Parramatta Stories

'Parramatta Stories' is a program seeking to strengthen the visibility, awareness and experience of cultural heritage in Parramatta.

The collection of historic houses, bridges, institutions, structures and landscapes that have been preserved in the Parramatta area hold local, regional and national significance and are an integral part of Parramatta's identity.

'Parramatta Stories' helps people imagine the past by bringing the stories of people and places to life. An interpretation program is being implemented at present that uses creative methods such as signage, events and multi-media to articulate stories, interpret key sites across the city, promote cultural heritage, and contribute to cultural tourism. This program has recently benefited from a $500,000 injection from the Federal Government.

One example is the 'Life Along The Riverbank' walking trail that follows a sweep of the Parramatta River and explains the significance of 4 sites via a series of interpretive artworks. Each of the artworks is accompanied by a soundscape that can be downloaded to an ipod or mobile, and each tells a story of the people who lived and used the site in the early 1800s. The 4 soundscapes are available for download here.

Another example is the Visitor Wayfinding System; a series of pedestrian-friendly maps dotted across the CBD and Harris Park, making it easy for people to locate and access the city's main heritage sites and attractions. Look for the yellow-capped signboards at all major junctions and main streets.  

NOTE: Life Along The Riverbank created by historian Michael Flynn, and artists Susan Milne and Greg Stonehouse.