Lake Parramatta Gets a Splashy Upgrade: Ready for Family Fun!

Big news, Sydney families! The much-loved Lake Parramatta Swimming Area is getting a fabulous makeover, and it's nearly ready for a grand reopening just in time for the 2024/25 swimming season.

If you've been looking for the perfect spot to cool off with the kids this summer, Lake Parramatta is about to become your new go-to destination.

Lake Parramatta Gets a Splashy Upgrade: Ready for Family Fun!

What's New?

Since construction kicked off in April 2024, the City of Parramatta has been hard at work turning Lake Parramatta into an even more family-friendly swimming haven. Stage A is already done and dusted, and here's what you can expect when the swimming season opens in spring 2024:

• Lifeguard platform: Safety first! A brand-new lifeguard platform has been installed, ensuring all swimmers are in good hands.
• Sandstone landscaping and seating: Parents, get ready to relax. The new sandstone seating blends beautifully with the natural surroundings, giving you a comfy spot to watch the kids splash around.
• Easy water access: Forget awkward entries and exits; the new steps to the water's edge and a sandy beach make getting in and out of the lake a breeze for swimmers of all ages.

By the end of September, you'll also see:

• Planted garden beds: Because every great swim spot needs a touch of green.
• More seating and shaded areas: Perfect for those sunny days when you want to escape the heat.
• An outdoor shower: Rinse off that lake water before heading home.
• Extra access improvements: Making sure everyone can enjoy the lake, no matter their mobility level.

A Natural Oasis in the Heart of Parramatta

Lake Parramatta isn't just a great swimming spot; it's a 73-hectare slice of protected wildlife heaven. The swimming area's upgrade is part of the 'Our Living River' initiative, aiming to make more of the Parramatta River swimmable by 2025. This means more safe, clean, and beautiful spots for families to enjoy together.

Looking for more things to do at Lake Parramatta Reserve? Swimming certainly isn't the only attraction at this serene pocket of Sydney! 

Explore the Bushwalking Trails

Feeling adventurous? Lace up your walking shoes and hit one of the many bushwalking trails that wind through the 73-hectare reserve. The trails range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, so there's something for every age and ability.

• The easy Heritage Path that takes you to the Dam Wall Lookout is 300 metres one way and is pram- and wheelchair-friendly with someone to assist. 
• The Arrunga Bardo Walk is 900 metres one way up to the Arrunga Bardo (Calm Waters) Lookout.
• The Reservoir Track is quite varied and includes steep steps, a creek crossing, and rocky track surfaces. It is 600 metres one way. 
• For those up for a real adventure, you can traverse the whole loop of the lake on the Lake Circuit. This 4.2-kilometre loop will take around 2 hours to complete.   

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like kookaburras, echidnas, and maybe even a wallaby or two! And don't forget to pack a picnic—there are plenty of scenic spots along the way to stop for a bite.

Follow this link for more walking tracks around the lake. 

Lake Parramatta Opening Date

With the swimming area upgrade nearly complete, the Lake is expected to open for the 2024/2025 swimming season in October 2024.

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