Warragamba Dam reopened to the public

Families can again enjoy picnics at Sydney's picturesque Warragamba Dam, which has
been reopened to the public for the first time in more than a decade.

The dam, in Sydney's west, was closed in 1998 for the completion of a $240 million
upgrade, which included a spillway and an overhaul of the site's electricity
network.
With the construction complete, Premier Nathan Rees officially reopened the grounds
on Sunday morning.
"Many of us have fond memories of family visits to Warragamba Dam and it's great to
reopen the gates to this iconic site today," Mr Rees said.
"Before the closure, the dam attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors each year
and we know families are keen to get back to their favourite picnic spot."
Visitors can now enjoy new picnic shelters and tables and three viewing platforms
overlooking the dam and lake.
A worker's memorial will also be built ahead of the dam's 50th anniversary next year
to commemorate those who died or were injured during its construction.
The dam is open seven days a week and a free shuttle bus service will operate from
Penrith station every hour between 8.30am (AEDT) and 3.30pm.
Access to the dam wall remains closed for construction, due to be finished in 2012.