Sydney is famous for its opera house and bridge, but it has a lesser-known claim to fame: the city has more ocean pools than any other in the world. These pools are man-made, public seawater pools situated on a surf coast so the waves can wash over them. They are also designed to provide a place for people to swim, surf, and play in the water, as well as to protect coastline from erosion.
Most of these pools were built during the Victorian era, and have been in use for over a century. They’re beloved by locals and visitors alike, and provide a unique opportunity to explore the city’s natural beauty while swimming laps. However, as the cost of maintaining them has risen and communities have been squeezed by rising property prices, these pools are facing an uncertain future.
The City of Sydney’s aquatic centres are a key feature of the city’s waterfront, offering a range of services to boost health and wellbeing. They have been carefully planned to reflect the community’s needs, with extensive programming and user input. Through this, WTI was able to design one-of-a-kind, highly specialised facilities that have been a major success for both the City of Sydney and its users.
While some have faced criticism for being glitzy and expensive, the fact remains that they are an integral part of the urban landscape. They bring people together and serve as a social hub. They encourage a healthy lifestyle and act as a catalyst for economic growth, making them the ideal location for events and activities that can be enjoyed by all.
As more and more families move to the suburbs, the need for these pools becomes more important than ever before. They are a crucial part of our identity, and are a great way to relax. They are also an important source of safety for children and adults, especially when the local river or beach is too dangerous to swim in.
When it comes to funding, the most obvious issue is that many cash-strapped councils are cutting their pool opening times to save money. This may mean fewer swimming lessons and less time spent in the water, which can lead to kids seeking other ways to de-stress, such as going to the river, which can be much more dangerous.
For this reason, there are calls for a more holistic and targeted approach to funding community pools. Royal Life Saving NSW has reported that “rapid development means many of Australia’s most diverse communities need a pool upgrade to keep up with demand”. This is essential for our health and safety, and it would help ensure that we continue to embrace the magic that is suburban swimming pools.
