Was this land always a park? No. Saw Pit Park in Sydney has a rich history far beyond its current recreational use. It wasn’t always the tranquil green space we see today.
Before European settlement this area was vastly different. Imagine a forest of turpentine and ironbark trees. Swamps marshes and heath thrived near the waterway known as Shea’s Creek. The Gadigal and Wangal Aboriginal peoples hunted kangaroo here. They fished and camped along the waterways. This land was their home long before any bricks were ever made.
Saw Pit Park’s story is intrinsically linked to a remarkable woman Elizabeth Needham. A convict who arrived in Sydney in 1788 she received a 40-acre land grant in 1796. This land grant encompassed much of what is now Saw Pit Park. She was a remarkable businesswoman owning the Wheatsheaf Inn and a general store. This powerful woman’s legacy shaped this land.
The rich clay of the area proved invaluable. Brickmaking flourished here for over a century. The Bedford Brick Works which operated from 1893 to 1970 was a prominent part of this industry. The kilns and chimneys still stand. They are a testament to this era. They are also a reminder of the hard work of countless people including Aboriginal workers.
Then a transformation occurred. The clay pits became a municipal waste depot. For nearly 30 years rubbish was dumped here. This was a completely different purpose for the land. The legacy of this period is buried under layers of soil and rubble.
Today Saw Pit Park is a valuable community asset. People come here for recreation. They appreciate the expansive views. There is a playground a sports oval and wetlands. The park’s heritage is visible in the remaining brickworks. These remnants tell a story of industry and transformation. They remind us of Saw Pit Park’s multifaceted past. The hills offer panoramic views. The wetlands provide habitat. Saw Pit Park’s story is one of evolution. It is a story of transformation from convict land grant to industrial hub to thriving recreational park.