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

Historic ties remembered as Greece’s Evzones march in Adelaide’s ANZAC Day parade

During a Dawn Service at West Torrens on Friday, April 25, the Evzones stood guard alongside Australian army battalion in remembrance.

Greek glamour meets Aussie pop: Inside the colourful universe of Stavroula Adameitis

Adelaide-born designer Stavroula Adameitis is a creator of bespoke pieces that she describes as ‘wearable art.’

Melbourne seminar to focus on the odyssey of Michel ‘Pablo’ Raptis

Michel Pablo was a twentieth century revolutionary whose life and ideas remain relevant and inspirational until today.

Lawyer Greg Masselos warns NSW workers’ comp changes could devastate frontline workers

Greg Masselos has warned that proposed changes by the NSW government to raise the threshold for claims could have devastating consequences.

Niki Louca shares how to make Focaccia Bread

Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for pita bread with The Greek Herald. You can follow her on Instagram.

You May Also Like

The British Museum and the abduction of Persephone

By George VardasAccording to Greek mythology the goddess Persephone was the daughter of Demeter, the goddess of fertility and harvest, and almighty Zeus.  Persephone...

AHEPA Australia celebrates 70th National Convention in Canberra

AHEPA Australia held its 70th National Convention in Canberra from March 14 to 16, with over 50 delegates in attendance.

Liberal Chisholm candidate Theo Zographos dumped for former MP Katie Allen

The Victorian Liberal Party replaced its Chisholm candidate with former MP Katie Allen, following the abolition of the historic Higgins seat.