Parramatta
Established in 1788, historic Parramatta is a vibrant, multicultural city and the second largest city in Greater Sydney. Parramatta is family oriented with a large proportion of young adults and children making up its demographic. Families can enjoy all the benefits of a major centre including a host of child- care centre options. Day care and long day care centres are provided for all type of families including Anglican, Catholic and Uniting, Regio Emilia, Montessori, and Goodstart and Angels franchises as well as many private centres.
Parramatta child-care centres offer a place for children to develop and grow, watched over by caring and professional educators. The city’s centres foster children’s love of learning and expand their sense of self with physical and creative activities.
As a major transport hub for Western Sydney Parramatta is well serviced by trains, buses and ferries with light rail in planning. It also serves as the prime commercial and shopping precinct for the region.
Parramatta plays host to major events such as Tropfest, and is home to the Riverside Theatres performing arts centre. Famous local names include cricketer and commentator Richie Benaud and NSW’s first professional artist John Lewin.
Parramatta was the first place to successfully grow grain in Australia and pioneered the wool industry in the 1790’s. Originally settled by the Darug people 30,000 years ago it was named for the profusion of eels found in the Parramatta River the inspiration for the name of the Parramatta Eels Rugby League Club.
The history of the town is kept alive with not just the world heritage listed Old Government House but many other significant buildings such as the Old King’s School, Parramatta Town Hall, Avondale and Linden House. Families also enjoy the extensive greenery of Paramatta Park and fascinating museum of the region set within its grounds.