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Avalon Event Centres On Luna Park Story

A literary event in Avalon on Thursday 7 May 2026 will bring Helen Pitt back to the Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club for a discussion on her book Luna Park. The event will feature a conversation with broadcaster and writer Sarah Macdonald, focusing on the history of the Sydney amusement park.

The discussion will cover figures connected to the park’s past, including showmen and criminal elements, as well as key events linked to its development.

Tracing Luna Park From Overseas Origins To Sydney

The book follows the origins of Luna Park from late 19th-century America through to its development in Australia. It examines the emergence of amusement parks overseas before focusing on Sydney’s harbourfront site.

The narrative includes the transfer of rides, including the Big Dipper, from South Australia to Sydney, where the park opened in 1935. It also outlines periods of closure, legal disputes and ongoing challenges connected to the site.

The 1979 Ghost Train fire forms part of the history examined in the book, alongside other events linked to the park over time.

Career Spanning Decades In Journalism

Pitt is an Australian journalist and author whose career has spanned several decades in media. She reported for The Sydney Morning Herald from 1986 to 2024 and has also worked across publications including The Bulletin, New York Times Digital and Euronews.

Her first book, The House, examined the history of the Sydney Opera House and received the 2018 Walkley Book Award. In addition to her writing, she has worked as a tour guide specialising in cultural travel.

Personal Connections Behind The Research

Pitt’s work draws on personal memories and family links to Luna Park, alongside historical research. Her connection to the site includes family involvement with the Big Dipper during the park’s early years.

The Avalon appearance continues her previous connection with the venue, where she earlier presented The House. Her background as a lifelong Sydneysider also informs her focus on local history and cultural landmarks.

Event Details In Avalon

The event in Avalon is scheduled for Thursday 7 May 2026 at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5.15 p.m. It is hosted by Bookoccino as part of its author event program.

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The Avalon session will centre on Pitt’s research and her discussion with Sarah Macdonald, focusing on the history and development of Luna Park.

Published 23-Apr-2026

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