20 million annual visits to Centennial Parklands

Newly published research shows that over 20 million annual visits were made to Centennial Parklands - confirming it one of the most used and loved recreational and entertainment spaces in Australia.

A 12 month study performed by Taverner Research, demonstrated the growth and importance of the Parklands and its precincts continues to increase in importance for a rapidly growing local population.

Introducing the findings, Centennial Parklands Director of Visitor Experience Anthony Dunsford stated "it is the diversity of offering that Centennial Parklands provides the community is something that should not be taken for granted, the parklands provides such a broad range of positive experiences for all user groups.

"Centennial Parklands' challenge is often pinpointing who are the primary users.

"With over 1.7 million booked sporting visits by participants and spectators you could suggest it is Sydney's home for grass roots sport.

"This is further supported by the millions of visits to cycle or jog the park circuits each day.

"However, the Parklands also provides Sydney's largest off-leash dog area and attracts millions of recreational walkers each year.

"It is home to five popularly-visited playgrounds, ... a children's cycleway, Fox Studios, AFTRS and manages hundreds of film shoots from Hollywood Blockbusters to TV advertisements.

"The Hordern Pavillion, Hall of Industries and the outdoor Parkland venues have a thriving event program comprising of sporting, lifestyle, industry and music events attracting more than half a million people each year."

On the 125th anniversary of Centennial Park, and as part of the master planning process currently underway, it was valuable to identify how many Sydney residents are enjoying the diversity of the Parklands.

Taverner Research were engaged to conduct a digital 12 month Sydney based visitation study that was evaluated against a previous study via telephone survey and a manual venue count to ensure consistency and accuracy of reporting data.

The importance of this data will help shape the management and planning for the future of the Parklands, particularly its sports and recreation offerings for the community.