The sdy pools are famous for their Victorian elegance. Tucked below the sandstone cliffs of Balmain, they are unique among Sydney’s harbour pools. But the public are no longer welcome at this once-loved landmark. Beset by council infighting and claims of pork-barrelling, heritage concerns, criticism from health organisations, and budget blown out to more than $100m, what was once billed as the world’s most beautiful pool has now become a gaping hole – and it’s not likely to open until 2025 at the earliest.
Across the inner city, temperatures are expected to rise above 35C in Camperdown and Ultimo, with a high of 38C in the CBD and 33C in Zetland. To help locals keep cool, the City of Sydney is opening six aquatic centres for free this Saturday, giving residents an opportunity to take a dip in some of the city’s most iconic swimming spots. The City of Sydney Council has urged people to consider carpooling, cycling or walking to these locations and make use of the public transport and bike share stations that are available at many aquatic centres.
For those who prefer to stay at home, the City of Sydney has also partnered with a number of local swimming schools to offer swimming lessons to people of all ages and abilities. This includes Learn to Swim classes, Water Safety and Adult Swimming courses. These classes will be held at the City of Sydney’s Aquatic Centres, including the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre and Sydney Aquatic Centre, and are designed to provide participants with a safe and fun way to develop their water skills.
The City of Sydney will be offering free entry to all aquatic centres on the day, including the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, and is encouraging people to use the public transport and bicycle share stations to get there. They are also offering a free sausage sizzle and face painting for children, as well as free sunscreen.
For more information on the sdy pools, check out their website here. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram for up to the minute updates. Be sure to check out the video below as well. It’s a great little history lesson on the sdy pools! Good luck swimming, everyone.