Waurn Ponds park renamed to honour Baum family

A PARK in Waurn Ponds has been renamed in honour of the family who have owned and occupied the land for four generations.

City of Greater Geelong councillor Ron Nelson visited the park last week to officially unveil its new name of Baum Park alongside members of the Baum family. This included Kenneth W. Baum, who turned 90 on April 14 and still lives on part of the original property directly next to the park.

Known as ‘Claremont’, the 245-acre property was purchased by Mr Baum’s grandfather Gottfried Baum in the late 19th century and farmed by the family for more than 100 years.

From 2000, the majority of the land was subdivided and developed into residential housing.

The park, formerly known as The Vineyard Reserve, sits on the site of the farm’s original dam.

It is now owned and managed by the City of Greater Geelong and features more than 5,300 square metres of open space, including a playground.

The proposal to rename the park to honour its heritage was put forward by local resident Bruce McDonald. It was unanimously approved by council in November

“It is an honour to be around to see this park named after our family,” Mr Baum said.

“Four generations of Baums have lived on this land and farmed it since the early 1890s.

“The land was fertile and crops, fruit and veggies thrived. Marl was spread over the soil to enhance growth. Cows and chooks were also part of the farming. “It is wonderful to see the Baum name on this public space. Thank you, City of Greater Geelong.”

Cr Nelson said it was a pleasure to meet Mr Baum and members of his family to celebrate the renaming of Baum Park.

“The Baum family has a long and proud history on the property and it is fitting that the park now carries their name, so that their connection to the land and its surrounds is not forgotten.”