Penrith Whitewater Stadium has been closed until further notice due to water quality concerns.
A blue-green algal bloom has forced the closure of the venue from today.
“We have notified all affected venue hirers and will work with them to arrange alternative dates for their events,” the NSW Office of Sport said in a statement.
“The safety of patrons is our top priority and we conduct regular water monitoring to determine whether the lakes are safe to use.”
Blue-green algal blooms can be toxic, and may cause skin, ear and eye irritations, gastroenteritis, asthma, eczema and flu-like symptoms.
Contact with, inhaling or ingesting blue green algae when swimming or boating in affected waters can have serious health effects.
Penrith Beach remains open and is unaffected by the issue.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.