Visitors - be aware of swans nesting at Kippax Lake, Moore Park. Please do not approach them. 
The September / October school holiday program is out now. Jam packed with fun activities to inspire and delight. 
As of 1 May 2010, there has been a change in gate opening and closing times in Centennial Park. Please read the following information. 
We want your thoughts on Car Free Day in Centennial Park. Take our online survey today - you may even win a prize! 
History and Heritage
Centennial Parklands is not only one of Australia's best known and loved Parklands, but one of its most historic.
Originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney, Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes vision was to create a "People's Park" in which the citizens of Sydney could "take in the air" away from the Sydney town centre.
While the first set of Parklands' regulations in 1889 included: "No person shall walk on the grass...." and "No person shall engage in any game, or train for any race..." the Parklands have come a long way to becoming one of the most popularly visited and vibrant green spaces in Australia.
Historical information
Learn about the fascinating and - at times - quirky history behind these public lands through the following links:
- Centennial Parklands history: stories and anecdotes from the history of the Parklands
- Centennial Parklands Timeline: an extensive historical timeline from commissioning to today
- Origins of Names: where did that name come from? Find out here.
- History of Tree Plantings: find out who planted what, when and why
- Heritage buildings and structures: find out more about the Parklands heritage buildings
- Statues, Memorials, Sculptures and Gates: find out more about the Parklands iconic statues, memorials, sculptures and gates
