Home / Lifestyle / Hidden River Beach Unveiled: Swim Amidst History
Hidden River Beach Unveiled: Swim Amidst History
2 Dec
Summary
- New swimming spot in Bedlam Bay, Parramatta River, officially opened.
- Site historically part of an asylum, closed to public in 1956.
- Funded by a $560,000 NSW government grant for new river swimming locations.
Bedlam Bay on the Parramatta River now boasts a new swimming spot, opened recently with state water minister Rose Jackson in attendance. The location, historically part of an asylum complex dating back to 1866, was previously open to the public before closing in 1956. Its reactivation is part of a $560,000 NSW government initiative to establish new swimming locations on the river.
Accessing the water involved overcoming obstacles like decaying leaves and sharp oyster shells, though a protective net offered safety from river wildlife. The river water was noted to be warm and salty. Future developments for Bedlam Bay include enhancements to parking, signage, and amenities to improve overall accessibility for visitors.
This opening follows the recent reopening of Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo and precedes the summer opening of Penrith's Pondi beach. These initiatives aim to provide more readily accessible swimming opportunities for residents across Sydney, emphasizing the cultural importance of water access for Australians.
