a peaceful Japanese garden sanctuary is luring lifestyle seekers and Sydneysiders looking for a serene weekend retreat Wentworth Falls in the NSW Blue Mountains is a magical place deep valleys full of native Australian trees 168-176 Falls Road, Wentworth Falls Just five minutes from Wentworth Falls Lookout lies a very different and unexpected kind of enchantment: a peaceful Japanese garden sanctuary over 50 years old In this wonderland at 168-176 Falls Road, Wentworth Falls a Japanese-inspired tea house overlooks a serene lake and jetty; bold sculptures adorn the lawns and groves; and a guest studio with an outdoor Japanese bath surveys peaceful ponds amid spectacular trees which covers close to four acres over three titles is being offered by private sale with a guide price of $4 million to $4.4 million "It's a bit of an irony to have these exotic species next to the national park whose brother Matthew Dillon once owned the estate "The variety and number of plant species is tremendous In the cooler climate of the Upper Mountains John has cherished many hours overseeing work in the garden while his family has loved spending time in its myriad hidden sanctuaries The gardens were initiated on the land of a former campsite in the 1970s by Australian entertainer Reg Livermore Matthew bought Pirramimma in 2006 with plans to enhance and rejuvenate the garden "The idea was to have a beautiful home and garden where the family could gather," said John "It was a project of love that lasted many years and brought the garden back to its former glory and made it even better." There's also a potager garden and a chicken coop deck and patio from which to take in the surrounding beauty Pirramimma has received numerous awards and was showcased in the State Library of NSW's 2016 Grand Garden Design exhibition Matthew died in 2019 and never lived out his retirement here as planned the new house he'd built on the estate was destroyed by fire the immaculately maintained estate lies empty but John views this as an opportunity for someone new to discover their own connection with this paradise just as Reg Livermore was and the people before him cherish and care for it as much as we and our predecessors did would be wonderful." Agent Matthew Gale at McGrath Blue Mountains said the concrete slab of the former residence — and the still-intact garage basement and storage below — provide the perfect foundations for a dream home "The estate is attracting plenty of Sydney lifestyle buyers looking to rebuild the house," he said Mr Gale will be hoping to achieve a record sale for Wentworth Falls, currently held by trophy home Carramar at 82 Fletcher Street, which sold for $4.15 million in 2021 The property is not zoned for commercial use ruling out ventures like a café or hospitality business But for those after an incredible nature retreat "It's ideal for someone building their dream home or an artist botanist or nature enthusiast who loves bushwalking and birdsong," said John "It's an amazing place and immensely private," added Mr Gale then a little creek circulates it back down to two ponds and underground to the lake "It's just special; your own little world." third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. 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CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time My tentative return to multi-day hiking hasn’t started well and with my favourite hiking backpack missing I’d appropriated my eight-year-old’s Minecraft bag All this just for the chance to tackle the Blue Mountains’ newest attraction: the Grand Cliff Top Walk the Grand Cliff Top Walk was opened in March 2024 and is one of 13 Great Walks planned for NSW A joint operation by the Blue Mountains Council and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service the walk links a series of existing trails between three of the Blue Mountains’ most popular destinations: Wentworth Falls It’s a clever strategy: directing tourists to one key trail keeps them out of the valley (where inexperienced bushwalkers frequently get into trouble) while transforming a popular day trip experience into a more lucrative two-day stay for local businesses in the region While 19 kilometres split over two days might sound easy the track is rated grade 3 – recommended for bushwalkers with some experience I was apprehensive; it’s been a long time between hikes I pass through the sandstone gates that mark the beginning of the route distracted by a text message from home about where the loo rolls are stashed slam into the ground and gash my right knee but I discover I’ve broken one of the golden rules of hiking: I’m not carrying a first aid kit I am instantly rewarded with the colourful blush of a crimson rosella landing by the path in front of me The route from Wentworth Falls offers an idyllic downward introduction to the trek weaving through gentle cascades and tiny bridges while butterflies dance across the path the trail abruptly ends at wire fencing – the kind used at construction sites It turns out flooding has washed away part of the track so instead of an easy meander down to the falls it now requires a vertical climb via stairs back up to suburbia and a detour through the streets to a car park but the sweeping view across the valley from Jamison Lookout – unbroken it’s far too easy to take the UNESCO World Heritage Listed wilderness on your back doorstep for granted but standing on the edge of the escarpment feels grounding: the vista across to Mount Solitary is untamed by man the bush is thriving as it has for thousands of years I quickly figure out where to rejoin the walk buoyed by the promise of good coffee at the next trailhead I have the grade 3 Overcliff-Undercliff Track to myself as it dips under the lip of the sheer sandstone cliffs lichen and ferns flourish in the shady indents and overhangs caused by dust mixing with microscopic drops of oil released by the region’s 70 species of eucalyptus trees The path here mainly consists of metal bridges and stepping stones that are hand-carved and slashed with chisel marks so they’re not slippery and it’s hard not to feel some childish glee as you hop across them a cafe featuring murals by Blue Mountains artist Reinis Zusters A local favourite since new management took over in 2023 the lunch crowd is a mix of walk-ins and hikers passing through “Have you done the walk?” I ask a waitress Each descent into the valley fills me with smug satisfaction – until the horror sets in a moment later as I realise I’ll have to trek back up but if I have one criticism of the new Grand Clifftop Walk it’s that the first section of the track feels poorly signposted There just aren’t enough markers featuring a black cockatoo on a blue background If you’re an experienced hiker or familiar with the region it’s no issue but given there is a huge cohort of inexperienced people cutting their bushwalking teeth on this trail Climbing another set of steps towards the edge of Leura the laughter and splash of canyoners in the gully below blends into the sound of golfers playing through on the cliff above It’s a slightly incongruous sound but also a testament to the breadth of experiences you can have in the Blue Mountains I exit the trail between an adventure ropes course and a giant rainbow slide The Grand Clifftop walk cuts directly through the 224-room Fairmont Resort and while day one officially ends at Gordon Falls the chance to flop and drop at a hotel on the trailhead is too much temptation a long soak in the bath and eating dinner on my balcony while the sun sets on the Megalong Valley is the perfect way to end the day After smashing the buffet the following morning I leave the hotel feeling surprisingly energetic – and immediately head in the wrong direction A lack of clear signposting means I mistakenly head down a dead-end bush trail that leads to an abandoned hut I find the right path: straight up the hotel driveway and winding through a few streets in Leura to rejoin the trail trail runners and bus tour groups puffing along this section of the track at intermittent points a pair of black cockatoos with a hangry fledgling demanding food Day two of the walk crosses some of the Blue Mountains’ most popular attractions I expect these well-known spots will be the highlight it’s the walk to Golf Links Lookout and down to the Pool of Siloam that leaves me utterly in awe Thick eucalypt scrub gives way to a shaded rainforest filled with ferns and the temperature drops with each step into the gully and I descend to a seven-metre waterfall that gently cascades down the rocks into a small pool The cold water cuts like steel through my insides I watch streaks of sunlight filter through the canopy I enjoy a small respite from the cacophony of cicadas that has accompanied my every step along the walk I am amazed that I have this all to myself: the rainforest I risk this moment being spoiled by the appearance of others I’m so content that I’m not even discouraged by the near-vertical climb out Despite finishing the track a few hours later with some cuts and scratches the Grand Clifftop Walk ends up stirring something within me: a new love of wild swimming and a deeper respect for the intense beauty of this rugged wilderness The writer stayed as a guest of the Fairmont Hotel WALKThe Grand Clifftop Walk runs from Wentworth Falls to Scenic World and is free Some sections of the track are occasionally shut for maintenance but it does require a good level of fitness a small first-aid kit – and wear good shoes It is recommended all bushwalkers fill out a Trip Intention Form accessible from the NPWS website before they walk NPWS issues Personal Locator Beacons free of charge from the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Blackheath however this is a significant distance from the Grand Clifftop Walk and not easily accessible from Blackheath train station RAILThe Blue Mountains is a 90-120 minute drive from Sydney The train is the most scenic and convenient way for hikers to travel here with a public bus connection from Scenic World to Katoomba Station STAYThe Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is located on the walk in Leura. Classic rooms with king-size beds from $242. See fairmontresort.com.au MOREnationalparks.nsw.gov.au Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now. Three hundred metres in, I\\u2019m already bleeding. My tentative return to multi-day hiking hasn\\u2019t started well. I\\u2019d missed the train, my hiking pants didn\\u2019t fit, the elastic on my socks had given way, my boots were disintegrating underfoot, and with my favourite hiking backpack missing, I\\u2019d appropriated my eight-year-old\\u2019s Minecraft bag. All this just for the chance to tackle the Blue Mountains\\u2019 newest attraction: the Grand Cliff Top Walk. Located on Gundungurra country, west of Sydney, the Grand Cliff Top Walk was opened in March 2024 and is one of 13 Great Walks planned for NSW. A joint operation by the Blue Mountains Council and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the walk links a series of existing trails between three of the Blue Mountains\\u2019 most popular destinations: Wentworth Falls, Leura and Katoomba. It\\u2019s a clever strategy: directing tourists to one key trail keeps them out of the valley (where inexperienced bushwalkers frequently get into trouble) while transforming a popular day trip experience into a more lucrative two-day stay for local businesses in the region. While 19 kilometres split over two days might sound easy, the track is rated grade 3 \\u2013 recommended for bushwalkers with some experience. As a relatively unfit woman walking solo, I was apprehensive; it\\u2019s been a long time between hikes, and going it alone made me nervous. Despite this, I pass through the sandstone gates that mark the beginning of the route, determined to be in the moment. So, of course, distracted by a text message from home about where the loo rolls are stashed, I trip, slam into the ground and gash my right knee. There isn\\u2019t too much blood, but I discover I\\u2019ve broken one of the golden rules of hiking: I\\u2019m not carrying a first aid kit. A little embarrassed, I put my phone away and set off again. I am instantly rewarded with the colourful blush of a crimson rosella landing by the path in front of me. The route from Wentworth Falls offers an idyllic downward introduction to the trek, weaving through gentle cascades and tiny bridges while butterflies dance across the path. Just as I find my rhythm, however, the trail abruptly ends at wire fencing \\u2013 the kind used at construction sites. It turns out flooding has washed away part of the track, so instead of an easy meander down to the falls, it now requires a vertical climb via stairs back up to suburbia and a detour through the streets to a car park. I\\u2019m irritated and puffing when I arrive, but the sweeping view across the valley from Jamison Lookout \\u2013 unbroken, magnificent and hazy \\u2013 quickly humbles me. Living in Sydney, it\\u2019s far too easy to take the UNESCO World Heritage Listed wilderness on your back doorstep for granted, but standing on the edge of the escarpment feels grounding: the vista across to Mount Solitary is untamed by man, the bush is thriving as it has for thousands of years. It resets something with me, and feeling a renewed sense of energy, I quickly figure out where to rejoin the walk, buoyed by the promise of good coffee at the next trailhead. I have the grade 3 Overcliff-Undercliff Track to myself as it dips under the lip of the sheer sandstone cliffs. Wildflowers bloom along the track, and moss, lichen and ferns flourish in the shady indents and overhangs. At midday, the temperature has soared. The mountains\\u2019 characteristic blue haze, caused by dust mixing with microscopic drops of oil released by the region\\u2019s 70 species of eucalyptus trees, settles across the horizon. The path here mainly consists of metal bridges, rough track, and stepping stones that are hand-carved and slashed with chisel marks so they\\u2019re not slippery, and it\\u2019s hard not to feel some childish glee as you hop across them. I stop for lunch at Conservation Hut, a cafe featuring murals by Blue Mountains artist Reinis Zusters. A local favourite since new management took over in 2023, the lunch crowd is a mix of walk-ins and hikers passing through. \\u201CHave you done the walk?\\u201D I ask a waitress. She shakes her head. \\u201CI hear there are a lot of steps, though,\\u201D she replies, her eyes widening. She\\u2019s not kidding. Each descent into the valley fills me with smug satisfaction \\u2013 until the horror sets in a moment later as I realise I\\u2019ll have to trek back up. Climbing another set of steps towards the edge of Leura, the laughter and splash of canyoners in the gully below blends into the sound of golfers playing through on the cliff above. It\\u2019s a slightly incongruous sound but also a testament to the breadth of experiences you can have in the Blue Mountains. I exit the trail between an adventure ropes course and a giant rainbow slide. The Grand Clifftop walk cuts directly through the 224-room Fairmont Resort, and while day one officially ends at Gordon Falls, the chance to flop and drop at a hotel on the trailhead is too much temptation. I call it quits for the day. It\\u2019s the right move: a swim in the pool, a long soak in the bath and eating dinner on my balcony while the sun sets on the Megalong Valley is the perfect way to end the day. After smashing the buffet the following morning, I leave the hotel feeling surprisingly energetic \\u2013 and immediately head in the wrong direction. A lack of clear signposting means I mistakenly head down a dead-end bush trail that leads to an abandoned hut. Backtracking, I find the right path: straight up the hotel driveway and winding through a few streets in Leura to rejoin the trail. It\\u2019s early on Saturday, and there\\u2019s a thin spread of hikers, trail runners and bus tour groups puffing along this section of the track at intermittent points. I spy a lyrebird on the trail ahead, scratching out a nest, and later, a pair of black cockatoos with a hangry fledgling demanding food. Day two of the walk crosses some of the Blue Mountains\\u2019 most popular attractions, including Leura Cascades, The Three Sisters, Echo Point and Scenic World. Having visited the Blue Mountains before, I expect these well-known spots will be the highlight. Instead, it\\u2019s the walk to Golf Links Lookout and down to the Pool of Siloam that leaves me utterly in awe. Thick eucalypt scrub gives way to a shaded rainforest filled with ferns, and the temperature drops with each step into the gully. There are no other hikers here, and I descend to a seven-metre waterfall that gently cascades down the rocks into a small pool. I\\u2019m so content that I\\u2019m not even discouraged by the near-vertical climb out. Despite finishing the track a few hours later with some cuts and scratches, the Grand Clifftop Walk ends up stirring something within me: a new love of wild swimming, a reminder of the joy of bushwalking, and a deeper respect for the intense beauty of this rugged wilderness, right on Sydney\\u2019s doorstep. The writer stayed as a guest of the Fairmont Hotel. WALKThe Grand Clifftop Walk runs from Wentworth Falls to Scenic World and is free. Some sections of the track are occasionally shut for maintenance. The walk can be covered in a day, but it does require a good level of fitness. Carry water, food, all-weather gear, a small first-aid kit \\u2013 and wear good shoes. It is recommended all bushwalkers fill out a Trip Intention Form, accessible from the NPWS website before they walk. For safety, NPWS issues Personal Locator Beacons free of charge from the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Blackheath, however this is a significant distance from the Grand Clifftop Walk, and not easily accessible from Blackheath train station. RAILThe Blue Mountains is a 90-120 minute drive from Sydney. The train is the most scenic and convenient way for hikers to travel here, with a public bus connection from Scenic World to Katoomba Station. STAYThe Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is located on the walk in Leura. Classic rooms with king-size beds from $242. See Speed limits on the Great Western Highway through Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains will be reduced, effective Thursday December 5. Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has conducted a speed zone review on the Great Western Highway from 100 metres west of Mitchell Street to the intersection with Old Bathurst Road. TfNSW acting regional director west Holly Davies said the review assessed a number of factors including location, crash history, road environment, the number of access points, road usage, traffic mix and traffic volumes, and recommended changed speed limits for the route. “The Great Western Highway as it passes through Wentworth Falls is a four-lane divided carriageway that carries more than 27,000 vehicle movements a day, including local, freight and tourist traffic travelling between Sydney and the state’s Central West,” she said. “There is also significant pedestrian and cycle traffic within the 2.2-kilometre review section of highway, and access to two schools.” In the five years to the end of 2022, there were 18 reported crashes along this stretch, including two fatal crashes and four serious injury crashes. As a result of the review, the following speed changes are being put into place: Blue Mountains City Council, local police and local schools have been consulted as part of the review and all support the changes. New signage will be installed to advise motorists of the changes. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id" "a30e08067980422f8a65e6d7f8a9c945" );document.getElementById("g3bfc1e4af").setAttribute( "id" and website in this browser for the next time I comment The landowners have made another request to the Planning Department to get the project on Bodington Hill at Wentworth Falls up and running And the updated proposal now includes a chairlift and toboggan track parking for 300 vehicles and an animal hospital The wildlife to be displayed could include both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles has abandoned plans for traffic lights at the entrance and instead will make it left in/left out only forcing people arriving from the west to do a U-turn in Genevieve Rd and people leaving to head towards Sydney turning around at Old Bathurst Rd or Tableland Rd Despite missing a 2023 deadline to submit an environmental impact statement the owners have now asked the department to prepare fresh guidelines to help it to prepare another EIS The latest twist was greeted with dismay by Blue Mountains MP Ms Doyle said: "It is simple: our community does not want this unnecessary and hugely inappropriate zombie croc park development." She said the proposal was "incredibly problematic not only because of the issues with highway safety and bushfire evacuation but because of the increased impacts on the endangered hanging swamp ecological community" And she questioned the wisdom of housing crocodiles in a snow zone Crs Romola Hollywood and Brent Hoare agreed Cr Hollywood said the overwhelming reaction she had received from the community was that the wildlife park was an "inappropriate overdevelopment at this location" "If you cared about wildlife and the natural environment you wouldn't displace the existing protected ecological communities to build a zoo with non-indigenous animals in cages This is not what visitors come to the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area to experience." Cr Hoare told the Gazette he believed the whole plan was "a silly project in the wrong place" "We need habitat for wild animals and protected watercourses on this site hotels and parking lots that can't be defended against bushfires in extreme or catastrophic conditions The scale of the impacts proposed are simply unacceptable," he said It is now 35 years since the initial DA for a wildlife park was approved by council (in November 1989) concedes that " the approved development no longer meets the contemporary market expectations for such a facility and that an upgraded scheme would deliver the optimal planning and design outcomes with consideration to the surrounding World Heritage Area" The report touts the value of a wildlife park for its long-term employment opportunities the boost to the economy and "reducing pressures on existing tourism sites within the National Park" A community meeting with local residents was held in March 2023 where a number of concerns were raised These included clearing of land and impacts on trees and vegetation; Indigenous heritage impacts; parking and traffic concerns; emergency management; and impact on animals in the proposed development as well as the need at all for the entire project The scoping report said further consultation found "the proposal was met with positivity from the majority of survey respondents with 78 per cent of people surveyed who live within 40km of Wentworth Falls considered the proposed development to be appealing with a further 81 per cent believing the proposal to be beneficial" Exactly who is behind Aesthete No 14 is unknown 14 Pty Ltd is the trustee of the Blue Mountains Wildlife Trust It is constituted by professional service providers who are experienced property developers and high net worth individuals having connectivity with the Blue Mountains." 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Read our Privacy Policy No need for hiking boots at these refreshing and picturesque waterfalls that are easy to reach — and perfect for staving off the summer heat Wentworth Falls in the Katoomba area of the Blue Mountains needs no introduction One of the most recognisable and photographed falls in Australia this scenic spot is accessible via a paved The Wentworth Falls Lookout offers a gorgeous view of the falls as it plunges into the valley and shaded areas to take refuge in if the sun is too bright the Minnehaha Falls comes with a chilly swimming hole The walk up to the falls is around 45 minutes but one of the easier tracks in the Blue Mountains and conveniently starts at the carpark that some sections are uneven and the walk is not pram or wheelchair accessible Don’t forget to budget some extra time for a dreamy swim The falls can be quite busy in summer so try and get there early to get it all to yourself Sydney’s Collins Flat Beach is one of its best-kept secrets it’s the only harbour beach that has its own waterfall and you can dip your toes at the base of the falls The waterfall is sometimes a trickle so plan your visit after a day of rain to see it in full flow Located just a 15-minute walk from the Manly Wharf the beach provides a lovely reprieve from the summer heat with shaded spots File pictureSpeed limits on the Great Western Highway through Wentworth Falls will change from Thursday after a safety analysis investigated crash history in the area Transport for NSW conducted a speed zone review on more than two kilometres of the Great Western Highway from 100 metres west of Mitchell Street (near the cemetery) to the intersection with Old Bathurst Road Blue Mountains Grammar School and the Station Street turn-off into Wentworth Falls shops Transport for NSW Acting Regional Director West Holly Davies said the review assessed a number of factors including location and recommended changed speed limits for the route "In the five years to the end of 2022 there were 18 reported crashes including two fatal crashes and four serious injury crashes," Ms Davies said The changes will affect only a few additional hundred metres for both eastbound and westbound motorists around the Station Street intersection and will be well signposted local police and local schools have been consulted as part of the review and all support the changes The changes follow 70 km/h limits imposed earlier this year in an area further west on the highway originally written and produced in 1995 (at the Met Theatre at Varuna in Katoomba) and is searching for people to complete the cast The play is about an English monarch who comes to Australia to apply for the job of president started penning stories about the South Island countryside where she grew up William Hart-Smith - she accredits his influence on her work - and worked with him for a time Soon after the Hart-Smith family made their move from New Zealand to Sydney The flora and fauna of the Mountains have often been sources of inspiration for Petrie's poetry and children's plays For a number of years she taught poetry writing at Springwood Community Arts Centre and several regional anthologies ensued Her poetry has been published in two books and in various newspapers and journals including The Sydney Morning Herald Potential performers should email loui.petrie@gmail.com or the director: vincenzonesci@outlook.com this time with an approved DA to operate as a 200-person function centre running seven days a week which is offering the sale by expressions of interest touts the site as "a prominent land area of 6,262 square metres leaving room for expansion by any new user" The bowling club closed down during COVID and in June 2020 the owners The RSL sought interest from other clubs around the state who might amalgamate but found no takers so in January 2021 announced it would sell lodged a development application with council which in September 2022 approved the venue for use as a function centre able to accommodate a maximum of 200 people for a range of gatherings including receptions Wentworth Falls Bowling Club when it was still operating File pictureColliers agents Thomas Mosca and Nick Estephen said the club has been repurposed into a high quality multi-function commercial office space The zoning of the land would allow for a range of uses Exterior and interior of Wentworth Falls Bowling Club Picture suppliedVisitors to Wentworth Falls Lake can now enjoy the first section of a new walkway at the popular landmark The new viewing platform and pedestrian walkway on the eastern bank of lake partially opened on Wednesday The wide viewing platform and walkway replaces the old wooden structure on this side of the lake visitors can now travel along an accessible path that winds along the eastern lake shore through to the new viewing platform and walkway The walk currently ends at the construction area of the upcoming spillway and dam upgrades Rosemary Dillon said: "The opening of the viewing platform and pedestrian walkway is a major milestone for the lake precinct upgrade project This is a very significant piece of infrastructure both in terms of its construction and in the benefits it brings for visitors to the lake "It opens up more of the lake to more people which is something we've worked hard to achieve through the smart design choices incorporated into this project "People with reduced mobility can now more easily take in the lovely lakeside views or someone out and about with a child in a pram." Extensive community consultation took place in 2022 on the design of the viewing platform and walkway, resulting in a revised design with a reduced amount of Corten steel featured in the structure dam wall and boat ramp upgrades are anticipated to start from Friday has been selected to deliver the improvements The construction methods being used to remediate the spillway and dam wall will result in a small water drawdown of up to 600mm The condition of the dam wall below the water will require ongoing assessment as work progresses These works are currently scheduled to be completed in the first half of 2025 shelters and barbecue facilities as well as the formalisation of a full a precinct walk are also still to come as part of the precinct upgrades Visitors are reminded to stay out of all construction areas while the precinct upgrades are underway said she was pleased to see the various components of the project moving along "Local residents of the Blue Mountains and visitors alike are looking forward to seeing the various upgrades come alive at the very popular Wentworth Falls Lake precinct," she said Plans to build a boardwalk around the lake were mooted as far back as 2014 when Cr Romola Hollywood raised the issue. A new viewing platform was another major lake attraction that came to fruition in 2018 Hazard reduction burns are underway in the Blue Mountains Parts of Blue Mountains National Park will be closed from Thursday Other hazard reduction burns are planned near Woodford from April 14 and near Mount Victoria from April 11 For information on park and track closures, keep up to date by visiting NPWS Blue Mountains Website. Picture suppliedThe NSW Blues squad has hit the field at Wentworth Falls ahead of game two of the State of Origin series A spirited crowd of Blue Mountains Grammar School students quickly filled the sidelines at the Origin squad's training session on June 20. View +10 PhotosPhotos from the Origin squad's recent visit to Blue Mountains Grammar School in Wentworth Falls.The morning air was chilly but the energy was high as a line of blue students cheered and waved signs of encouragement Music teacher Allison Lewis told the Gazette the students were from the school's junior campuses in Wentworth Falls and Springwood and represented every year from pre-K through to Year 6 but that didn't stop junior campus students of Blue Mountains Grammar School from showing team spirit Picture by Tom Walker"The Springwood children came down on the bus this morning and they cheered all the way down - 'go the Blues'," Ms Lewis said "Some of them have gotten a very recent education about the NRL as well and they're all giving one hundred percent That's what Blue Mountains Grammar students do Blue Mountains Grammar School Principal, Steven Coote, told the Gazette in May: "This is such a unique opportunity that the staff collectively cannot imagine not engaging with it We are most proud that we could make our fields available and help bring the Blues to the Mountains "This is bigger than Blue Mountains Grammar School - this is unique for the entire Mountains community of which we have been a part of for over 100 years." and a cheering crowd of students dressed in blue Picture by Tom WalkerThe NSW squad is staying at the Fairmont Resort in Leura for their training camp and have held training sessions in the Mountains several times since late May The players also stopped by St Canice's Primary School in Katoomba last week Staff spotted the squad at Pomegranate Cafe and after a short chat the Blues made time for a surprise visit The school's Senior Finance Officer Kylie Ranson said: "The team went from classroom to classroom meeting our special students and staff who were gobsmacked that they had agreed to pop in they were very well spoken and respectful to our students and staff Students in Stage 2 were also able to show off their special work of the team with each student having made a poster dedicated to describing an individual Blues player Stage 2 students at St Canice's Primary School holding up their self-made posters about Blues players Picture suppliedThe Blues will have their final training session in the Blue Mountains on Saturday After a loss to the Maroons in the season's first State of Origin game on June 5 the NSW squad has made changes to its player list to prepare for game two on June 26 This includes dropping halfback Nicho Hynes for Mitchell Moses as well as a return from Latrell Mitchell - who hasn't played for NSW since 2021 NSW Blues player Latrell Mitchell during training at Wentworth Falls. Picture by Tom WalkerBlues coach Michael Maguire announced the line-up for game two on Sunday night, June 17. Every ton of coal burnt required twelve tons of water the Mountains railway route had no large catchment areas Running an approximately 80 mile return trip from Emu Plains to Katoomba a loaded large-class locomotive required about 7500 gallons of water in 1902 Blackheath and Lawson dams all dried up in the 1890s drought A dam across Jamison Creek at Wentworth Falls was the solution Wentworth Falls Dam was constructed and connected to Lawson via a holding dam and a pipeline water fed into the Hilda Gardens circular concrete reservoir a pipeline was completed to Valley Heights The dam's height was extended twice between 1910 and 1917 The railway's problems appeared solved until further droughts occurred The lake was so dry in the drought of 1926-7 that the railways had to spend £700 per week supplying water from Newnes Gordon Milton recalled a sunken barge and canoes being stuck in the mud; the wall of the dam exposed Bill Maskey remembered the concrete facing being placed on the dam wall unloaded into trenches made of sleepers and galvanised iron passing through culverts under Sinclair Crescent into the lake control of the dam was passed to Blue Mountains City Council Council had to address these fears but had problems The state government had imposed new state-wide standards to meet with future flood events The lake's walls did not meet these standards council learnt the dam wall was disintegrating Mayor Williams said the wall's clay core had liquefied Council had to satisfy its insurance company by lowering the water level 1.8 metres Uncertainties over the collapsing wall ensured the draining went ahead Williams said council agreed to the lake's drainage fearing repetition of Coledale's tragic event in April 1988 on the south coast when a major embankment collapsed with two fatalities Four hundred local residents met at the lake in early September 1989 The council applied for grants to assist in restoring the walls of the dam to their former height the Blue Mountains Gazette announced the $202,030 state government grant towards the dam wall repairs Sun setting over Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains Nine bushwalkers who were lost in the Blue Mountains have been rescued overnight in two separate operations were assisted out of the bush and treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries at about 10.30pm Emergency services were called to Wentworth Falls following reports the group had become lost while bushwalking at about 6.30pm Wentworth Falls is one of the most picturesque landscapes in the Blue Mountains and popular with bushwalkers.Credit: Dean Sewell A second multi-agency search began just before 7pm in bushland near Beauchamp Falls The group activated a personal locator beacon which helped a NSW Police helicopter locate them swiftly The men were walked out of the bush just before midnight Inspector Steven Vuletas said as the weather warms up and more people get out into nature it is important for bushwalkers to have a communication plan NSW Police have launched an upgrade to their emergency dispatch system “No matter how experienced a bushwalker may be it is imperative that they always have with them all the appropriate safety equipment including suitable clothing “It is also important to let someone know your intended route what tracks you are taking and your estimated return time If there is any change to the original plan “Please register your trip with the appropriate agency such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service and think before you trek – know the weather conditions These rescues preceded the launch of an improved emergency dispatch platform called BluLink that connects the community directly to police and first responders in emergencies The technology allows people to provide police with GPS coordinates and text messages via a link sent to them from triple-zero (000) dispatchers All people need to do is reply to a link sent to their mobile phone.Credit: NSW Police BluLink has been used to aid recent investigations including the Bondi Junction stabbing incident earlier this year and live streaming has beamed more than 700 events back to emergency operators The technology has also helped locate more than 100 missing people and more than 60 lost bushwalkers since it began being used in February 2023 NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley said the state-wide rollout of BluLink gives officers instant “Police rely on members of the community to accurately describe an incident so they know what they’re dealing with and how they need to respond; BluLink gives them unrivalled access to a scene before they’ve even arrived,” Catley said police receive more than 1500 emergency calls for assistance every day; this technology will help triage and respond to incidents more effectively than ever before.” Assistant Commissioner Stacey Maloney said BluLink will enhance policing responses “BluLink is expected to better assist the public and save time and resources across every police command for both front-line and specialist areas,” Maloney said The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here. Nine bushwalkers who were lost in the Blue Mountains have been rescued overnight in two separate operations. Five teenage boys, aged 15 and 16, were assisted out of the bush and treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries at about 10.30pm. Emergency services were called to Wentworth Falls following reports the group had become lost while bushwalking at about 6.30pm. A second multi-agency search began just before 7pm in bushland near Beauchamp Falls, Blackheath, after reports four men, aged in their 20s, had also become lost while bushwalking. The group activated a personal locator beacon, which helped a NSW Police helicopter locate them swiftly. The men were walked out of the bush just before midnight. Inspector Steven Vuletas said as the weather warms up and more people get out into nature, it is important for bushwalkers to have a communication plan. \\u201CNo matter how experienced a bushwalker may be, it is imperative that they always have with them all the appropriate safety equipment including suitable clothing, food, water, and communication devices,\\u201D Vuletas said. \\u201CIt is also important to let someone know your intended route, what tracks you are taking and your estimated return time. If there is any change to the original plan, then tell someone. \\u201CPlease register your trip with the appropriate agency, such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and think before you trek \\u2013 know the weather conditions, know your physical abilities, and plan your route and stick to it.\\u201D These rescues preceded the launch of an improved emergency dispatch platform called BluLink that connects the community directly to police and first responders in emergencies. The technology allows people to provide police with GPS coordinates, live video streaming, digital media uploads, and text messages via a link sent to them from triple-zero (000) dispatchers. BluLink has been used to aid recent investigations, including the Bondi Junction stabbing incident earlier this year, and live streaming has beamed more than 700 events back to emergency operators. The technology has also helped locate more than 100 missing people and more than 60 lost bushwalkers since it began being used in February 2023. NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley said the state-wide rollout of BluLink gives officers instant, real-time access to unfolding emergencies. \\u201CPolice rely on members of the community to accurately describe an incident, so they know what they\\u2019re dealing with and how they need to respond; BluLink gives them unrivalled access to a scene before they\\u2019ve even arrived,\\u201D Catley said. \\u201COn average, police receive more than 1500 emergency calls for assistance every day; this technology will help triage and respond to incidents more effectively than ever before.\\u201D Assistant Commissioner Stacey Maloney said BluLink will enhance policing responses. \\u201CBluLink is expected to better assist the public and save time and resources across every police command for both front-line and specialist areas,\\u201D Maloney said. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. . Autumn is here and it's the perfect time to go on leaf peeping adventure Check out our favourite spots to see autumn colours around Sydney and beyond Autumn in Sydney is one of the best times of the year to be in the city cosy markets and delicious seasonal food to enjoy Although it’s been a soggy start to the season the leaves will soon start to turn offering the perfect opportunity to go out and hunt for autumn leaves in and around the city Here are some of our favourite spots in Sydney and beyond to enjoy this beautiful season green oasis right in the heart of the city you’ll find a beautiful display of colours with the landscape packed with colour You can spot the brilliant Lasiandra tree in abundance along with the bright hues of the Tibouchina A Blue Mountains gem that never fails to impress if you’re on the hunt for autumn leaves in and around Sydney Breenhold Garden is one of the most picturesque spots in NSW to spot autumn foliage near Sydney For just a small entry fee of $17.50 per adult and $5.00 for children over 5 years old you can spend all day in the garden marvelling at the striking scenery and autumn colours The Auburn Botanic Gardens are surprisingly under-the-radar which is surprising given how stunning they are you’ll find a stunning collection of Japanese Maple trees along with 9.2 hectares of beautiful garden space to hang around in The garden is also home to two serene lakes making it a perfect spot to spend the day soaking in nature and an expansive 65 hectares of garden space The Mayfield Garden in Oberon is a must-visit and an absolute delight during autumn the garden comes alive with a stunning display of red you’ll be hard-pressed to find a town that captures the spirit of the season better than Orange the town is popular for its red and orange colours and all the oak and maple trees The drive from Sydney takes about 3 hours and a visit to one of its local vineyards along with a trip to Mount Canobolas is highly recommended if you’re searching for vibrant autumn colours The Everglades Garden in Leura is a picture-perfect spot it’s an essential stop if you want to see autumn in its glory without venturing too far from the city You’ll also be surrounded by lovely views of the Blue Mountains as you wander around the gardens Bathurst truly comes alive with an explosion of vivid reds Be sure to set aside time to experience its Autumn Colours program which celebrates the town’s rich history or simply wander through its charming streets lined with colourful trees and beautiful gardens Canberra is pretty underrated and not typically top of mind for a weekend getaway from Sydney Take a walk along Lake Burley Griffin where you will find many oak trees and poplars or wander through Griffith for all the rich autumn leaves and a quaint Just two towns past Katoomba, you’ll find the town of Blackheath, lined with rows of vivid red trees, charming vintage stores, and quiet cafes. It’s one of our favourite day trips from Sydney it’s also easily accessible by train so make a day of it if you’re looking to experience autumn in all its glory Tumut is a small town in the Snowy Mountains and offers a magical experience during autumn It’s known to showcase one of the most spectacular displays of autumn colours anywhere in all of NSW Don’t miss out on the Falling Leaf Festival which celebrates the town’s rich history with a month of fun-filled activities Another stunning spot in the Blue Mountains the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah spans a sprawling 252 hectares of garden space with cool climate plants and vibrant Japanese maples saturated in bold colours Enveloped in UNESCO World Heritage Area wilderness this botanic garden is the place to visit if you’re looking to reconnect with nature or discover a striking display of autumnal plantings Wentworth Falls is a lovely village in the Blue Mountains with striking maple trees and fiery red foliage An absolute must-see is the tunnel of leaves roofing overhead on the Sinclair Crescent leading to Wentworth Falls Lake forming an Instagram-worthy canopy of colourful leaves The lake is also an idyllic spot to enjoy the sights and the fresh mountain air If you’re looking for an autumn escape that’s close to the city Cattai National Park should definitely be on your radar paddle along the river or go canoeing — there are a number of ways to enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery in the area The Rumsey Rose Garden in Parramatta Park is a true hidden gem offering a variety of over 500 rose species The quiet spot has many shaded areas where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the autumn leaves Macarthur Park in Camden puts on quite a show during autumn Pack a picnic and take in the seasonal colours at this picturesque little spot Don’t forget to check out the walkway through the park for that perfect autumnal shot the NSW Blues squad has thanked the Blue Mountains by welcoming all footy fans to watch them train first-hand Rugby league fans packed the sidelines at the squad's public training session on July 10 held on the oval at Blue Mountains Grammar School Young fans from Katoomba Junior Rugby League Club formed a Guard of Honour to welcome their favourite players to the field the energy was electric as the State of Origin players hit the field with a string of high-fives for the local junior club The NSW Blues squad has been training at Wentworth Falls since late May when they relocated to the Fairmont Resort in Leura for their Blue Mountains camp View +6 PhotosSee local rugby league juniors welcome the NSW Blues squad with a Guard of Honour at Blue Mountains Grammar School.While training sessions since then have been closed to the public, the recent open day was announced as a way to say "thank you" to the local community for their support during the Origin campaign. A NSWRL spokesperson said: "Blue Mountains community members have been invited to watch the team train as a thank you for the warm welcome they have received from locals during their stay at the Fairmont Resort at Leura throughout their preparations for the 2024 Ampol State of Origin Series." The crowd energy was high as this training session marks a pivotal time for the squad with the State of Origin decider looming just a week away NSW Blues forward Liam Martin said the players were "very grateful" that fans turned up in large numbers NSW Blues hold public training session as a 'thank you' to the Blue Mountains"It means everything It's why we play Origin - for our communities It's these people behind us that we play for," he said Footy fans John and Valmai Richardson were among the crowd They said their family are "all mad football fans" he takes it very much to heart," Mr Richardson said "He can tell you every player that's playing don't ask me how many times he's watched the last three Grand Finals." John and Valmai Richardson with their grandson Carter at the NSW Blues public training session at Wentworth Falls on July 10 Picture by Tom WalkerThe public training session adds to a list of connections the NSW squad has made with the Blue Mountains community Last month the players stopped by St Canice's Primary School in Katoomba for a surprise visit The school's Senior Finance Officer Kylie Ranson said: "The team went from classroom to classroom meeting our special students and staff.. The Blues will remain in the Blue Mountains until Sunday July 14 with training sessions to be held at Blue Mountains Grammar School before they shift camp to Brisbane to complete their build-up for game three at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday He swims in polar-blast weather in Wentworth Falls Lake And now Katoomba's Grant Austin is out to set a very unusual record In August he wants to officially become Australia's oldest Ice Miler or at least one of the first as a group of older cold water swimmers attempt the singular extreme feat The 'Ice Mile' is a one-mile (1.6km) swim hosted by the International Ice Swimming Association (IISA) in arctic-like temperatures Swimming is done - unassisted - in temperatures of 5 degrees celsius or below with swimmers only allowed to wear goggles a silicon cap and standard swimming costume - no wetsuits Australia has 30 official ice milers - 19 men and 11 women Katoomba's Grant Austin is training to be an Ice Miler taking part in qualifying swims for the International Ice Swimming Association (IISA) during his 12 months of training Picture B C Lewis.Sixty-year-old Austin successfully completed his ice mile qualifying swim at Wentworth Falls Lake on July 6 the Lake in the Blue Mountains is one of the coldest lakes during winter within two hours of Sydney and a regular training ground for the sport Three times a week the geologist has been surprising the construction team workers who are driving a barge with materials across the lake to build a new accessible bridge around the poles in the water which is well below 10 degrees "They think I'm mad [swimming in the depth of winter] They just wait and drive the barge around me," he said laughing taking part in qualifying swims for the International Ice Swimming Association (IISA) Picture B C Lewis.Austin has been training hard since reading the Blue Mountains Gazette's front page story in 2023 about ice miler specialist coaching by Wentworth Falls's Wyatt Song Song is Australia's first recognised Ice Miler and is now supporting Austin's cold water training As well as buying the ice bath and ice machine to help with acclimatisation yoga and meditation and has given up carbs and beer "I'm 60 and currently no Aussie in their 60's has swum the [official] mile Austin called his qualifying swim a brutal experience He was hampered by not feeling 100 per cent before he started "I was in the water for just under 63 minutes at what I measured as 7.6C water temperature - the official temperature was 8.2C which added 1km to the distance," he said He had a bright red cold burn afterwards from the prolonged exposure to the cold and had to be helped to a warm car to recover "I had nothing left in the tank at the end," he said The geologist will attempt "the ice mile swim proper" in the Snowy Mountains alongside others in his age range who are attempting the same feat everything in your head tells you not to do it," Austin said Swimmers need a certain amount of registered ice swims to qualify for an Ice Mile Wentworth Falls Lake was where Song also did his Ice Mile and English Channel training Katoomba's Grant Austin on his brutal qualifying swim in Wentworth Falls Lake on July 6 with medical assistance nearby in a kayak Picture supplied"The size of the lake isn't too large and the water not too deep so the water temperature changes relative to the change in air temperature quite quick this provides perfect conditions for ice swimmers to train in," Song said In July a West Australian swimmer Barbara Pellick also visited Wentworth Falls Lake successfully completing her qualifying swim while being supported by Austin in a kayak Song said no one over 60 has made a successful ice mile attempt There are four ice miler swimmers aged over 60 - but they all completed their official Ice Miles at 58 or 59 years of age Song said the sport has an "addictive element to it [and] requires you to be very focused .. constantly battling your own fear in extreme conditions" "We often say that an Ice Mile is not completed until the swimmer is recovered from their afterdrop [where swimmers are potentially threatened by hypothermia post swim when the body releases cooler blood back into the core from the extremities for up to an hour afterwards] and are alive," Song said Ice swimming was a demonstration sport at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi Ice Milers are campaigning to make it a regular Winter Olympics sport but detractors say it is too dangerous with dangers including severe hypothermia Swimmers go through an extensive health check along with an ECG and have to be signed off by their doctors before taking part in Ice Miler events They also need to swim up to a certain distance at a given temperature under 11 degrees to qualify for an Ice Mile attempt Swimmers need a water support crew in the kayak for directions and potential rescue and the land crew filming View +4 Photos"During the Ice Mile attempt it is compulsory to have a medical officer on-site and we have a rescue plan as well as a recovery plan," Song said "The Ice Mile challenge is really a team sport." See https://internationaliceswimming.com or contact Wyatt Song on mapstonstel@gmail.com - for details We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy. While we're sure you already have your favourite outdoor baths in sight, for those keen to discover more, we've rounded up some of the most spectacular – but lesser-known – swimming holes across the state From jaw-dropping ocean pools to secret thermal springs plan your next trip around these memorable swims Wentworth Falls Track, Blue Mountains is a 90-minute drive west out of Sydney The region is already home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in NSW but Wentworth Falls wins us over with a cascading display of natural plunge pools trickling down 100-metre sheer sandstone cliffs into the Jamison Valley Add Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool in Kosciuszko National Park to your swims bucket-list This tranquil patch in Southern NSW features a pool fed by a natural spring heated to a balmy 27°C – fabulous for those detouring via the springs during ski season So named for its ability to reflect the blue skies overhead, Blue Pool, Bermagui is a local favourite – a beautiful pool The pool also shared real estate with a thriving marine colony making it a tranquil spot for little ones to enjoy a snorkel and spot fish In the heart of the Wollemi Wilderness area approximately two hours from Sydney lies the Bob Turners Track, Colo Heights This gorgeously remote swim sits in the lower part of the Colo River The beloved Bogey Hole, Newcastle was constructed in the early 1900s and has been a local favourite pretty much ever since attracts a bevvy of ocean lovers and Instagrammers in the summer months The picturesque falls have a significant 30-metre drop Flanked by Manly and Shelly beaches, the Fairy Bower Pool has the advantage of also sitting along the Cabbage Tree Bay Eco Sculpture Walk – art lovers can admire the 'The Sea Nymphs' sculpture adorning the pool's outer edge It was also the first ocean pool to be built on Sydney's North Shore Another local favourite, Mahon Pool, Maroubra is most popular in the mornings offering a serene spot for a soak that feels a million miles away from the surfer set at nearby Maroubra Beach Pick up a takeaway coffee from the cafe opposite the car park and watch the morning sea mist spray swimmers from a rocky perch The pool enjoys a unique sense of seclusion thanks to its rocky outcrop surrounds This sprawling network of pools is one-of-a-kind. As well as sharing real estate with an iconic art deco pavilion, Newcastle Ocean Baths is surrounded by pristine coastline on all sides the complex is about to get a major upgrade and sprucing up the ageing pools and lower promenades Newcastle Ocean Baths is one of this city's outstanding historic landmarks and a popular informal open-air studio for amateur photographers with its distinctive and architecturally significant Art Deco pavilion but this presenter is more well-known than most Andy McConnell started buying and selling antiques at 14 years old but also served an apprenticeship in journalism he returned to writing in 2004 as the author of the acclaimed tome The Decanter He followed this in 2006 with Miller's' 20th Century Glass He writes regularly for journals as diverse as The Times Country Life and Glass Circle News and runs Britain's largest antique and vintage glass gallery in Sussex Andy McConnell will give a talk at Wentworth Falls Picture suppliedHe joined Antiques Roadshow in 2005 as the first specialist to deal solely with glass He keeps visitors entertained with his unique style which he regards as a form of 'street theatre' His passion for his subject is reflected in his personal collection of some 30,000 pieces of glass Andy enjoyed a successful career as a rock and roll journalist in Hollywood he spoke at the United Nations' Palais des Nations at the launch of the UN's Year of Glass in 2022 One item that sticks out in Andy's memory came into the Roadshow at Leeds Town Hall in 2009 This large English wine goblet made from lead glass was an incredible survivor from 1710 The owners (and the watching crowd) were amazed at Andy's valuation and it was later sold for £7,500 His talk is at the Wentworth Falls School of Arts on Friday Visitors should arrive early as seating is limited and priority will be given to members and their guests The society recommends arriving no later than 1.15 to ensure a smooth start to the event Please note: Andy will not be doing appraisals of glass as part of his talk hitting the field at Blue Mountains Grammar School View +3 PhotosRunning warm-ups and drills on May 29 the Origin squad will continue their Blue Mountains trip with more training sessions at the school until Saturday The training sessions are closed to the public adjoining the school's DJ Mulford Sports Centre Blues halfback Nicho Hynes sat out the training session while injured Panthers star Nathan Cleary made a surprise appearance as a spectator told the Gazette: "This is such a unique opportunity that the staff collectively cannot imagine not engaging with it shown training at Blue Mountains Grammar School in Wentworth Falls Picture by Tom Walker"This is bigger than Blue Mountains Grammar School - this is unique for the entire Mountains community of which we have been a part of for over 100 years." Many students were thrilled to see such a high-level team training at their school Year 12 student Tom Hitchenson said: "It's a unique opportunity to witness top-level Origin players up close Year 12 student India Richards said: "This brings a whole new level of excitement to our school environment and makes us proud of our facilities and community spirit." The NSW squad is staying at the Fairmont Resort in Leura Owner Dr Jerry Schwartz told the Blue Mountains Gazette he is "absolutely" excited that they are staying at his resort for their training camp I think that it is a great opportunity for the hotel I believe that it is a great opportunity for the team to have their practice in a healthy environment without the distractions of everyday life." He said while his children were "more into horse riding this is a great opportunity for them (and myself) to become more avid followers of our NSW NRL team!" 4.30PM May 28: The NSW Blues squad will train in the Blue Mountains as preparations get underway for the opening game of the State of Origin series After holding an open media day at Sydney Olympic Park on Tuesday the Blues will relocate to the Fairmont Resort in Leura on Wednesday Jake Trbojevic promises to lead NSW in Origin with his trademark passion Picture Darren England/AAP PHOTOSWhile in camp in the Blue Mountains the players will hold training sessions at Blue Mountains Grammar School at Wentworth Falls on Wednesday Fairmont Resort owner, Dr Jerry Schwartz, told the Gazette in February he hoped to lure the NSW Blues to the hotel to prepare for this year's Origin series. Dr Schwartz said he hopes to continue the connection with the NSW squad with plans to build a new training ground at Leura Golf Course "We propose to build a top-quality football field on part of the golf course which is not used for playing golf The State of Origin series opener will be held at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Wednesday The NSW squad, announced on May 26, includes: remain in a critical condition while a teenage girl is being treated for shock The bodies of a British father and son have been recovered from the Blue Mountains after they were killed in a “freak” landslide Police said the bodies of a nine-year-old boy and his 49-year-old father were recovered near Wentworth Pass at around 9.30am on Tuesday Five members of the same family were caught in the landslide on Monday while on holiday in Australia from the UK A 50-year-old woman and a 14-year-old boy were winched out and taken to hospital on Monday afternoon with significant head and abdominal injuries Police say they have undergone surgery and remain in critical conditions was treated for shock after the landslip on a walking track which was reported to emergency services about 1.40pm on Monday Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning The Wentworth Pass track is a steep and difficult 5km loop that encompasses waterfalls and valley views and can take up to five hours to complete A spokesperson for the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) said the track had been inspected in the days before the incident “The site is currently closed and a comprehensive review will be undertaken,” they said “The walking track where this incident occurred was inspected in the days before the rockslide as part of a routine track assessment program “NPWS has a world class program in place to assess geotechnical risks and maintain the safety of walking tracks and other infrastructure to the greatest extent practicable it is not possible to predict and eliminate all natural risks such as rockslides which can occasionally occur around the state “All of us at NPWS extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family and those affected.” NSW Ambulance chief superintendent Stewart Clarke told Sunrise earlier on Tuesday that all indications were that it was a “freak accident.” “Everything we can glean from the notes during the calls [indicates] that certainly it was a freak accident “What was concerning more so after the fact was the concern that there were still noises being heard after the initial impact which poses a significant risk to the patients as well as our people being sent in.” Clarke added that a multi-agency rescue effort was launched on Monday afternoon to rescue the family “These people who work tirelessly for us are the best in what they do,” Clarke said “They are highly trained and highly skilled but that doesn’t negate the intense risk assessments that were carried out at the time to ensure they were able to use these skills safely to access the patients to deliver some high level clinical care.” NSW police Det Acting Supt John Nelson said: “Unfortunately there’s been a landslip while they’ve been bushwalking He described the 15-year-old as being “extremely distressed” Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill told the Guardian the local community was heartbroken by the tragedy those who come to our beautiful Blue Mountains are taken into our hearts and moments like this cause pain and grief to our entire community.” “This was the holiday of a lifetime for a family that came from overseas While the incident did not occur on council jurisdiction Greenhill said the Blue Mountains City Council was working with National Parks and Wildlife Service in assessing walking tracks in the area Significant rain is predicted later this week Blue Mountains national park will be closed except for Evans and Govetts Leap lookouts and walked the Wentworth Pass track two days before the tragic landslip “I actually thought the trail was quite OK when we walked it These more off the grid tracks are a little less maintained “I honestly didn’t think the trail looked damaged and it didn’t seem to be overly soggy or wet down there.” Tannos said he was shocked to hear of a landslide on the track calling it “just a terrible tragedy” but it looked like it had been there for a few months There was nothing that gave me an indication something like this would happen “I just can’t imagine what they’re going through.” For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link] We responded to over 150,000 incidents in 2023-24 The incidents displayed below are note-worthy incidents that have been published as media releases or tweets Details about incidents may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice North Parramatta | The fire at Dunlop Street, North Parramatta has been contained but is expected to smoulder through the morning. Because there may be smoke in the area, residents and businesses in the vicinity are advised to keep doors, windows, and vents closed. View on X [external link] Fire and Rescue NSW acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders showing how two lives reflect each other between fiction and reality as while she was writing Foreign Attachments she began seeing parts of her own life in her created characters reading a book on the life of Stella Bowen - the inspiration for her own upcoming novel Foreign Attachments Picture by Tom WalkerDespite living in Winmalee for more than 20 years Ms McFarland said she has always inexplicably set her stories in Wentworth Falls - a town which she moved to just two years ago She also researched and wrote much of her new book during COVID lockdowns as her characters lived through a pandemic of Spanish Flu as Ms McFarland's book charts the parallels between an author's life and the life they are writing about Foreign Attachments follows fictional art curator Neve as she completes a biography of real Australian painter known for her prolific work as a war artist during WWII common threads link these two lives of different times and reveal the challenges and emotions they share Ms McFarland said it was sanitised - to avoid details considered scandalous for the time Ms McFarland pieced together the story of Bowen's life through tireless research reading other authors who wrote about Bowen (such as Jean Rhys) The remaining gaps were filled by imagination I became obsessed with Stella myself," Ms McFarland said after a while I know so much about the person that I've got to stop." Ms McFarland said she set out to shine a light on the spectacular life and sweeping accomplishments of a woman mostly underappreciated by history I was thinking to myself: 'I want to write this fictionalised story of Stella Bowen's life' "There are other women artists of her time that seem to be more known than she is She also alluded that the book's story ends in the Blue Mountains - though the "how" behind that is being left as a surprise for readers Foreign Attachments marks the second novel from Ms McFarland, after her 2019 debut All the Lives We've Lived chronicled a baby-boomer recalling a long-past teenage relationship with an Indigenous boy Ms McFarland said this returning method of framing a story - through the mind of another character - was the perfect way to bring creative flair to Bowen's life Bowen's piece titled Bomber Crew was used in stamps issued by Australia Post in 2020 to commemorate Anzac Day. The Art Gallery of New South Wales only recently acquired its first work of Bowen's, Portrait of a young boy Award-winning poet Jo Gardiner wrote the blurb for Foreign Attachments and her short summary said: "By skilfully building a novel within a novel Roslyn McFarland's Foreign Attachments delivers a deeply entertaining and life-filled portrait of the lives of creative women in a novel as richly rendered as one of Bowen's exquisite paintings." Foreign Attachments is set to release in late October to be found in book shops across the Blue Mountains An official book launch will be held at The Grand View Hotel in Wentworth Falls in the lead up to the Blue Mountains Writers Festival Just after midnight last night the Brigade was called to a report of bush alight along the Darwin's Walk track at Jamison Creek Wentworth Falls View the Fires Near Me webpage for the latest update. On arrival crews found a large area of bushland burning with possible property under threat Numerous RFS and Fire & Rescue NSW appliances were sent to the area and thanks to a huge effort from both services the fire was brought under control by about 3:30am As the fire has burnt in areas of swamp and heath there is a very large amount of smouldering material that must be monitored and extinguished RFS and Fire & Rescue NSW personnel will remain on scene throughout the day to black out and patrol A water bucketing helicopter has been requested as a precaution and should be on scene early this morning There is no current threat to surrounding properties severe fire danger conditions are forecast today and this may test containment lines on the fire If you live in this area please take the time to review your bush fire survival plan and the preparedness of your property a few brave souls dipped into a 5 degree celsius Wentworth Falls Lake in the Blue Mountains to swim a mile Blue Mountains specialist coach and Australia's first recognised Ice Miler of Wentworth Falls is supporting their cold water training "Depending on the weekend or how close to the Ice Mile attempt we often see three or four swimmers at a time visiting Wenty Lake to do their training or their qualifier swim," he says "Each season we have up to 12 to 14 swimmers from around Australia giving Ice Mile challenge a crack Many of the swimmers using Wenty Lake as a training ground Wentworth Falls Lake is one of the coldest lakes during the winter season that's within two hours of Sydney "The size of the lake isn't too large and the water not too deep this provides perfect conditions for ice swimmers to train in," he tells the Blue Mountains Gazette 10 women) who have completed a total of 31 Ice Miles two years after successfully swimming the English Channel in a solo swim "When I trained to swim the English Channel I scouted around many places in NSW hoping to find colder water to swim in which is perfect for ice swimming training." Mr Song says the Ice Mile challenge is not for the faint-hearted His first "miserable failed attempt" was in New York "where the water temperature was zero and I didn't last 200 metres" Then he travelled to competitions in Finland Russia and Argentina to learn from experienced ice swimmers "I succeeded in 2014 to swim my first Ice Mile and also became the first Australian to swim an Ice Mile Since then I have swum another two Ice Miles and was the first Australian to record an ice kilometre swim in Antarctica." The IISA was born in 2009 and the term ice swimming was coined Ice swimming is swimming unassisted in water temperatures of 5 degrees Celsius or below a silicon cap and standard swimming costume - no wetsuits are allowed Ireland and the United States lead globally with 135 Swimmers need a certain amount of registered ice swims to qualify Mr Song recently took a team of nine swimmers to the Snowy Mountains to compete in the Australian Cold Water open challenge on August 12 and 13 three managed a one ice kilometre record and two made an Ice Mile record He now hopes to start a regular ice swimming club at the lake with a season from May to September "The adaptation to cold water requires swimmers to seek out cold water to swim in or they often submerge themselves in ice baths as part of the acclimatisation training," he says They also need to swim up to a certain distance at a given temperature under 11 degrees to be qualified to make an Ice Mile attempt "During the Ice Mile attempt it is compulsory to have a medical officer on-site and we have a rescue plan as well as recovery plan in place in order to provide a safe environment "Ice Mile challenge is really a team sport," he says adding it is because swimmers need a water support crew in the kayak for directions and potential rescue and the land crew filming Medical crews oversee the recovery process Mr Song says the sport has an "addictive element to it [and] requires you to be very focused in what you do .. He hopes to start a club for cold water swimming in the lake to promote the sport to a wider audience The other challenge is to find funding for the sport and venues suitable for national or international ice swimming competition See https://internationaliceswimming.com or contact Wyatt Song on the email - mapstonstel@gmail.com - for details Falls Road (formerly Boonara Street) and Jamison Creek The Blue Mountains Shire Council's approval of the name Wilson had been reported in The Blue Mountain Echo (17.9.1926) the area referred to was a fine site situated near the tennis courts It had been known as the Village Green and was part of the large area entrusted to the Wentworth Falls Reserves Trust That Trust had agreed that this small section be beautified for public use The chosen name of Wilson was popular with the citizens of Wentworth Falls because it recognised two old pioneers of the village from its Weatherboard days Charles Wilson had served on the Wentworth Falls Reserves Trust and also on the Cemetery Board Trust In 1866 he built a house where the old post office now stands This establishment housed the navvies who were working on the approaching railway line Also on the site was his family home where his son In the 1880s Charles erected a weatherboard hotel He leased the hotel from 1885 until 1902 when his son became licensee and re-named it the Grand View Billy had previously been a butcher in Lawson but enthusiastically threw himself into the role of hotelkeeper Around 1926 the family built a garage on land Billy owned west of the hotel once it had been named shortly after Billy's death and further payments through unemployment relief but most of the funds to create and develop the park were raised by public appeal a truly magnificent effort during the Depression was created by the local unemployed who were paid to work alongside those volunteers donating time in lieu of money The Blue Mountain Star (25/10/1930) headlined the discovery of relics of convict days in Wilson Park where members of the Wentworth Falls Urban Committee had been helping with work in the park several percussion caps and a number of copper coins - penny This discovery linked the park with the past Its beautification looked towards the future Wyrdbooks takes pride in its collection of sci-fi offering something for enthusiasts and new readers owner Wayne van Staden has been delighted by the welcoming reception of the public and local businesses Mr van Staden has dreamed of owning his own bookstore leading him to become a giant collector of more than 17,000 fantasy and sci-fi books "My personal collection has been so large that I got out of space," he said Mr van Staden took it upon himself to preserve the novel heritage "My concern was that if I didn't take the shop now someone else will take it and it might end up as something else Mr van Staden has spent years creating connections and expanding his network with publishers facilitating his clientele with early access to limited editions Wyrdbooks houses a rare collection of limited editions some of which are one of 200 or 500 copies available in the world He recalls the joy he experienced reading fantasy novels as a young teenager later developing an appreciation for the detailed artwork of book design and illustrations "Not only do I love the stories but I have fallen in love with the actual book and the artistry of the book itself," he said a place for people across multiple generations to connect and share their interest for the love of reading "We get mothers and fathers with their children and they take them around 'what about this one or that one' and they're really engaged with the child You can't get that on the internet," said Wayne It's the exclusivity that distinguishes Wyrdbooks from other book stores It offers limited edition novels that feature beautiful art works textures and even signed copies from renowned authors "I want people to be able to handle and see really beautiful editions and experience what that looks like and I want them to be able to have novels that are accessible and cheap," he said Mr van Staden recently bought a property in Wentworth Falls where he plans to retire The store is currently open four days a week as he concurrently works his day job as well "A number of people told me that I'm living their dream and I correct them that I'm living my dream," he said He initially lived in Katoomba but bought a house in Wentworth Falls two years ago with his partner it’s a great little village to live in,” Stewart says “There’s a real sense of community – we’ve all got each other’s numbers we leave notes in the letterboxes if we’re away It reminds me of Sydney when I was a child where everyone knew each other and you talked over the fence.” Stewart is the owner of the iconic Silk’s Brasserie which operated from Leura Mall for more than 25 years before relocating to Silvermere Guest House in Wentworth Falls last year The charming house and gardens have proven the perfect setting for Silk’s sophisticated food and service and Stewart has the “wonderful problem” of regularly turning diners away due to having a full house Locals Jelena and Bart Biazik secured a booking earlier this year and agree it’s the perfect restaurant for a special occasion The Sydney areas where it takes home buyers less time to save for a unit Sydney home Angelina Jolie used to secretly travel to Cockatoo Island listed for $11m The Biaziks moved from Sydney’s Newington to Wentworth Falls in January “Both of our companies were quite flexible with us working from home,” says Bart “I was working in Bella Vista for the last four years but now I can go into the office two to three times a week.” The couple were regular visitors to the mountains while living in Sydney and were married in Blackheath so when they made the decision to leave city life behind they spent six months exploring the villages especially after discovering the lake on the town’s north side “There are paddleboards and kayaks on the lake [and] water holes for swimming,” Jelena says and their favourite walks in the area include National Pass and the Valley of the Waters track McGrath Blue Mountains agent Matthew Gale has lived in Wentworth Falls his whole life and says the town is great for “outdoorsy” people He says it also offers just enough amenity for daily convenience while still maintaining the “peace and quiet” the locals love “We do the bulk of our shopping in Wentworth Falls – there’s a great butcher and great general stores,” Matthew says The Biaziks are fans of Bakery Patisserie Schwarz and Gale adds Il Postino’s as a favourite for both breakfast and lunch This offering of two titles and two homes is set within walking distance of the Conservation Hut The character-filled larger residence is wrapped in beautiful gardens and has four bedrooms and a selection of living spaces while the two-bedroom cottage has its own rustic charm Matthew Gale of McGrath Blue Mountains is selling the home with a guide of $3 million. The information on this website is intended to be of a general nature only and doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. where we are privileged to live and operate A notoriously steep and treacherous bushwalking track where a British father and his son were crushed to death in a landslide passed a safety inspection just days earlier The freak incident at Wentworth Falls, west of Sydney, on Monday afternoon came after a week of torrential rain in the Blue Mountains. A traumatised 15-year-old girl watched as her father, 49, and young brother, nine, were fatally struck before her eyes about 1.40pm. Her mother, 50, and another brother, 14, are were also hit by the falling rocks and are now fighting for life in a critical condition.  The family were permitted to use the advanced Wentworth Pass track, famous for its stunning waterfall views and valley lookouts, despite weeks of wild weather making the area dangerous for hikers.  NSW National Parks confirmed the 5km loop was inspected days before the landslide as part of a routine assessment program. 'Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict and eliminate all natural risks such as rockslides, which can occasionally occur around the state,' a statement read.   The Wentworth Pass track is considered as having a grade four difficulty under NSW National Park and Wildlife Service guidelines, which recommends only experienced bushwalkers use it.      But several areas around Wentworth Falls have been closed since March 11 due to flood damage, with a major landslip recently shutting down Kedumba Valley Road, which is next to the trail.   National Pass, another trail about 350 metres away from Monday's deadly incident, has also been closed for the past few weeks due to an 'ongoing rockfall risk'.    A man who was at the popular tourist spot about the same time as the Brits on Monday told Daily Mail Australia he cautiously cut his hike short because the ground was muddy and stairways were wet and he'd recently suffered a leg injury on a trek.   In an post an hour after the tragedy, trail running organiser Ultra-Trail Australia announced the Wentworth Falls track was due to be upgraded later this week to make sure it was safe in time for their upcoming event.  'We've been working closely with [National Parks and Council teams] to ensure that our courses will be good to go come 12-15 May, and we're confident that they will be ready in five weeks time,' the group wrote on their Facebook page about 2.30pm.  'Parks has asked us to let you all know about a few upcoming track closures this week on Thursday 7th and Friday 8th of April (weather dependent), which include sections of course near Fairmont Resort and Wentworth Falls.'  However, hours after the deaths, NSW National Park and Wildlife Service announced the section would be closed indefinitely. 'The Wentworth Falls and Valley of the Waters precincts are closed following a rockfall incident,' the department wrote on their website. 'Please avoid this area until further notice.'  Hiking fanatics who visited the same trail in recent days have expressed their shock and offered condolences to the British family online.  'This is the trail we completed two days earlier and were unaware of any dangers at the time,' they wrote on Facebook. 'Our thoughts are with the families of these walkers'.  The family were holidaying in Australia from the UK, NSW Police have confirmed, and the British Consulate is now assisting. Authorities are still working to determine whether the landslide fell on the group while they were walking along a bush track, or if they were trekking along the cliff face that fell.    'Unfortunately there's been a landslip while they were bushwalking and a man and a boy have passed away,' NSW Police Detective Acting Superintendent John Nelson said. 'In terms of the site, it's extremely dangerous and unstable,'  'Two other patients are critical, with head and abdominal injuries, requiring sedation before extraction.' The teen who narrowly escaped being swept away is being hailed a hero after she raised the alarm in a frantic call to Triple-0 around 1.30pm. It's understood the distraught girl told the operator: 'I don't know where we are'.  She walked from the scene with the help of emergency crews, which involved trekking for an hour-and-a-half along the hiking track. Police said the girl was uninjured but 'extremely distressed' and was later treated by paramedics for shock before being taken to hospital.   Police crews returned to the scene early on Tuesday morning to recover the bodies of the man and boy. The retrieval of the bodies was a planned and delicate operation due to the nature of the terrain at the site.   It's understood several bushwalkers on the track assisted rescue workers after coming across the harrowing scenes.  Major terror attack 'was just HOURS away' before it was foiled by the special forces and police:... Victim of acid attack 'plotted by his ex-partner who teamed up with a gang' dies in hospital six... We are trapped in unsellable newbuild homes after a £52m dual carriageway was built on our... Horror as $4.5M influencer-laden yacht SINKS off Miami... after glam women made a rookie maritime... How Meghan's biggest cheerleader brokered Harry's disastrous BBC interview - three months after... Woman dead and three others including a child injured after car ploughed into pedestrians: Man, 49,... Pub is forced to pay family £75,000 after wrongly accusing them of 'dine and dash' over £150... 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Walking track passed safety inspection days before deadly landslideCommenting on this article has endedNewest{{#isModerationStatus}}{{moderationStatus}} This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Wentworth Falls Bowling Club which has been running since the Great Depression View +10 PhotosCOVID closes doors at Wenty Bowling ClubIn an email to members on June 15 the club advised that COVID-19 and some earlier financial losses meant Wentworth Falls Bowling Club would not be reopening and that Katoomba RSL was in the early stages of seeking to amalgamate it with another registered club The statement said Board members recently met with the bowling club executive and blamed the severe impact of the loss of trade and future trading due to COVID-19 substantial losses by the bowling club since it was acquired in 1993 and the current financial needs relating to the total rebuild of Katoomba RSL The site is owned by Katoomba RSL and according to council is zoned RE2 - private recreation including residential flat buildings and multi-dwelling housing Wentworth Falls Bowling Club president Simon Christie said it was "disappointing" but not unexpected "We were told many years ago at an annual general meeting before the RSL burnt down [in February 2017] that it was a disposal asset." Some members were upset that the bowling club had kept the "mother club" going after the fire making the bowling club a "lifeboat" for the RSL this was the only premises to entertain the members they've gone with their original intentions There certainly is a lot of debate about the bowling club being used as a lifeboat," he added There are 40 bowling members and the club has 16 poker machines He said the bowlers were hopeful the Board's negotiations would be successful with larger groups like Panthers and Mingara successfully taking over other bowling clubs in the Lower Mountains Mr Christie said the RSL did invest in a new building at Wentworth Falls in 1997/1998 and he understood the Wentworth Falls club had been a loss maker for two decades.The news follows the loss of Blackheath and Katoomba bowling clubs which the RSL had acquired and later sold off Katoomba RSL president Brian Turner said there would be no job losses the club is simply inviting Expressions of Interest from other registered clubs with a view to retaining a registered club with a bowling facility at Wentworth Falls," he said The board's statement said that to "continue without acting is unsustainable" and it recognised the club was "an integral part of community life and earnestly wishes that this continues to be the case for years to come" "In seeking to amalgamate Wentworth Falls Bowling Club with another registered club the Board of Katoomba RSL All Services Club is moving in a direction to ensure its continued community presence into the future." The community has bemoaned the loss of "the last bowling green in the Upper Mountains" The RSL "wanted to close the bowling [club] for years," Leonie Hewitt said "It will be just like all the other clubs the RSL has taken over we all know the bowling club was earmarked to be closed" Another Michael Whyte asked whether the statement was "code for we will shortly be selling the site of your popular club to a developer to build units?" Tracy Barraclough said the bowling club "sustained membership and guests in the absence of the Katoomba RSL whilst rebuilding took place that engages all sorts from many walks of life Surely it is in the best interests of resale and community support to reopen." Seems COVID-19 and ongoing poor financials have sealed the deal I guess it will be sold off for some ugly development It's sad seeing the favourite haunts of the 'old Mountains' retreating and disappearing." called a potential 'takeover' of the small club as "the best move possible from the RSL to keep Wenty alive" This is probably not the page you’re looking for N.Y. (2/14/25) The Dominican University New York men's volleyball team played two matches this afternoon as they hosted Wentworth on Coach Baxter Court before traveling to Brooklyn for a rematch with the Sharks of Long Island University Dominican opened the day with a 3-0 loss to Wentworth and then followed up with a 3-0 loss in their rematch with LIU Match One: The Chargers fell in non-conference action to the Leopards of Wentworth Institute of Technology to open the afternoon.  The Leopards earned the 3-0 win after a 25-13 victory in the opening set and followed up with a 25-20 win in the second set and a 25-21 win in the third set.  Wentworth improves to 11-1 overall while the Chargers fall to 1-9 overall Jacob Davidson led the Chargers in kills with six kills while also adding five digs, one service ace, and one block assist. Sebastian Rodriguez finished with four kills Alejandro Miranda picked up a team-high eight digs while Carsen Gore recorded six digs. Jaiden Wilcox led the way in assists with 10 while recording four digs.  Match Two: The Chargers hit the road for a rematch with the Sharks of LIU.  Dominican fell to the Sharks 3-0 to bring their overall record to 1-10 on the season LIU opened the match with a 25-21 win and then edged the Chargers 25-23 in the second set LIU closed out the sweep with a 25-19 victory in set three Blake Krapf led the way with 10 kills and 11.5 points scored. Krapf also finished with one block assist, one service ace, and two assists. Ayden Shaw picked up six kills and two block assists for eight points while Gavin Tate five kill Jamel Toste recorded a team-high 22 assists along with four kills The Chargers return to action this Sunday when they host Daemen University on Coach Baxter Court in the Hennessy Center at 11:00 AM.  470 Western Highway Hennessy Center Orangeburg © 2023 All Rights Reserved By Prestosports We use cookies to ensure you have the best browsing experience on our website. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understood our Privacy Policy & Terms of Service but a cap of 500 people has been placed on events with organisers of larger events forced to contact council on a case-by-case basis to book A push is now also on to prioritise a parking precinct for the lake and to seek funding to complete a loop walk The loop walk is included in the masterplan and will see a shared pedestrian and bike path go right around the lake View +1 PhotosAlmost ready to open: Climbing tower giant slide and swings at Wentworth Falls Lake Park.These amendments were raised by Ward 2 Cr Romola Hollywood and supported by the rest of the councillors at the June council meeting The Wentworth Falls Lake plan of management and masterplan has now been adopted and will guide future development Cost of the current improvements are worth $1.395 million The big expenses are the new $600,000 play equipment funded by council ($400,000) and also an Everyone Can Play grant ($200,000) plus an accessible walkway over the dam wall ($410,000) and bridge ($225,000) funded through the Western Sydney City Deal Liveability project which includes contributions from council and the state and federal governments Council was told there are only spaces for 150 cars and residents were concerned larger events would bring extra cars Cr Hollywood said residents were also concerned about event frequency - "as often as monthly" Council will consult with the community if any further increases to activities at the lake are planned An informal kick around space will be included below the dam wall The floating pontoon for swimmers will go ahead in the middle of the lake Paid parking is allowed under the plan of management to pay for the increased maintenance but council plans would look into how it can minimise impacts on nearly residential streets Concerns were also raised about the night-time toilet lighting and council will look at replacing the current lights and add a timer in the short term Cr Hollywood said: "It is very exciting to see the playground coming together It's great to see the long-called for loop walk in the masterplan "Completing the loop walk would really enhance the recreational activities for our community and protect the environment "A designated path will prevent people from tromping through the swamp and making their own trails." Cr Hollywood said "the resolution also provides for .. to go ahead if a report comes to council for approval" "This would enable our community and event organisers to have a say and ensure we get the balance right." The play area is expected to be finished next week with the rubberised soft fall being poured last weekend PIcture suppliedA bid by the would-be developers of the 'Croc Park' at Wentworth Falls to change some of its plans has been rejected by the Department of Planning It means the company now has just 48 hours to lodge its environment impact statement or face making a new application to the department In theory the proponents still have till the 30th of June to lodge some sort of EIS.. They also still have an existing consent for an earlier incarnation of the project." The BHWRAG group is meeting tonight [June 29] to work out its ongoing strategy has foreshadowed taking legal action to have the decision reviewed with animals including freshwater and saltwater crocodiles as well as accommodation and a multi-storey car park The $110 million project was given state significant development (SSD) status by the previous state government the company sought to amend the secretary's environmental assessment requirements (SEARs) arguing its new plans had significant changes But in a letter to the company yesterday [June 28] the Planning Secretary said "the key issues for the proposal have not changed as a result of the amendments" so the 2021 SEARs stood giving Aesthete just two days to lodge its environmental impact statement and SSD application The letter added: "If you do not lodge the SSD application prior to 1 July 2023 you will need to seek new SEARs for the proposal via the department's major projects portal." immediately wrote to the department pleading procedural unfairness Mr Amirbeaggi wrote: "Your office has taken approximately six months to respond to the request for amended SEARs made and has now responded two business days out from the asserted sunset date "Your office represented [expressly in writing] that it was satisfied that the amended SEARs was necessary and would seek government agency comment prior to issuing the amended SEARs It has now changed its position without explanation two business days from the asserted sunset date the company should have a new "sunset date" two years from yesterday's date to lodge a DA "We invite you to reconsider the position you have taken and confirm that the period for making of the development application is extended to 28 June Please do so by close of business tomorrow [June 29] absent which our client will on 30 June 2023 file its summons seeking judicial review of your decision." only a few kilometres from their first one In a Blue Mountains City Council meeting in February the rezoning application at 263 Blaxland Road Wentworth Falls (Place of Public Worship) was unanimously rejected by all Blue Mountains councillors (with the exception of Cr Kevin Schreiber who was absent) The matter was initially deferred by council in September 2021 so the new council could be briefed Cr Romola Hollywood said during that period "a number of community members reached out to express concern about the proposed changes to the LEP [Local Environment Plan 2015] after the story appeared in the Gazette" The LEP is a document which was created with significant community input The plans had hinged on being allowed to alter the LEP - to amend the current permit use at the 1970s brick home Cr Hollywood said she was concerned it could set a precedent It's vital we maintain the integrity and principles of our LEP," Cr Hollywood said Council noted advice from the Local Planning Panel stating it was inconsistent with permitted uses for the E4 - Environmental Living zone Council had concerns about closeness to natural water courses flowing into bush and World Heritage National Park slope constraints and that the land is bushfire prone It also noted the importance of protecting native flora and fauna The proposal for 11 car parking spaces would "dramatically increase the hard surfaces having adverse impact on natural absorption of rainfall and attendant stormwater management issues" Cr Hollywood said increased hard surfaces could "adversely affect the sensitive ecological communities below it" Numerous residents expressed concerns about "speeding traffic limited parking on verges [that] were already known to council prior to this planning proposal" Wentworth Falls resident Richard Madigan was pleased Cr Hollywood pushed for the project not to go ahead and that the other councillors supported it our councillors are serious about their responsibilities ...There are properties in other zones where the proposed use is acceptable," he said "This may not be over yet - as the applicant can now go direct to the State - so we all need to remain concerned and vigilant there should never be any change made to an LEP unless it benefits the wider community and has overall community support In this case it is a rezoning application that There is a current Brethren Christian community church operating at 4 West Street The church has been operating in the area since 1898 A third property - the former Wentworth Falls Bowling Club - has also been bought by a member of the church but will form a separate development application before council The Leura Gospel Trust submitted a 240 page document with their application Trust spokesman Nelson Clark told the Gazette last year they had been liaising with council staff for three years on the proposal and were also talking to staff about possible plans for the former bowling club The church said the facility would be limited to twice weekly services for 40 churchgoers who lived close by Windows would be closed during the service to limit noise and there would be no band The applicant can appeal via a State Government process The Trust has been approached for further comment and Elizabeth Molony.A group of Blue Mountains volunteers has been busy keeping a food service running during the COVID-19 pandemic Wentworth Falls Mobile Community Pantry has been running since the start of 2019 It is one of more than 50 mobile pantries operated by Anglicare Sydney across the Sydney and Illawarra regions offering discounted groceries to anyone who visits Holy Trinity Anglican Church at Wentworth Falls was running the pantry alongside a cafe and op-shop only the food pantry has been able to operate Warring Neilsen co-ordinates the volunteers at the church and knows first-hand of the need across the Blue Mountains "It's important we are there to help our community We want to provide hope and be that light on the hill for the Blue Mountains," he said About 30 people were using service regularly before COVID-19 struck ranging in villages from Katoomba to Glenbrook People only need to register to access the service; no questions are asked the food is there for them," said Mr Neilsen Local volunteers are determined to keep serving at the pantry even if the NSW government reimposes restrictions "We are taking every precaution to be COVID-Safe We have hand sanitisers and practice social distancing We want to make sure we're there helping people in need," said Mr Neilsen Wentworth Falls Anglican Church's Mobile Community Pantry operates every Friday fortnight from 9.30-10.30am Local volunteers are planning to reopen the op-shop on that day too Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Wentworth Falls is located at 17 Armstrong Street, Wentworth Falls. Call 4757 1516 or email office@holytrinityanglican.org.au All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA fifth member of the group was being helped out by emergency services The rescue operation was undertaken at Wentworth Falls near Wentworth Pass in the Blue Mountains on Monday afternoon NSW Ambulance Acting Chief Superintendent Stewart Clarke said it is "absolutely heartbreaking for all involved and a truly tragic ending to what I'm sure was meant to be a pleasant day out" "It is terribly sad to have lost two lives here today and my heart goes out to the families and the survivors of this horrific ordeal who have witnessed what is certainly a traumatic event," he said "This was a really complex and delicate rescue operation for our crews who were working to access patients in rugged bushland and were navigating unstable ground." Seven paramedic road crews including special operations paramedics and two rescue helicopters with a critical care doctor and a critical care paramedic on board were dispatched to the scene shortly after 1.40pm paramedics found five people: two with critical injuries one was uninjured and two died at the scene The fifth member of the walking party - a teenager - was making her way out from the incident assisted on the journey by emergency services A NSW Police media spokeswoman said emergency services were called to Wentworth Pass Wentworth Falls about 1.40pm Monday "due to concerns for the welfare of five bushwalkers following a landslip near the pass" A Blue Mountains Gazette reporter at the scene said there were about 50 emergency services vehicles there, including from the NSW Ambulance, Police Rescue, Fire and Rescue NSW, Police and National Parks and Wildlife staff. The rescue is taking place in the area of the popular Wentworth Pass Loop walking track State Emergency Services volunteers have arrived on the scene and join National Parks climbers and Police Rescue specialists who have been taken into a briefing Today's top stories curated by our news team Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your digital replica of Today's Paper reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over