Cockle Creek road named in honour of veteran

The Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) has commenced work on Cressy Road in Cockle Creek, creating a permanent reminder of an important local figure and providing a vital link to Costco’s upcoming and much-anticipated warehouse.

Cressy Road is named in honour of WWI Private and former Boolaroo resident Henry ‘Harry’ Cressy, whose relatives joined HCCDC and Lake Macquarie City Council today to mark this significant step in the precinct’s revitalisation.

HCCDC Chief Operating Officer Valentina Misevska said that as well as honouring one of Lake Macquarie’s many servicemen and women, Cressy Road will create a key component of a transformed Cockle Creek precinct.

“The Lake Macquarie community has been asking for the reuse of this site for a long time, and we’re glad to confirm that works are progressing to unlock the commercial, employment and residential potential of Cockle Creek,” said Ms Misevska.

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said that the selection of Lake Macquarie for the first regional Costco in NSW is a testament to the region’s momentum.

“This is a real coup for Cockle Creek, with Costco and the Green Capital residential development set to inject more than $300 million into the economy and create an estimated 225 permanent jobs,” said Ms Pavey.

Cressy Road will create a permanent reminder of Henry Alfred ‘Harry’ Cressy and the crucial role that so many from the region have played in serving their country. Many members of the Cressy family also worked at the smelter over the years.

Member for Lake Macquarie The Hon Greg Piper was joined by Mr Cressy’s niece, Mrs Evelyn Kibble today to officially announce the dedication of this road.

“Mr Cressy lived nearby in Creek Road and worked as a train driver at the Pasminco smelter before enlisting with his brother Edward in the Australian Imperial Force and tragically losing his life at the Battle of Fromelles,” Mr Piper said.

“Members of Mr Cressy’s family still live in the area and we’re pleased they can join us to honour his legacy.”

Cressy family member Dorothy Coe said that they are extremely honoured to have the road named after Mr Cressy. “This is a wonderful tribute to commemorate the sacrifice he made for his country,” said Ms Coe.

These works mark another significant outcome on the site since HCCDC took ownership in 2019. Proceeds from the land sales have also enabled HCCDC to establish a fund to manage the environmental needs of Cockle Creek into perpetuity.

Cressy Road is expected to open to traffic in August, with Costco opening its doors later in 2021.