Art project brings life to Werrington Lake Environment Trail

Friday, 7 August 2015

Werrington Lake Park Environment Trail has come to life with two exciting new art projects that are part of Council’s renewal of Werrington Lakes.

The renewal program has been shaped through consultation with local residents.

The Neighbourhood Renewal Program has commissioned Lithgow artist, Tim Johnman, to create new trail markers that reflect the fauna of the area. The trail originally took visitors past 13 pinewood post markers where they could undertake specific tasks - these are being updated.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said new trail markers will represent animals found at the park.

"Thirteen metal sculptures of animals found at Werrington Lake will be set into sandstone blocks that will serve as a reminder of their presence," Cr Fowler said.

"In addition to the sculptures, St Clair artist Sharline SPICE Bezzina has been working with local young people to create wall art that reflects the fauna and sporting activity of the area."

A community celebration will be held in September to thank residents for their participation in the renewal of Werrington Lake.

The Neighbourhood Renewal Program is funded by a special rate variation which came into effect in 2006. The program was implemented to provide a level of service to older established neighbourhoods across the city and provide some equity between older neighbourhoods and new release areas. Neighbourhood Renewal supports positive change by working with people where they live to enhance the wellbeing of their neighbourhood as a healthy, safe and vibrant place. 

The Neighbourhood Renewal Program has generated significant outcomes for Council and for the 12 priority neighbourhoods it has served between 2006 and 2015. It has provided an important avenue for residents to have a say in decisions, which affect their neighbourhood, and to share stories of strength and resilience. This has included involving residents in over 140 engagement activities, events and projects including the design of public spaces, arts and cultural projects, economic development projects, and the development and delivery of 12 Neighbourhood Action Plans based on local strengths and residents' concerns.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Friday, 7 August 2015.