Newcastle wheelchair athlete Kurt Fearnley has been lauded as one of Australia’s greatest sportsmen in a ceremony to name a section of Centennial Park in his honour.
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In a ceremony on Monday, NSW Environment Minister Mark Speakman unveiled Fearnley Grounds as the “official name for Centennial Park’s visitor hub”.
Mr Fearnley was selected through a public naming competition “for his connection with the park”, Mr Speakman said.
The minister said many elite athletes had trained and competed at the park, but Mr Fearnley stood out for his ability to inspire others.
The wheelchair racer said the park held a “special place in my heart”.
“It is where I go to train, think, cycle and breathe.
“We are fortunate to have a space like Centennial Park in the heart of Sydney.”
Fearnley Grounds includes a cafe called The Greenhouse, a barbecue area, paths, a picnic shelter and bike-hire business.
Centennial Parklands executive director Kim Ellis said people of many backgrounds used the area.
“I have watched Kurt train and compete here over the years,” Mr Ellis said.
“He is very deserving of this honour.”
