Located in Eton street, just a short walk from Sutherland train station is a tranquil park with a small Japanese garden. As I walked down the street, I saw a sign indicating Peace Park with a map for visitors to locate themselves around the park.
Peace Park, Sutherland, NSW
A sandstone and marble monument known as Sutherland War Memorial was found near the park. It was erected in honour of the people of Sutherland Shire who had served in the Australian Defence Forces during the world war.
Sutherland War Memorial
Adjacent to the monument is a display of Peter Day Kirk's mural made of glass and ceramic tiles mosaic on five panels measuring 2m x 4m each which portrays the Whale Story of the Gweagle People.
Murals by Peter Day Kirk
I continued walking along the walkway and discovered a lawn with leafy trees and shade. It is such a perfect little spot for a picnic with kids, family and friends. I could totally imagine myself with a good book under the shade and some snacks.
Green lawn and shady trees
Just a few steps next to the lawn is a pretty Japanese garden known as Chuo City Garden. It was a gift from Sutherland Shire's Japanese sister city and the design was based on an ancient garden within Chuo City. It features a jarrah wood bridge over a neatly maintained dry pond.
Dry pond
Jarrah wood bridge
The garden is surrounded by white walls called Tsuizi fences where Japanese roofing tiles capped the top of the walls.
Tsuizi fences and Japanese roof tiles
After admiring the beautiful features of the Japanese garden, I continued my exploration in the park and came across another lawn. However this one has less shade and the sun was scorching hot that day.
Another lawn within the park
The park also includes an avenue of Chinese Elm trees and a water feature. There is a small "fountain" bearing the word PEACE. Unfortunately, I couldn't find more information about whether it was a special dedication to someone or just a feature in the park.
Water feature
Among other interesting features within the park are poles with hanging display such as birds, fishes and leaves which are most likely related to the Australian Aboriginal culture and heritage.
Peace Park
Peace Park
Another interesting observation was that I noticed many cockatoos flying around the park and all the trash bins within the park as well as the town area had images of cockatoo heads on the bins. Hmm....I wonder why?
Trash bin featuring cockatoo head
After about an hour in the park, I head over to a nearby cafe for a cup of iced coffee to quench my thirst.
Iced Coffee from Salt & Pepper cafe lounge
There are also some eateries just a stroll away from the park if you would like to grab a bite and takeaway some food for a picnic in the park.
Cafes, restaurants, takeaways
I love this park where I could find some peace.
