Edward Trickett NSW Grade Championships Regatta - Change of Location

Edward Trickett NSW Grade Championships Regatta – Change of Location

As you would be aware, the Penrith area in recent weeks was heavily affected by flooding with the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) experiencing heavy rainfall that resulted in flooding throughout the venue.
SIRC acts as the control point for the wider Penrith Lakes precinct, therefore all the surrounding flooded areas must flow through SIRC for the levels to subside across all catchments. Whilst water levels have decreased over the past two weeks the water that has been flowing through the lakes has been nutrient rich, and has brought sediment, bacteria, and other contaminants into the lakes. As a result, the Regatta Centre has experienced a significant outbreak in toxic Blue Green Algae (cyanobacteria).

The water at SIRC has been tested and analysed twice a week with the results indicating that the lakes at the venue are unsuitable for primary and secondary contact due to the presence of persistent and extensive cyanobacteria scums. This also makes the surrounding areas (e.g., walking/cycling paths) unsuitable for use due to the risks to public health.

Venue Management have informed Rowing NSW that the Regatta Centre will be closed to all primary and secondary activities and to the general public until further notice and that unfortunately the venue is not safe to host the 2021 Edward Trickett NSW Grade Championship Regatta this weekend. Due to this, a change of venue is required.

CHANGE OF LOCATION

Rowing NSW has investigated suitable alternative venues to hold the regatta at short notice. We are currently confirming the Nepean River as the location to host the Edward Trickett NSW Grade Championship Regatta. We have applied for an aquatic licence with the Department of Maritime and Roads which we are awaiting approval on as well as Penrith City Council approval. The Rowing NSW team is currently working through additional logistics of this change and will communicate further information and confirmation of the regatta as soon as possible. We are mindful that this move will impact clubs and the crews that they enter or have entered already. As such entries for the regatta will now close at 2:00pm Wednesday 14th April. In the event that the event cannot proceed then all seat fees will be refunded.

We thank you for your understanding and we hope to see you on the water.

Margot Harley
CEO Rowing NSW