Once a creek and swamp, Wentworth Park Sporting Complex now stands as a testament to Sydney’s sporting history. Do you smell that? It is not the stench of the old Blackwattle Cove Swamp. That was filled in long ago.
Wentworth Park is a multi-purpose sporting facility near Glebe and Ultimo. It is located just two kilometres from Sydney’s central business district. The park was named in honour of William Wentworth.
Originally, this area was known as Blackwattle Cove Swamp in the 1830s. By the 1860s, various industries polluted the swamp. These included abattoirs and boiling-down works. The stench was so bad, the local council wanted it filled.
Infilling began in 1876. Silt from Sydney Harbour was used. Construction finished around 1882. It transformed the swamp into the park we see today.
Wentworth Park became a community hub. Concerts, celebrations, and sports events were held here. Glebe Dirty Reds, a rugby league team, called this home. During World War I, the park stored wool in timber sheds.
Wentworth Park has hosted many sports over the years. These include soccer, rugby union, and rugby league. It also featured greyhound racing and speedway events.
Greyhound racing started here in 1932. Races are held on Wednesday and Saturday nights. The track has a sand surface. Hurdle racing was popular until the 1990s.
The main grandstand was completed in 1987. It has seating and function rooms. The University of Technology, Sydney, used it for exams. Today, it hosts trade shows and conferences. You might even catch the Baking Association of Australia’s Best Pie Competition.
Wentworth Park Sporting Complex is home to the NSW Greyhound Breeders Owners & Trainers Association. They have been here since the 1980s. The TAB Million Dollar Chase is their biggest event. The winner takes home $1 million.
In 2018, the Glebe Dirty Reds returned to Wentworth Park. It was the first time rugby league had been played here in 90 years. Today, the Dirty Reds use the ground for home matches.
Wentworth Park continues to serve the community. Local schools and groups use the oval for events. It is a place where sport and history come together.