For all of the many charms of the inner east suburbs of Rushcutters Bay, Elizabeth Bay, and Potts Point, Rushcutters Bay Park is one of the area’s brightest diamonds.
Boasting exquisite waterfront views, ample parklands and sporting facilities, it’s the perfect spot for locals to work out, chill out, play and picnic.
It’s hard to believe that Rushcutters Bay Park was considered a bit of a scary place to go 20 years ago. Today, it’s thriving with happy residents and visitors – kids play on the grass, families picnic, dog walkers stroll, and cyclists and runners take advantage of the waterside pathways. With its stunning views, tennis courts, children’s playground, sailing club, and cafe, Rushcutters Bay Park is arguably one of the greatest recreation areas in all of Sydney.
What’s in a name?
Originally called Blackburn Cove, in the early days of the colony, the area saw much activity by convicts cutting reeds to be used as roof thatching. The area was known as ‘Rush Cutting Bay’, and we ended up the current name: Rushcutters Bay.
History
Once swampy land covered in tall rushes, way back in 1876 six acres were reserved for recreation, ultimately leading to the creation of Rushcutters Bay Park. Rushcutters Bay was once the site of the famous Sydney Stadium, which was built in 1904 on the site of a former Chinese market garden. The stadium was home to many boxing matches and also hosted almost every Australian and American rock and pop stars of its era, including The Beatles on their legendary 1964 tour.
Some highlights include:
Rushcutters Bay Park Children’s Playground – Located next to the kiosk café and toilets, the playground has plenty of swings, slides and a fort, is fenced and gated for safety, and offers plenty of nearby shade, thanks to the park’s many gigantic, ancient trees.
Rushcutters Bay Kiosk – Next door to the children’s playground, the kiosk café has ample outdoor tables and serves up good café fare with an excellent kids’ menu.
The Reg Bartley Oval – The Oval was built on the foundations of the old Sydney General Post Office, which was demolished in the 1860s. It was named in 1959 in recognition of Reg Bartley’s 18 years as alderman and five as Lord Mayor. The original grandstand was built in 1894; it was renovated in 1992 and has featured in the Australian films The Sum of Us (1994) and Babe (1996). Today, the oval hosts all manner of rugby, soccer and cricket games.
The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) — Australia’s premier yacht club and home to what is considered yachting’s “Everest” – the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Take a stroll in the park at night and admire the many yachts on the water. It’s also the perfect vista from which to take in the Sydney to Hobart race come Boxing Day. The CYCA clubhouse and annex are currently undergoing a major refurbishment.
Rushcutters Bay Tennis Centre – Tennis enthusiasts can find tailored programs that cater for all ages here, including coaching, competitions, school holiday programs, corporate days and catered functions.
If you want to know more about living in Rushcutters Bay contact our team today.
