Central Gardens Nature Reserve, also known as Central Gardens, is located in the western suburbs of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Established in 1976, the 12-hectare (30-acre) reserve is managed by Cumberland Council and features a fauna and wildlife park, as well as a beautiful garden.
It attracts visitors from outside the Cumberland local government area.
Before its opening, the area was used as a clay extraction pit and kiln for brick-making. The park's design began in the 1970s, and it officially opened on April 12, 1976. Despite losing many trees in a severe storm in 2002, the reserve continues to thrive. It includes a boardwalk and deck structure built in 1993 to provide access for disabled individuals.
Central Gardens is situated between Merrylands Road, Paton Street, and the Cumberland Highway in Merrylands. The park's landform consists of two main topographic regions, with the northern area sloping gently to the lake system and the southern part being predominantly flat. The lake's water quality is poor due to nearby silt-laden components, shallow waters, marine animals' presence, and the lack of reliable water supply during dry periods.
The reserve offers various features, including walking tracks, a boardwalk, kiosk, amphitheatre, fountains, ornamental lake system, and bird and animal enclosures. It also has sports ground facilities, such as tennis courts and open fields. Central Gardens is a popular spot for wedding photos and company picnics, with designated areas available for family and group events. Amenities such as hot water tanks, sinks, toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, and shady trees are provided throughout the park.
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