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A central portion of Kensington Gardens was once known as Pile's Paddock, taking its name from James Pile, who immigrated to South Australia in 1849 from Yorkshire. The Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners of the Adelaide Plains, were the first to live in this area and have cared for this land for thousands of years.

For decades Pile’s Paddock was a favoured spot for picnics, and was the location for the East End Market Gardeners’ annual picnic from 1881 to 1909 – a large and well-publicised event.

In 1906, the Bank of New South Wales purchased some of the land, which was subdivided by Kensington Gardens Ltd from 1910. The area was renamed Kensington Gardens, after Kensington Gardens in London.

Arguably inspired by the area’s history as a popular picnic and recreation area, part of the land was reserved as a public recreation ground in perpetuity, following a suggestion by Mr. H.J. Holden, Chairman of Kensington Gardens Ltd and a member of the Tramways Trust. This reserve was created on the condition that the tramline be extended to the site. This reserve became Kensington Gardens Reserve (Kensington Wama). As part of the development, an electric tramline was extended from the original terminus at The Parade/Gurrs Road intersection to Kensington Gardens Reserve. The tram line reached the reserve in July 1911, connecting it to the city. The reserve was acquired by the Council in 1932.

Photo: A tram travelling along The Parade at Kensington Gardens, circa 1911. Burnside Local History Collection. Thank you to Tom Wilson for assisting us with an accurate date for the photograph.

In this episode of Burnside Highlights we catch up with our new CEO Julia Grant, who commenced her role at the City of Burnside on 28 January. Find out more about Julia and what she loves about our city, having been a Burnside resident for many years.

In November 2024, St David’s Anglican Church was confirmed as a State Heritage Place.

Opened in 1963, the church is an outstanding example of the late 20^th century ecclesiastical Modern Movement architecture in South Australia. Its innovative design by architect Stewart Game is known for its soaring saddle-shaped roof.

Congratulations to St David’s Anglican Church on this well-deserved recognition!

Photo: St David's Anglican Church circa 1980, Burnside Local History Collection.

The first blocks of what would become the suburb of Hazelwood Park and its surrounding areas was first laid out in 1848, when it was known as the village of Knightsbridge. The Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners of the Adelaide Plains, were the first to live in this area and have cared for this land for thousands of years.

Knightsbridge encompassed parts of what are now the suburbs of Hazelwood Park, Leabrook, Erindale, and Burnside. Designed by Captain Hall of Port Adelaide, the village was divided into eight blocks, with Knightsbridge Road running through the centre. The first home in the area, Knightsbridge House, was built in 1854 by grocer George Taylor. Notably, part of the house was constructed half-underground to better cope with the harsh Australian summers.

In 1853, Francis and Caroline Clark purchased 45 acres and made their home at Hazelwood House, near what is now Olive Grove and Hawthorn Crescent. Originally built in 1847 for Thomas Burr, Deputy Surveyor General, and known as Grove Cottage, the house on this land was renamed by the Clarks in honour of Hazelwood School in Birmingham, England, founded by Caroline’s father, Thomas Wright Hill. In 1915, the Clarks sold their property to the State Government for a modest sum, with the stipulation that it would be preserved as a public park in perpetuity. After being gazetted as a "pleasure resort," Hazelwood Park was initially managed by the Tourist Bureau, before being transferred to the Burnside Council in 1964.

The suburb is named after the historic property, which remains a much-loved park frequented by hundreds of visitors daily.

Photograph: Hazelwood Park, 1920. Burnside Local History Collection.

Last night Council met for the first time since the start of the new year, welcoming Julia Grant as our new CEO. To kick off Burnside Highlights for 2025 we take a look at some exciting moments, including:

🏆 Our Australia Day celebrations, including our Citizen of the Year Award winners
🎨 Our ongoing exhibition at Pepper Street Arts Centre
🎭 Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King’s visit to the Regal Theatre.

We look forward to bringing you all the latest in future episodes throughout 2025!

On Sunday 26 January the City of Burnside was delighted to announce the 2025 Citizen of the Year Award recipients at the Regal Theatre, where 88 residents from 21 countries were conferred Australian citizenship by Mayor Anne Monceaux. Congratulations to all new citizens who have chosen to make Burnside their home.

Find out more about our inspirational Citizen of the Year Award winners below.

Citizens of the Year – Diana Croft and Susan Perks

Susan Perks

For over three decades, Sue has been a cornerstone of the Burnside Branch of Meals on Wheels, dedicating 32 years to delivering meals to those in need. Since 1992, her weekly visits have not only ensured that individuals unable to cook for themselves can remain independent at home but also provided them with invaluable social connections. Sue’s attentive care lets her quickly notice changes in her customers' well-being, ensuring that any concerns are promptly addressed to keep them safe.

In recognition of her unwavering service, Sue was honoured by Meals on Wheels at a special award luncheon in 2022. Her compassion and dedication exemplify the true essence of volunteerism.

Award accepted on behalf of Susan by fellow Meals on Wheels volunteer Gayle

Diana Croft

Di has been a steadfast volunteer with the Burnside Branch of Meals on Wheels for 31 years, beginning her service in 1993. Delivering meals every fortnight, she is vital in enabling individuals to maintain their independence while living at home. Her friendly visits bring both nourishment and a sense of connection, while her close relationships with her customers allow her to identify and report any well-being concerns promptly.

In 2023, Di’s remarkable contribution was celebrated at an award presentation hosted by Meals on Wheels. Her long-term commitment highlights her deep care for her community and the lives she touches.

Young Citizen of the Year – Rosa Hessabi

Rosa is a young leader whose dedication to service, advocacy, and creative pursuits has profoundly impacted her school and broader community. As founder of her school’s Service and Justice Committee, she has championed humanitarian rights and equity, earning accolades such as the Kaye M Michell Award for Outstanding Leadership and Service. Beyond school, Rosa is an advocate for Iranian human rights and was recognised for her contributions by being selected as a Global Finalist in RISE 2023, an organisation that recognises and supports projects led by young leaders globally. Rosa has also excelled in robotics, as part of the first all-girls team to represent Australia at VEX international competitions, achieving multiple world championships.

Rosa’s contributions extend to the arts, with her work exhibited at prominent venues such as the Art Gallery of South Australia. She has also excelled in public speaking, ethics, and academic competitions, including the Brain Bee Neuroscience National Finals and the Da Vinci Decathlon. A recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and currently pursuing Silver, Rosa exemplifies active citizenship, leadership, and a passion for fostering positive change.

Highly Commended – Stuart Vass

Stuart is a passionate advocate for STEM and youth empowerment contributing locally and internationally through leadership roles in advisory boards, student leadership, and ambassador programs. He has represented Australia at events like the VEX Robotics World Championships and the National Youth Science Forum, fostering innovation and collaboration while championing youth voices in decision-making.

Recognised with accolades such as the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, Stuart has excelled in STEM competitions, community service, and educational outreach. His dedication to creating inclusive opportunities highlights his commitment to empowering the next generation.

Award for Active Citizenship – Michael Neal

Mike Neal is a dedicated community leader and president of the Burnside Lions Club, known for his impactful initiatives that enrich residents’ lives. Among his contributions is the Digital Imaging Project, which helps aged residents digitise their photos, aiding memory retention and providing easy access to cherished memories. Recognising this need after digitising his own photos, Mike saw an opportunity to prevent digital waste and support the community through shared resources.

His commitment extends to facilitating the Burnside Dementia Action Group, a council initiative supporting those impacted by dementia. Mike organises sessions and guest speakers, creating a vital social support network. His efforts exemplify a passion for meaningful, community-focused service.

Community Event of the Year – Rotary Club of Burnside Seniors Christmas Luncheon

The annual Seniors Christmas Luncheon at the Burnside Ballroom is a cherished event that brings together over 100 senior citizens for a festive celebration. With free transport and a complimentary lunch provided by the Rotary Club of Burnside, this long-standing tradition highlights the club's dedication to the community.

The luncheon provides an opportunity to connect and support those who might otherwise feel isolated during the holiday season, showcasing the true spirit of community and togetherness.

In this final episode of Burnside Highlights for 2024, we take a look back over this year as well as reflect on recent successes including the incredible Carols in the Park, the Mayor’s Christmas Card competition and more.

Thank you to our community for all your support throughout 2024, and we look forward to sharing more Burnside Highlights with you in the new year.

Do you remember the living Christmas Tree in Tusmore Park?

In 1951 Burnside Council festooned a pine tree in Tusmore Park with lights and decorations, creating a ‘living Christmas tree’. Living Christmas trees were very popular at this time, with other councils around Adelaide creating their own.

In a newspaper article on 19 December 1951, the Mayor of Burnside, Wilfred Holmes, invited residents to attend the park for carols by candlelight “at the tree, a 30 ft. pine, decorated with colored lights”.

The tree was popular with residents, and served as a focal point for community Christmas celebrations in the park.

Image: Capturing the festive spirit of decorated trees is the illustration titled ‘The Christmas Tree’ by Margery Oates, of Tusmore Avenue, Tusmore, published in The Mail on 24 December 1938.

On 2 December 2024, $2.43m in grant funding was announced for the Regal Theatre Precinct Redevelopment project from the Australian Government's Thriving Suburbs Program.

The Thriving Suburbs Program is delivering investment in community infrastructure projects in a number of South Australian communities for capital works projects that enhance liveability, strengthen social cohesion and support local amenity in urban, suburban and peri-urban communities.

The project will rejuvenate the heritage-listed theatre and surrounding precinct, increasing accessible outdoor open spaces, tree plantings and landscapes, to accommodate a greater range of performances, patron experiences and retail, café and outdoor dining opportunities.

You can find out more about what is proposed for the theatre's precinct by taking a look at the detailed design.

Multiple Council Members are in the process of lobbying the Department of Infrastructure and Transport for funding to assist in the construction of a new pedestrian refuge, which would be located on Kensington Road outside the Wattle Park Shopping Centre.

This high-density foot traffic area is located on a 60 km/h road which is also home to a nearby kindergarten and grassed reserve space. The stretch of road is frequently used by trucks and is a key thoroughfare for multiple bus routes.

Burnside Ward Councillors Mike Daws and Jenny Turnbull and Kensington Gardens & Magill Ward Councillor Jo Harvey have lobbied for this project on behalf of their communities, with the aim to have this funding approved to increase safety and accessibility for the many residents who cross this road every day.

‘This area of Burnside is one of the busiest in the city,’ said Cr Daws. ‘A pedestrian refuge on Kensington Road in close proximity to the Wattle Park Shopping Centre and the local kindergarten will significantly raise the safety levels for all ages as they cross Kensington Road at all times of the day.’

Kensington Road acts as a border between the Burnside and Kensington Gardens & Magill Wards and is managed by the State Government as a key arterial road, running from Wattle Park in the east to Kent Town in the west.

Cr Harvey reinforced the need for support from the State Government. ‘Hopefully the State Government recognises the need to support our community with a safe refuge crossing, which is desperately needed here on busy Kensington Road. To get this recognised as a high-risk area is an essential step forward in safety.’

Councillors Mike Daws, Jenny Turnbull and Jo Harvey with Jack Batty MP outside the Wattle Park Shopping Centre.