A garden created to commemorate the visit of St John Paul II to Blacktown in Western Sydney has been given a new lease on life by Blacktown City Council’s Greenspace team. Source: Catholic Outlook.
The Pope’s Garden, established in 1987 following St John Paul II’s historic visit, has long provided a quiet space for reflection within the Blacktown Showground precinct.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the renewal preserves an important community landmark.
“The visit of Pope John Paul II remains a proud chapter in Blacktown’s history,” Mr Bunting said. “The refreshed garden is a simple but meaningful way of honouring that moment and keeping its spirit alive for future generations.”
Council staff and apprentices recently completed a series of improvements to enhance the garden’s appearance and structure. Their work has revitalised the space and strengthened its role as a tribute to a significant moment in Blacktown’s history.
The upgrade included high-pressure cleaning of the pavements, expansion of garden borders, the installation of posts and wires to support new climbing roses and new plants.
Existing trees and shrubs were carefully trimmed to improve light and visibility, while older plants were removed, weeded, and mulched.
The saint visited Sydney’s western suburbs during his 1986 visit to Australia. His motorcade travelled through Blacktown, where many residents gathered to welcome him.
The following year, the garden and commemorative plaque were dedicated to the Pope by Parramatta Bishop Bede Heather and officially opened by the Blacktown mayor, Russ Dickens.
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Pope’s Garden refreshed at Blacktown Showground (Catholic Outlook)
