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Celebrating the history of Parramatta

04 Nov 2011

Foundation Day Forum

  • When: Sunday, 27 November 2011.
  • Where: Parramatta Town Hall
  • Time: 4:30pm
  • Cost: Tickets are Free. Reserve a seat on 8839 3399 or Riverside Box Office or http://www.riversideparramatta.com.au

Acclaimed writers, historians and other guests will participate in Parramatta City Council’s Foundation Day event at Parramatta Town Hall, on 27 November 2011.

Foundation Day celebrates the day, in 1788, that Governor Arthur Phillip travelled up the Parramatta River and ordered a settlement be made at the place where tidal water became fresh water. Initially named Rosehill, the area became Parramatta in 1791.

Traditionally held annually in Parramatta on 2 November, this year’s celebration has been altered to coincide with the day that Council was declared a municipality, 150 years earlier, on 27 November, 1861. 

Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Cr Lorraine Wearne, said Foundation Day provides the community with an opportunity to recognise Parramatta’s place in Australia’s history and the important role the City has played in helping shape the nation’s development.

“This year we’ve been fortunate to secure some of Australia’s leading historic and social commentators who will provide plenty of entertainment and insight into our City,” Cr Wearne said.

“The fledgling European colony would not have survived if it wasn’t for Parramatta’s successful agricultural industry, and 150 years on, our City is still playing a key role supporting the growth of Sydney,” she said.

“The next chapters in our City’s history will be just as exciting, particularly with Western Sydney’s population set to increase by two million over the next 20 years – meaning Parramatta’s role as an employment, transport and cultural hub will take on even more significance.”

Panel Speakers

Peter FitzSimons is a journalist, writer and historian, a broadcaster and former rugby union international. Peter has a interest in the characters and the stories of Sydney’s past and will offer his unique and witty observations about Parramatta.

Dr Timothy Hawkes is the headmaster of The King’s School, an institution which has been based in Parramatta since its inception in 1831. Dr Hawkes will speak on the issue of leadership in the city, and the role of “city fathers”.

Dr Elizabeth Farrelly is a columnist and opinion writer in the Sydney Morning Herald. She is an architect, author and former Councillor who comments on civic affairs, design and city living with great insight and an understanding of urban issues around the world.

Carol Liston is an Associate Professor at the University of Western Sydney, specialising in the history of the early colony, and has an interest in the built environment.. Carol Liston co-wrote Parramatta: A Past Revealed and is an acknowledged expert on the history of Parramatta.

Alan Saunders is the presenter of two programs on ABC Radio National: By Design and The Philosopher’s Zone. He is also a novelist, critic and commentator about subjects including architecture, food, design and gardens.

For interviews and further information:

Parramatta City Council

Media and Communications Advisor, Adam Leto

Tel: 9806 5083, 0414 190 221 Email: aleto@parracity.nsw.gov.au

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