‘King Lundie’ & Lundie Gardens

Originally called the 'South Terrace Garden', Lundie Gardens was designed and developed by August Pelzer in 1914-1915 as a formal garden with extensive pathways and plantings, with a Gardenesque tree planting strategy, rusticated bridges, flower beds, ornamental shrubs and palms.

Lundie Gardens was named in honour of Francis (Frank) Walter Lundie in 1929, recognising his 22 years of service to the City of Adelaide as a Councillor from 1909 to 1931. Frank (1866-1933) was born in Portland Estate (a suburb of Port Adelaide). At 11 years old he left home for the shearing sheds of western New South Wales.

Frank went on to become a great trade unionist who preferred the use of direct action in resolving labour disputes. Frank's union involvement began in 1887, spanning 46 years as a member and official, including a brief period in the 1920s as a National President of the Australian Workers Union. He served as Secretary of the South Australian Branch of the Australian Workers Union until his death in 1933.

Through his union position, Frank assisted in the formation of the United Labour Party in South Australia which became the Australian Labor Party (SA). His powerful position, with the ability to call a strike at any moment, gave rise to his nickname, 'King Lundie'. A tall and powerful man, Frank would stand up for disaffected workers. His features made him the subject for several political cartoonists.

Frank always sought to protect the interests of the worker through actions such as soup kitchens and shelters, affordable rents in the city and Council works to be completed by South Australian labour. Frank had a particular interest in preserving the Park Lands and often attempted to block the encroachment of buildings.

When Frank passed away in 1933, over 1,000 people attended his burial in the West Terrace Cemetery.