- Proposal to name a reserve in the suburb of Villawood as Dick Payten Reserve
- The name seeks to commemorate David Clifford Payten, OAM
- Geographical Names Board is seeking feedback on the proposal
The Geographical Names Board is currently seeking community feedback on a proposal by the Canterbury Bankstown Council to name a reserve in the suburb of Villawood as Dick Payten Reserve.
The proposal was first lodged on 25 August 2020 and seeks to commemorate David (Dick) Clifford Payten, OAM.
Dick Payten was part of the 7th Division that fought in the Middle East and New Guinea in World War II.
Following the war, he resided in Bankstown and was President of the 7th Australian Division Association and instrumental in the development of memorials and commemorations.
He dedicated much of his life to ensuring those that fought as part of the 7th Division were never forgotten. Mr Payten died on 1 March 2020.
Chair of the Geographical Names Board Narelle Underwood said feedback is being sought on the proposal.
“It is important that place names reflect the character and history of the local area and community.
“We want to make sure everyone has an opportunity to provide their feedback on the proposed name.”
Narelle Underwood, Chair of Geographical Names Board
The reserve is located along the Remembrance Driveway which stretches along the Hume and Federal Highways between Sydney and Canberra. The reserve is owned by the Council for Department Planning and Environment and Transport for NSW. They were notified of the request and advised that they have no objection to the naming request.
Canterbury Bankstown Council said it stands as a living memorial honouring all those who served in the Australian Defence Forces in World War II and subsequent wars or conflicts.
The proposal has also received support from Jason Clare MP, Member for Blaxland.
~~
Submissions can be lodged on the Geographical Names Board’s website.
The closing date for submissions is 24 April 2021.
