La Perouse Archives - Maroubra News

A proposal has been unveiled to transform the La Perouse Museum and its surrounding headland into a First Nations Cultural Precinct, developed with leadership from the local Aboriginal community.

Historic Grounds Reimagined

The proposed La Perouse First Nations Cultural Precinct aims to restore the 130-year-old museum and repurpose the surrounding headland as a site dedicated to Aboriginal culture. The redevelopment is a joint initiative between Randwick City officials and the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council.

The project incorporates guidance from the NSW Heritage Council and follows “Designing with Country” design principles, aiming to highlight the cultural and historical importance of the La Perouse Aboriginal community at a national level.

Longstanding Aboriginal Community Presence

The La Perouse Aboriginal community is recognised as Sydney’s oldest continuously operating and only formally established Aboriginal settlement. Many families who have lived in the region for generations continue to maintain cultural ties to the coastal area around Botany Bay. Historical estimates suggest around 1500 Aboriginal people lived between Broken Bay and Botany Bay at the time of British arrival in 1788.

Scope, Investment and Economic Impact

An initial feasibility assessment indicates that approximately $99 million will be needed for the redevelopment. This will cover restoration of the heritage-listed museum, creation of 900m² of climate-controlled exhibition space, and development of a broader 2,340m² new building footprint. The site-wide masterplan recognises the cultural, environmental, and social value of the location.

Aboriginal heritage — *Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil*

The existing museum facilities fall short of modern accessibility and exhibition standards. The updated precinct will support the return of cultural objects from both national and international collections and is expected to create 230 direct construction jobs and 150 supply chain roles, contributing to the local economy.

The project also includes a Bushtucker restaurant, dedicated spaces for 20 market stalls, and infrastructure to support large outdoor festivals and cultural events, reinforcing its role as a destination for cultural tourism and public engagement.

Public Reception and Infrastructure Concerns

Public comments on online forums reflect broad support for the precinct and its cultural significance. Some residents raised concerns about existing transport limitations, particularly the lack of direct city links and reduced bus services outside peak periods. Suggestions included light rail extensions, a B-line service, and better connectivity to Eastgardens and Bondi Junction.

Discussions also touched on the need for improved maintenance of public spaces, especially around fishing areas, with calls for stronger community cooperation in managing litter and vandalism near the coast.

First Nations Cultural Precinct — *Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil*

Next Steps and Planning

The upcoming phase will involve formalising governance structures and pursuing funding commitments from both the State and Federal governments. Public engagement and consultation will continue as part of the planning and delivery process.

Published 30-May-2025

In response to mounting complaints and concerns about safety, a 4.5-kilometre stretch of Anzac Parade between Matraville and La Perouse is now off-limits for parking boats, trailers, and caravans.

Parking Restrictions Take Effect

“No parking” signs would be installed along the grassed median strip of Anzac Parade, from Kain Avenue to Bunnerong Road, within 10 days following the announcement. Vehicles currently parked in the area have been issued warning notices, and owners are given a grace period to adjust to the changes before fines of $129 are enforced. Variable message boards are also in place to notify residents of the new restrictions.

According to Council, the area has become increasingly used as a storage site for larger vehicles, which creates safety risks for pedestrians and obstructs traffic visibility. Complaints from residents and local precinct committees about the congestion and hazards prompted the council to act.

Mixed Reactions from the Community

Residents have expressed divided opinions about the move. While some welcome the decision to address safety concerns and clear the medians, others worry the change will push vehicles into residential streets where parking is already limited.

A Randwick City Council spokesperson stated that the aim is to make the green spaces safer for pedestrians and improve traffic conditions. However, some residents argue that parking recreational vehicles on the median strip is a practical solution to reduce street congestion and are calling for long-term storage options to be provided.

Long-Term Plans and Costs

To support residents, Council is considering the construction of formalised parking bays for cars along Anzac Parade but clarified that these would not accommodate boats or caravans. Additionally, plans are underway to improve the green space by planting more native and indigenous plants. This is expected to provide screening, shade, and noise reduction for the surrounding area.

As a potential long-term measure, the council is consulting with Transport for NSW to explore the installation of low-level railings to prevent vehicles from parking on the median strip. The estimated cost for fencing, parking areas, and landscaping is $550,000, which will be considered in the 2025–26 budget.

Council has committed to informing residents about these changes and future developments. Letters have been sent to vehicle owners where possible, and the community will be consulted further as plans for formalised parking and green space improvements progress.

Published 7-Dec-2024

Tag: La Perouse

First Nations Cultural Precinct Planned for La Perouse