We can see the carvings completed and the whole fence taking shape thanks to our talented artist/sculptor Karl Van Middeldyk of Aussie Stonemasons.
In March 2020 the GPA set up the Ray Whiteman Heritage Fence Fund to raise almost $200,000 to build a sandstone fence to protect out park patrons during ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day or other ceremonies plus park users at all times. The plan was devised with Hornsby Shire Council (HSC) to beautify the park for use as a safe spot to eat lunch or picnic.
Then it evolved into an ambitious concept of 14 carved piers to reflect the heritage of Glenorie District. We reached out to sponsors – NSW Government came to the party immediately with the input from Robyn Preston. Ideas turned into HSC plans with the support of Warren Waddell (current Mayor) from the outset. Now we can all see the product of our vision coming together. Now most of the piers are carved and in place.
To our wonderful community donors, we’re deeply grateful for your commitment and proud to have you by our side. This journey wouldn’t have been the same without your hands and hearts and your monetary contribution behind it. Thank you for sharing so generously—you’ve made an impact that will echo far beyond the finish line.
Check out our goal thermometer that demonstrated the fundraising journey…
But it’s not over yet… We have reached our fence goal of $175,000 but still need some finishing touches i.e. interpretive signage.
You can contribute by Direct credit donation to “The Ray Whiteman Heritage Fence Fund”: BSB 633 000 Account #: 172 608 085
It is not too late to sponsor a pier.
Our brilliant sculptor, Karl, is still able to carve your name on a pier while they are now in situ so choose your pier and contact us for details on how to have your name carved into the heritage fence. So far we have three piers dedicated: one to the Van Middeldyk family, one the Shore Family and George & Phyllis Deaman. We have told you the Shore Family story and are planning a story on the Glenorie Bus Company founded by George Deaman – a teaser below.
The HSC team has now committed to adding the infill fencing and of course, laying the pavers. We have almost 450 pavers to lay thanks to all the wonderful people who want to be a ‘concrete’ part of the history of Glenorie District. As previously advised, the pavers will be laid in the precinct of the Memorial Hall – forecourt and path – September this year.
Look at what else is happening in Glenorie’s future!
There is more happening in Glenorie than the Heritage Fence… to have input into the future of Glenorie check out the HSC Public exhibition – Glenorie Village Investigation Report and draft Glenorie Village Place Plan on Your Say: https://yoursay.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/glenorie-village
These documents bring together insights from supporting studies, community feedback and collaboration with State Agencies to recommend changes for Glenorie.
NOTE: Key recommendations for Glenorie Village include the introduction of opportunities for smaller lots ranging in size from 4,000-5,000m2 adjoining the Village to the southeast, townhouses along Old Northern Road within the existing low-density area (subject to sewer servicing constraints) and a mix of commercial and residential development on the southern corner of Cairnes Road and Old Northern Road.
Council will be hosting community drop-in sessions at Glenorie Memorial Hall to provide an opportunity for the community to view hard copy documents & ask questions of staff. No need to book these sessions, just drop in between the following times:
Friday 8th August 2025
12:00pm – 4:00pm and 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Glenorie Memorial Hall, 1729 Old Northern Rd, Glenorie
Saturday 9th August 2025 9:00am – 2:00pm
Glenorie Memorial Hall, 1729 Old Northern Rd, Glenorie
If you would like to provide feedback on the Glenorie Village Investigation Report and draft Glenorie Village Place Plan, you can do so online (link above) or via email to [email protected] (use Glenorie Village Investigations as your subject line). Submissions close 11:59pm Sunday 31st August 2025.
Any queries regarding this project or the drop-in sessions, contact Alex Healey, Strategic Planner, on 9847 6785.
If you want to be part of the great Glenorie Progress Association, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or call 0418 432 587.
Here is our starter about the Glenorie Bus Company story:
In terms of the history, the company was started in the 1920’s by George Deaman.
It started with him taking on the mail run from Galston to Castle Hill by horse and sulky. A short time after that and following requests from people to be transported to Castle Hill, he purchased his first motorised bus and started the Glenorie to Castle Hill bus run.
This expanded to other local runs and a run to Eastwood station (commencing in 1952) with a fleet of 5 buses. George passed away suddenly in 1960 leading to the sale of the business to Roy Baxter in 1962.
The Glenorie Bus Company owned 5 buses when the Deaman family
sold and they were:
- Federal – grummet body (1)
- Federal – forward control (3)
- White – forward control (1)
This is a prelude of more to come next month…
Ready to join the Glenorie Progress Association at only $20 pa $40 for 2 years or $80 for 5 years.
