Sadly, Mr Payten passed away on March 1 this year a few weeks short of his 99th birthday but a request from President of the Remembrance Driveway Council, Air Commodore Ian Scott AM, to Canterbury Bankstown Council, will see the reserve on the corner of Miller Road and Hume Highway, Bass Hill, named ‘Dick Payten Park’ in honour the Kokoda legend.
Part of the 7th Division that fought in the Middle East and in New Guinea in World War II, he became the long-time President of the 7th Australian Division Association which was a driving force behind the development of memorials and commemorations held at the Bass Hill park. He also dedicated much of his life ensuring the men who fought as part of the 7th Division were never forgotten.
Many residents have given their support to the proposal, saying that “naming this park after a dedicated community man and Kokoda legend would make this a remarkable thing the council can do to honour the great Dick Payten” and “he was a hero to so many people and a wonderful man who did so much for his community”.
Mr Payten also played a significant role in involving Bass High School students to represent the youth of the area in all the services held at the reserve and often visited the school where he was highly respected and loved.
