One theme in the history of Centennial Park is the need to plant trees, grade paths and provide more seating to bring the park in line with other beauty spots in Bathurst.

In 1952, The Bathurst National Advocate congratulated the council and staff on the condition of the park in the story Centennial Park Popular.

“The most recent work in the park was the painting of the seats in varied colors and together with the new swings, monkey bars and other attractions, Centennial Park is at present the most popular rendezvous for children in the city,” the story said.

There have been many stories about maintenance of the park, but more often they have been about the need to do more.

As far back as 1902 the Bathurst Free Press and Mining Journal reported a Bathurst council motion to repair the asphalt paths in Centennial park.

In 1947, The Bathurst National Advocate reported that Bathurst Council’s parks foreman Mr F King recommended a raft of improvements to Centennial Park, including: upgrading the paths, repainting seats and additional seats.

He recommended planting 20 new trees “in line with existing trees bordering pathways and outer boundaries, leaving an open area in each quarter for use as playing fields”.

He also recommended that the swings’ posts and rails be repainted and repaired. The recommendation and cost of 50 pounds were adopted.

Just a few years later, in 1953, under the headline Centennial Park facilities, The Bathurst National Advocate reported Centennial Park was getting so much use that the council parks committee proposed “permanent” toilet facilities be introduced.

Under the heading Centennial Park Hobbledehoys the Bathurst Times in 1911 reported that Alderman Perry, “who perennially keeps a watchful eye on the interests of Bathurst South”, put a motion to council to repair the swings in Centennial Park.

The motion was seconded by Alderman McPhillamy, however Alderman Apps said that the park was frequented by “six or eight hobbledehoys [clumsy or awkward youth] monopolising the swings and keeping children away from them”.

“If anyone spoke to these fellows concerning their conduct, he was promptly told to go somewhere where it is alleged to be hot – very hot.”

The motion for the repairs was then defeated.

Today, many people in Bathurst would like to see Centennial park receive more loving care in the form of water and trees and for paths.

The Friends of Centennial Park group, of which Mr Simmons is a member, have been advocating strongly for a watering system, seating and ongoing maintenance.