Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe has unveiled a Blue Plaque in Ashfield, recognising the life of
historical figure Quong Tart and celebrating his political advocacy and charity work in the 1800’s.
Blue Plaques NSW celebrate well-known characters many of us are familiar with, but also bring
attention to lesser-known stories of people and events that shaped a particular community, town, or
field of work or study.
12 new Blue Plaques are being installed in NSW. They join the 18 already in place.
The Blue Plaque at Ashfield is fixed on what was originally known as Gallop House, which Quong
Tart had built in 1890 as a home for himself and his family. He lived there until his death in 1903.
The building is now home to the Uniting Quong Tart aged care facility, proudly carrying on his legacy
of compassionate care.
Quong Tart ran tea rooms across Sydney and worked to combat anti-Chinese sentiment. He
provided meals to the disadvantaged and supported the arts by hosting concerts and exhibitions.
His rich story, along with those of the people and events behind other Blue Plaques, can be found on
the Blue Plaques NSW Website https://blueplaques.nsw.gov.au/.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe:
“I am proud that we have a Blue Plaques program in NSW that celebrates diversity and encourages
people to learn about historical moments and stories that shaped the state.
“Quong Tart was selfless in his charity work and political advocacy and this Blue Plaque is a
wonderful tribute to his contribution.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Summer Hill, Minister for Transport Jo Haylen:
“Quong Tart was a Chinese Australian icon and an early pioneer of what would become known as
multiculturalism.
“It’s only fitting that the Inner West, the birthplace of multiculturalism, honours Quong Tart,
someone who is a historic figure for all of Australia."
“I want to pay tribute to the Ashfield Historical Society and all other local groups which campaigned
so hard for this blue plaque. It is a form of recognition that is long overdue.”