The upgraded Jim Parkes Reserve was officially opened on 23 January 2025.
Guests included Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr. Jack Kowarzik, Cardinia Shire Councillors, Brett Owen, Alanna Pomeroy and Casey Thomson, SE Metro members Michael Galea and Lee Tarlamis. Also Ted Owen, Penny Harris Jennings and members of Beaconsfield Progress Association. The family of Jim Parkes including grandchildren were there to remember their father and grandfather and try out the new play equipment.
Local identity Dulcie Rushton, wife of the late Tony Rushton was able to attend as well. Her husband Tony had been the local historian and collected many historical photos and information about the Beaconsfield area and enjoyed using the reserve with his family.
Jim Parkes Reserve was first opened in 1990 by Cr. Ted Owen to commemorate the community work by Jim Parkes. Ted Owen is father of Cr Brett Owen so it was great to see Ted at the upgrade opening.
The new Interpretation plaque tells about Jim Parkes and has a photo of him in his butcher shop. Thanks to the Parkes family for providing the photo and to Penny Harris Jennings for compiling the information for the plaque. Now visitors to the Reserve will know why it is called Jim Parkes Reserve and about his contributions to Beaconsfield.
