Nepean River, Our River

The Nepean River | Yandhai (Darug) is Our River. The Nepean River is the main waterway that runs through the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA). When it rains, the water flows through our creeks into the Nepean River and eventually empties into the Tasman Sea. Our waterways and the native vegetation that lines their banks contribute to essential ecosystem services, providing for invertebrates, fish, birds, and other wildlife, as well as human life by providing clean water, clean air, and food.

We created a video series to highlight the importance of the Nepean River and the efforts Penrith City Council and Camden Council take to protect the water quality. We’ve also included simple ways that we can all help as custodians of our waterways.

In Penrith, the Nepean River is a key focal point for enjoying water sports, wildlife watching, rest and relaxation. It is vital that we safeguard this opportunity. In our homes, at our businesses and through our volunteering efforts, each of us can make a significant difference through simple actions such as shopping with water quality in mind and managing our litter and chemical use.

The Nepean River, Our River video series introduces the measures that are being implemented by both councils to protect and enhance our waterways. Water Sensitive Urban Design, water quality testing and reporting via Council’s website, and special projects are targeted at safeguarding the integrity of our river.

Nepean River, Our River: Introduction

The Nepean River, Our River video series introduces the measures that are being implemented by both councils to protect and enhance our waterways. Water Sensitive Urban Design, water quality testing and reporting via Council’s website, and special projects are targeted at safeguarding the integrity of our river.

Healthy Waterways

Have you ever wondered where the Nepean River starts? The Healthy Waterways video shows the humble beginnings of the mighty Nepean River before it meanders its way through the Camden and Penrith LGAs and eventually empties into the Tasman Sea. You will also get to learn more about Council’s efforts and nature-based approaches to care for our river. In addition, the video highlights the importance of the Nepean River to our lifestyle, our food, and our wildlife.

Links to additional information:

• Nepean River — There are many things to do down by the Nepean River, from activities such as walking the Great River Walk, picnicking by the river, boating, and enjoying a meal at the Nepean River Restaurant Precinct.
• Great River Walk — The Great River Walk offers stunning scenery along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River. Take your bike, pack a picnic or put on your walking shoes and visit the Great River Walk as it passes through Penrith at the foot of the Blue Mountains.
• Bushland — Our Bushcare team hosts a variety of events and volunteer opportunities near waterways to help conserve the natural environment of the water system and the land around it. 

Water Quality Monitoring

Penrith Council monitors the health of the Nepean River by conducting water quality testing. This video introduces the range of tests that are performed, the activities that impact on our water quality and the simple but highly effective actions we can all take to protect it.

Links to additional information:

• Water Quality Testing — Council conducts weekly bacterial testing at four sites along the Nepean River. Learn more about what recreational water monitoring and why we do it. 
• Litter free Penrith — One of the ways we can keep our waterways clean is by ensuring we dispose of our litter correctly. 
• NSW Government What can you do to stop water pollution? — If you're interested in doing your part and decreasing the water pollution around you, the NSW Government has compiled a detailed list of tips on what you should and shouldn't do. 

Water Sensitive Urban Design

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) introduces the main strategy for storm water management and treatment in new developments. WSUD principles mimic natural processes that help protect water quality. This video also introduces other evidence-based strategies such as rain gardens, bioswales, gross pollutant traps and constructed wetlands that are being used effectively in Penrith. We are all custodians of our waterways. Council strategies and what we do in our homes, our workplaces and our natural areas matter to the Nepean River, Our River.

Link to additional information:

• Water Sensitive Urban Design — Our webpage is a great resource if you’re interested in learning more about Water Sensitive Urban Design.