Sydneysiders have access to some truly spectacular ocean and public pools – from Instagram-worthy swims to Thirsty Merc-fueled pool parties – perfect for an Instagrammable swim or Thirsty Merc pool parties! Scattered along the coastline and harbour’s edge, some even dating back over 100 years – which are sure to meet their pool party needs. However, as Sydney’s population explodes exponentially over time, are these old pools enough?
Swimming pools are an integral component of community life in Australia. As the primary form of recreation in many cities and towns across Australia, they serve as the go-to place where children learn to swim while adults get fit. Each year Australians visit public aquatic centres an average of 333 times on average (according to Royal Life Saving Society research), making that equivalent of visiting one aquatic centre per 12,200 residents.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to have access to a local pool. Unfortunately, some areas of the country remain woefully underserved – particularly New South Wales council areas like Parramatta, Penrith and Hills Shire that boast only one public accessible pool per 178,960 people.
As pandemic restrictions relax, councillors have called for outdoor pools to reopen and provide ratepayers some relief. Tink sees it as a key test of Berejiklian government commitment to Balmain Dawn Fraser Baths community.
If she wins, she will need to make some tough choices about which priorities take precedence and how resources are distributed, as well as how support swimmers in the future. “I certainly wouldn’t like for swimming facilities to vanish into indoor environments or become privatised entirely,” says Ms. Hoggart. “Public access plays an essential role.”
Head to Coogee for the ultimate pool experience at Henry Alexander Wylie’s Baths, built into the cliffs in 1907. Or try McIver’s Ladies’ Baths – Sydney’s only ocean pool dedicated solely to women and children!
If you’re planning on installing a pool, it is wise to begin searching for reliable contractors early. Due to the lengthy nature of construction processes, which depend on many different variables, it is ideal to begin in spring or autumn in order to have it ready in time for summertime fun. Here are some helpful tips on choosing pool builders in Sydney: