What was once a thriving market garden is now the Willinda Park you see before you. Willinda Park has a fascinating history. It’s named after the former owners of this land, William and Beatrice Linda Holmes. They were market gardeners, and their produce nourished the growing community. The name ‘Willinda’ is a beautiful blend of their names, a testament to their legacy.
In the early 1960s, a large part of the Holmes’ property was acquired to make way for essential drainage and sewerage systems for the expanding suburbs. This land eventually became Willinda Park. Imagine the transformation from fields of produce to a community park. In 1967, the Diamond Valley Little Athletics Centre was established. They needed a home, and Willinda Park, with Linda Holmes’ blessing, became the perfect location. The park has gone through several transformations over the years, from a simple paddock with a 300-meter grass track to a state-of-the-art athletics facility. Today, Willinda Park boasts an international-standard track and lighting, allowing for twilight competitions. Whether you’re here for athletics or a leisurely stroll, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the Holmes family and their contribution to this vibrant community space.