Centennial Parklands a world leader

Ms Parker said Centennial Parklands, on the 125th Anniversary of Centennial Park, has won a prestigious Green Flag Award, the first time it has been awarded in Australia or New Zealand.

“By winning this prestigious award the Centennial Parklands has further enhanced its reputation as one of the finest public parklands in the world,” Ms Parker said.

“The Green Flag Award is an international award which assesses the quality of parks across a number of categories, including their safety, quality of the facilities, management of the environment and historical features - and as great recreational places for people to enjoy.

“This is good news for not only the people of Sydney but for communities everywhere. It is something we can all be proud of.”

Ms Parker said Centennial Parklands, one of only 12 Green Flag Award recipients across Australia and New Zealand, is well known as the birthplace of modern Australia (being the home of Federation) and as one of the most popularly visited destinations in Australia.

David Clarke, CEO of Parks Forum (the Green Flag accreditation agency), congratulated Centennial Parklands on attaining the Award and said that it should consider itself beside some of the world’s highest quality parks.

“Australia’s and New Zealand’s natural environment has a lot to do with what makes our countries special,” Mr Clarke said.

“Our parks provide a window to the natural environment, and in a highly urbanised society this is more important than ever. We know that healthy, well managed parks mean healthier communities and the Green Flag Award shows us which parks are setting the standard.”

Kim Ellis, Director and Chief Executive of Centennial Parklands, said the award comes at a time when there was much community joy and acclaim for the 125th Anniversary celebrations.

“The award once again reinforces what has been acknowledged for many years - these Parklands are indeed amongst the top public parklands in the world,” Mr Ellis said.