On Sunday 16 June, the Camden community celebrated the highly anticipated opening of the Nepean River Trail. Linking Camden Town Farm and Ferguson Land Cricket Ground, the walkway features five trails, varying in length and difficulty level.

The Trail, an initiative of Camden Council, enhances public spaces along the Nepean River, and was made possible with $5.1 million of funding secured through the NSW Government’s Public Spaces Legacy Program.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney officially opened the Trail with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and an invitation for the community to enjoy live entertainment, demonstrations by local artists, hosted tours, activities for all ages including bush care and refreshments ahead of a pleasant stroll along the 4.2km Trail.

The Trail is set to be a beacon for visitors to the region, who will be delighted with improved visitor amenities including upgraded pathways and boardwalks, tree plantings, water stations, exercise equipment and increased seating opportunities, along with Camden’s first official public art trail.

Acclaimed artists including Peter Day, Jane Cavanough, Kevin Vo, Graham Chalcroft, Mark McClelland, Cathy Drew and Brode Compton take pride of place alongside works by local artists Melissa Barton, Michele Arentz and Roger Percy. In addition, 34 signposted points of interest featuring illustrations by local artists, provide insight into the rich agricultural heritage of Camden and surrounds, making the Trail as educational as it is beautiful.

Mayor Cagney was delighted to see the project fulfilled.

“The Trail has something for everyone. You can come experience Camden’s natural beauty and our agricultural heritage with a stroll through the Farm and Ferguson Land,” she said.

“I am blown away by the artistic talent in our community and the dedication of our volunteers who give back to the Farm, helping make projects like these possible.”

“I encourage everyone in the community to visit this incredible new asset for Camden!”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government has invested $5.1 million to improve connectivity between Camden Town Centre and the Nepean River.

“This fantastic new trail showcases the natural beauty and storied local heritage Camden has to offer,” Mr Scully said.

“Our Government is committed to providing high-quality open spaces for communities like Camden to love the place they live.”

Member for Camden Sally Quinnell said, “The Nepean River is so important to the people of Camden and now we get to enjoy it’s beauty and majesty every day.”

“The art we can now enjoy along the walkway shows the depth of talent we have in our region.”

“I am proud to be a part of a Government that is focused on supporting the artistic and recreational pursuits of communities like Camden”