Eastlakes

Gazing at Eastlakes today, it’s difficult to picture thoroughbreds galloping where apartments now stand. Eastlakes, a suburb nestled 8 kilometers south of Sydney’s CBD, has a fascinating history intertwined with horse racing, wartime training grounds, and a significant transformation into the residential hub it is now. Eastlakes was once the site of Rosebery Park Racecourse, a popular venue for mid-week pony races starting in 1906. These races featured slightly smaller thoroughbreds and mixed-breed horses. The grandstands held 1000 spectators, with additional room for 800 in the paddock. A bar and oyster stand added to the lively atmosphere. A dramatic incident in 1928 saw the grandstand partially collapse during a race, causing panic and injuries. One man, Thomas John Hanrahan, tragically died from his injuries two weeks later. The racecourse owners invested significantly to rebuild and improve the facilities. However, wartime needs soon overshadowed racing. During both World Wars, Rosebery Racecourse served as a training camp for soldiers. The open space, existing infrastructure, and drainage made it ideal for military exercises. The 1st Light Horse Regiment trained here in 1914, living in tents scattered across the grounds. During World War II, the racecourse became headquarters for the 8th Division of the Australian Imperial Force, a division that later saw action in Malaya and Singapore. While official racing never returned after the wars, the racecourse remained a training ground for horses until 1961. That year marked the turning point for Eastlakes. The Sydney Turf Club sold the land to developers, and over the next decade, the landscape changed dramatically. A shopping centre arose, alongside over 65 red brick apartment buildings and public housing complexes. Today, Eastlakes showcases a blend of dwelling types, with apartments, townhouses, and some single-family homes coexisting. The suburb has seen continuous development and modernization, catering to a diverse population. Eastlakes boasts parks and green spaces like Eastlakes Reserve and Jack Shanahan Reserve. These areas offer recreational opportunities, contributing to the suburb’s appeal. Eastlakes also has convenient access to amenities, transportation, and public schools, adding to its desirability for residents. Eastlakes has undergone a remarkable evolution from a swampy area used for water supply to a bustling racecourse, a wartime training ground, and finally, the modern suburb we see today. It offers a blend of history and contemporary living, making it a unique part of Sydney’s rich tapestry.