Western Sydney Lakes welcomes the NSW Government’s $9.2 million investment

Western Sydney Lakes welcomes the NSW Government’s announcement of a $9.2 million investment in Penrith Beach, Sydney International Regatta Centre, and Penrith Whitewater Stadium as part of the 2025-26 Budget.

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This significant funding secures these vital community assets, which continue to provide exceptional water-based recreation facilities for Western Sydney residents and visitors.

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The investment includes $5.2 million to extend Penrith Beach operations for two additional summer seasons through 2025-26 and 2026-27, along with $4 million for crucial upgrades to the Regatta Centre and Whitewater Stadium.

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Western Sydney Lakes general manager Andrew Bondini said the organisation is proud to see the continued support for facilities that have become central to the region’s recreational landscape.

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“This investment recognises the success of Western Sydney Lakes facilities and their importance to our community,” said Bondini. “With Penrith Beach attracting over 330,000 visitors since its opening in December 2023, we’ve seen firsthand how valuable accessible water recreation is for Western Sydney.”

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Board Director Jacqueline Vozzo highlighted the broader significance of the funding announcement.

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“This extension represents a significant win for our community and economy,” said Vozzo. “Penrith Beach, Sydney International Regatta Centre, and Penrith Whitewater Stadium are essential spaces that connect our community with water environments, as well as providing much-needed relief during our increasingly hot summers,” she continues.

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“We particularly appreciate the government’s recognition that Western Sydney deserves the same access to quality water recreation as other parts of Sydney,” Vozzo added. “With Penrith regularly experiencing record high temperatures, safe and accessible water recreation isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for community wellbeing.”

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The timing of the investment is particularly critical as the Regatta Centre and Whitewater Stadium prepares to host the International Canoe Federation’s Slalom World Championships from September 29 to October 4, 2025—the first time Australia has hosted this prestigious event in over 20 years.

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Penrith beach, which first opened in the 2023-24 summer season, has proven immensely popular with local residents and visitors. Western Sydney Lakes is proud to have delivered the beach to the community, with support from Penrith City Council, recognising its value in providing equitable access to swimming spaces for Western Sydney communities.

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Penrith Beach exemplifies how thoughtful water management can simultaneously address climate adaptation, social equity, and environmental education—core pillars of Western Sydney Lakes’ long-term strategy for the region.

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This funding marks an important step towards the greater vision of transforming the region’s water landscapes into vibrant, accessible community assets. Western Sydney Lakes continues to advocate for a network of blue-green spaces that enhance environmental resilience, provide recreational opportunities, and foster deeper connections between communities and their natural water systems.

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Western Sydney Lakes extends its gratitude to Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully, State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown, and the Minns Labor Government for their continued support of these important initiatives.

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The organisation looks forward to continuing its work with local partners to enhance environmental education opportunities at these facilities, helping visitors connect with and understand our precious water ecosystems while enjoying these uniquely local recreational spaces.

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