The renewal of Macquarie Park at Freemans Reach is now complete, featuring new playground activities and amenities for all ages.
With nearly $2 million invested, funding came from the NSW Government’s Places to Swim program, the Community Assets Program, and Hawkesbury City Council. The upgrades have transformed this riverside area into a vibrant space for locals and visitors.
New picnic areas include shaded seating, tables, barbecues, and drinking fountains. An emergency access ramp has been added for faster access by emergency services, enhancing safety for everyone.
The playspace has also been expanded with a water play area, basket swing, and nature-inspired play elements, ensuring fun for all ages and abilities.
Safety was a key focus, with improved signage and landscaping to create a safer environment. The Council encourages everyone to enjoy our waterways responsibly.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said the renewal of Macquarie Park marks a significant milestone on the region’s path to recovery.
“With the Australian and NSW Government’s support, Hawkesbury City Council have managed to add some really important features to Macquarie Park that will be welcome by the community just in time for summer,” Minister McBain said.
“I’d like to congratulate them on this achievement and for continuing to deliver positive outcomes for the community, and say that we’re proud to have supported this project alongside the NSW Government.”
Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman said the investment opens up the riverbank for better community use.
“It’s pretty special to have such a beautiful location to relax and play in, so close to Windsor, and I know local businesses will be pleased to see people returning after many years of flood damage.
“It’s a great example of ‘building back better’ after a disaster.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said these works have renewed Macquarie Park delivering a great place for the Hawkesbury community to relax and play.
“The upgrades have provided a new place to cool off this summer with increased shade, a new interactive kids splash park and new seating areas to escape the heat,” Mr Scully said.
“The NSW Government are building better communities and that means investing in quality open spaces like Macquarie Park.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said Macquarie Park is now a major visitor attraction which has been rebuilt to better withstand future flooding along the Hawkesbury River.
“Improvements like upgraded play-space equipment and concrete seating and retaining walls, installation of shade covers and picnic furniture and enhanced landscaping all contribute to a safer, more durable community space that families can rely on for years to come” Ms Moriarty said.
“I’m pleased that the Australian and NSW Governments have been able to support Hawkesbury City Council to deliver a park and community space that brings people together, supports tourism, boosts preparedness, and is more resilient to future natural disasters.”
Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather said the works have breathed new life into the popular park.
“Residents and visitors alike have been telling us that the time is right for a major upgrade of Macquarie Park, and we have listened,” Mayor Sheather said.
“Whether you are looking for an active family day out, a place to exercise or relax in the sun with friends, Macquarie Park is now one of the Hawkesbury’s premier destinations.
“All across the Hawkesbury, major works are underway or about to begin at major sporting fields and recreation reserves, supporting our community’s desire for a healthy and active lifestyle with a variety of different activities to enjoy.
“I thank the Australian and NSW Governments for their generous contribution to Macquarie Park.”
The works were identified in the Macquarie Park Plan of Management and Masterplan, which was developed from community feedback in 2020, and adopted by Council in August 2023.
Council will host an official opening of the renewed riverside recreation space on Sunday, 9 November 2025 from 9am to 12pm. Visitors can enjoy donuts, coffee, ice cream and activities for kids all while enjoying the new amenities at Macquarie Park.
For more information about the Places to Swim program, visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/open-space/open-spaces-program/places-to-swim .
