The Discobolus Monument in Sydney Olympic Park – a treasured symbol of Greek heritage and the Olympic spirit – is now being considered for inclusion on the New South Wales State Heritage Register.
The Heritage Council of NSW resolved on 5 August 2025 to begin the process of listing the Discobolus Monument in recognition of its heritage significance to the people of NSW.
Public submissions on the proposed listing are open until 11 October 2025 via the NSW Government’s “Have Your Say” portal.
According to Heritage NSW, the monument may hold State significance for its “associative, aesthetic and social values,” citing its role as a major public artwork that combines sculptural, architectural and landscape elements to portray Greek symbolism in a modern Australian context.
The Discobolus Monument, created by renowned Australian artist Robert Owen, was installed in Stockroute Park in the lead-up to the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. It was part of a larger cultural initiative known as the “Hellenic Tribute Trilogy,” which honoured the Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympic Games.
The project was funded entirely by Greek Australians, supported by the Greek Government and coordinated through the Olympic Coordination Authority (OCA).
The park and its installations were further enhanced between 2009 and 2010 for the 10th anniversary of the Sydney Olympics. Stockroute Park, which features mature olive trees donated by the Greek Australian community, was officially recognised by the NSW Geographic Names Board in 2010.
The latest development comes after The Greek Herald first reported in November 2024 that the Discobolus Monument faced potential demolition, as outlined in the NSW Government’s Sydney Olympic Draft Masterplan 2050.
The Sydney Olympic Park Authority has since assured the community that the Discobolus Monument will not be demolished or disposed of inappropriately, and that any relocation will “respect the original intent of the artist and the Greek community.”
The Greek Herald understands that even if the Discobolus is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, any potential relocation of the monument within Sydney Olympic Park is a separate matter for future consideration and consultation with the community.
Public submissions on the proposed listing are open until 11 October 2025 via the NSW Government’s “Have Your Say” portal. Submit your application here.
