65 minute read
12.5 Appendix E: Rhodes Peninsula Community Survey – Detailed survey results
12.5 Appendix E: Rhodes Peninsula Community Survey Appendix E: Rhodes Peninsula Community Survey Appendix E: Rhodes Peninsula Community Survey Appendix E: Rhodes Peninsula Community Survey –––– Detailed survey results Detailed survey results Detailed survey results Detailed survey results
Respondent profile Respondent profile Respondent profile Respondent profile Residents, Residents, Residents, Residents, workers, visitors workers, visitors workers, visitors workers, visitors Just under 70% of survey respondents were residents 15% were visitors. Which part of the Peninsula do you live or work in? Which part of the Peninsula do you live or work in? Which part of the Peninsula do you live or work in? Which part of the Peninsula do you live or work in? More than one third of residents and workers who took part in the survey lived in Area A, as shown below. More than half lived in Rhodes West (56.1%) (Areas A, B, C and D), 16.3% lived in Rhodes East (Areas E and F), and 15.3% lived in Liberty Grove (Area Another 4.6% worked in the shopping centre / commercial precinct (Area G).
Advertisement
of Rhodes Peninsula. Around one in five worked in the Peninsula and just under
H).
Suburb Suburb Suburb Suburb
Suburb
Abbotsford
Bankstown
Bass Hill
Blacktown
Breakfast Point
Burwood
Cabarita
Chatswood
Concord
Concord West
Cronulla
Croydon No.
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
8
21
1
Eastwood
Fairfield
Five Dock
Glenorie
Glenwood
Gordon
Hurlstone Park
Kellyville Liberty Grove Lindfield
Meadowbank
Mount Colah
North Epping 1
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
22
1
1
1
1
North Ryde North Shore
Parramatta
Prestons
Putney Rhodes
Seven Hills
St Ives
Strathfield
Summer Hill 1
1
1
1
1
114
1
1
2
Sydney Telopea Toongabbie Turramurra
Wentworth Point
West Ryde Wongawilli 1
1
2
1
2
3
1
How long have you lived or worked in Rhodes Peninsula?How long have you lived or worked in Rhodes Peninsula?How long have you lived or worked in Rhodes Peninsula?How long have you lived or worked in Rhodes Peninsula? More than half (52.7%) of all participating residents the area for between one and three years, while 16.3% had lived in Rhodes Peninsula for less than 12 months. These residents likely to have diverse interests and needs. Importantly there is a need for community engagement and community development strategies that target diverse members of the community and provide opportunities for longer term and newer residents to come together and interact. Age Age Age Age had lived in Rhodes Peninsula for more than three years. Another 31% had lived in are
52.7% (119)
The Rhodes Peninsula Community Survey was completed by people from a range of age groups age. Just under one third of respondents were aged 26 under 10% were aged 25 years or under. And 8.8% were aged 65 years or over. The survey sample was broadly representative of the adult population of Rhodes Peninsula. – including many people of working -35 years (28.5%), and another quarter (24.6%) were aged 36-45 years. Just
Gender Gender Gender Gender
Do you speak a language other than English at home? Do you speak a language other than English at home? Do you speak a language other than English at home? Do you speak a language other than English at home? As many as 42.1% of respondents spoke a language other than English at home. This compares with 38% of residents of Rhodes and Liberty Grove who identified as being from a non English speaking background in the 2006 Census.
Among survey respondents the most commonly spoken languages were:
• Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin) (n=51) • Indian (Hindi, Urdu, Gujarati and Marathi) (n=14) • Korean (n=12). Other languages spoken were: • Tagalog (n=5) • Greek (n=3) • Spanish (n=3) • Italian (n=2) • Vietnamese (n=2) • Malay / Tamil (n=2) • Arabic (n=1) • Japanese (n=1) • Hungarian (n=1) • Armenian (n=1) • Latvian (n=1) • German (n=1) • Lebanese (n=1) • Portuguese (n=1) • Dutch / Flemish (n=1) • Russian (n=1).
Do you own or rent your home? Do you own or rent your home? Do you own or rent your home? Do you own or rent your home? Just under three quarters of survey respondents owned / or were purchasing their home. Another 25% were renting their home. Reference to 2006 Census data suggests that renters were slightly underrepresented in the survey sample – with 36.9% of residents who were renting their home in Rhodes and Liberty Grove in 2006. Dwelling type Dwelling type Dwelling type Dwelling type More than half of all survey respondents lived in an apartment. Over one third lived in a house and around one in 10 lived in or townhouse. This is broadly consistent with the areas within Rhodes Peninsula where survey respondents lived; more than half of all survey respondents lived in Rhodes West (56.1%), 16.3% lived in Rhodes East, and 15.3% lived in Liberty Grove. a semi
Household type Household type Household type Household type Residents of Rhodes Peninsula who took part in the survey lived in a range of household / family types. As many as 40.5% were couples with children at home and another 24.7% were couples with no children – suggesting there is a large proportion of young / working age people living in Rhodes. As noted previously in this report, many survey respondents plan to have children in the next five years or have young children now who will be starting school within that timeframe.
Just under one in five respondents was single – either living alone (9.3%) or sharing (8.8%). Many of these households are likely to include a mix of local and international students. The broader population projections and survey results suggest that over the next few years, the proportion of lone person households is likely to increase, in line with population ageing.
Approximately 7.9% of survey respondents were couples with children who have left home. This demographic group includes both long term residents of Rhodes as well as those who have downsized from other suburbs to Rhodes and Liberty Grove. Approximately 3.5% of people who took part in the survey lived in an extended family household.
Travel to work / study Travel to work / study Travel to work / study Travel to work / study The most common modes of travel to work or study identified by res walking (10.0%, n=23) and bus (8.7%, n=20), as shown in the graph below. Please note, while 10% of respondents (n=23) walked to work or study, only a third of these (n=8) only walk, transport. pondents were train (51.5%, n=118), car (46.7%, n=107), rather than walk to work or study in combination with other modes of
51.5% (118)
The average time spent travelling to work or study was 38.6 minutes, with just over 40% of all respondents travelling to work than 30 minutes. Commuter travel times are suggests that car commuting is particularly harmful to social connection (Grattan Institute 2012). The survey and focus group research indicates that many residents of Rhodes a transport that it offers. in less widely recognised as an important aspect of quality of life and recent research nd Liberty Grove strongly value the area for the convenient access to public
Time spent travelling to work/study Time spent travelling to work/study Time spent travelling to work/study Time spent travelling to work/study
Travel time no. %
0 minutes 20
1-30 minutes 81
31-60 minutes 105
61-90 minutes 13
90+ minutes 3
NA 10
Total responses Total responses Total responses Total responses 232 232 232 232 8.6
34.9
45.3
5.6
1.3
4.3
100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
Average travel time 38.6
Survey results Survey results Survey results Survey results
Question 1 Question 1 Question 1 Question 1
Question 1 Question 1 Question 1 Question 1 –––– Results by area Results by area Results by area Results by area
Parks and open space areas: Parks and open space areas: Parks and open space areas: Parks and open space areas:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 47.9 42.3
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 58.3 33.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 50 40
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 50 31.3
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 44.4 50
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 64.3 35.7 Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
9.9
8.3
10
12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5
5.6
0
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 44.4 44.4 11.1 11.1 11.1 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 73.3 73.3 73.3 73.3 23.3 3.3
Walking paths / links to the wider area: Walking paths / links to the wider area: Walking paths / links to the wider area: Walking paths / links to the wider area:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 46.5 50.7 2.8
B B B B (n=12) (n=12) (n=12) (n=12) 58.3 58.3 58.3 58.3 25.0 16.7
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 33.3 55.6 11.1
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 37.5 43. 18.8
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 22.2 50.0 27.8 27.8 27.8 27.8
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 50.0 50.0 50.0 50.0 35.7 14.3 G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 44.4 44.4 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 60.0 60.0 60.0 60.0 33.3 6.7
Bike riding routes / links to the wider area: Bike riding routes / links to the wider area: Bike riding routes / links to the wider area: Bike riding routes / links to the wider area:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 40.8 39.4 9.9
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 41.7 50.0 8.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 60.0 60.0 60.0 60.0 10.0 10.0 D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 37.5 43.8 12.5
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 22.2 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 28.6 50. 0.0
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 44.4 33.3 0.0
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 56.7 56.7 56.7 56.7 30.0 13.3
Sporting or recreational facilities: Sporting or recreational facilities: Sporting or recreational facilities: Sporting or recreational facilities:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 5.6 38.0 45.1
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 16.7 41.7 41.7
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 20.0 30.0 30.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 18.8 37.5 43.8
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 5.6 27.8 55.6 55.6 55.6 55.6
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 7.1 14.3 57.1 57.1 57.1 57.1
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 22.2 33.3 22.2 H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 26.7 26.7 26.7 26.7 36.7 33.3
Kids playground facilities: Kids playground facilities: Kids playground facilities: Kids playground facilities:
Area Area Area Area Very Very Very Very well well well well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 34.3 37.1 8.6
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 33.3 50.0 8.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 30.0 20.0 10.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 31.3 50.0 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 23.5 52.9 5.9
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 42.9 42.9 42.9 42.9 21.4 0.0
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 22.2 33.3 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 50.0 50.0 50.0 50.0 43.3 6.7
Public spaces and seating: Public spaces and seating: Public spaces and seating: Public spaces and seating:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 29.6 53.5 14.1 B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 25.0 66.7 8.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 20.0 80.0 0.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 25.0 37.5 31.3 31.3 31.3 31.3
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 16.7 50.0 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 50.0 50.0 50.0 50.0 42.9 7.1
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 44.4 44.4 44.4 44.4 44.4 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 40.0 50.0 10.0
BBQ areas: BBQ areas: BBQ areas: BBQ areas:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 5.7 32.9 40.0
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 16.7 41.7 41.7
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 0.0 50.0 30.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 18.8 25.0 43.8
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 5.6 38.9 50.0 50.0 50.0 50.0
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 35.7 35.7 35.7 35.7 35.7 14.3 G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 11.1 33.3 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 20.0 50.0 23.3
Public toilet facilities: Public toilet facilities: Public toilet facilities: Public toilet facilities:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 4.2 42.3 42.3
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 0.0 50.0 40.0 D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 0.0 62.5 18.8
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 5.6 44.4 44.4
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 14.3 64.3 14.3
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 11.1 11.1 44.4
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 6.7 40.0 53.3 53.3 53.3 53.3
Cafes, restaurants and Cafes, restaurants and Cafes, restaurants and Cafes, restaurants and entertainment: entertainment: entertainment: entertainment:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 30.6 38.9 30.6
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 41.7 41.7 41.7 41.7 33.3 25.0
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 10.0 30.0 60.0 60.0 60.0 60.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 31.3 50.0 18.8
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 33.3 44.4 22.2
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 14.3 57.1 28.6
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 22.2 77.8 0.0
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 40.0 40.0 40.0 40.0 43.3 16.7
Commercial precinct: Commercial precinct: Commercial precinct: Commercial precinct:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 53.5 53.5 53.5 53.5 42.3 4.2
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 58.3 58.3 58.3 58.3 33.3 8.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 20.0 70.0 10.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 43.8 43.8 12.5
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 61.1 61.1 61.1 61.1 33.3 5.6 F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 35.7 50.0 14.3 14.3 14.3 14.3
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 33.3 55.6 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 72.4 72.4 72.4 72.4 27.6 0.0
Other shops: Other shops: Other shops: Other shops:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 15.5 56.3 28.2
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3 50.0 16.7 C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 0.0 55.6 44.4 44.4 44.4 44.4
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 18.8 37.5 31.3
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 16.7 61.1 22.2
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 14.3 35.7 42.9 42.9 42.9 42.9
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 22.2 44.4 33.3
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 23.3 63.3 13.3
Meeting room / function facilities for community use:Meeting room / function facilities for community use:Meeting room / function facilities for community use:Meeting room / function facilities for community use:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 4.3 28.6 41.4
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 0.0 58.3 33.3
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 0.0 30.0 40.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 37.5 31.3
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 0.0 44.4 44.4 44.4 44.4 44.4
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 0.0 46.2 30.8
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 0.0 44.4 11.1
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 13.8 13.8 13.8 13.8 24.1 44.8 44.8 44.8 44.8
Access to transport: Access to transport: Access to transport: Access to transport:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well
A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 70.8 70.8 70.8 70.8 26.4 2.8
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 75.0 75.0 75.0 75.0 25.0 0.0
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 40.0 50.0 10.0 D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 37.5 56.3 6.3
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 44.4 33.3 22.2 22.2 22.2 22.2
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 42.9 42.9 7.1
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 55.6 55.6 55.6 55.6 44.4 0.0
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 58.6 58.6 58.6 58.6 31.0 10.3
Mobile and internet access: Mobile and internet access: Mobile and internet access: Mobile and internet access:
Area Area Area Area Very well Very well Very well Very well Okay Okay Okay Okay Not very well Not very well Not very well Not very well A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) A (n=72) 22.2 40.3 33.3
B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) B (n=12) 8.3 33.3 50.0 50.0 50.0 50.0
C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) C (n=10) 0.0 20.0 80.0 80.0 80.0 80.0
D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) D (n=16) 12.5 37.5 43.8
E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) E (n=18) 5.6 61.1 22.2
F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) F (n=14) 14.3 64.3 7.1
G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) G (n=9) 22.2 33.3 22.2
H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) H (n=22) 31.0 31.0 31.0 31.0 41.4 27.6
Question 3 Question 3 Question 3 Question 3
Question 3 Question 3 Question 3 Question 3 –––– Results by area Results by area Results by area Results by area Area A (n=72): Area A (n=72): Area A (n=72): Area A (n=72):
Area B (n=12): Area B (n=12): Area B (n=12): Area B (n=12):
Area C (n=10): Area C (n=10): Area C (n=10): Area C (n=10):
Area D (n=16): Area D (n=16): Area D (n=16): Area D (n=16):
Area E (n=18): Area E (n=18): Area E (n=18): Area E (n=18):
Area F (n=14): Area F (n=14): Area F (n=14): Area F (n=14):
Area G (n=9): Area G (n=9): Area G (n=9): Area G (n=9):
Area H (n=30): Area H (n=30): Area H (n=30): Area H (n=30):
Question 4 Question 4 Question 4 Question 4
Question 5 Question 5 Question 5 Question 5
Question 6 Question 6 Question 6 Question 6
Question 9 Question 9 Question 9 Question 9
Question 10 Question 10 Question 10 Question 10
Question 11 Question 11 Question 11 Question 11
Question 12 Question 12 Question 12 Question 12
Community values, vision and aspirations for Rhodes PeninsulaCommunity values, vision and aspirations for Rhodes PeninsulaCommunity values, vision and aspirations for Rhodes PeninsulaCommunity values, vision and aspirations for Rhodes Peninsula Community values Community values Community values Community values
I’ve lived in Rhodes for four years. It’s convenient to the CBD. It’s only 30 minutes away. It’s within walking distance of shops and the foreshore and parks. And I don’t need to spend time mowing the lawn.
The vast majority of people who participated in the consultation activities associated with the Place Plan expressed a strong affiliation with Rhodes Peninsula and identified many aspects of Rhodes and Liberty Grove which they value and want to see retained and or enhanced, as the Peninsula continues to evolve.
The aspects of Rhodes Peninsula which survey respondents liked most were access to shopping and access to public transport. Parks and open space and proximity to water were also highly valued by many members of the community.
Table: What do you like most about Rhodes Peninsula as a place to live in, work in or visit – Survey responses
Response No. of responses Indicative quotes
Access to shopping 100
Access to public transport (Rhodes train station, buses, ferries) 82
Parks and open space 51
Close to water / water views 48 Close proximity to a wide range of shops
Easy access to train; Excellent transport options
Pleasant outdoor environment; Parks because I like running; Lots of parks and green areas; Open spaces and walkways; Good parks on the river and open spaces; the foreshore parks; Wide open spaces; Open space, gardens and water views; Access to open space and the Parramatta River; Green areas
Access to the foreshore; Surrounded on three sides by water; Close to river; The foreshore provides a good area for walking and leisure; Waterfront views
Access to facilities (such as recreational facilities, children’s facilities, etc) 27
Access to walking and bicycle paths 26
Quiet / pleasant environment 26
Clean 24
Central location 24
Safety 22
Community spirit / friendly / multicultural 22 There is a great balance of recreational, commercial, residential facilities; access to children’s facilities
The foreshore paths
Convenient 17
New / modern feel 11
Healthy/vibrant 6
Design / layout / style 5 Everything in my area is modern
Healthy vibrant culture; Fun.
Eastern side away from development
Focus group participants reinforced the community values identified through the survey, with a focus on the Peninsula’s: proximity to water, parks and open space areas; convenience to shops, public transport, facilities, and work; and comfortable lifestyle. A selection of indicative quotes is provided below.
Walking, shopping, transport are all good. So convenient…
I love it here. It’s very convenient and exciting. I feel so calm here. We walk our dog near the water… I like being able to live and work close to home…
People who work in the corporate business park can walk across the foot bridge and along the waterfront and visit nice parks.
Character and identity of Rhodes Peninsula Character and identity of Rhodes Peninsula Character and identity of Rhodes Peninsula Character and identity of Rhodes Peninsula
It’s vibrant like great cities.
I’ve lived in Rhodes for 25 years and have always loved Rhodes as a place – with nearby train station and parks. It’s got better since its industrial past.
It has changed for the better. When we moved in it was a stinky, dirty place.
Members of the community described the character and identity of Rhodes Peninsula as being closely linked to the Peninsula’s waterside setting, parks and open spaces and outdoors lifestyle, cultural and age diversity, community feel (professional and family friendly), safe, convenient and clean environment, vibrant atmosphere, and cultural heritage.
Survey respondents identified a wide range of aspects of the character and identity of Rhodes Peninsula. Those most commonly identified by participants were: waterside living; parks and open space areas; and diversity.
Table: What do you see as the most important aspects of the 'character and identity' of Rhodes Peninsula?
Response No. of responses Indicative quotes
Waterside living 63 Water front parks and walking / bike track; A water side neighbourhood; Waterfront/side living; Riverside beautiful location; Access to the foreshore; Waterfront living; Access to water views
Parks and open space 44
Diversity 31
Community feel 29
Safety 28
Convenience / central to everything 27
Clean environment 27
High end, high density living 17
Shops / retail 17
Modern / new 16
Vibrancy 13
Accessibility by public transport 9
Heritage 5
Preservation of natural environment 2 The open spaces are great; Access to parks gives good outdoors lifestyle options; Many green open spaces; An outdoors neighbourhood; Parklands and leisure focus
Vibrant multiculturalism; Diversity of residents; A neighbourhood with people from all walks of life and from all over the world; Access for all; Multicultural and diversity; Mix of cultures and age groups living together
Family friendly; The people; Community
Security at night; Must be a safe place to live; Safe and clean
Convenience; Quiet oasis just minutes to the CBD; Provides almost everything you need within walking distance; Right in the middle of Greater Sydney; One stop for work and living needs
Well maintained streets and public areas; Its clean and attractive
Communal, high density living; Chic apartment living; High rise living; Cosmopolitan with new and beautiful buildings; Exclusive area; Premium whilst still being youthful and down to earth; Some modern and good design buildings; Visually appealing (style/quality of buildings, lots of open spaces)
IKEA; The shopping area; Rhodes Mall does not see itself as just a shopping centre but a community service and retail centre and operates businesses that make sense for our community
Mix of modern commercial buildings and residential complexes; Modern facilities; New residential community which has given a real boost for the community; Modern water front suburb; Modern living
Crossing of workers and residents; Bustling corporate identity; Excitement; Vibrant atmosphere
Public transport hub; Close to public transport
Transformation from industry to residential; The area’s rich history; There is a history and lovely suburbia to the east; Its industrial past.
While the vast majority of qualities associated with Rhodes Peninsula by survey respondents were positive, some also identifi negative aspects of the character and identity of the Peninsula. These negative qualities were often associated with change i area over the last few years. These focused on: ed n the
• Over development / overcrowding – Extreme high rise developments; No real ch many people will be crowded into one small area • Lack of infrastructure to accompany development schools within the area needs to be addressed • Traffic congestion and increased demand for parking • Reduced sense of community – The transient population with minimal personal contact. • Lack of character in Rhodes Peninsula. aracter any more – just lots of unit blocks; Too – Expand infrastructure to cope with more residents/buildings; Issue of no – Alleviating traffic congestion on access roads; Fixing traffic!
These negative qualities or potential barriers to a strong sense of character and identity were also raised by focus group participants. Current infrastructure needs and increased future demand was a key theme raised across all focus groups, as discussed in section 5.2 of the Preliminary Report.
Current and future demand for community facilities, services and open spaceCurrent and future demand for community facilities, services and open spaceCurrent and future demand for community facilities, services and open spaceCurrent and future demand for community facilities, services and open space Overview of existing needs Overview of existing needs Overview of existing needs Overview of existing needs The majority of survey respondents reported that their existing needs for community facilities, services and open space were generally well met. Community needs were best met by access to transportCommunity needs were best met by access to transportCommunity needs were best met by access to transportCommunity needs were best met by access to transport another 34.3% okay) and parks and open space areas and parks and open space areas and parks and open space areas and parks and open space areas as shown in the graph below. (which met 54.9% of respondents needs very well and (which met 50.6% of respondents needs very well and another 39.5% okay),
Figure: Survey results: Thinking about the community facilities, services and open space areas in Rhodes Pen following meet your needs? insula, how well do each of the
The commercial precinct (including Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre), walking paths / links to the wider area, bike riding routes / links to the wider area, kids playground facilities, and public spaces and seating were also commonly reported as meeting most
respondents’ needs – either very well or okay, as shown in the above graph. However, in each case, between 6-10% of respondents said their needs were not very well met.
Points of difference b Points of difference b Points of difference b Points of difference by location y location y location y location While the majority of survey respondents reported that their needs for community facilities, services and open space were well met, within the Peninsula feedback from residents and workers varied somewhat by location. Key points of difference are illustrated in the figure below. For instance, community needs for access to public transport were particularly well met in the commercial precinct (55.6% of survey respondents from this area reported their needs were being met). And community needs for parks and open space areas were particularly well met in Liberty Grove (73.3% reported their needs were met). On the other hand, mobile and internet access was not well met in several areas within the Peninsula. And community needs for sporting and recreational facilities were also not well met in a number of areas – including the Rhodes East and West, to the south of the Station Precinct.
Figure: What’s working well (+) / What could be improved (-)
Existing needs for Existing needs for Existing needs for Existing needs for community facilities and services within Rhodes Peninsulacommunity facilities and services within Rhodes Peninsulacommunity facilities and services within Rhodes Peninsulacommunity facilities and services within Rhodes Peninsula Survey respondents and focus group participants expressed mixed views towards current access to transport.Survey respondents and focus group participants expressed mixed views towards current access to transport.Survey respondents and focus group participants expressed mixed views towards current access to transport.Survey respondents and focus group participants expressed mixed views towards current access to transport. Many were regular public transport users who strongly valued access to trains, and to a lesser extent, buses and ferries. While some were very satisfied with existing public transport services, others (particularly commuters) were less satisfied. Common concerns were infrequent train services, overcrowding of trains during peak times, and poor coordination of train services with connecting train and bus services.
Access to the railway station is OK but train frequency could be better.
I find Rhodes very comfortable to live, extremely convenient. The train service to me is very satisfactory, but can be quite crowded in peak hour. Trains are every 20 minutes in peak hour and every 30 minutes at other times. There is a bus which goes up and down Concord Road (M41/51). Public transport is quite satisfactory. If I’m organised and walk a bit further [from home in Rhodes] I can catch the ferry to the city.
I have two kids and if they miss the train in the morning I have to pick them up and drop them to Strathfield. I don’t think every half hour is frequent at all. Sometimes there are no trains. And there is a lack of coordination with connecting trains at nearby stations, and connections between bus and train.
A dramatic improvement is needed in bus and train transport.
Walking paths / bike riding routes were also highly valuedWalking paths / bike riding routes were also highly valuedWalking paths / bike riding routes were also highly valuedWalking paths / bike riding routes were also highly valued, with members of the community seeking greater accessibility throughout the Peninsula, including improved pedestrian and bicycle safety and more bike parking.
Shoreline drive needs to be completed. I know this is well underway however at this time this has affected some of my ratings. Also, the footpath along Walker St to the train station is atrocious. A gravel path would be better than the uneven cement (trip hazard) and mud that it can be sometimes.
I feel like the corporate/shopping centre end of Rhodes is well catered for. However it is particularly unsafe at the northern end of Rhodes for cyclists and pedestrians. It would be great to be able to walk/cycle to the shopping centre, and have more bike parking at the shopping centre.
Survey respondents identified the following needs as being not very well met. The most commonly identified needs were sporting and recreational facilities, public toilet facilities, meeting room / function facilities for community use, and BBQ areas. A summary of survey responses is provided below, accompanied by a selection of indicative comments from the survey and focus groups.
Table: Existing gaps in the community facilities, services and open space areas in Rhodes Peninsula?
Response % responses Indicative Quotes
Sporting or recreational facilities 39.9% reported their needs were not very well met There are quite a few playgrounds for toddlers and pre-schoolers but very limited facilities for older school age children. No sporting facilities and very few public toilets besides Rhodes Waterside.
Business people could use the [a new] indoor sports centre for sports at lunchtime, making the centre a business in itself.
Public toilet facilities 37.1%
Meeting room / function facilities for community use 35.4% The new community centre will have to provide sufficient meeting rooms/function facilities for the growing number of Rhodes residents.
BBQ areas 31.5%
Mobile and internet access 29.7%
Other shops 26.3%
Cafes, restaurants and entertainment 24.8% BBQ facilities – locate these on eastern and western side [of the Peninsula].
Internet access is another area that could improve however that is up to Telstra to expand the ports in the Concord Exchange to provide more capacity. NBN should fix that and provide greater choice!
Rhodes is a great area- but short on cafes and restaurants for going out on the weekend without having to go to the shopping centre.
We really need some quality cafes/restaurants/bars in the area. Currently there's no vibe. The couple of restaurants currently in Rhodes aren't very good so I end up going to Concord or Nth Strathfield for food - it would be nice to be able to walk to somewhere nice to relax, chill, grab something to eat and have a drink or two. At the moment it's too quiet and boring at night.
The Rhodes community hasn't got sufficient commercial centres, restaurants and shops.
Key issues raised by survey respondents in addition to those discussed above were the need for increased parking for residents the need for increased parking for residents the need for increased parking for residents the need for increased parking for residents and their visitors and businesses, and their visitors and businesses, and their visitors and businesses, and their visitors and businesses, and the need for a primary school. and the need for a primary school. and the need for a primary school. and the need for a primary school. Both these issues were also discussed by many of those who took part in the focus group sessions.
As a local I feel completely unwelcomed when I have to pay for parking on Rider Boulevard.
The only parking available is the shopping plaza carpark which is limited to 3 hours. The long term car parking availability is atrocious. Not everyone can travel by train/bus and get to Rhodes and home without it taking hours.
On the weekend - IKEA is a huge drawcard for Rhodes – this makes parking a challenge.
The area needs a new primary school. Concord West school has no room to build new classrooms and is at full capacity.
Existing needs for parks and open space within Rhodes PeninsulaExisting needs for parks and open space within Rhodes PeninsulaExisting needs for parks and open space within Rhodes PeninsulaExisting needs for parks and open space within Rhodes Peninsula Overview Overview Overview Overview Parks and open space areas were highly valued by members of the community, but were seen by many as being limited in size andParks and open space areas were highly valued by members of the community, but were seen by many as being limited in size andParks and open space areas were highly valued by members of the community, but were seen by many as being limited in size andParks and open space areas were highly valued by members of the community, but were seen by many as being limited in size and requiring improvement. requiring improvement. requiring improvement. requiring improvement. Suggestions included amenity improvements (such as a kiosk, shade, and seating), a dedicated dog park or off leash area within the Peninsula, and a community garden.
I…feel that a lot more green space needs to be offered to allow local residents the opportunity to exercise in the open space seeing as though three 25 storey units are being built.
Even with Mill Park and McIlwaine Park and the newly proposed open spaces there will still be a shortfall of open space per population number.
There does not seem to be any plans to allocate off leash areas for dogs. Many residents have dogs and they need daily walking. Some of this walking time should include off leash time for the dogs to have a bit of freedom.
Open space in this area is provided well enough for people however, for companion animals for dogs, there is hardly any facilities, eg leash free enclosed park for them, dog litter bins and plastic bags. Due to downsizing older people move into units in this area and they have companion pets like dogs, they also need to use open space where they can run and play freely without scaring/threatening children/elderly/other people.
Would be great to have a kiosk near the parks as well as better shade and more seating, particularly at McIlwaine Park which can get very busy, even on a weekday.
Points of difference by location Points of difference by location Points of difference by location Points of difference by location The survey respondents who were most satisfied with open space areas in Rhodes Peninsula were residents and workers from Liberty Grove (Area H on map) and those from Rhodes East (Areas E and F on map). By contrast, more than 10% of survey respondents from Precinct D / Station Precinct (Area D on map) and the commercial precinct (Area G on map) expressed dissatisfaction with open space areas.
Table: Satisfaction with parks and open space areas – by location
Area Very well (%) Okay (%) Not very well (%)
A (n=72) 47.9 42.3 9.9
B (n=12) 58.3 33.3 8.3
C (n=10) 50 40 10
D (n=16) 50 31.3 12.5
E (n=18) 44.4 50 5.6
F (n=14) 64.3 35.7 0
G (n=9) 44.4 44.4 11.1
H (n=22) 73.3 23.3 3.3
Existing use of parks and open space areas within Rhodes Peninsula Existing use of parks and open space areas within Rhodes Peninsula Existing use of parks and open space areas within Rhodes Peninsula Existing use of parks and open space areas within Rhodes Peninsula The most frequently used open space areas The most frequently used open space areas The most frequently used open space areas The most frequently used open space areas in Rhodes Peninsula were Rhodes Foreshore Park and Rhodes Waterside Parkin Rhodes Peninsula were Rhodes Foreshore Park and Rhodes Waterside Parkin Rhodes Peninsula were Rhodes Foreshore Park and Rhodes Waterside Parkin Rhodes Peninsula were Rhodes Foreshore Park and Rhodes Waterside Park – each of which were used daily by approximately 16.7% and 14.8% of survey respondents. These parks were more frequently used on a weekly and monthly basis than other parks and open space areas in the Peninsula and were never used by less than 15% of
respondents, as shown in the graph below. Brays Bay Reserve and McIlwaine Park were also well used, with Brays Bay Reserve particularly well used on a weekly basis.
Mill Park, Peg Paterson Park and Rhodes Park were also enjoyed by the local community, but were less frequently used than other parks and open spaces. These three parks shared similar patterns of use – possibly as a result of factors such as greater distance from homes (Mill Park and Rhodes Park), or relatively small size / overshadowing (Peg Paterson Park).
Other parks and open space areas used by survey respondents were: • Walkway from Liberty Grove to station • Bridge across to Olympic Park • Kokoda Track • Bicentennial Park (n=3) • Under southern end Ryde Bridge; Both sides of the Ryde Bridge • Village Green, Liberty Grove • Walking path from Rhodes Foreshore Park to Rhodes Waterside Park, after dinner • Park on corner of Concord Road and Yaralla Street.
Figure: Survey results: How often do you use the following parks and open space areas?
Many survey and focus group participants strongly valued the parks and open space areas Many survey and focus group participants strongly valued the parks and open space areas Many survey and focus group participants strongly valued the parks and open space areas Many survey and focus group participants strongly valued the parks and open space areas Rhodes Peninsula and connections to nearby Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park, and Rhodes Peninsula and connections to nearby Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park, and Rhodes Peninsula and connections to nearby Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park, and Rhodes Peninsula and connections to nearby Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park, and and o and o and o and open spaces in the wider area. pen spaces in the wider area. pen spaces in the wider area. pen spaces in the wider area. An analysis of patterns of use of parks and open space relation to where survey respondents live / work within Rhodes Peninsula, suggests that generally use those parks and open space areas located within easy walking distance of their which are easily accessible, on a more frequent basis than those located further away or more difficult to access. For instance, survey respondents who lived in ‘Area A’ (in the central Rhodes West) were more likely to use Rhodes Foreshore Park and Rhodes Waterside Park basis than respondents more generally. Those who lived in Areas B and C (in the northern Rhodes West) were more likely to use Mill Park more regularly than others. Those in Area F East) were more likely than others to visit McIlwaine Park, Brays Bay Reserve and Rhodes daily basis. Residents of Liberty Grove were more likely to visit the parks and open space 139 | P a g e Rhodes Peninsula Place Plan within within within within other parks other parks other parks other parks areas in people home / and which are part of on a daily part of (in Rhodes Park on a areas
identified in this survey question on a weekly or monthly basis.
A common theme raised by participants was the need for improved amenities in parks and open spaces to draw the community out A common theme raised by participants was the need for improved amenities in parks and open spaces to draw the community out A common theme raised by participants was the need for improved amenities in parks and open spaces to draw the community out A common theme raised by participants was the need for improved amenities in parks and open spaces to draw the community out from their homes and workplaces. from their homes and workplaces. from their homes and workplaces. from their homes and workplaces. Suggestions included fitness equipment / outdoor gym, kiosks selling drinks and ice cream, more seating for people watching and enjoying views, improved lighting, pedestrian and bicycle paths to improve safe access, more rubbish bins, more public toilets, a community garden, a dedicated dog park or off leash area and dog tidy bag dispensers. A number of participants expressed a desire to make more use of parks and open space areas through organised activities such as Tai Chi and walking groups.
Outdoor gym / fitness equipment (as in Mill Park) and outdoor activities.
Existing parks are useless unless there is a coffee cart, gathering spots, things for people to do. These things will bring people out of their homes. A few benches for people to have lunch in the park, with shade and seating…
These people are living in units and being able to get out into the garden is really important, especially with a big Asian community.
Current and future demand for other community facilities, services and open spaceCurrent and future demand for other community facilities, services and open spaceCurrent and future demand for other community facilities, services and open spaceCurrent and future demand for other community facilities, services and open space Current needs Current needs Current needs Current needs Around two thirds of survey respondents (67.1%, n=155) rAround two thirds of survey respondents (67.1%, n=155) rAround two thirds of survey respondents (67.1%, n=155) rAround two thirds of survey respondents (67.1%, n=155) reported that there are other types of facilities, services and open space eported that there are other types of facilities, services and open space eported that there are other types of facilities, services and open space eported that there are other types of facilities, services and open space that they would like to be provided in Rhodes Peninsula to meet their existing needs. The that they would like to be provided in Rhodes Peninsula to meet their existing needs. The that they would like to be provided in Rhodes Peninsula to meet their existing needs. The that they would like to be provided in Rhodes Peninsula to meet their existing needs. The current needs current needs current needs current needs most commonly identified most commonly identified most commonly identified most commonly identified by respondents were sport and recreational facilities by respondents were sport and recreational facilities by respondents were sport and recreational facilities by respondents were sport and recreational facilities –––– with almost double the number of responses as the next most commonly with almost double the number of responses as the next most commonly with almost double the number of responses as the next most commonly with almost double the number of responses as the next most commonly identified need identified need identified need identified need. Schools, library facilities and services and parking were also commonly identified, as shown in the table below.
Table: Are there any other types of community facilities, services and or open space that you would like to be provided in Rhodes Peninsula to meet your needs? (Most common responses)
Response No. of responses Indicative Quotes
Sport and recreational facilities 40 Some sports/recreation facilities like squash courts, tennis courts, badminton courts; Wharf to launch a canoe, kayak or rowing skull; Public basketball court; Table tennis…; Public swimming pool; A dedicated running track around the peninsula
Schools 24 NB most did not specify whether primary or high school
Library facilities / services 22
Parking 21 Parking for workers, so they do not park in surrounding streets in the neighbourhood; Parking for resident guests
Community centre 10 Community centre to conduct low cost classes such as tai chi, belly dance; Centre large enough to
Pedestrian paths 10
General amenity upgrades 10
Dog park / off leash area and related facilities 10 stage community concerts eg at Christmas or local drama productions
Safe footpaths; An underpass at Rhodes train station
Shaded foreshore park/walks; More picnic spots with BBQs and table settings with shelter
Off leash dog walking areas; A leash free (enclosed) space dog park
Many Many Many Many focus group participants identified a shortage of existing sport and recreational facilitiesfocus group participants identified a shortage of existing sport and recreational facilitiesfocus group participants identified a shortage of existing sport and recreational facilitiesfocus group participants identified a shortage of existing sport and recreational facilities within the Peninsula and suggested a wide range of new facilities suitable for indoor and outdoor recreation. Suggestions focused on: a dedicated indoor recreation centre like Five Dock Leisure Centre (eg including space for indoor soccer); facilities which could be provided as part of the Community Precinct (such as table tennis, badminton, half court basketball); other outdoor facilities (such as tennis courts and outdoor fitness stations). Several participants expressed a desire for a gym or swimming pool, while others commented that many apartment buildings already have these facilities.
The need for a primary school was a key issue raised in all focus groups.The need for a primary school was a key issue raised in all focus groups.The need for a primary school was a key issue raised in all focus groups.The need for a primary school was a key issue raised in all focus groups. Some commented that it may not be possible to provide a school within the Peninsula (for instance on the former school site / current community centre site in Blaxland Road). However, many commented on the existing lack of capacity at Concord West Public School and the expected increase in future demand for schools as the population grows.
Library facilities Library facilities Library facilities Library facilities were also identified by those who took part in the Neighbour Day activities. These were described as providing a collection / pick up point for books, with reading and study areas.
Many focus group participants commented on the existing need for parking within the PeninsulaMany focus group participants commented on the existing need for parking within the PeninsulaMany focus group participants commented on the existing need for parking within the PeninsulaMany focus group participants commented on the existing need for parking within the Peninsula for residents and their visitors, as well as businesses and their customers.
Many expressed considerable concern about increased demand for already limited parking, as the residential population and number of businesses within the Peninsula grows. Resident parking schemes and increased public parking provision were suggested.
Participants also identified a wide range of other current needs, as shown in the table below.
Table: Are there any other types of community facilities, services and or open space that you would like to be provided in Rhodes Peninsula to meet your needs? (Other responses)
Response Indicative quotes
Garbage bins / waste removal
Open space Community veggie garden
Markets
Public toilets
Cycle paths
Community events and activities
Social clubs
Health facilities / services
Arts and culture
Children’s activities / facilities
Communications
Public transport
Activities / facilities for young people
Retail facilities Small amphitheatre for entertainment, canoe hire
…better X-Ray facilities available closer to Rhodes
Many families are moving to Rhodes, but there are not enough facilities for kids. The playground in the shopping centre is the only place to go for kids when it rains.
Sustainability information and exhibition centre; Digital signage of events and services in the council area
A ferry wharf at Rhodes; More trains. They’re too busy now and I’m very worried about what will happen once the really tall towers fill with people that also need to travel by train for work.
Youth drop in centre.
Shopping centre upgrade; golf shop.
Likely changing needs for community facilities, Likely changing needs for community facilities, Likely changing needs for community facilities, Likely changing needs for community facilities, services and open space within Rhodes Peninsula services and open space within Rhodes Peninsula services and open space within Rhodes Peninsula services and open space within Rhodes Peninsula Approximately 40.1% of all survey respondents reported that their needs are likely to change within the next 5 years, for instance, as their children start school or family members grow older. The likely future needs most commonly identified by respondents were: • Primary school (n=25) • High school (n=11) • Services and facilities for older people (n=11) • Childcare (n=9) • Traffic and parking infrastructure as the population grows (n=8). Other likely future needs included: • Children’s facilities, activities, services • Open space and recreation • Library facilities / services • Public transport • Pedestrian paths • Facilities and activities for teens • Activities for business • Cafes and restaurants.
Sense of community within Rhodes Sense of community within Rhodes Sense of community within Rhodes Sense of community within Rhodes Peninsula Peninsula Peninsula Peninsula Survey respondents were asked to consider a number of statements to test aspects of ‘sense of community’ among people who liv work in, or visit Rhodes Peninsula. The high level of agreement with the statement ‘Overall, Rhodes Peninsula is a goThe high level of agreement with the statement ‘Overall, Rhodes Peninsula is a goThe high level of agreement with the statement ‘Overall, Rhodes Peninsula is a goThe high level of agreement with the statement ‘Overall, Rhodes Peninsula is a go be’ (80% strongly agreed or agreed) suggests a strong sense of community and pride in the local area.be’ (80% strongly agreed or agreed) suggests a strong sense of community and pride in the local area.be’ (80% strongly agreed or agreed) suggests a strong sense of community and pride in the local area.be’ (80% strongly agreed or agreed) suggests a strong sense of community and pride in the local area. od place to od place to od place to od place to
Figure: Survey results: Thinking about the sense of community within Rhodes Peninsula, how much do you agree or disagree with following statements? each of the
Key elements of Rhodes Peninsula which suggest there is a strong sense of community were:
• 67.4% strongly agreed or agreed ‘Rhodes Peninsula is a safe place to raise children’67.4% strongly agreed or agreed ‘Rhodes Peninsula is a safe place to raise children’67.4% strongly agreed or agreed ‘Rhodes Peninsula is a safe place to raise children’67.4% strongly agreed or agreed ‘Rhodes Peninsula is a safe place to raise children’ group participants described Rhodes Peninsula as ‘family friendly’ and ‘safe’. Many commented on the low level of crime in the local area, the high level of security within Liberty Grove and security buildings in Rhodes, with a small number of particip who live in stand alone houses commenting on burglaries. • 62.7% strongly agreed or agreed ‘I enjoy living among people from a range of age groups’62.7% strongly agreed or agreed ‘I enjoy living among people from a range of age groups’62.7% strongly agreed or agreed ‘I enjoy living among people from a range of age groups’62.7% strongly agreed or agreed ‘I enjoy living among people from a range of age groups’ • 55.8% strongly agreed or agreed ‘The different cultures and communities within Rhodes Peninsula make it a good place to be’.55.8% strongly agreed or agreed ‘The different cultures and communities within Rhodes Peninsula make it a good place to be’.55.8% strongly agreed or agreed ‘The different cultures and communities within Rhodes Peninsula make it a good place to be’.55.8% strongly agreed or agreed ‘The different cultures and communities within Rhodes Peninsula make it a good place to be’. However, nearly 10% disagreed with this statement and another 28.3% were undecided. • 49% strongly agreed or agreed ‘I feel a strong sense of belonging in the Peninsula’. • 45.3% strongly disagreed or disagreed ‘I sometimes feel isolated and lonely living in the Pe However, the results also suggest that for some respondents Rhodes Peninsula may not always be such a good place to be, as: • Almost half (48%) agreed or strongly agreed ‘There is not enough for me to do here at night’Almost half (48%) agreed or strongly agreed ‘There is not enough for me to do here at night’Almost half (48%) agreed or strongly agreed ‘There is not enough for me to do here at night’Almost half (48%) agreed or strongly agreed ‘There is not enough for me to do here at night’ –in the focus groups and Neighbour Day consultation activities, with many participants commenting on the need for more places to eat out at night, and some also expressing a desire for small bars within the Peninsula. Se Station Precinct and waterfront areas present good opportunities for outdoor dining / dining with water views. We need more restaurants. The place needs to be more friendly for people to have a meal at night and walk home. • Almost one third neither agreed nor disagreed with the statement ‘I can call on my neighbours for help when needed’ and another 20.7% disagreed or strongly disagreed. • Nearly 10% disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement ‘The different cultures a Peninsula make it a good place to be’ and another 28.3% were undecided. – Many survey respondents and focus ants ninsula’. This sentiment was also reflected veral suggested the Town Square, nd communities within Rhodes
• Over one third (35.6%) neither agreed nor disagreed with the statement ‘I feel a strong sense of belonging in the Peninsula’. This may be related to the considerable proportion of people who are new to the Rhodes Peninsula / and or are living there on a temporary basis – whether from other parts of Sydney or overseas. • Almost 15% (14.7%) agreed with the statement ‘I sometimes feel isolated and lonely living Almost 15% (14.7%) agreed with the statement ‘I sometimes feel isolated and lonely living Almost 15% (14.7%) agreed with the statement ‘I sometimes feel isolated and lonely living Almost 15% (14.7%) agreed with the statement ‘I sometimes feel isolated and lonely living in the Peninsula’ in the Peninsula’ in the Peninsula’ in the Peninsula’ and another 25% were undecided.
Diversity and related perceptions were explored in the Place Plan consultations.Diversity and related perceptions were explored in the Place Plan consultations.Diversity and related perceptions were explored in the Place Plan consultations.Diversity and related perceptions were explored in the Place Plan consultations. That is, cultural diversity, age diversity, economic diversity, diversity of housing status and diversity between permanent and temporary residents. While some focus group participants described the cultural diversity of the local community as being an important and positive contributor to its character and identity, others identified challenges relating to diversity within the Peninsula. Key issues raised in focus group discussions focused on: • The need for spaces and activities within Rhodes Peninsula where members of different cultural groups within the community can come together, such as public art projects, activities and celebrations in the Community Precinct (eg Tai Chi classes, Dragon Boat racing, community garden, Chinese New Year celebrations). If we’re going to have a cultural centre it should bring everyone together, not become insular / used by one group only.
• The importance of culturally specific activities and opportunities – such as a youth specific facility and activities, social activities and exercise classes for older people, English classes and support services for new arrivals. It’s a slow road to assimilation / integration and if we want that too soon it’s counterproductive. You really do need culturally specific activities to begin with, and then once people feel comfortable they are more likely to feel they can more confidently participate in the mainstream community. For some cultures study centres and ethic specific cultural workers and youth workers are needed. Eg employing a casual worker for 1 day/week or finding a service that might have an outreach worker who can work in Rhodes.
• The need to address negative attitudes within the community towards people from diverse cultural and linguistic groups – for instance, through cross cultural interaction and Council leadership.
• The need to provide universal access to ensure Rhodes Peninsula is an accessible place for all – including parents with strollers and older people with limited mobility.
• Several members of the community commented that they were initially attracted to the area due to its affordability. And many commented on the importance of providing free and low cost activities in the Community Precinct.
• Some suggested that the large transient population in Rhodes Peninsula (including renters and people on overseas work or student visas) makes the area vibrant, but may negatively impact on sense of community, resulting in illegal dumping, etc. It is recommended that sense of community is tested following completion / occupation of residential and other major projects within the Peninsula and at key milestones, to measure potential change over time (eg through a post occupancy style survey).
Vision and aspirations for Rhodes Peninsula Vision and aspirations for Rhodes Peninsula Vision and aspirations for Rhodes Peninsula Vision and aspirations for Rhodes Peninsula Accessible, clean and modern, not overcrowded, family oriented, safe, affordable.
I’d like to see a little bit of change but not too much [over the next 10 years]. I don’t want to see 60 storey buildings, but I don’t mind 25 storey buildings. It makes Rhodes a landmark – it gives it a modern feeling. One side is very modern and one side is like a village. I quite like that. You can’t do too much because Rhodes is a peninsula. I’d like to see Crepe Myrtle trees in the streets – something to give it a unique impression, that sort of good reputation. And maintain all the walkways. I’m getting older; I deeply need the pedestrian underpass [at the train station].
I think that by maintaining and improving the “outdoor” lifestyle that Rhodes provides you will have a greater community spirit as people get to know each other on their daily walks. I also think things such as the dog park give a safe place for dog owners to let their dogs off the leash and socialise with other dog owners. Community vegetable gardens could be the future of food production and instil a sense of community and togetherness.
Suggestions for improving Rhodes Peninsula to help make it a great place to live in, work in or visit Suggestions for improving Rhodes Peninsula to help make it a great place to live in, work in or visit Suggestions for improving Rhodes Peninsula to help make it a great place to live in, work in or visit Suggestions for improving Rhodes Peninsula to help make it a great place to live in, work in or visit
Survey respondents made numerous suggestions for improving Rhodes Peninsula, with the majority focusing on the need for community facilities and services, improved parking, more cafes, restaurants and bars, and improved amenity of the public domain. Responses are shown in the table below.
Table: Do you have any suggestions for improving Rhodes Peninsula to help make it a great place to live in, work in or visit?
Response No. of responses Indicative Quotes
Community facilities and services (eg Council, library, school, medical) 32
Improve parking 32
More cafes, restaurants, bars 30
Improve amenity of public domain (eg lighting, bins, signage, seating, shade, toilets, sound barriers) 25
More /wider variety of shops / retail 18 Take an interest in the community; More access to medical services; Childcare
Better parking for visitors of residents; No more paid parking
More areas to eat and drink; More choice of restaurants; A few more restaurants/pubs outside the shopping centre would be good; Cafes on the water’s edge not just in the shopping centre
Rail sound barrier wall on Walker Street along the railway line; Better lighting for Walker Street; Bins to reduce litter
More multicultural goods shops; Chinese restaurants and shops; Not shopping centres
Improve the cleanliness / maintenance of public domain 15
Improve pedestrian paths 15
Community events 15
Improve bicycle paths 13
Improve planning and design of built form 13
Improve parks and open spaces 13
Improve traffic management 13
Improve accessibility by public transport 13
Improve recreational facilities 12 Graffiti removal; More frequent Council collection
Lights on bike paths between Rhodes and Olympic Park; The tunnel connecting Walker Street to Leeds Street is hideous!; Improve access to Liberty Grove bypassing the shopping centre; No stairs
More community events to encourage neighbours to meet each other; More youth events; Movies in the park; monthly food stalls; Annual festival
Create separate paths
Far too many tall buildings – takes sunlight from Blaxland Road; Limit high rise development
Children’s water park; Allocate some off leash dog areas; We need more BBQ areas; Boat hire; Community veggie gardens; Create a green suburb
Better road access to Concord
Ferry wharf; A River Cat wharf would be a good alternative to the train
Public basketball court
More vibrancy / buzz (eg more to 5 More entertainment events and picnic spots; Festivals or markets would be great; Cinemas;
do at night) Corporate park is lifeless; More youth activities like skirmish!
Cultural planning and development Cultural planning and development Cultural planning and development Cultural planning and development Public art projects will be incorporated in open Public art projects will be incorporated in open Public art projects will be incorporated in open Public art projects will be incorporated in open space areas within Rhodes Peninsula. Where would you like to see public art?space areas within Rhodes Peninsula. Where would you like to see public art?space areas within Rhodes Peninsula. Where would you like to see public art?space areas within Rhodes Peninsula. Where would you like to see public art? Foreshore areas (54.8%), the new town square (52.6%) and parks (51.3%) were the locations for public art favoured most by mor than half of all survey respondents (NB with multiple responses possible). Public pathways and seating areas (41.3%), entry points to Rhodes (eg around John Whitton Bridge and Rhodes train station) (37.0%), and playgrounds (23.0%) were all supported by at least one third of survey respondents. Other locations for public art identified by respondents included sound barriers on Walker Street along the railway line and the shopping centre. – indoor and outdoor performances, festivals
Figure: Survey results: Public art projects will be incorporated in open space areas within Rhodes Peninsula. Where would you like to see public art?
Opportunities for cultural planning and development identified through the survey and focus groups included:
• Community and cultural events and celebrations • Activities in the Community Precinct – with a focus on bringing people together (eg Dragon Boating, art exhibitions, community participation in public art projects) • Language classes and support for newcomers, general interest classes for longer term residents • Public art – murals, commissioned artworks, community participation in public art projects.
A selection of comments from focus group participants are included below. [We] need a youth centre buzzing with activities. Not together with the Community Precinct. The arts is very important especially when you’re working with people from different cultures. What works well is arts festivals where all community participates in arts. The children and parents work together and a good community arts officer is employed to coordinate these projects.
Run competition for artists and community to get involved in public artworks.
Public art should be everywhere. In Manly they have art along the walkway to Shelly Beach – cheeky, small mermaids and dolphins stuck into the rocks here and there. When I walk there it gives me such a sense of pleasure.
Have themes for parks. Some Council’s use things like Buddha, that are out of place. Rhodes is a very modern place so it has to work with the buildings and water theme, but not too abstract. Ryde Council has quite nice things along the water. Also Scarborough has a small park with a big boat. The size of the artwork is wrong. It’s too big. Public art should be good, quirky and appropriate. The ship building memorial near McIlwaine Park needs upgrading to remove graffiti.
Public art should be contemporary.
Simple, small public art – in parks and along walking paths.
Community Precinct Community Precinct Community Precinct Community Precinct The majority of people who took part in the focus groups and Neighbour Day activities liked the idea of a new community centre as part of the proposed Community Precinct and supported the concept of an indoor / outdoor space. Community feedback focused on:
• The need for a multipurpose community facility to cater for a wide range of community needs, including: o Meeting rooms of different sizes for different purposes (such as social clubs, study, counselling, baby health nurse, English language classes, meetings of local groups) o Larger spaces for activities such as yoga and Tai Chi, table tennis and badminton o A sprung floor for dancing o Space for childcare / playgroup o Space for hire by the community (for parties, functions) o Space for a Men’s shed / Women’s shed o Toilets, kitchen and storage areas • The need for relaxation areas – for sitting and reading, meeting friends, playing cards • The need for space to celebrate community and cultural activities and events (such as talks, movie nights, food festivals, Chinese New Year celebrations) • General support for the inclusion of one or more cafes, restaurants (some suggested as dog friendly café) • Wide support for library facilities – including drop off and collection points, space for reading and study • Support for outdoor areas to cater for outdoor exercise, markets, community garden • Some support for indoor sport and recreational facilities (such as Five Dock Leisure Centre, indoor soccer facility) – which may be provided in an alternative location within the Peninsula • Some support for outdoor sport and recreational facilities (such as half court basketball, tennis court) • The importance of a Community Precinct that embodies good design – making the most of its waterfront location, providing clear signage to ensure it’s easy for all members of the community to see what’s on and find their way around, and attractive landscaping.
A selection of indicative quotes is provided below. A community centre would be a great idea. I would like a farmers market.
I’d like the community centre to be a place you can hire for birthday parties. It could have art shows and a kids play group.
The community centre would be good for parties (free of charge). It would be good to have a meeting space, and a place for people to learn English and find out more about Australian culture. I would like to see people in Rhodes more happy. In Ryde and West Ryde people are happier [as members of the local Chinese community are able to participate in a range of activities in their local community centre].
A hall for yoga lessons would be good.
For five years this area is getting better. Every building has a pool, sauna, gym. There’s no need for those types of facilities in the community centre. I think the community would use a library with places for studying, school, preschool, high school and shopping close by. In Ryde / West Ryde they have a library.
I want to see Tai Chi in Foreshore Park. Lots of people do Tai Chi in Burwood Park in the mornings and at weekends… At the moment the centre of Rhodes seems to be the shopping centre. 2015-16 is too far off for delivery of the Community Precinct. You need a community centre before you build a community. On warm summer evenings you see lots of residents walking along the foreshore in large groups of family and friends. I don’t necessarily want to participate but I do want to see people walking, doing Tai Chi, etc.
A community centre would be good. At the moment everybody [in the community] sort of goes their own way. I’m worried that the community centre might take away the views of people who live just behind Foreshore Park.
Community Precinct should include half court basketball, small sided soccer. Top class design. A different variety of plants including some tropical plants – in a hothouse like in the Botanic Gardens.
Better utilise natural light and champion green building design. The community centre should be well designed.
While most people who took part in the consultations strongly supported the proposed Community Precinct, some commented on the need to ‘balance’ provision of community facilities with open space, and a small number expressed a desire for Rhodes Foreshore Park to be kept as is, with the new community centre to be established in Central Park. Participants from Council’s Neighbour Day commented:
There are enough cafes around here already. You don’t need to turn it [the Community Precinct] into Southbank of the Yarra River. There’s a place for everything. Rhodes needs to have a good balance. It’s good that open space will be kept. I like the wording “replacement backyard”. That’s what people need.
People use this park [Foreshore Park] for running, playing, riding bikes. A big park is better than a community centre. McIlwaine Park is big and good. I think the community centre should be moved to Central Park.
I think Rhodes Foreshore Park should be used for public events [like this one], BBQs and sport. It’s close to where we live. If you don’t want to have a day out, people can use the existing area [Foreshore Park] without having to go far from home.
Several members of the community who participated in the focus groups and Council’s Neighbour Day commented on the need for public toilet facilities in Foreshore Park:
It’s difficult for people who come here [Foreshore Park] with kids because there’s nowhere close by if one of the kids needs to go to the toilet. That’s why McIlwaine Reserve is so popular.
Communications and engagement Communications and engagement Communications and engagement Communications and engagement How did you find out about this survey? How did you find out about this survey? How did you find out about this survey? How did you find out about this survey? Participants found out about the Rhodes Peninsula Community Su common methods were the @Rhodes Community Newsletter, local organisations, word of mouth and Council’s website. Other methods of communication included flyers (distributed at Rhodes train station a email from friend or work colleague. rvey through a range of methods of communication. The most nd local area), Concord Library, email from Council,
Figure: Survey results: How did you find out about this survey?
Focus group participants made a number of suggestions for future contacts and communications with
• Moving Council’s Rhodes Office to the proposed Community Precinct this location (eg including paying rates, finding out about community events, etc) • Including content in the @Rhodes newsletter that is relevant to members of the community from both Rhodes and Liberty Grove • Employing Chinese and Korean speaking cultural liaison officers / language aides community support at the Community Precinct, etc • Translating community information and education materials into key community languages • Use of noticeboards in Liberty Grove, and strata buildings in Rhodes • Advertising in community newspapers (including Chinese and Korean press) • Letterbox drop / direct mail • Distributing flyers to walkers along the foreshore in the evenings (to target members of the local Chinese community) • Communicating with existing groups including Rhodes Community Reference Group, strata committees, Mums and Bubs, Churches, language schools and primary schools (to target members of the local Korean community), and other local groups.
A number of people who participated in the focus groups and Council’s Neighbour Day event commented on the importance of Council engaging with the local community. A selection of comments is provided. It’s great that Council is talking to us today.
Council, These included:
– and providing for a wide range of Council services in – to promote community events, and provide
It’s great to see the effort Council is making to find out what we want.
