Premier Nathan Rees has welcomed families back to Warragamba Dam, officially reopening the grounds for the first time in more than a decade. Mr Rees declared Warragamba Dam back open to visitors after a $240 million upgrade.
At the recent opening Premier Nathan Rees said “Many of us have fond memories of family visits to Warragamba Dam and it’s great to reopen the gates to this iconic site today,”
“With the construction works that closed the dam in 1998 now finished, the dam can return to its rightful place as one of Western Sydney’s most popular tourist destinations.
“Before the closure, the dam attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and we know families are keen to get back to their favourite picnic spot.”
Mr Rees also announced that a workers memorial will be constructed at the site to commemorate the men who were injured and lost their lives during the construction of Warragamba Dam.
“Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the dam and a memorial will be built to honour those who died or were injured building Warragamba Dam for future generations,” Mr Rees said.
“Planning for the memorial is underway and it will be unveiled next year as part of the dam’s anniversary.”
Mr Rees said a large number of visitors were expected to visit the site and a free shuttle bus service would operate on a loop and leave Penrith station every hour from 8.30am to 3.30pm.
“The dam will stay open now seven days a week and I’m sure many families will enjoy a picnic back here in the grounds during the coming summer months,” Mr Rees said.
Minister for Water Phil Costa said people returning to the dam will benefit from a range of new facilties.
“Families returning to the dam will be able to enjoy new picnic shelters and tables, landscaping and three new viewing platforms to provide excellent views of the dam and lake,” Mr Costa said.
“New signage throughout the site provides information about the dam, its history and our drinking water catchments. Heritage items have also been placed around the grounds.
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