Greek cultural legacy at Sydney Olympic Park faces demolition under 2050 Masterplan

·

The Greek Australian community has raised concerns over the potential demolition of Stockroute Park and the Discobolus sculpture at Sydney Olympic Park, as outlined in the NSW Government’s Draft Masterplan 2050.

This redevelopment plan threatens a significant cultural legacy that was a gift from the Greek community to Australia ahead of the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Stockroute Park, located on Herb Elliott Avenue, includes mature olive trees donated by Greek Australian communities and Discobolus, an artwork by renowned artist Robert Owen.

Established in the late 1990s, this “art-park” was funded entirely by Greek Australians, supported by international Greek organisations and Greece’s government, and coordinated with the Olympic Coordination Authority (OCA). It forms part of the “Hellenic Tribute Trilogy,” which commemorates the Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, and Athens 2004 Games.

The park and its installations were enhanced between 2009 and 2010 in preparation for the Sydney Games’ 10th anniversary. Collaborations between Greek Australian groups and international Greek institutions introduced interpretive signage and artistic elements that celebrated Greece’s contributions to the Olympic movement.

Greek cultural legacy at Sydney Olympic Park faces demolition under 2050 Masterplan
The wall explaining the artwork and including the names of donors.

Designed as a lasting acknowledgment of Greece’s contributions to the Olympic movement, the park has since become a significant cultural and historical landmark​, and was officially recognised by the NSW Geographic Names Board in 2010.

Despite this, Stockroute Park and its iconic Hellenic features face removal to accommodate mixed-use commercial development​ at Sydney Olympic Park.

The Draft Masterplan 2050 envisions a transformation of the 650-hectare site into a bustling urban precinct with housing, schools, and mixed-use spaces. This vision comes at the cost of several heritage sites, including Stockroute Park.

Prominent Greek Australian organisations and individuals have called for urgent action. They are urging the community to voice their concerns during the public consultation period, which closes on November 25.

To learn more or submit feedback on the Draft Masterplan 2050, visit the Sydney Olympic Park Authority’s exhibition site here.​

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

The Greek passport (for Aussies) debacle: Part One

For quite a while now, I've been hearing complaints from Greek Australians about long delays in obtaining a Greek passport.

Harry Mavrolefteros’ First Education wins ‘Business of the Decade’ at National Awards

First Education, founded by Harry Mavrolefteros, was awarded 'Business of the Decade' at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Little Legs Foundation sets monopoly World Record in memory of Alegra Vasiliou

The Little Legs Foundation officially set a new Guinness World Record for the most people playing Monopoly in a single venue.

Hellenic Medical Society of Australia’s Careers Day returns to inspire students

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia invite all year 9-12 students to attend the HMSA ‘Pathways to Success’ Careers Day.

Melbourne man charged for impersonating police officer and assaulting families

Franesko Vamvakaris appeared in Ringwood Magistrates Court on Monday, facing charges of impersonating a police officer and unlawful assault.

You May Also Like

Cumberland Mayor Steve Christou vows to go ahead with Australia Day events despite backlash

Mr Christou said last week that cancelling Australia Day events was “completely unacceptable and quite frankly unAustralian”.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Andrew Liveris AO to discuss ‘role of the Greek Diaspora’ at inaugural THI event

We are honoured that the Greek Prime Minister has accepted our invitation to speak directly to Greek Australians about the role we can all play as a stronger Greece emerges from its years of crisis,” said THI Australia President, Nicholas Pappas AM.

Holy Saturday Hymn dedicated to the Burial of Christ

Holy Saturday is the last day of Holy Week and Lent. This day is dedicated to the Burial and Descent of Christ into Hades.