Location Map:
Featured Events
Overview: Reg Bartley Oval is a well-loved sports ground located in Rushcutters Bay Park on Sydney’s eastern harbour foreshore. The venue is used for cricket, soccer and community sport and features a heritage grandstand, turf wicket, change facilities and floodlighting available by booking.
Where it is and why it matters
Reg Bartley Oval sits on Waratah Street in Rushcutters Bay, close to the water and neighbouring parks and reserves in the City of Sydney. Its location makes it a convenient green space for local clubs, schools and casual visitors looking for sport or recreation near the city centre.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdJ9FqL76JU
Short history
The oval was named to commemorate Reginald James Bartley, a former Lord Mayor of Sydney, and has long served as a community sporting venue. The ground and its grandstand have historic value to the local area and have been subject to restoration and improvement works to retain the 1920s character while providing modern amenities.
Facilities at a glance
- Turf cricket wicket and marked out playing field suitable for cricket and soccer.
- Cricket nets for practice and training.
- Two dressing sheds / change rooms and public toilets.
- Floodlights (use by approved booking only) and a small heritage grandstand with kiosk/clubroom.
- Accessible location with nearby public transport and on-street parking in surrounding streets.
Who plays there
Local community clubs and school teams regularly use the oval. Community cricket clubs such as Reg Bartley XI and other local sporting groups run competitions, trainings and social fixtures at the ground throughout the season. The oval is also used for junior sport and seasonal competitions.
Booking & turf management
Reg Bartley Oval is managed as part of the City of Sydney’s sports facilities network. Clubs, schools and organisers can request bookings through the City of Sydney and must comply with approved use conditions — for example, floodlight use and match-day setups require prior approval. For closures and wet-weather conditions consult the City of Sydney sports ground status page.
Visitor tips
- Check the City of Sydney booking and ground status pages before planning an organised event (especially in wet weather).
- If you’re photographing or publishing images, credit the location and respect club privacy during matches. Consider using wide-angle shots that include the heritage grandstand and Rushcutters Bay backdrop.
- Wear appropriate footwear — turf wickets and grass edges can be soft in early morning or after rain.
Nearby attractions & transport
Rushcutters Bay and the surrounding harbourside parks offer walking paths, picnic spaces and playgrounds — it’s easy to combine a game at Reg Bartley Oval with a harbour walk or a coffee at a nearby café. The site is accessible by local buses and a short walk from nearby suburbs such as Paddington and Darling Point.
