The redevelopment of Narellan Town Centre in 2017 enhanced its community space through placemaking, incorporating public art and amenities. Valued at $200 million, the extension nearly doubled its size, accommodating 100+ retailers and encouraging social interactions. The design reflects local history, fostering cultural identity and community engagement, achieving successful early usage by families.
Category: Narellan
Creative Kids: Art Play Workshops at Narellan Town Centre
Over two weeks, the Narellan Town Centre hosted 'Art Play' workshops for kids aged 5 to 12, featuring various creative activities led by artists from the Alan Baker Art Gallery. The free sessions attracted over 200 children daily, providing an engaging and stress-free school holiday opportunity for families while fostering creativity and artistic skills.
Navigating Australia’s Housing Crisis: Insights from Sydney’s Urban Fringe
The complexities of addressing Australia's housing challenges, suggests an article from ABC News, on Sydney's urban fringes are not as simple as they might seem. While author Ian Willis explores how the growing population has created demand for housing, the reality often falls short of expectations. Many new residents, he writes, are drawn by promises of suburbia, face disillusionment due to inadequate infrastructure, high density, and unresolved issues like traffic congestion and housing quality. Willis argues that the ongoing crises reflect a disconnect between development aspirations and lived experiences, suggesting the need for improved planning and understanding of community needs.
A Journey Through Camden’s Mid-Century Housing Architecture
Camden's mid-century housing, developed between the 1940s and 1970s, reflects a worldwide modernism movement. Characterized by simple lines and open spaces, these homes arose amid urban growth linked to the new jobs created by the Burragorang coalfields. Unfortunately, many of these historic structures are disappearing, necessitating greater recognition and appreciation of their significance.
Exploring Studley Park: A Victorian Italianate Heritage Site
Studley Park House, located in Narellan, NSW, exemplifies Victorian Italianate architecture and holds state significance for its aesthetics and historical associations. Constructed in 1889 by architect firm AL & G McCredie for William Charles Payne, it served various purposes, including a school and military quarters, before becoming a private residence.
Exploring Camden’s Railway Heritage: Pansy and Its Timeless Stories
The Camden branch line, with its famous locomotive Pansy, holds a special place in the memories of locals and visitors. Operating from 1882 to 1963, it served as a lifeline for the community, transporting goods, passengers, and even wartime heroes. Despite its eventual closure, remnants of the line can still be seen today.
Narellan ‘Gayline’ Drive-In Movie Theatre, a touch of modernism
The Narellan Gayline Drive-In Movie Theatre in Camden was a defining feature of the local 1960s-1980s culture, offering a relaxed, family-friendly movie experience. The drive-in's success peaked in the early 1970s but eventually closed in 1990 due to changing lifestyles and real estate development. It provided a memorable experience for many local residents, offering a nostalgic look back at a bygone era.
Explore Narellan’s History: Heritage Walking Tour and Historic Sites
The Narellan Heritage Walking Tour, curated by local photographers Kylie and Peter Lyons, provides a fascinating exploration of the historical and architectural legacy of Narellan. This tour offers insights into the original villages predating Camden's establishment in 1840, featuring notable sites like The Old St Thomas Chapel and the Narellan Public School.
Narellan Library Murals, a wall of public art
There are two colourful mural artworks along the Queen Street frontage of Narellan Library. These artworks were commissioned by Camden Council in 2017 as a collaboration between mural artist Mandy Salter and the area's young artists as part of a Youth Participation Public Art Project.
Narellan Community Mosaic Project: art in the park
The Narellan Community Mosaic Project was commissioned in 2005 by Camden Council with funding from the NSW Department of Planning. This artwork is one of number in Elyard Reserve in Narellan.
