A day after the 48th anniversary of when Ruddock Park, Westleigh was opened in honour of former Shire President, the Hon Max Ruddock, an impressive suite of upgrades was yesterday officially unveiled by his son, Hornsby Shire Mayor, the Hon Philip Ruddock AO.
Funded by the NSW Government through the Public Spaces Legacy Program in association Hornsby Shire Council, the upgrades include a new Learn-To-Ride play area, pathway upgrades, a basketball half court, new five-way swing, new seating and picnic shelters, planting, lawn areas and an outdoor gym, and refurbishments to Westleigh Tennis Club.
Ruddock Park was opened on 28 June 1975 as a tribute to Max Ruddock’s role in the establishment of Westleigh and in recognition of his work as a councillor and former president of Hornsby Shire Council. Thousands of people flock to the park each year for its well-equipped, boat themed playground, large oval, mature, shady trees and picnic areas.
“Ruddock Park is of great significance to myself and my family. It is a tangible commemoration of the significant contribution that my father made to Westleigh and Hornsby Shire as a whole. It is particularly dear to me as, not only does it bring back fond memories of him, but it’s also somewhere I visited with my own children when they were young.
“I’m incredibly proud and excited to officially launch these upgrades, just in time for the school holidays. They raise the bar for what people can enjoy at the park, give it longevity and are a significant boost for the local area.
For more information about the upgrades at Ruddock Park, visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ruddock-park
