The NSW Government has announced it will name the upgraded visitor centre at Centennial Park after the wheelchair athlete and disability advocate. 

Environment Minister Mark Speakman yesterday unveiled the new Fearnley Grounds, the official name for Centennial Park’s visitor hub.

Mr Fearnley said it was an honour to have the precinct named after him.

“The parklands holds a very special place in my heart – it is where I go to train, to think, to cycle and to breathe,” he said.

“We are very fortunate to have a space like Centennial Park in the heart of Sydney and I commend the parklands’ efforts to ensure the park’s offerings are sustainable, practical and beneficial for all to experience them.”

Mr Speakman said the visitor hub was identified as one area of Centennial Park that needed to improve its facilities and services.

“Work on the new hub started early last year and through a public naming competition, Kurt Fearnley was put forward for his connection with the park and cycling,” Mr Speakman said.

“Many elite athletes have trained and competed here over the years, but it was Kurt’s passion and the inspiration he embodies as a disability advocate for so many Australians that saw his name nominated.”

Botanic Gardens and Centennial Parklands executive director Kim Ellis said Centennial Park was enjoyed and utilised by people of many backgrounds.

“I have personally watched Kurt train and compete here over the years and I think he is very deserving of this honour,” Mr Ellis said.

Fearnley Grounds now features a new cafe, The Greenhouse Centennial Park, and permanent home to the parklands’ existing bike hire business. 

Mr Fearnley featured on the ABC program Home Delivery last year, where he showed host Julia Zemiro around Carcoar, including the small park named in his honour.