As the cost-of-living continues to soar, Parramatta and Cumberland locals are in search of more affordable ways to beat the heat this summer.
It’s no secret that soaring electricity prices has made people reluctant to use their air-con, with new research from Compare the Market confirming more than half of Australians plan on cutting back in the hotter months this year.
“Experts are warning that we’re in for a warm summer and the reality is that with the price of electricity increasing, it’s going to cost us more to keep cool at home than it has in the past,” Compare the Market’s Head of Energy Meredith O’Brien said.
“While some of us can’t resist the urge to blast the air-con on the coolest setting on those warm, muggy days, it’s important to know that this can be one of the key drivers to a higher summer electricity bill.”
But with a range of affordable ways for locals to stay cool in Parramatta and Cumberland, you don’t need to break the bank to fight the rising temperature this summer:
Lake Parramatta Reserve
Just two kilometres from the Parramatta CBD, Lake Parramatta Reserve has been helping locals cool down in summer for decades. Open for swimming from October each year, the lake is fully patrolled by lifeguards and is safe for children to paddle in as well as big enough for the adults who want to swim laps.
Once you’ve cooled down, enjoy a picnic with friends on the surrounding grass or enjoy a cool drink from the Lake Parramatta café.
Libraries
For students looking to find a cool place to study or for those who are just after a space to escape the heat, local libraries can’t be beat. Free and air-conditioned, facilities like the new Parramatta Library at PHIVE have more than enough space for locals of all ages to stretch out and enjoy a book or two without worrying about the rising temperature.
Local pools
There’s plenty of local pools across both the Parramatta and Cumberland Local Government Areas (LGAs) where residents can make a splash this summer. In Cumberland, locals can dive into one of the three pools at Granville Swim Centre, or take swim lessons at the Merrylands Swim Centre, which also offers free parking.
The recently opened Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC) is also a fun new hotspot to dive into during these warmer months. With a 50 metre 10-lane Olympic sized heated outdoor pool, 25 metre 8-lane heated indoor pool and dedicated learn-to-swim indoor pool, as well as a fitness centre, PAC is another great option for locals.
Shopping centres
When in doubt, a trip to your local shopping centre can often help to defeat the rising heat. Whether it’s window shopping at Westfield Parramatta or enjoying a meal at Stockland Merrylands, visiting a shopping centre during a heatwave can provide just that extra bit of relief.
Movies
Although it’s no secret movies aren’t as affordable as they once used to be, it still beats seeing your electricity bill. Plus, it’s a great way to entertain the kids and yourself this summer, without feeling exhausted from the heat.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.