In a first for Sutherland Shire, Council has officially opened the Como Heritage and Environment Trail, a self-guided walking track complete with an online tour and informative signage.
The 4.2 kilometre trail was officially launched at Como Pleasure Grounds on Friday 20 September, 2019 by Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce. He was joined by Councillors, local residents, Como Public School, The Henry Lawson Appreciation Group and one of Council's Local Studies Librarian to unveil the new local attraction.
"This trail is more than just a walking track. It celebrates local history and the surrounding natural environment, dating back to ancient times," Mayor Pesce said.
"The trail starts at the Pleasure Grounds at Sign 1 and travels through the streets of Como and Paruna Reserve, which has some of the most stunning views of the Woronora River.
"There are 8 interpretive signs along the trail and over 40 directional markers, and the beauty of the trail is that you can do it all in one go or walk smaller sections over several trips.
"The signage along the trail is educational and informative, detailing local stories and depicting what life was like when Como was an emerging suburb of Sutherland Shire.
"Panels along the trail highlight ancient stories of our First Nations people and I would like to thank the La Perouse and Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Councils, who wanted these stories to live on and allowed Council to bring them to our community."
The idea of a Heritage Trail was identified in the Conservation Management Plan that Council commissioned almost 20 years ago, prior to Stage 1 of the Pleasure Grounds upgrade.
Council has just completed Stage 5, transforming the area into a destination park for the whole community to enjoy.
Walkers will be able to read about the building of the Rail Bridge, Como Hotel, the Pleasure Grounds and the relocation of the Como Rail Station. They will also learn about Henry Lawson's time in Como, when he would visit Como Hotel and sell or recite his poetry in exchange for beer.
Several local flora and fauna species have been highlighted in the Virtual Tour and it is hoped the new trail will become a favourite for local schools and community groups.
Sutherland Shire Council's Aboriginal Advisory Committee and Heritage Committee both supported this project from the beginning, with Council's Infrastructure and Shire Services staff contributing to the collation of all of the history material and information visitors will see throughout the trail.
