The beach provided much-needed relief to the community as the temperature frequently soared towards 40 degrees. The overwhelming response from locals resulted in the extension of the season for an additional three weeks until ANZAC Day.

Penrith Beach has hosted more than 210,000 visits since the gates opened on 19 December 2023. Figures show residents from the Penrith and Blacktown LGAs were the most frequent visitors to the site now famously dubbed as ‘Pondi’.

This hasn’t just provided access to a great swimming spot in the heart of Western Sydney but has also acted as a cost free activity for so many families throughout summer.

The NSW Government is now considering future options for Penrith Beach following the conclusion of this trial period.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

"This free swimming spot has been a huge success with families, and I've been so thrilled to see it embraced by the local community.

“Western Sydney families deserved this beach after years of waiting and I'm really proud we delivered it last summer."

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Western Sydney’s decades-long dream of having a local beach was achieved within just nine months of Labor coming into Government.

“The trial represents the importance of every community having access to safe and fun places to swim, and I’m keen to explore future options for Pondi’s potential return.”