From Rubble to Refuge - Cruickshank Park Celebrates 50 years
Published on 21 November 2022
Hundreds gathered over the weekend to celebrate a milestone birthday for the community members who created Cruickshank Park in Yarraville, one of Maribyrnong’s much-loved outdoor areas.
20 November 2022 marked fifty years since Lola and Peter Anderson drew together a group of neighbours to help turn the former wasteland into a community playground.
The project committee established in 1971 morphed into the Cruickshank Park Advisory Committee and later Friends of Cruickshank Park.
The redevelopment has been a labour of love for the Andersons who were awarded the Maribyrnong Citizens of the Year Award in 2021, in recognition of their devotion in turning the dusty former quarry site into a rolling, green haven.
Peter, who used to play in the quarry holes with his mates as a lad, first started work transforming the area, then full of thistles, weeds and rocks, with Lola’s support, in 1969.
With the support of the then advisory committee, the area, once home to around 11 quarries which afterwards became informal waste disposal tips for the public, was converted into the suburban oasis it is today.
Designed in 1971, with the first trees planted on 25 October 1979, Cruickshank Park – named after former Mayor, George Cruickshank - opened to the public on 26 July 1981.
Over the ensuing years there have been many additions to the space including the installation of a frog pond, rain garden, and nesting boxes for native animals; establishment of conservation education programs such as the Junior Rangers, and arrival of Mimi the Dinosaur at McNish Reserve.
Today Cruickshank Park supports a thriving ecosystem attracting a range of native wildlife, and along with providing a place for locals to wander, walk their dogs and enjoy nature, has also developed into a rich educational space for younger members of the community to learn about the animals that live on their doorstep.
Message from the Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter
“It is thanks to the commitment of this group of residents that residents of Maribyrnong, and Yarraville particularly, are able to enjoy this very special area of parkland. Their commitment to the development and ongoing maintenance of Cruickshank Park over such a long period of time is illustrative of their love of and investment in their community.
“The reason Cruickshank Park is now a hub for native wildlife, a local oasis and a wonderful place for the whole family to enjoy is a direct result of the fruits of their labours and continued care for the site.
“Congratulations on your fifty years. Our community recognises and thanks the Friends of Cruickshank Park group for their passion and ongoing commitment.”
Maribyrnong News
Stay up-to-date with the latest news by subscribing to our eNews.