Beryl, as she was known by all and sundry, devoted 40 years of her life to educating children and young adults.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale officially opened the Beryl Simes Smith Park, on the corner of Fourth Ave and Prince St.
Councillor Julie Griffiths, Blacktown MP Stephen Bali, Beryl’s relative Philip Smart, Blacktown Girls High Deputy Principal Zoe Van-Stolk, former Councillor Kevin Gillies and former students also attended the ribbon cutting to mark the park’s opening.
The $2M park features an outdoor gym, volleyball court, play equipment and undercover picnic areas and is conveniently located near Blacktown Girls High School and Blacktown Mosque.
Mayor Bleasdale said Beryl inspired generations of students during her four decades years in education.
“This park is a wonderful tribute to the much-respected Principal, who made her mark on our local community as Deputy Principal and Principal of Blacktown Girls High from 1958-71.
“Beryl is remembered as someone who instilled a strong sense of integrity, perseverance and ethics in her students.
“She was also a big believer in the importance of a well-rounded education and even opened a school garden.
“Therefore, it is apt that this wonderful new park and meeting place be named after Beryl Simes Smith.
“This playspace provides a much-needed open space and recreational facility for these residents,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Families can come down here and have a picnic, watch their children enjoy the play equipment, or have a game of volleyball.”
The park also includes new paved pathways and landscaping.
