Liverpool’s award-winning kayak launching pad
Liverpool is making waves again after its trend-setting Accessible Kayak Launchpad at Light Horse Park took out a major win at the 2026 Boomtown! Project of the Year Awards.
The uniquely designed facility won the Outstanding Community Infrastructure category and was recognised alongside Parramatta Council’s upgraded Shannons Paddock Playground.
Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun said the win shows Liverpool is leading the way on inclusive public spaces.
“This launch proves what a community can achieve when it is determined to include everyone,” he said.
“It is setting the example in New South Wales, and it gives every person, regardless of mobility, the chance to get out on the Georges River and enjoy it.”
The kayak launch was delivered with support from the NSW Government’s Boating Now and Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Programs.
Built to Australian Disability Access Standards, it has re-shaped the state standard for kayak launching pads because of the unique way it simplifies the way people using mobility aids can enter the water safely and independently.
The design has already attracted interest from other councils and state agencies and is being copied elsewhere.
The project is also contributing to the wider transformation of Light Horse Park.
“An under‑used stretch of riverfront has now become an active space for paddling, gathering and connecting with the river,” keen kayaker Mayor Mannoun said.
“When we opened the Kayak launch it was an absolute pleasure to get in a kayak and join the others on the river.
“In addition, sandstone steps also allow for cultural ceremonies, including those held by Liverpool’s Mandaean community.
“The facility boosts recreation and tourism, adds support for a local kayak hire operator and strengthens Council’s long‑term plan to activate the Georges River as a key destination.
“It also delivers long‑term social value by creating a public asset that places inclusion at the centre of community life.”
Mayor Mannoun said the award confirms that Liverpool’s focus on designing for everyone is gaining recognition across the state.
Media Contact:
Alan Gale communications@liverpool.nsw.gov.au 0492 087 403
Background
The Boomtown! Awards
The Boomtown! Project of the Year Awards are run by the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue and celebrate major projects that shape the growth of Greater Western Sydney. The awards recognise infrastructure and property projects that deliver social, economic and environmental value and highlight leadership and innovation in the region’s development.
The Kayak Launch facility
A joint operation between the NSW Government and Liverpool Council, the Accessible Kayak launch pad’s design has set a new standard for New South Wales that others are copying.
The launch platform meets Australian Disability Access Standards (AS1428) and the groundbreaking, innovative new design makes the facility the first of its kind in New South Wales. The design has since been adopted by Maritime Services as its new standard for following facilities.
The accessible kayak launch site is the first of a series of upgrades that will culminate in the complete transformation of Lighthorse Park made possible through a combination of grants and community contributions and is proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Liverpool City Council.
Liverpool City Council Operations Director Peter Scicluna, Kayak Project Manager Anne Summers and Mayor Ned Mannoun proudly hold the award certificate.
Kayakers enjoying the Georges River at the Lighthorse Park Kayak launching pad-eLanka
Charishma Kaliyanda MP, Liesl Tesch MP, Paralympian Dylan Littlehales and Mayor Ned Mannoun take to the water on Georges River
Paralympian bronze medallist Dylan Littlehales takes to the water at Liverpool City Council’s accessible kayak launching pad
