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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.

For making an impact within our local community and all across our state, congratulations to three Burnside residents who in December 2024 were recognised at the South Australian of the Year awards.

Amber Brock-Fabel won the 2025 SA Young Australian of the Year, while Irfan and Sobia Hashmi won the 2025 Local Heroes for SA award.

Irfan and Sobia Hashmi - 2025 Local Heroes for SA award

Husband and wife duo Irfan and Sobia have played pivotal roles in transforming regional healthcare through the establishment of six rural pharmacies. Previously required to travel long distances to receive pharmaceutical services, these facilities have improved access to basic medications and care for people living in isolated South Australian communities.

Employing staff who collectively speak 21 languages, the Hashmi’s have engaged countless intern pharmacists, delivering multilingual education and outreach programs to support their entry into the essential regional Australian workforce. In the past 12 months alone, their free weekly webinar series has enabled 4,000 overseas pharmacists to pass their exams. These healthcare professionals are highly trained and fill essential gaps in the workforce that would otherwise go unfilled.

Amber Brock-Fabel - 2025 SA Young Australian of the Year

Amber, a former City of Burnside Young Citizen of the Year, founded the South Australian Youth Forum in 2021 at the age of 17, with the goal of creating an authentic, youth-led platform for young people to discuss the critical issues that impact their lives, including topics such as climate change, period poverty, gender equality and youth loneliness. Providing a safe and empowering space for young people, the Forum produces a yearly Annual Report which has been presented to ministers and parliamentarians and cited in statewide youth action plans and legislations.

The Youth Forum was in attendance at the United Nations Summit of the Future in New York and were expert witnesses at the National Inquiry into Civics Education.

Speaking on what drives her passion towards the Forum, Amber said her goal is to amplify the voices of young people in all fields of decision-making, including politics, communities, academia, schools and homes.

‘It wasn’t until I became absolutely immersed in this group, surrounded by passionate, different and kind young people, that I finally felt complete. This sparked my love for community; being part of a space where I feel like I belong. I’ve witnessed the detriment of loneliness within myself and my peers; and unfortunately in today’s world, young people are the loneliest demographic in Australia.’

‘I want to continue creating a safe space where young people from all corners of Australia, from all walks of life, can come together to meet, to chat, and to create change.’

Following their recognition at the South Australian awards, all three winners represented SA at the national awards on 25 January 2025. The City of Burnside is incredibly proud of their contributions to the community as they continue to help shape our present and future.

Irfan and Sobia Hashmi (far left) and Amber Brock-Fabel (far right)
photo credit: NADC / Salty Dingo

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.