Mayor's Community Message

29 April

Time is fast running out for the community to reject a State Government rezoning proposal that could lead to the destruction of 6.2ha of precious active open space at TG Millner Fields for an ill-considered housing development.

It’s hard to believe now, but the eight-year community-led campaign to save TG Millner was once proudly bipartisan, with Liberal and Labor candidates in successive State Elections in 2019 and 2023 committing to the preservation of the land as active open space. While others have wavered, I have remained steadfast, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our community in opposing the 132-dwelling Marsfield Common development. You only need to look at the high-rise apartment towers being constructed at nearby Macquarie Park to acknowledge the heavy lifting being done by Ryde in response to a city-wide housing crisis. But the housing contained in this proposed development is insignificant compared to the irreplaceable loss of open space.

In calling for the State and Federal Governments to fund the purchase of TG Millner for the City of Ryde community, I note that they have jointly and separately committed $30 million for the upgrade of Leichhardt Oval, $50 million to redevelop the Moore Park Golf Course and $4.8 million to unlock more open space at Callan Park in Lilyfield. Sydney is not just about the eastern suburbs and the inner west.

We deserve our fair share of funding for the essential active open space that is required for current and future residents as our population and density grows exponentially. 

Make your voices heard: go to myryde.info/PlanningProposal before 5.00pm on Tuesday 21 April to state your objection.

YOUTH WEEK

NSW Youth Week is taking place from 16-26 April and Council is joining the celebrations with some fantastic events and initiatives for those aged 12-24.

Battle of the Bands has been rocking Ryde since 2005, giving young musicians the chance to show off their talent and compete for epic prizes – including a professional recording session. Competition night is taking place on 17 April at Lachlan’s Line Auditorium from 5.00 – 9.00pm.

Our always-popular Youth Skate Comp is being held on 18 April at Meadowbank Skate Park. The day kicks off with learn to skate sessions before the action heats up with age group competitions including Under 15s, Over 16s and Over 18s. For full details of our Youth Week activities, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/YouthWeek

Sincerely, 
Trenton Brown – Mayor