Bennett Wagons new pavilion opening soon

Tuesday, 25 August 2015

Penrith Council has honoured the heritage of one of the region’s earliest manufacturers with the completion of a new pavilion to house all three Bennett Wagons at St Marys.

The Bennett Wagons are a symbol of the early manufacturing days of St Marys. Established in the mid-1800s, James Bennett and his two sons produced wagons for the horse drawn transportation of wheat and wool; their wagons were sold across the colony and transported by rail from the St Marys Goods Yard.

Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said: "The site is an iconic marker for the suburb reflecting the historical significance of the wagons' manufacture.

"We will be able to display more of our history and create an area for future generations to learn about the early days of St Marys."

"Part of that history is the role St Marys Rotary played in restoring the wagons as a permanent memorial to the pioneers of St Marys district." 

"William Waterhouse donated the Bennett Wagons to St Marys Rotary Club, who then renovated them and donated it to the council. The Bennett Wagons are famous in Australia's agricultural industry."

"The project will provide new learning opportunities for students, residents and visitors to connect with our past."

The construction of the pavilions will now house all three wagons and a three-sided courtyard and an outdoor learning area. The new pavilions used recycled material that may have otherwise been disposed of in landfill.

A number of materials have been identified for suitability to construction particularly recovered hardwood fence palings, rusted tree grates and tree stumps for seating in the Central Court of the pavilion.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

When:        Thursday, 3 September 2015

Time:         4:00pm-5:00pm

Where:       South Creek Park, Charles Hackett Drive, St Marys

What:         Official launch of the new pavilions for the Bennett Wagons at South Creek Park

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Tuesday, 25 August 2015.