Construction begins on Sydney's first public Labyrinth

The inaugural sod for Sydney's first public Labyrinth has been turned to mark the beginning of works on creating this fascinating new feature within Sydney's Centennial Park.

The Labyrinth's founding benefactor, Emily Simpson, who has worked tirelessly and actively with the Centennial Parklands Foundation to raise over $500,000 to fund this unique structure was on hand to turn the first sod with Kim Ellis, A/Executive Director, Sydney Parklands and Royal Botanic Gardens and Sarah Whyte, Executive Director of the Centennial Parklands Foundation.

A Labyrinth is an ancient tool traditionally used as a contemplative tool for reflection or meditation. Unlike a maze, which has several different pathways, a labyrinth has only a single path and there are no dead ends. There is evidence of labyrinths having positive effects on mental health and wellbeing of those who use them.

Kim Ellis, acting Executive Director of the Sydney Parklands and Royal Botanic Gardens explains "the Centennial Park Labyrinth will be a feature of great beauty in the Park, and a meaningful piece of public art.

"It will complement Centennial Park's important passive recreation value, contribute to community health and well-being, and attract locals and tourists for many years to come."

Based on the design of the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth, which dates back from the early 13th century, the Centennial Park Labyrinth will be approximately 18 metres in diameter and constructed with the highest quality Australian materials and stones to ensure its quality, density and durability.

Works on the Labyrinth began on Monday 10th February and are expected to be completed in July with the Labyrinth due to be open to the community in early August 2014.

For more information visit

http://www.centennialparklands.com.au/labyrinth