Waverley Park is the major sport and recreation park in Waverley, and the LGAs second largest park after Bondi Park. Waverley Park is also home to Council Chambers, Margaret Whitlam Recreation Centre, Sydney Water reservoir and infrastructure, war memorials and gardens, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Designated as Waverley’s first park in 1880, it holds a special place in Waverley’s cultural heritage. The park sits on the former site of Flagstaff Farm and a series of Chinese market gardens. Prior to its designation as a public park, the area had also been used for cattle grazing, the venue for flower shows, and for community sports including cricket and football.

Waverley Cricket Club

In 1886 Waverley Cricket Club requested that Council reserve a space solely for the purpose of cricket matches. In 1890 this was approved, and Waverley Oval was established on the site of the former market gardens. The Cricket Club erected a pavilion and change rooms, and in 1896 increased the size of the oval.

Through several name changes, the cricket club has maintained a connection with Waverley Park and continues playing there today.

The Pavilions

Waverley Council built new pavilions to serve the increased use of the oval in 1908 and 1939, with the most recent upgrade being in 2012 when the Margaret Whitlam Recreation Centre was opened.

Memorials

There are two war memorials in Waverley Park. The World War I memorial was erected on 15 December 1918, and features an ANZAC soldier on a four quadrant Roll of Honour. The World War II monument is set within a rose garden, and was added in 1959.

The memorials are sites for commemoration ceremonies on Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, and Russian Victory Day.

Waverley Park is also home to a variety of other memorials, including:

• Gregory Memorial Fountain (1911) in memory of local cricketer Charles W. Gregory. In 1965 it was rededicated to include James Webb, Victor Jackson, and Peter Fingleton.
• Allan Kippax plaque (1980)
• Amelia Hall's horse trough
• Fragrance garden dedicated to former Council officer Jack Byrnes

Water Reservoirs

There are three water reservoirs in Waverley Park, two covered and one elevated. The oldest was completed in 1887 and was the last of four reservoirs built as part of the Botany Swamps Scheme (1858-1886). 

The elevated reservoir was added in 1917, and is a landmark in Waverley Park. The site is owned and maintained by Sydney Water.