Dec 9, 2016

Yaralla Estate - Concord West



Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital (1937-1988)  Thomas Walker, was an important nineteenth century merchant, politicians and landholder. He and his daughter Eadith, were noted for their philanthropic activities in the early twentieth century. His wife died in 1870 from tuberculosis. He left money for the building of a convalescent hospital. Eadith also contributed additional funds when it became necessary.

The building was made of brick and sandstone with elaborate carvings, marble fireplaces and fine masonry and was officially opened on 21st September 1893 as a free convalescent hospital.

The hospital is currently used by Rivendell - Child, Adolescent and Family Unit as a mental health facility, specialising in the problems of young people.

Eadith made several generous bequests in her will and left half of the residue of her estate to trustees for charitable purposes. 

Yaralla House

The Yaralla Estate grounds are on two peninsulas on the Parramatta River at Concord and cover 37 hectares. Yaralla House was built in the 1860s. The photo below is the stables complex, a group of buildings arranged around a central courtyard with a rich assortment of decorative elements





We followed the Kokoda Track Memorial walk from Rhodes station then the Concord Foreshore trail. (see location map)
We completed our walk along streets to Concord West station.






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