by Cecelia Hopkins (
subscribe)
Cecelia's articles are illustrated by Allan who enjoys photography. Cecelia is also the author of: "Silver Springtime", "All for Love", "Mystic Evermore" and the new release: "Faith and Love". https://creativearts2009-picturefiles.blogspot.com/
The Ada Ryan Gardens were created in the memory of Ada Ryan, who was the wife of Charles Ryan, the first chairman of the City Commission.The gardens are located between Cudmore and Watson Terraces, with lawns linking them to the Whyalla Foreshore.

Tree lined paths - Photo by Allan
Beautifully landscaped and planted, the Ada Ryan Gardens are among Whyalla's most popular recreational areas. Next to the gardens is a free tennis court, and the foreshore side boasts a children's play area with excellent equipment. Inside the gardens are public toilets and a number of cages currently housing birds. There are also free public barbecues.

Variety of plants - Photo by Allan
While there is nothing morbid about the gardens, the City of Whyalla reports that they cover the site of Whyalla's first cemetery. However, the Broadbent Terrace cemetery was established in August 1918 and burials currently take place elsewhere.

Graffiti dragon - Photo by Allan
I do not believe this was a deliberate feature of the gardens, but we were impressed with the graffiti on the side of the public toilets. A mural of a dragon and a sexy damsel in distress.

Birds - Photo by Allan