A simple, blue rectangle pool, patches of grass and concrete on which to roll out a towel, and a kiosk selling hot chips and ice blocks. That’s what Sydney’s city pools used to look like. But as the city’s ageing swimming facilities close, and budget pressures on local government reduce their ability to invest in refurbishment, these once-cherished community pools are facing an uncertain future.
For lawyers and community activists like Yusra Metwally, whose childhood memories are of a swim at Canterbury pool in south-west Sydney, the closure is bittersweet. She recalls “the intoxicating smell of chlorine and the long, lazy days of splashing about with what seemed to be the entire neighbourhood hanging out.”
The loss of the pools is just one more blow for public swimming facilities across the country as budgetary pressures make it harder and more expensive for councils to maintain their swimming infrastructure. A recent report from the RLSSA found that a third of Australia’s swimming pools are at risk of closing in the next 10 years due to funding shortages.
Swimming pools are a popular recreational activity and an important source of exercise for children and adults. To protect swimmers from the potential dangers of swimming, there are a number of requirements that must be met in order for a pool to be safe for use. These regulations are designed to ensure that a pool is properly constructed and maintained, and that it is located in a suitable environment.
When looking for a pool builder, it’s important to choose a company that has a good reputation and experience in the industry. You can ask friends and family for recommendations or search online for reviews. You should also ask to see examples of the builder’s previous work. It’s also a good idea to make sure that your pool builder is insured. Ideally, you should be covered by the Home Building Compensation Fund for the duration of the construction process and all warranty periods.
Before you start construction, check with your local government to see if there are any restrictions on building a pool in your area. You might have to submit a planning application and pay a permit fee. You may also be required to submit a health and safety plan for the construction of your pool.
If you’re not ready to commit to building your own pool, Sydney has many ocean pools. While these aren’t as large or clean as swimming pools, they offer an alternative to crowded city pools and can be just as fun for all ages.
Sydney’s ocean pools are also a great way to get used to swimming in the ocean. Although these pools are walled off, waves often crash over the edges and can be dangerous if you’re not careful. It’s a good idea to wear a life jacket at all times and stay close to the shore. This way, you can avoid getting a bad sunburn and enjoy the view while you swim.