A key section of the iconic Great West Walk at Robin Hood Park along Toongabbie Creek has been restored, improving community access along the 140km walking route.

Council stabilised the creek bank using rock-filled bags, an innovative first for the City, delivering a lower-impact solution suited to the constrained site to strengthen the creek for the long term.

The $1 million project also included the replacement of a timber pedestrian bridge that has reached the end of its serviceable life.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the project highlights Council’s commitment to maintaining essential infrastructure while protecting the environment.

“This is about restoring our much-loved community spaces to make them safe and accessible while ensuring they are resilient and sustainable for years to come,” Cr Zaiter said.

“This project not only brings back a well-used section of the Great West Walk, it will also improve the health of Toongabbie Creek and strengthen this natural asset for future generations.” 

Key features of the project include:

• Replacement of ageing timber pedestrian bridge to improve safety and access 
• Reinstatement of the walking track lost due to erosion 
• Revegetation with native plants to support biodiversity and long-term creek health

This project was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, with additional funding from City of Parramatta.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said that families, walkers and visitors can once again enjoy this important part of the local environment.

“Flooding and erosion closed this section of the track and disrupted an important local walking connection. Reopening it restores access through Robin Hood Park and reconnects this part of the Great West Walk,” Minster Hoenig said

“This project shows what can be achieved when the NSW Government and local councils work together to repair community infrastructure and deliver practical improvements for local residents.”

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said thatnatural disasters can take a heavy toll on beloved outdoor spaces, which is why the joint Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements are so crucial.  

“We are pleased to partner with the Federal Government and the City of Parramatta to deliver this essential restoration work,” Minister Saffin said.

“Stabilising the creek bank and reopening the walking track means we are not only restoring access today, but building back better to safeguard this beautiful natural corridor against future weather events.”