First look at Fernhill Estate in Sydney’s west | Pictures
A new estate in Sydney’s west will include restored gardens, barbecue areas, a 300m boardwalk around the estate’s dam, swimming and kayaking. See the pictures.
NSW
Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The first look at Western Sydney’s newest playground has revealed a wonderland of picnic spots, kayaking, swimming and kids’ play areas.
The Saturday Telegraph can reveal the first images of the new designs for the 423ha Fernhill Estate, which has been closed to the public for more than a century.
In 2018, the state government forked out $27m for the sprawling property, located at the foot of the Blue Mountains, south of Penrith.
The purchase blocked controversial plans to turn the site into a cemetery.
Since then the state government has also committed to a circuit walk, restored gardens, barbecue areas, a 300m boardwalk around the estate’s dam and providing safe access to the estate off Mulgoa Rd.
Planning Minister Rob Stokes said the first draft landscape masterplan for the historic site would celebrate Fernhill’s natural and heritage beauty.
“Fernhill Estate is an extraordinary place that has been closed to the public for a long time,” he said.
“This is the public’s chance to help shape this new and exciting chapter.
“The draft landscape masterplan honours the significant Aboriginal and colonial histories of the site, celebrates the breathtaking landscape and will ensure Fernhill Estate is a place for everyone to enjoy.”
In a nod to the site’s Aboriginal history, the western slopes behind Fernhill House will be transformed into an Indigenous garden.
Western Sydney Minister Stuart Ayres said the park would become a favourite for locals and visitors for many years to come.
“This will give locals and visitors the chance to unwind in what will be one of Sydney’s best public parklands,” he said.
Whale hello there! Waters off Sydney turn into humpback highway
As temperatures drop, a giant of the sea is migrating north, with some 40,000 to pass Sydney on a journey from Antarctica to warmer waters.
Man charged after fatal alleged hit-and-run
Police have arrested a 25-year-old and seized a silver ute after a 70-year-old pedestrian, struck in an alleged hit-and-run in Sydney’s southwest, died in hospital.