Tribute to Our City's Diversity Unveiled
Published on 17 June 2021
The People’s Globe – our City’s tribute to our rich cultural diversity and heritage, has been unveiled at Fairfield Showground.
Fairfield City Mayor Frank Carbone officially opened the People’s Globe on Sunday, 6 June 2021
The new landmark at Fairfield Showground’s main entrance on Smithfield Road features Australia’s largest Kugel Ball – a granite sphere positioned on a water basin able to be rotated by visitors.
The 1.6 metre diameter sphere is engraved with the world map. A wall of ceramic tiles represents the countries of origin of Fairfield City’s residents and bronze plaques point out the direction and distance of those places.
More than 107,000 people currently living in Fairfield City were born overseas, with residents hailing from more than 104 different nations.
The People’s Globe connects to the rest of the Showground via a new network of walking and cycling paths, including the Fairfield Memory Walk which features the specially-engraved pavers purchased by local residents and businesses.
Mayor Carbone said the People’s Globe is a fitting tribute to Fairfield City’s rich and colourful heritage.
“Fairfield City’s rich culture and heritage comes from the diversity of its residents – from our indigenous peoples to those from overseas who now call Australia home,” Mayor Carbone said.
“Ever since John Williams and his wife moved to Fairfield in 1792 as the first white settlers in the area, people have been coming to Fairfield City from around Australia and the world.
“Fairfield Showground is the cultural and geographical heart of our City, so it is fitting that this site was chosen to honour and celebrate the mums, dads, grandparents and brothers and sisters who left their homes with very little, to come here to seek opportunities and a new life in this wonderful nation.
“Many have also chosen to express their pride in our City by participating in our Fairfield Memory Walk by buying a commemorative paver.
“Whether you were born here or travelled here from a distant country, we are proud of your contributions to our City and proud to be able to honour your journeys with our People’s Globe.”
Work is also continuing on other improvements at Fairfield Showground. Our City’s largest off-leash dog park at the Showground was officially opened last week. The all-abilities playground at Deerbush Park will be officially opened on Sunday, 13 June 2021, and work has also started on the new 1000-seat pavilion overlooking the elite turf sports field.
Work is also underway on a network of walking and cycling paths around the showground that connect to the various showground facilities.