MARCH 2017 UPDATE
History was recreated at Thornton on Friday 17 February when a bunch of keen amateur cricketers, the Thortonites, donned their whites to face Penrith Cricket Club’s Young Guns at Smith’s Paddock.
The T20 match celebrated the 125th anniversary of a more leisurely contest between the Nepean Cricket Club and Lord Sheffield’s touring English side, led by the great W G Grace.
The 1892 match was organized by then Penrith Mayor and owner of Thornton Hall, T R Smith. He built Smith’s Paddock for the match.
Current owner of Thornton Hall, Peter Cipollone captained the Thorntonites who, despite valiant efforts and perhaps hampered by drenching rain, were beaten by 30 runs.
The event was organised by Thornton resident, Rachel Wilson in conjunction with Penrith Cricket Club and the Nepean Historical Society.
OCTOBER 2016 UPDATE
See the Nepean River come to life with an exciting free program of river, environment, art and lifestyle activities at the Real Festival presented by Penrith City Council from Friday 4- Saturday 5 November 2016.
This two-day event is a celebration of food, music, art and sustainable and healthy living, and an opportunity to experience and enjoy the Nepean River like never before.
Friday’s event kicks off at 5pm with food trucks (featuring fabulous food, dancing and singing from the Knafeh bakery), illuminated and interactive art, and musical and Aboriginal performances.
On Saturday, the Real Festival features outdoor fitness classes, river activities including dragon boating, cooking demonstrations, wildlife tours, markets, and workshop.
Details at www.realfestival.com.au
AUGUST 2016 UPDATE
Spend a relaxed Sunday at the Thornton Farmers and Artisan Market, held on the third Sunday of every month. Browse stalls of local organic produce, unique handmade fashion items and homewares, and delicious homemade treats, as you enjoy live performances from local musicians and entertainers.
More than just a market, the Thornton Artisan and Farmers Market will be a place to meet friends and make new ones, and interact with your local community.
Stallholders are selected from a variety of local businesses and artisans, such as Bilpin Cider, Candlelicious Australia, Haus of Harley Dogwear, Blue Mountains Honey, Mamre Farm Produce, Little People’s Stuff children’s apparel and Needibeads jewellery.
The next Thornton Farmers and Artisan Market will be held on August 21st. Entry and parking is free, but if you want to leave the car at home, the markets are just a two-minute walk from Penrith Station.
Thornton Artisan and Farmers Market video
MAY 2016 UPDATE
Have you explored Thornton Park yet? The park is one of many open green spaces at Thornton. Located in the foreground of the historic Thornton Hall, Thornton Park offers stunning panoramas of the Blue Mountains and our new community. Meander along the pedestrian walkway towards Thornton Hall, and you’ll discover landscaped gardens, regenerated bushland, and a series of art panels that celebrate the early indigenous inhabitants of the site. Perfect for weekend walks with the kids, or catching the sunset with a loved one.
FEBRUARY 2016 UPDATE
Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, has officially opened Thornton’s Station Plaza. Just a short stroll from your front door to Penrith train station, Station Plaza is at the heart of Thornton. Once completed, Station Plaza will be surrounded by shops, restaurants, cafes, offices, a supermarket, childcare and other services. You’ll only be moments away from your favourite place to eat and shop.
The gateway to Thornton, Station Plaza features an open area with seating, sandstone feature walls and an architectural shade canopy.
Thornton has no shortage of open spaces for you to explore. There is a village green (Smith’s Paddock), a beautiful water canal with pedestrian promenade, an all-abilities playground, connected walkable public spaces and four community parks.
Have you taken a walk along the water canal? The ‘Phoenix’ artwork within the canal has good viewing vantage points from the bridge. It symbolises the growth of our new community.
Planning a visit with your friends and family? Why not take advantage of BBQ facilities and seating areas at the Wetland area located off Combewood Avenue. Watch the birdlife, or see the sun go down over the Blue Mountains.