As part of an upgrade to Hamilton Park Reserve, Warradale, Adelaide, works of local poet Lance Thomas (1914-2007) were integrated as part of the design. The author grew up in the local area and the authenticity of the poetry captures the beginnings of significant change in Marion. ‘Green Leaves and Red Dust’, 1994, speak to issues around urban sprawl, the decline of local food production, the impact of engineering on the local waterways, and the rise of car use.
In the context of Hamilton Park Reserve, specific verses were selected for inscription on corten steel art panels along a walk through the reserve, with permission from Lance’s daughter, Marlene Connor. These include verses from ‘Wells in Sturt and Marion’ and ‘Marion on the Sturt’. These focus on the importance and sourcing of water, how it sustains plant growth, including productive species in gardens, orchards and vineyards.

The poetry was embedded within the reserve design by Council Landscape Architect Mark Jackson.