Parks & Reserves

Oatley Park

Location: Dame Mary Gilmore Road, Oatley

Easily the largest recreational area in the municipality, the 45 hectare Oatley Park is on a promontory jutting into George's River, bounded by Lime Kiln Bay and Jewfish Bay. Access is from Dame Mary Gilmore Road. The land was proclaimed in May 1888 (initially as Peakhurst Park), with Hurstville Council being appointed trustee in 1908. Even then, it was recognised as being one of the few sizeable areas of waterfront land not privately owned.

As one of Sydney's finest areas of natural bushland, Oatley Park is noted for its trees, shrubs and native flowers, as well as the river beaches and prolific bird life. The records do not show when the baths were built but they are known to have been in use in 1919. During the depression of the 1930s, considerable work was done there under the Unemployment Relief Scheme. The scenic road was constructed around the river foreshores (as part of a wider scheme never completed). At the same time, the kiosk and eye-catching castellated tower were built as an attraction for visitors. Several scenic lookouts were also formed, giving excellent views over the river.

Oatley Park is popular with visitors all year round enjoying a variety of recreational and sporting activites from picnics in Steamroller Park, swimming in the Baths in Sandy Bay to enjoying the many walking tracks and cycleways.

The Oatley Park Castle is available to hire for private functions, from weddings to coporate functions. Bookings are very popular during the Spring and Summer months, advanced bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment. For booking enquiries contact Council's Sport and Recreation Officer on 9330 6209.

pdf icon Oatley park castle Brochure (348.37kB).