Businesses can learn how they can take advantage of the new international airport at Badgerys Creek when Penrith Valley Chamber holds its third Lights On Penrith forum on June 17.
The aerotropolis luncheon will focus on how businesses can become ``airport ready’’ by the 2026 liftoff.
Chamber president Kate Rafton said the event would be an opportunity for businesses to learn how they could benefit from Penrith’s proximity to the airport.
``This will be a chance for businesses in all industries of all sizes to look, listen and learn so they can prepare for success ahead of the airport’s opening in 2026,’’ she said.
``Come and see the airport taking shape right on Penrith’s doorstep, then hear from four guests you might otherwise not have access to about what it means for our region, what opportunities are available to local businesses and how you can tap into those opportunities.’’
The event will begin with a site inspection and briefing at the WSI (Western Sydney International) Experience Centre, followed by a three-course lunch and further information at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club.
Guest speakers will include Western Parkland City Authority CEO Dr Sarah Hill and Penrith State MP Stuart Ayres who is the NSW Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Tourism and Sport, and Western Sydney.
Celestino (Sydney Science Park) general manager (business development) Duncan Challen and Destination Sydney Surrounds North general manager Glenn Caldwell will also address the gathering.
``Penrith has a very exciting future in store, with so many opportunities and benefits for businesses in tourism and hospitality, corporate business and infrastructure as we become a gateway to the world,’’ Ms Rafton said.
The Lights On Penrith series was inspired by the city’s history.
More than 130 years ago, Penrith was recognised as one of the most progressive and modern towns in NSW when the Sydney region’s first electric light station was installed in Belmore Street.
When the power was switched on for the first time on October 3, 1890, thousands turned out to celebrate as electric lighting illuminated streets, a handful of businesses and about 60 houses. The day was declared a public holiday and the Mayoress of Sydney made the journey by train to witness the event and ``flick the switch’’.
The first Lights On Penrith event last March explored how business could leverage the opportunities available from a future of unprecedented development and investment.
The second highlighted Penrith as an emerging tourism and hospitality destination.
``Penrith is no longer a sleepy town on the fringes of Western Sydney,’’ Ms Rafton said.
``We are fast becoming a major city, with the opportunity to shape our future, attract some of the sharpest minds of our era and the biggest businesses on the planet here.’’
The Lights On Penrith aerotropolis luncheon will be held at Western Sydney International Experience Centre at 10.30am followed by lunch at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club, Twin Creeks Dr, Luddenham, at 11.30am on Friday, June 17. Tickets: $99 members, $119 non-members includes lunch and beverage package.
This event is supported by sponsors Milnsbridge Managed IT Services, Macquarie Commercial, Ray White Diamantidis Group, NAB and Deep Hill Media.