Key Takeaways
- The new Parramatta River "beach" at Bedlam Bay, located below the historic Tarban Creek lunatic asylum and Gladesville Mental hospital, has been officially opened by the state’s water minister, Rose Jackson.
- The Bedlam Bay site was "reactivated" via a $560,000 grant from the New South Wales government’s Places to Swim program, which aims to create new swimming spots on the Parramatta River.
- The swimming spot was originally part of the asylum and was later open to the public before being closed in 1956.
- The government is working to improve accessibility and amenities at Bedlam Bay, with phase 2 of the development to include improved parking, signage, and amenities.
Introduction to Bedlam Bay
The newly opened Bedlam Bay "beach" is a picturesque spot located on the Parramatta River, below the historic Tarban Creek lunatic asylum and Gladesville Mental hospital. Although it may not be easily accessible, with a narrow path winding between shady trees and a playing field to cross, the spot is certainly worth a visit. The official opening of the beach was attended by reporters, TV crews, and the state’s water minister, Rose Jackson. With boats bobbing and the sun out, the spot could be mistaken for a beach on the Amalfi Coast, albeit with some imagination.
The Swimming Experience
However, the swimming experience at Bedlam Bay is not without its challenges. To get into the water, one has to navigate through decaying leaves and avoid razor-sharp oyster shells to reach the deeper and murkier water. The warm water seemed saltier than an ocean beach, and the lack of showers meant that visitors had to return home with sand in their hair. Despite these challenges, the spot is considered safe for swimming, thanks to a freshly installed net that protects against bull sharks and stingrays. The water quality is also monitored by Sydney Water, which has been doing comprehensive testing along the Parramatta River.
Government Initiatives
The New South Wales government’s Places to Swim program aims to create new swimming spots on the Parramatta River, and the Bedlam Bay site was "reactivated" via a $560,000 grant from this program. The government is working to improve accessibility and amenities at Bedlam Bay, with phase 2 of the development to include improved parking, signage, and amenities. The public spaces minister, Paul Scully, notes that the reopened Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo and the soon-to-reopen Penrith beach, also known as Pondi beach, will give more people places to swim close to home.
Other Swimming Spots
The Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo has reopened after being closed for works, including a new non-slip platform, integrated sandstone stairs, handrails, and a ladder for easier access. The spot now has 150 sq m of additional swimming space, with people able to do 45-metre "laps". There’s also a new double outdoor shower and picnic area. The Penrith beach, or Pondi beach, is set to reopen this coming weekend for summer, with extended hours, daily lifeguard patrols, more shade, and new outdoor showers.
Conclusion
While the Bedlam Bay "beach" may not be the most conventional swimming spot, it is certainly a unique and picturesque location. With the government’s initiatives to improve accessibility and amenities, the spot is likely to become a popular destination for those looking to swim close to home. However, the challenges of navigating through decaying leaves and avoiding razor-sharp oyster shells may deter some visitors. Despite this, the spot is considered safe for swimming, and the government’s efforts to improve the area are likely to make it a more enjoyable experience for visitors.