From Bare Land to Beloved Oasis
A Journey of Vision, Nature, and Community Since 1999
Golden Ponds (WA) Pty Ltd, established in 1999, is a recreational fishing park located in Baldivis, a suburb in Perth’s south. The story of Golden Ponds began a decade earlier, in 1989, when founder and owner Mr Tony Pannacchione, a former professional fisherman and long-time participant in the wholesale food industry acquired 39.7 hectares of undeveloped land. Fueled by his lifelong passion for fishing, Tony set out to build a modern aquaculture facility, turning his dream of owning a fish farm into reality. This vision marked the beginning of what would eventually become Golden Ponds.
Mr Pannacchione began developing the land long before the freeway and suburban sprawl reached Perth’s southern outskirts. Over the course of ten years, the once-undeveloped property was transformed into a thriving fish farm, featuring 54 man-made ponds of varying sizes.
Golden Ponds officially opened to the public in 1999, beginning with a small onsite kiosk offering a selection of frozen fish, marron and crayfish. Over time, onsite hatcheries were established to cultivate and replenish the pond ecosystems. With a focus on sustainability and a catch-and-release model, the ponds have since become self-sufficient, nurturing a healthy and balanced aquatic environment with minimal external impact.
In the following years, Golden Ponds experienced significant growth. In 2000, a café and function centre was added, and by 2004, accommodation facilities were introduced. These developments transformed Golden Ponds into a sought-after destination for tourists seeking purpose, recreation, and relaxation.
Over the years, Golden Ponds has undergone a thoughtful transformation, guided by a deep respect for nature and a commitment to preserving the environment. What once began as a traditional fishing destination has evolved into a bird and wildlife sanctuary where recreational fishing now follows a sustainable catch-and-release model.
At the heart of this evolution is Tony’s vision: to create a peaceful haven where the community can reconnect with the natural world. He wanted Golden Ponds to be more than just a place to visit—it’s a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and rediscover the simple joys of life.
Ever since Golden Ponds took ownership of the once bare land, Mr. Pannacchione has dedicated himself to transforming it into the vibrant oasis in Baldivis that it is today, brought to life by the massive tree-planting effort and the deep commitment to nurturing this land’s natural beauty. With an emphasis on low-impact, nature-based activities, he takes great pride in how Golden Ponds not only brings people closer to the environment but also plays a vital role in protecting it. Every decision—from how the grounds are maintained to how visitors engage with the landscape—is made with care, ensuring the preservation of this unique environment for generations to come.
Tony firmly believes that the key to success in today’s business world lies in fostering a strong sense of community—the core value at the heart of Golden Ponds. As the local area has grown, so too has the role of Golden Ponds, evolving into a much-loved hub for the surrounding community.
Golden Ponds has become the go-to spot for families and children looking to enjoy the outdoors. Golden Ponds continues to attract and delight visitors of all ages, firmly establishing itself as a treasured part of the Rockingham region becoming the oasis in Baldivis.
