The future of Stockroute Park and its iconic Discobolus sculpture has sparked widespread concern among Sydney’s Greek Australian community, as the NSW Government’s Draft Masterplan 2050 threatens their demolition.
The Discobolus sculpture and surrounding park were gifted to the people of Sydney by the Greek-Australian community as part of the “Hellenic Tribute Trilogy,” commemorating the Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, and Athens 2004 Olympic Games.
The park features elements symbolising Greek heritage, including olive trees, stone steps, and a discus-throwing circle, all designed to celebrate the connection between Greece and Australia.
Community leader and former Randwick City Mayor John Procopiades, who played a key role in supporting the Discobolus project, recently contacted the NSW Minister for Local Government and Member for Heffron, Ron Hoenig MP, urging action to protect this significant cultural legacy.
In response to Mr Procopiades’ letter, Mr Hoenig expressed dismay at the lack of recognition given to the Discobolus in the Draft Masterplan.
“It is a shame that some bureaucrats in the Department of Planning thought it would be okay to simply remove a public sculpture that had been commissioned and funded by Greek organisations and various Greek individuals as a gift to the NSW Government,” Mr Hoenig stated.
The Minister acknowledged the cultural and historical value of the Discobolus, not just for those of Greek heritage but for all Sydneysiders. He argued that the sculpture and its surroundings contribute to the area’s sense of history and could enhance the amenity of future developments.
As a result, Mr Hoenig has taken the matter to the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully MP, and promised to update Mr Procopiades once a response is received.
Mr Procopiades, who chaired the Springtime Greek Glendi when his organisation donated $10,000 to support the Discobolus, has called on the Greek Australian community to contact their state and federal representatives.
He emphasised the need to ensure this cultural landmark remains intact for future generations, stating, “This Tribute is a gift to the people of Sydney by the Greek-Australian community and should remain in perpetuity for generations to come.”
The Draft Masterplan 2050, which envisions a transformation of Sydney Olympic Park into a mixed-use precinct, has raised alarm for its potential impact on heritage sites. The community had until November 25 to submit feedback on the proposal, urging the government to reconsider plans that would erase this unique cultural legacy.
