Calls for Sunshine lanes to be named after famous locals

Paul Murphy, with a collage of Bon Scott photos, stands in a lane Scott and other famous Sunshine-siders likely used. Photo: Joe Mastroianni

Fancy a stroll along Craig Parry Parade? A wander down Lydia Lassila Lane? Or a brisk walk up Bon Scott Boulevard?

Future generations at south Sunshine could be doing just that if a proud former resident gets the tick of approval from Brimbank council for his idea.

Advertising director Paul Murphy wants to see the monikers of past Sunshine residents, including Australian cricketer Keith Miller, golfer Craig Parry and legendary AC/DC front man Bon Scott, given pride of place on the streets of the city.

Mr Murphy hopes to name at least 10 lanes within the ‘Southern Village of Sunshine’ after locals.

Two lanes between Corio Street and Derby Road have also been earmarked.

Scott went to Sunshine Primary School.

Five-time world champion boxer Lester Ellis still calls the west home, while winter Olympian Lydia Lassila had her primary schooling at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

Other names thrown up by Mr Murphy include artist John Kelly, designer Leigh Bowery and Royal Flying Doctor Service founder John Flynn, who also went to school in Sunshine.

“There are many truly fascinating and successful characters who had their start in Sunshine and now have state, national or international fame,” he said.

“All of the lanes in the northern part of central Sunshine, what they call the ‘town centre’, have names.

“I’d love to start with about 10 lanes first.”

Mr Murphy grew up in West Sunshine and says he’s never forgotten his roots.

“I left when I was about 15, 16, but I still wear the title ‘former Sunshine resident’ like a badge of honour.”

He said as Sunshine loses historic buildings, such as the Sunshine Boys’ Hostel (earmarked for apartments), the time is right to lay down some markers for future residents.

Mr Murphy has also called for a Committee for Sunshine to provide fresh ideas for the newly elected Brimbank council.

“It would only deal with Sunshine projects, not Brimbank projects,” he said.

Corporate and community relations director Helen Morrissey said council welcomed name ideas, urging people to put them in writing.

Keith Miller. Photo: SMH, Sport
Keith Miller. Photo: SMH, Sport
Craig Parry. Photo: Craig Golding
Craig Parry. Photo: Craig Golding