4 years. We celebrated milestones like the Enfield Aquatic Centre’s 90th birthday and immersed ourselves in cultural celebrations like Greek Street Fair, Teej Festival and Lunar New Year. These moments, along with numerous other accomplishments, contribute to the unique character of our community.

Building on our achievements, we remain committed to delivering high-quality community infrastructure, fostering community engagement, delivering high quality events, pursuing design excellence, planning for our future, and championing sustainability.

The recent Burwood Park upgrades unveiled a new Pond and Sensory Garden, Nature Playground and Nest Public Art Sculpture, with these high quality amenities already well-loved by our community.

Burwood turns 150 this year, and we are gearing up for a yearlong celebration! From captivating events like the Burwood Street Party to heritage-focused walking tours, there’s something for everyone. Join us in commemorating our past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a bright future.

Our WestInvest projects, valued at almost $100 million, are progressing full steam ahead, promising exciting transformational developments for our community. The state government’s commitment to the delivery of the Burwood North Metro, cements the significance of Burwood as a bustling hub and destination.

Subscribe to our social media channels and e-newsletter for regular updates and opportunities to be involved.

Scan to view a digital translated copy of this newsletter in simplified Chinese. 扫描二维码则可用中文在线阅读这份新闻简报。

Cr John Faker , Mayor of Burwood

Burwood Council acknowledges the Wangal Clan of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the area. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and ongoing relationship with the land.

Mayor Faker with Uncle John Dixon and community members enjoying Yarn and Wander in Burwood Park

Thriving open spaces

Burwood Park has had a $6 million facelift!’

This summer, we unveiled the new and improved Burwood Park Pond, Sensory Garden & Nature Play Playground. A tranquil gathering spot for generations to come.

The introduction of upgraded stormwater infrastructure will assist in future management of heavy rains along Comer Street and Burwood Road as well as utilising filtered rain water for the pond itself.

Creating cooler spaces by planting more trees

Burwood tree inventory

The planting of 103 new trees will supplement the more than 7,000 street trees that already exist in our community. A combination of native and flowering trees will be planted along nature strips and footpaths, enhancing the visual appeal of our streets.

As we continue to strive for increased canopy cover in Burwood over the past few months, Council has planted a total of 131 native trees in 8 different parks. This is all in addition to the over 2,500 trees that have already been planted across our LGA over the last 4 years.

The tree and green cover planting was undertaken with the assistance from the Local Government NSW Greening Our City grant program and we look forward to continuing to enhance our green spaces across our LGA.

Council has been working to undertake a Councilwide inventory of trees in our streets, reserves and parks. With over 10,000 trees found in Burwood’s public and open spaces, Council has set a target of increasing our street tree canopy by 25% by the year 2030. Now complete, the Burwood Tree Inventory enables Council to better understand local trees and improve our planning and maintenance strategy moving forward.

New $200,000 childrens playground for Flockhart Park

As part of the NSW Infrastructure Grants Program, Council has been successful in securing over $200,000 in funding for the upgrade of play equipment, soft fall and furniture at Flockhart Park. Additionally, a new set of exercise equipment will also be installed as part of the upgrade for active recreation catering to all age groups.

Community members exploring Burwood Park’s new Nature Play Playground

Community members floating handmade lanterns to mark 150yrs of Burwood

Newly introduced Nature play space at Burwood Park

Mayor Faker and Member for Strathfield Jason Yat-Sen Li MP officially unveil a revamped Burwood Park

Living in Burwood

Newly upgraded play equipment at Flockhart Park

Burwood After Dark

After months of comprehensive community consultations and engagement with over 400 residents and visitors and 40 businesses, Burwood Council has prepared its first night time economy strategy ‘Burwood After Dark’. With city-shaping projects underway, our expanded night-time offerings will solidify Burwood’s reputation as a cross-cultural late-night destination, attracting visitors from around the globe. This strategy is not just a short term plan, it’s a vision that will redefine Burwood – and we’re kicking it off this year! Stay tuned for exciting developments as we embark on this transformative journey.

Council’s fight to save Croydon

In response to the NSW Government’s recent proposal to rezone Croydon, Burwood Council has taken swift and decisive action to protect the heritage and unique identity of our much loved neighbourhood. At our December 2023 meeting, Council resolved to make representations to the Premier and the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, inform ratepayers about the decision-making process, and launch an online community petition against the government proposal. Council has also lodged an interim submission, highlighting concerns and recommendations, with a primary focus on excluding Croydon from the proposed rezoning.

Burwood Council remains committed to working collaboratively and transparently with the State Government to strike a balance between progress and preserving Croydon’s distinctive character, ensuring that the community’s voice is heard in this critical matter. Stay tuned for further updates on Council’s ongoing efforts to safeguard Croydon.

Burwood Unplugged

The Burwood Unplugged series continues, with local performers popping up across the LGA.

If you’re a talented musician wanting to share your talent with the community, scan the QR code to express your interest.

Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program (WSIG)

Progress continues on our exciting WSIG projects (formerly known as WestInvest) worth over $100 million in directly supporting our community.

Community Facilities

Burwood Urban Park Arts And Cultural Centre $36M

Enfield Aquatic Centre Redevelopment $52.4M

Library Pod $800K

Parks

Woodstock Sensory Garden $1.3M

Henley Park Sports Field Upgrade $3.8M

Burwood Park Inclusive Play Space $2.7M

Henley Park and Russell Reserve Expansion $700K

Streetscapes

Deane Street Precinct Transformation $4M

Strathfield Place Making Project $2.4M

Burwood Main Street Transformation $5.4M

Paisley Road Beautification $6.2M

Live Light and Recycle Right

When we recycle properly, we are able to recover and reuse materials, lower greenhouse emissions and reduce material reaching landfill.

Scan the QR code for recycling tips and tricks or to schedule a waste pick-up at your doorstep.

Mayor Faker holding Council’s submission to the NSW Government in the fight to protect Croydon

Mayor Faker with local performer Daniele Montarulo

Our community canvas

Vibrant public art inspired by our community.

Wangal Wetlands

Local artist Tahlia Kate Henderson was commissioned by Burwood Council to develop ‘Wangal Wetlands’, an artwork inspired by the native flora and fauna within Wangal Park in Croydon.

A previous entrant of the Burwood Art Prize, Tahlia is an emerging artist working and living on Wangal Country.

‘MeetingPlaces’ : $31K Burwood Bus depot mural shines as finalist in Australian Street Art Awards

A vibrant addition to our community landscape was recently introduced along Parramatta Road. A proud collaboration between Council and Sydney-based artist, Christina Huynh saw the installation of a striking mural on the front façade of the Burwood Bus Depot, paying homage to Lorna Hutchings, Burwood’s first ever female bus driver.

In collaboration with Transport for New South Wales and Transit Systems West, this project was proudly funded through the Parramatta Road Urban Amenity Improvement Program (PRUAIP) from the NSW Government.

The breathtaking mural has rolled into the spotlight in the media, but also as a finalist in the Australian Street Art Awards.

$569K Burwood Nest

Years in the making, this outdoor installation is the result of Council’s successful bid for funding through the Parramatta Road Urban Amenity Improvement Program. Inspired by the elegance of a bird’s nest, this sculpture invites artists to showcase their work, fostering community engagement and connections. Step into a world where art intertwines with nature, encouraging you to linger, appreciate, and connect with both art and community.

Local artist Tahlia Kate Henderson with Mayor Faker standing by the ‘Wangal Wetlands’ artwork in Wangal Park

Meeting Places by artist Christina Huynh at the Burwood Bus Depot

Mayor Faker and Member for Strathfield Jason Yat-Sen Li MP with Council staff unveiling the Burwood Nest

Burwood Art Prize

Feast your eyes upon some incredible art at this year’s Burwood Art Prize!

With a total prize pool of $14,000, come along to celebrate our esteemed winners at the Burwood Art Prize Opening Night and enjoy hands-on creative workshops.

Stay and play at Unity Place

As a melting pot of cultures from all over the globe, our community is like no other. Paying tribute to our cross cultural makeup, the ‘Rainbow River’ public art decal was installed in Unity Place, Burwood and insights a sense of discovery and play. The project highlights Council’s commitment to activating places for everyone to stay, play and enjoy. Next time you’re in Burwood stop by for a game of Snakes and Ladders!

Recognising Croydon’s long standing heritage

The Strand shopping precinct with its unique street layout is an example of a cohesive group of Federation shops and residences. According to the Sands Street Directory the first shops were opened on the west side in 1912. Council has installed new artworks that commemorate the establishment of this important neighbourhood.

Burwood Park flags: Yenmara bembul-ra (walking on earth)

In 2023, Burwood Council commissioned Kamilaroi and Jerrinja artist Jasmine Sarin and Kungarakan artist Toby Bishop to design 12 flags for Burwood Park to reference First Nations history and culture. Working with Local Wangal Elder Kerrie Kenton, Sarin and Bishop developed the series Yenmara bembul-ra (walking on earth).

This project was funded through the Parramatta Road Urban Amenity Improvement Program (PRUAIP) from the NSW Government.

Burwood Park flags: Yenmara bembul-ra

New artworks celebrating the history of The Strand, Croydon

‘Rainbow River’ public art in Unity Place, Burwood

Guests admiring art at the exhibition

Burwood is turning 150!

In 2024, we’re celebrating 150 years of the Municipality of Burwood! To mark the special milestone, we’re putting on a year-long line up of events to celebrate. From special events to community projects, there will be something for everyone to join in a toast to our longstanding heritage.

What’s On Yarn and Wander

Embark on a walking tour at Yarn and Wander, where every step tells a story, led by the insightful voices of First Nations elders.

Thursday 11 April 2024 4–5pm Henley Park, Enfield

Thursday 16 May 2024 4–5pm Flockhart Park, Croydon

Bookings are required. Visit burwood.nsw.gov.au to register or contact Council on 9911 9911

Resilience Captured

Journey through time at this photographic exhibition of Chinese women and children evacuated from New Guinea in 1942. Photographs taken by Ray Olson.

On display

27 March – 20 May 2024

Burwood Library and Community Hub

Walking through Burwood’s Civic History

Explore sites connected to the early administrative history of the Burwood Municipality in this guided walking tour.

Saturday 22 June 2024 10–11:30am

Burwood Library and Community Hub

Uncle John sharing First Nations knowledge on a Yarn and Wander walking tour

Clocktower on Burwood Road, Burwood Tram travelling along Burwood Road Burwood Road, Burwood

Burwood Road, Burwood

Chinese women walking the streets of Burwood in 1942

Burwood Street Party –

Celebrating 150 Years!

Saturday 6 April 2024 5–10pm

Burwood Road, Burwood

Join us as our streets come alive with the rhythm of diverse drumming cultures, captivating performances, nostalgic tunes and dancing from eras past with the Swing Kats. Enjoy exploring market stalls and marvel at a display of classic automobiles. Delight in the soul-stirring melodies of First Nations musician Eric Avery and raise your voice in harmony with the combined community choir’s performance.

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of our open-air dance party, where DJ Flygirl Tee will keep the beats pumping alongside energetic K-pop and contemporary dance displays from DanceKool and the Maverick Dance Crew. Don’t miss the grand finale at 9pm, as the sky erupts with a dazzling fireworks display, illuminating our shared history and bright future, followed by another hour of thumping dance beats and entertainment beneath the stars. Indulge in delectable Asian cuisines at our very own Burwood Chinatown, where tantalizing flavours from across Asia await to satisfy your taste buds. Come one, come all, and be part of this unforgettable milestone in Burwood’s rich tapestry of heritage and culture.

Language Festival: Celebrating Burwood’s Diversity through Language, Song and Food

Saturday 22 June 2024

11.30am – 4.00pm

Burwood Library and Community Hub

Heritage Festival

Walking Tours

Follow in the steps of Sarah Nelson –Burwood’s first recorded settler, and others who shaped Malvern Hill into the place we now know it today.

Saturday 27 April 2024

10–11:30am & 3–4:30pm

Malvern Hill, Croydon

Mayor’s Office

Cr John Faker – Mayor P: 9911 9916

E: mayor@burwood.nsw.gov.au

@BurwoodMayor

Councillors

Cr George Mannah – Deputy Mayor george.mannah@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Cr Heather Crichton heather.crichton@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Cr Ned Cutcher ned.cutcher@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Cr Pascale Esber pascale.esber@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Cr David Hull david.hull@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Cr Hugo Robinson hugo.robinson@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Council

2 Conder Street, Burwood P: 9911 9911 (24 hour service)

E: council@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Mon–Fri 8.30am – 4.30pm 24/7 after hours phone service.

Library & Community Hub

2 Conder Street, Burwood

P: 9911 9999

E: library@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Mon & Fri 9.30am – 5pm

Tue & Thu 9.30am – 8pm

Wed 9.30am – 6pm

Sat 11am – 4pm

Sun 12noon – 4pm

Please

@burwoodlibrary

Enfield Aquatic Centre

Portland Street, Enfield P: 9747 4319

E: eac@burwood.nsw.gov.au

Mon–Fri 6am – 8pm

Sat & Sun 7am – 6pm

Community spotlight

Birthday fun at Enfield Aquatic Centre’s 90th Anniversary

DJ Gurugayatri performing at Beats and Eats

Feeling the rhythm at Beats and Eats

Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW performing at Greek Street Fair 2023

Mayor John Faker with Burwood Council’s Young Citizen of the Year at the 2024 Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony

Burwood Council’s Light a Lantern event at the newly upgraded Burwood Park pond

A celebration of Nepalese culture at Teej Festival

Locals networking at the Burwood Business Expo

Santa at Burwood Council’s Carols in the Park event

Remembrance Day 2023

Bringing in the Year of the Dragon at New Impressions’ Lunar New Year Carnival