Have your say on a place name in Blacktown LGA
The Geographical Names Board (GNB) is seeking community feedback by a proposal by Blacktown City Council to name a reserve in Riverstone as Bill McNamara Park.
The reserve is located on Garfield Road East and Oliver Street in Riverstone, Blacktown Local Government Area.
William (Bill) McNamara OAM (1927-2024) was a highly respected figure in Blacktown City, with his family's roots in the region dating back to the 1920s.
As the driving force behind the McNamara group in 1953, Bill oversaw the development of numerous landmarks across Blacktown and Western Sydney, including Westpoint Blacktown, Riverstone Market Town, Mount Druitt High School, Blacktown Aquatic Centre, and Riverstone Schofields Memorial Club.
His influence extended beyond the city, contributing to projects such as Riverside Theatres in Parramatta, the J.A. Fleming Stand at Rosehill Racecourse, and facilities for the Royal Australian Army and RAAF Base Richmond.
A dedicated community leader, Bill generously devoted his time to local initiatives. He played, coached, and served on the committee of the Riverstone Rugby League Club, earning life membership at both the Riverstone Bowling and RSL clubs.
His outstanding service was recognised in 1984 with the Medal of the Order of Australia for community work.
Bill's business expertise benefited the region through his role as Chair of the Economic Development Board of Greater Western Sydney and as a Director of Blacktown Venue Management for 14 years.
His contributions were further acknowledged with the Blacktown Corporate Citizen of the Year award in 2017 and the Key to the City in 2022, celebrating his pivotal role in shaping Blacktown's growth over six decades.
GNB is seeking feedback to gauge community sentiment for the proposed name and suggestions for alternative names are not being sought at this time.
Details of the proposal can be viewed and submissions lodged on the Geographical Names Board's website.
Alternatively, written submissions may be mailed to:
The Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Ave, Bathurst, NSW 2795.
The closing date for submissions is 10 May 2026.
Quotes to be attributed to NSW Surveyor-General Thomas Grinter:
"Every name tells a story, and those stories help shape the identity of our towns and cities."
"Commemorative names help us recognise individuals who have shaped our community, and it's important that these decisions reflect the values of the people who live there."
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