The changing face of Fairfield: Photos

This photographic series tells the story of how Fairfield grew into a bustling city, embracing its heritage while adapting to change.

The Hoyts Crescent Theate in Fairfield, 1944 to 2019.

• Thousands of homes pitched for Bonnyrigg
• Changes coming to Fairfield’s waste collection services

The ornate Crescent Theatre opened in the centre of Fairfield on December 10, 1934.

The Gala Opening program presented Jack Buchanan in the Musical of the day ‘That’s a good girl’ and Jack Holt in the drama ‘The defence rests’.

Later, in 1944, it became known as the Hoyts Crescent Theatre until its doors shut in July 1967.

The Hoyts Crescent Theatre, circa 1944. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

A number of businesses operated from the premises – situated across from Fairfield train Station – before the building was abandoned.

Today, although its facade stands, the back of the building is being developed.

The Hoyts Crescent Theatre 2019. The building's facade remains, although the back of the building is largely under construction. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

Fairfield Railway Station has grown significantly over the years.

The original buildings for station masters can still be found on the platforms; however, sandwiched between newer buildings.

Fairfield railway station circa 1900. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

Fairfield train station 2019. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

Before Barbera St, Fairfield, housed Fairfield Library and a community building, it was a carpark.

To the far right of the area photographed was Southern Refinishers Motor Body Repairs. Although, this business no longer operates, the building’s facade (and the glue used for its signage) can still be seen on the property.

Car Park in Barbara St. Fairfield, 1987. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

The sign in the bottom left of the photograph reads: “Fairfield City Council. This car park will be closed from 2nd March 1987 for a period of 8 months for the construction of a parking station, public library and community building.”

Fairfield City Library replaced a carpark in Barbara St. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

The character of many buildings has been built upon.

This is the case with the Fairfield School of Arts, where the original building has been restored and a companion building has been erected.

Fairfield School of Arts circa 1910. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

Fairfield School of Arts 2019. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

The intersection between Nelson and Ware St has grown into a bustling town centre.

When the 1960s corner is compared to present day, the two are unrecognisable.

Mrs Dunne corner store on Nelson and Ware Street, Fairfield, circa 1960. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

The corner of Nelson and Ware Street, 2019. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

There are parts of Fairfield Train Station that appear unchanged, such as the buildings on the bottom halves of the platforms.

Fairfield Railway Station circa 1960s. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

The station quarters at Fairfield train station 2019. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

The bus terminal has grown significantly since this photo was taken, although the era it captures is not known.

In the background is the old Hoyts Crescent Theatre facade, only when it was being operated by businesses.

Two buses from Westbus at the terminal at Fairfield Station. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries

The bus terminal at Fairfield Station 2019. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

Below is an 87-year-old photo of Prospect Creek, as seen from Fairfield Park.

Prospect Creek from Fairfield Park circa 1932. Picture: Fairfield City Libraries.

Prospect Creek from Fairfield Park. Picture: Tony Ibrahim

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