Moore Park Golf Club, a cherished Sydney institution with a history of over a century, has found an unexpected champion in its battle against downsizing plans: Hollywood superstar Mark Wahlberg.
Whilst in Sydney filming the Amazon crime series “Play Dirty,” Mr Wahlberg, renowned for roles in films like “Shooter,” has voiced his opposition to the controversial plans to halve Moore Park Golf Club’s size from 18 holes to 9.
Mr Wahlberg, a non-Australian citizen, made a heartfelt plea to the people of Sydney in a video message released on the 30th of March 2024, urging them to join the fight to preserve Moore Park Golf Club. Standing on the picturesque green course, he spoke passionately about the club’s role as a source of joy and relaxation for generations.
“It’s been here for more than 100 years, and it’s been giving people hundreds and hundreds of years of pleasure and joy. Just people being able to come out and get a nice healthy walk, spend quality time together with family and friends,” the actor said.
This decision, a component of a larger urban development strategy, has ignited a significant wave of community discontent, drawing the actor and a growing number of dissenters into the fight.
The State Government stated its plan in 2023 to turn some of the club’s land into a new central park to help the areas around Green Square, Zetland, and Waterloo that are becoming more crowded. Premier Chris Minns defended the choice by saying that cities are growing quickly and need more green areas.
Mr Wahlberg’s action adds a voice for the people against the plans to cut jobs. Critics agree that cities need to grow, but they say that giving up such a famous green area would be a loss for the community.
Premier Minns defended the choice by saying that Sydney has many golf courses, stressing the need to balance development and protecting green spaces. Since the area’s population is expected to grow by 2040, the government says adding more green spaces is necessary to keep the city liveable.
There are currently 13 golf courses in the eastern suburbs of Sydney. However, many people are upset about the potential downsizing due to its historical significance and convenient location.
Published Date 10-April-2024