Swimming pools are an integral part of Sydneysider life – from intoxicating chlorine scent to heartwarming community events to carefree days spent splashing around with friends. But this aquatic culture could soon come under threat as governments cut funding and councils struggle to keep up with regular maintenance and repairs.
City swimming pools are an integral part of our heritage, offering health benefits as well as providing locals with a sense of belonging. One such sdy pool located in Canterbury in the city’s south-west has been an anchor of life in this suburb for more than three decades; Yusra Metwally was deeply saddened when its closure this month came into force.
But even one pool closing can have lasting impacts. Swimming infrastructure takes years to construct, so when one closes it can leave communities disoriented and unsettled. Families that had used that particular pool may now need to travel further distances in search of water facilities, according to Shealy.
Pools provide safe and accessible aquatic spaces that enable people with limited mobility to swim despite not having access to an ocean environment. Pools are especially vital in high-growth areas where their development could otherwise lag far behind its pace of population growth; yet without government investment now, their completion could take over 10 years to come online.
Checking that your potential pool builder is licensed and insured is of utmost importance. All builders doing work costing over $20,000 must be covered by the Home Building Compensation Fund; ask to see proof of insurance before beginning construction. It may be prudent to also check with local council as certain sites may require permits or be subject to preservation orders that prohibit excavation.
No matter if it be an idyllic rock pool, tidal enclosure or harbourside oasis, Sydney pools are sacred spaces where its soul can reside. Bathers – men and women alike – come for relaxation from urban living; when weather turns wilder still they become sheltering refuges where Sydney life continues uninterrupted.