Australia’s first Pizza Hut. Can you believe it opened right here in Belfield? Not many know that fun fact. Belfield is a suburb of Sydney. It is located about 13 kilometers southwest of Sydney’s central business district.
Let’s delve into Belfield’s story. Its name has an interesting origin. The name comes from combining the names of Belmore and Enfield. In 1930, the Belfield branch of the ALP requested a post office. The Postmaster General’s Department considered it. It wasn’t until 1936 that a post office was approved. The postal inspector noted a thriving business center. It was situated midway between Belmore and Enfield. Hence, the name Belfield.
Belfield’s official recognition came later. The place name was first gazetted in 1977. The boundaries were re-gazetted in 1993. This happened with all suburbs in the Canterbury Local Government Area. This was updated again in 1995.
Belfield also carries wartime significance. Three streets commemorate World War I sites. Bazentin Street is named after a town in France. It was the site of the Battle of Bazentin Ridge. Persic Street is named after the SS Persic. This ship transported Australian soldiers to Europe. Mena Street is named after Mena Camp in Egypt. It was an AIF training base before the Gallipoli Campaign. Birdwood Avenue honors General William Birdwood. He was the ANZAC commander in Gallipoli.
Post World War II, Belfield saw significant development. Many houses were built as public housing. Over time, many have transitioned to private ownership. A portion of Belfield was transferred in 2023. The area north of Punchbowl Road became part of Strathfield South.
Today, Belfield is a mix of residential, light industrial and commercial areas. Along Burwood Road, you’ll find a small shopping strip.
In 2021, Belfield had a population of 6,555. A large percentage of residents were born in Australia. Other countries of birth include Lebanon, China, South Korea, and Italy. Many residents claim Lebanese, Australian and Italian ancestry. English is spoken at home by many. Other languages include Arabic, Mandarin, Greek and Italian.
Belfield offers places of worship for different faiths. St. Michael’s Primary School opened in 1959. A Uniting Church stands on Punchbowl Road. Also, a Korean Presbyterian Church is on Burwood Road.
For recreation, there’s the Belfield Bowling and Recreation Club. Rudd Park is home to the Belmore Eagles Soccer Club. You can also find tennis courts here. Cooke Park is the home ground for the Enfield Federals rugby league team.
The suburb’s commercial area includes a cluster of shops and eateries. It’s located on Burwood Road near Punchbowl Road.
So, as you explore Belfield, remember its blend of history and community. From its intriguing name to its wartime connections and diverse community, Belfield is a unique part of Sydney.