In 2020, Penrith earned the title of the hottest place on earth with residents sweltering under a baking 48.9 degrees Celsius and in any heat wave it can be up to 10 degrees hotter than the east.
But access to outdoor swimming spots for Western Sydney residents is limited. It’s 40 kilometres to get to Lake Parramatta, 63 kilometres to Bondi Beach and 75 kilometres to either Cronulla or Manly.
The beach will be open seven days a week from late December to early March 2024 with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Day.
The same length as Bondi Beach, Penrith Beach will offer an unmatched waterside experience in the heart of Western Sydney where people of all ages and backgrounds can safely enjoy the water for free.
Lifeguard services and first aid will be available in the designated and patrolled swimming zone.
This is backed by a $1.7M investment from the NSW Government for vital construction and safety work to get this major new swimming spot at Penrith Lakes ready to swim over the hottest months of the year.
The site will be managed by the Department of Planning and Environment after an agreement signed with Western Sydney Lakes.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said: “Penrith Beach is a gamechanger that gives the people of Western Sydney all the benefits of living in the west, with the addition of easy access to their very own beach.
“This is about fairness. For too long Western Sydney locals were neglected as the Liberals and Nationals focused all their energy on investment in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
“The Minns Labor Government made a decision to create this magnificent recreation facility to give Western Sydney residents their fair share with the same access to swimming as Sydney’s east.
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said: “I have lived in the Penrith community for over 35 years, so I know what a sweltering summer’s day feels like here.
"Since the day I was elected I have been advocating that this gem is open up for our community. I know just how much local residents are going to embrace and enjoy this new swimming spot close to home over Christmas and the school holidays."
