Orchard Hills New South Wales
Orchard Hills, New South Wales
Orchard Hills is a suburb located in the western part of Sydney, in the state of New South Wales, Australia. It is situated approximately 49 kilometers west of the Sydney central business district and is part of the City of Penrith.
History
The land on which Orchard Hills is now situated has a rich historical background. In 1806, Governor Philip King granted 600 acres to Mary Putland, the daughter of the incoming governor, William Bligh. She named the property Frogmore. Around 1830, Reverend Samuel Marsden built the Mamre homestead, a two-storey Colonial Georgian structure made of sandstone, which is now listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register.
The name "Orchard Hills" was chosen during a public meeting in October 1910, held at the newly established local school.
Geography
Orchard Hills is characterized by its rural landscape, featuring undulating hills and scenic vistas overlaid with orchards and grapevines. It shares borders with various other suburbs: St Clair and Erskine Park to the east, Kingswood and Claremont Meadows to the north, and Glenmore Park, South Penrith, along with the rural areas of Wallacia and Mulgoa to the west. The southern boundary of Orchard Hills is marked by Sydney Water's supply pipeline.
Infrastructure
Orchard Hills is home to the Defence Establishment Orchard Hills, a facility of the Royal Australian Air Force. This establishment plays a significant role in the suburb's identity within the western suburbs of Sydney.
Demographics and Community
While retaining much of its rural character, Orchard Hills has experienced some housing developments in recent years. The community is predominantly residential, with many properties maintaining a rural lifestyle amidst the orchards and open spaces.
Heritage Sites
Mamre, the Colonial Georgian homestead constructed by Rev. Samuel Marsden, remains a significant heritage site. It is located on the west side of Mamre Road and is recognized for its historical importance in the region.