Here at Dence Park, history and community intertwine. This park wasn’t just built. It was created as a memorial. It honors the World War II servicemen and women.
Dence Park got its name from John Dence. He was the land’s former owner. Since its creation in 1954 by the Hornsby Council, Dence Park has become a vital recreational hub. People come here to socialize. They relax and engage in physical exercise. Many learn to swim here.
Imagine the echoes of children’s laughter. Picture school swimming carnivals. Many have occurred here. Dence Park has hosted countless learn-to-swim programs. These events create memories that last a lifetime.
But Dence Park faced challenges. In 2013, there was a proposal to close and demolish the pool. Structural engineers found water loss. The pool was leaking over 15000 liters of water daily. Maintenance costs were high, around $300000 a year.
Councillor Michael Hutchence suggested a new, upgraded facility at a different location. However, locals strongly opposed the closure. A survey revealed that 92% of people would be impacted. Despite suggestions for remediation, the council considered demolition. They estimated it would cost one million dollars to keep the pool open for another 10 years.
The community rallied to “Save Epping Pool”. Locals attended council meetings. They conducted surveys and petitions. They promoted their cause to the public. They saw the pool as a vital part of the community’s history and future. The goal was to fix the leaks, address technical issues, and update the site. Building a new pool at the same location was also an option.
Dence Park is more than just a recreational area. It is a historical and memorial site. It commemorates World War II service personnel. Local bushland, native trees, and plants surround it. Some of the flora predates the park itself. It dates back before 1960. The New South Wales Heritage Trust and Register recognizes the park as a Heritage site.
The park promotes water awareness in children. It offers a fun place to exercise and play sport. Squads and clubs compete in local competitions. School swimming carnivals encourage school spirit. They promote exercise and help combat childhood obesity.
John Dence sold the land with the condition that it be used for public recreation. This protects it from commercial development. Even if the pool were demolished, the site would remain a public recreation area.
The “Save Epping Pool” campaign used social media to raise awareness. They warned the community about the closure. They gained support through Facebook and Twitter. The webpage provided information and accepted donations for pool upgrades.
Local politicians also got involved. They coordinated meetings with residents and the Hornsby Council. Maggie Dence, the original land owner’s granddaughter, supported the cause. She emphasized the need for a pool in Epping, especially for those with health problems.
Parramatta Council committed over $23 million to revitalizing Dence Park. This funding comes from developer contributions. It marks a major community infrastructure project. The plans include a new 8-lane, 50-meter outdoor pool. There is also a new indoor multi-use 25-meter pool. An air bridge from the car park will provide lift access to the pool deck. New change facilities, a reception area, and grassed picnic areas are also planned.
Dence Park continues to evolve. It adapts to the needs of the growing community. It remains a place of recreation, remembrance, and community spirit. Take a moment to appreciate the history and the ongoing efforts to preserve this special place.