Tom Uren Walking Trail Marks a Fitting Tribute
Following Tom’s passing on Australia Day last year, Council built the Trail to commemorate his lifelong link to Balmain as well as his unceasing advocacy to protecting and expanding public access to Sydney Harbour.
The Trail runs around the point of Balmain East from Thornton Park near the Balmain East Ferry Wharf to Propeller Park near Tom’s home.
The official launch ceremony at 11am at Illoura Reserve in Balmain East will be followed by a group walk of the Trail with interpretative signage, photos and story boards along the Trail telling the story of Tom’s life and public work.
There will also be a BBQ back at Iloura Reserve at 2pm including the announcement of the ‘Best Hat on Trail’ Awards. Everyone walking is encouraged to wear a hat of their choice in tribute to Tom’s legendary hat.
By exploring his Trail, walkers are invited to come to better know Tom and his Balmain, the place where he was born and returned to enjoy the final years of his life.
The different stages of Tom’s almost 94 years covered so much of the Australian experience – soldier, heavyweight boxer, prisoner of war, parliamentarian, anti-war activist, Minister, environmentalist, and humanitarian of the highest order.
Tom was a national treasure but also a local Balmain hero. No single life has encompassed more of Balmain’s history and traditions than Tom’s did.
From the poverty stricken community he was born into, through the artistic and political hub of the 1970s, to the beautiful harbourside destination it is today, Tom helped shape every change Balmain has seen.
After leaving parliament, Tom continued his political activism and was the most effective advocate for public access to Sydney Harbour.
It is hoped the Trail will help see his name now associated in perpetuity with our precious Sydney Harbour front land as well as being a wonderful way to celebrate the life of one of our greatest local citizens.
The details for the day are as follows:
- When: Saturday 28 May, 2016
- What time: 11am – Official Launch followed by Inaugural Tom Uren Trail walk
2pm – BBQ and Best on Trail Hat Awards
- Where: Illoura Reserve, Balmain East (for launch and BBQ)