Penrith Beach is set to return for two more seasons and the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium will be upgraded thanks to a $9.2 million investment from the NSW Government.
A $5.2 million investment will deliver two more summers of fun at Penrith Beach which has attracted more than 330,000 visitors since it first opened in December 2023, while $4 million will help improve the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
The improvements to the precinct include the installation of a sluice gate, aquatic weed control to enhance water flow, regular water quality testing and reporting, the use of sonic buoys to prevent algae outbreaks, drainage line repairs to reduce flooding and erosion restoration around stormwater infrastructure.
“Keeping Penrith Beach open means swimming space equity for the people of Western Sydney, who have missed out until the Minns Labor Government first opened Penrith Beach two years ago,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully.
“Since then, Penrith Beach has quickly become a critical spot for the community to cool down and relax during sweltering summer days.
“The Penrith Lakes Precinct is home to world class athletes like the Fox sisters year-round so we’re making sure the facilities match the athletes.”
The funding will provide a timely boost to the venues before they appear on the world stage hosting the International Canoe Federation’s Slalom World Championships for the first time in more than 20 years.
From 29 September to 4 October this year, international crowds will gather at Fox Island to witness more than 300 world-class competitors from 50 nations battle it out in the Canoe Slalom. Among them will be the Australian team, featuring Olympic Gold Medallists Jessica and Noemie Fox, along with fellow Olympians Tim Anderson and Tristan Carter.
“The additional government investment in the Regatta and Whitewater precinct is great news for paddling and water sports,” said World Champion and Olympic Canoeist, Richard Fox.
“Maintaining good water quality is essential for safe and healthy activity on and around water. The planned infrastructure improvements will ensure that events, training and recreation continue to provide social and economic benefits to the community.
“The mitigating strategies safeguard competitions like the upcoming slalom world championships at Penrith Whitewater, meaning Sydney and Penrith will remain a major destination attraction for events and training.”
