Hillsdale

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Ever wondered about Hillsdale’s name? It’s a story of a controversial choice. Hillsdale wasn’t always Hillsdale. It was once part of Matraville a suburb reserved for clergy and teachers. After World War I Matraville became a soldier settlement. The area split between Randwick and Botany Councils. This division caused problems. In 1961 Botany Council wanted a new name. They first chose Gilmore after Dame Mary Gilmore the Australian poet. But there was already a Gilmore in New South Wales. So they chose Hillsdale. This honored Patrick Darcy Hills a New South Wales minister. Many felt a name reflecting Australia’s history would have been better. This was a controversial choice. Hillsdale’s story isn’t just about a name change. After World War II many homes were built. Some were built by the Housing Commission. Today Hillsdale is a vibrant suburb. It boasts Southpoint Shopping Centre a high-rise mixed-use complex. Heffron Park the largest sporting reserve in Randwick is nearby. People play various sports there. Hillsdale also has Matraville Public School. This primary school opened in 1903 as Cross Road Public School. It was renamed in 1904. Housing in Hillsdale is mostly apartments and units. Few detached homes exist. The suburb has a significant rental population exceeding the Sydney average. About 2% of Hillsdale’s housing is public housing. Hillsdale is conveniently located 6 kilometers south-east of Sydney’s CBD. It’s a lively suburb with a rich history and a fascinating story behind its name. The next time you are in Hillsdale remember its unique past.

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