The improvements which have been made at the Centennial Park since the memorable day of dedication are marvellous. Today, the extensive grounds are covered with well-formed serpentine roads and pathways, encircling artificial lakes, and leading to what will eventually be grassy lawns and pleasant shrubberies…For the present, … the flowers exist only in the Imagination but one can see where they are to be and can, without difficulty, picture in his mind what a lovely sight will then present itself…Towards the Randwick side of the Park an area of about 20 acres as flat and level as a table has been cleared and trenched. The grass will soon spring up here and a fine expansive lawn it will be. Trees are also being planted over it…A statue in terra cotta, representing “Industry” has been allotted a pedestal, and others, representing Science and Art, the Four Seasons, etc., will be erected forthwith.
The Sydney Morning Herald, May 22, 1889, p.10.
The statue of the allegorical figure of Industry situated on her pedestal was first recorded in the 1890s. Judging from the bareness of her surrounds, this photograph may have been taken around the same time. Industry is believed to have been manufactured by Villeroy and Boch, and was located at the Randwick Gates of Centennial Park until 1971.
The original design of Centennial Park featured a total of 31 terracotta figures and statues. They were used to accentuate points of intersection and to add interest along the drives and in and around garden areas in the style of the grand gardens of Europe. Today, only five statues remain.
Originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney, Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888.
Photography by Kerry & Co., Tyrrell Collection.
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