Named in honour of the recently deceased former Willoughby Mayor Greg Bartels, Bartels Park stands as a testament to his legacy. Bartels Park, formerly known as Edgar Street reserve, was unveiled in July 2016. The park’s name recognizes Greg Bartels’ service to the Willoughby community.
Imagine Bartels Park as more than just a green space. It is a place of community pride. It offers a space for relaxation and recreation in Chatswood West.
Greg Bartels’ dedication to Willoughby shaped the suburb. He was a key figure in local government. Bartels Park is a fitting tribute to his contributions.
Chatswood itself has a rich history. It was named after Charlotte Harnett. She was the wife of Richard Harnett. He was then the Mayor of Willoughby. The name is derived from her nickname “Chattie”. It was shortened from Chattie’s Wood to Chatswood in the mid-1800s.
Residential settlement began in 1876. It grew with the opening of the North Shore railway line in 1890. Further growth occurred with the opening of the Harbour Bridge in 1932.
By 1900, Chatswood was easily accessible by public transport. An electric tram line ran along Willoughby Road and Penshurst Street. It reached Victoria Avenue in 1898. In 1908, it was extended to Chatswood railway station.
Chatswood’s early days included orchards and dairy farms. Factories like Dairy Farmers Inc. and Three Threes Pickle Factory were also present. These stood on what was then Gordon Road, now the Pacific Highway.
Today, Chatswood is largely commercial and residential. However, it retains an industrial past. Ferguson Transformers, Caroma factory, and tanneries along Scott’s Creek once thrived.
Declared a town centre in 1983, Chatswood became a city in 1989. It is now a major commercial and retail hub. The “Sydney global economic corridor” includes Chatswood. Many retail outlets line Victoria Avenue. Office buildings are situated along the Pacific Highway.
Chatswood boasts two major shopping centres. They are Chatswood Chase and Westfield Chatswood. Smaller centres like Mandarin Centre and Lemon Grove also exist.
The Chatswood Mall Markets occur every Thursday and Friday. They feature food and craft stalls. Live music adds to the atmosphere.
A wide variety of restaurants and cafes make Chatswood a dining destination. Chinese, Japanese, and Korean eateries abound.
Chatswood railway station connects to the Sydney Trains network. The Sydney Metro also serves the suburb. Buses provide extensive connections to other areas.
Major roads include the Pacific Highway and Victoria Avenue. The latter is a pedestrian mall in the retail area.
In 2021, Chatswood’s population was 25,553. A significant portion of residents were born outside Australia. The most common countries of birth were China, Hong Kong, and South Korea.
The Willoughby Spring Festival is held annually in September. It showcases music, theatre, and visual arts.
Bartels Park adds to Chatswood’s recreational offerings. Other parks include Chatswood Oval and Beauchamp Park. The Garden of Remembrance commemorates war veterans.
Many notable Australians have lived or been educated in Chatswood. They include Ruth Cracknell, Yvonne Kenny, and Banjo Patterson.
So, as you enjoy Bartels Park, remember Greg Bartels’ contribution to this vibrant city. Take a moment to appreciate this green space. It stands as a symbol of community and dedication in Chatswood.