The Geographical Names Board is seeking community feedback on a proposal by Penrith City Council to name a reserve in the suburb of Penrith as Thomas Smith Reserve.
Acting Chair of the Geographical Names Board Thomas Grinter said the Board was now seeking feedback to gauge community sentiment for the proposed name.
“We want to make sure everyone has an opportunity to provide their feedback on the proposed name to ensure it preserves history and resonates with the local community,” Mr Grinter said.
“The proposed name will commemorate local settler and Councillor Thomas Smith’s (1819-1896) contribution to the development of Penrith City with popular hotels that still stand today.
“Thomas built the Red Cow Hotel in 1862 where he was the owner for about 30 years. The Red Cow Hotel continues to stand in Penrith where people still enjoy dining and live music.
“In 1870 he also built the heritage listed Thornton Hall in 1870 on his 324-acre property. This land was used as an orchard, rifle range, golf course and for breeding horses and cattle.
“The proposal seeks to honour the historical contribution of the late Thomas, who was elected as an alderman on the first Penrith Council in 1871 where he remained in office until 1890.”
The reserve is located on the land that Thomas Smith originally owned. Suggestions for alternative names is not being sought at this time.
Details of the proposal can be viewed and submissions lodged on the Geographical Names Board’s website.
Written submissions can also be mailed to the Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Ave, Bathurst, NSW 2795. The closing date for submissions is 24 January 2022.
