The Story of Sydney’s Dy Pools
When it comes to ocean pools, Sydney is the world’s best. Each morning, before the surfers and sand runners cut across the spray and soft sand, swimmers clutching towels and goggles slip down into these patches of tamed ocean. They dive, float, swim and sit, drawn by the beauty that’s attracted artists for generations. It’s a love affair that stretches back 200 years.
A spokesman for NSW Amateur Swimming Association explains that when the men’s and women’s clubs formed in 1891, they wanted somewhere to swim safely from rough waves. They needed a place to practice laps, and to escape the threat of shark attacks. And so began the tradition of Australia’s sdy pools, which are man-made public seawater pools situated on the surf coast, designed to be washed by waves.
Today, nine out of 10 Australians live within 20 minutes drive of a public aquatic centre. 333m visits are made to them each year, according to research from the Royal Life Saving Society. Public pools are where most Australians learn to swim, and they are also a key part of our health and wellbeing.
But their history isn’t always a story of triumph and success. As one iconic pool undergoes a controversial upgrade, we take a look at the history of Sydney’s remarkable sdy pool culture.
At the top of a steep hill overlooking Sydney Harbour, the clifftop North Sydney Olympic Pool is home to a 50-metre pool and indoor facilities. It’s an impressive space – but a spectacular location does come at a cost. Council infighting, claims of pork-barrelling, heritage concerns and criticism from health bodies have hampered its progress. The project’s budget has blown out to $100m and the opening date has been delayed until 2025.
Other Sydney pools are less ostentatious, but no less beautiful. At Maroubra, Mahon Pool cuts into the inter-tidal rock platform. Steep steps lead down to a safe, harbourside tidal enclosure that provides stunning views and seclusion. The pool is a popular spot for families, and it’s a perfect spot to stop at after tackling the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.
The most famous of Sydney’s sdy pools is Bondi Icebergs, the legendary winter pool that’s a must-visit for Instagrammers. But there are plenty of other great swim spots to discover. Dotted along the coastline and harbour’s edge, these spectacular pools are a reminder of Sydney’s enduring love affair with the sea. Make a splash and head out for a swim this summer. Just remember to follow health guidelines, including physical distancing and abiding by coronavirus restrictions.