Sydney Dy Pools Are Closing
Written by
Sydney residents enjoy swimming in one of their many iconic pools – dotting along the coastline and harbor’s edge, these oversize tide pools – or “sdy pools” – provide swimmers with safe haven from wild surf and sharks.
Open to the public for little or no charge, they speak volumes about Australia’s distinct culture. Scattered throughout Sydney and some of them dating all the way back to 1929 (such as Bondi Icebergs).
Ocean pools in Australia come in many different forms: changing pavilions, swimming clubs with whimsical names or simply clustered rocks on a surf beach. Ocean pools also serve as reminders of Australia’s turbulent coastal history as many were constructed between the 19th and 20th centuries to shield swimmers from powerful surf and potentially hazardous sharks patrolling nearby waters.
Pools were originally constructed as recreation facilities for locals, becoming cultural hubs in their areas and sometimes hosting swim carnivals. But times have changed. Government funding cuts to councils have limited how much can be charged for pools. As a result, these once community treasures are starting to feel the pinch financially.
Parramatta in Sydney’s western suburb was left without access to swimming during heatwaves and school holidays after its pool closed last April, as promised by Premier Berejiklian’s government, yet their replacement plan has been plagued by delays and cost overruns.
Though the government claims they’re working towards opening the new pool on time, residents are beginning to doubt its success and become less optimistic that it will. With other council pools closing, and swimming carnival fees increasing annually, city ocean pools become less affordable over time.
Maintaining these pools comes at a high price tag; moreover, pools represent one of the most costly assets owned by any council and it has become increasingly difficult to cover costs due to government cuts and budget capping.
At this moment, financial pressures require action. That is why this week Greens and independent councillors from City of Sydney, Lane Cove and Inner West councils will move motions at their meetings to explore trialing free pool entry – joining other councils across NSW that have reduced fees over time.