Vaccinated picnickers able to responsibly enjoy a drink as rules eased in parks across Sydney

Beers and bubbles will be permitted at some of Sydney’s favourite public spaces as a temporary measure to reward and thank vaccinated picnickers.

Rules restricting alcohol at sites managed by Placemaking NSW will be temporarily put on hold, while visitors to Centennial Parklands, Parramatta Park, Royal Botanic Gardens and Western Sydney Parklands can continue to drink responsibly.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the measures were taken to say thank you to vaccinated Sydneysiders.

“Vaccinated Sydneysiders have embraced the easing of restrictions and are out picnicking in record numbers across our parks and public spaces,” Mr Stokes said.

“After an incredibly tough winter, people who have followed COVID rules and received both jabs deserve to enjoy a beer or wine responsibly.

“Our rangers told us that picnickers have been following the health advice and safely distancing. We only ask that rules continue to be followed, that everyone drinks responsibly and disposes of all rubbish and enjoys our beautiful public spaces.”

Rangers will patrol parks to ensure all visitors follow physical distancing guidelines.

People must only visit parks within their LGA or 5km of their home.

Drinking will be allowed during daylight hours at the following parks until Sunday 31 October, 2021:

Ballarat Park, Darling IslandBallast Point Park, Birchgrove
Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic ParkBlaxland Riverside Park, Sydney Olympic Park
Bligh & Barney Reserve, The RocksCadi Park, Pyrmont
Cathy Freeman Park, Sydney Olympic ParkDawes Point Reserve, The Rocks
First Fleet Park, The RocksHickson Rd Reserve, The Rocks
Jill Berry Lawn / ICC Lawn, Darling HarbourMCA Lawn, The Rocks
Metcalfe Park, Darling IslandNewington Armory, Sydney Olympic Park
Tumbalong Park, Darling HarbourPyrmont Bay Park
Waterfront Park, PyrmontWentworth Common, Sydney Olympic Park

For more information on COVID-19 rules, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules