Sydney is famous for its beaches and harbor, but it’s also renowned for the number of rock pools nestled on the city’s cliffs and surf-coast beaches. The pool-like enclosures offer swimmers the opportunity to immerse in lively salt water while enjoying a stunning view of the sea, beach, and sky. These venues for what Kate Rew of Britain’s Outdoor Swimming Society describes as ‘wild swimming’ – swimming in any environment less subject to human control than an indoor public pool – beckon swimmers and artists, and host recreational and competitive swimming, learn-to-swim programs, and treasured forms of wave-play.
While ocean pools are rare in other parts of Australia, they’re abundant along the NSW coast, where they serve both as public pools and beach safety measures. By allowing waves to wash in while keeping sharks out, they protect bathers from the powerful and dangerous rips that regularly cause drownings at Sydney’s surf beaches. In addition, the walls of a pool allow for underwater swims while still excluding the dangerous rocks and weeds that may hide in the waves and under sand.
As a result, they’re often popular swimming spots for swimmers and beachgoers alike, and offer the added bonus of sheltered, shallow waters that are ideal for families with young children. But despite their popularity, they’re not without controversy. In recent years, some have been closed due to sewage contamination, and the iconic North Sydney Olympic Pool’s controversial redevelopment has been dogged by cost blowouts, delays, design criticism, and heritage concerns.
But it’s not only the physical state of Sydney’s ocean pools that is under threat; the cultural and social values they exemplify are also being challenged. As Australia’s first public pools, they embodied the values of equality, diversity, tolerance, and mateship. They were places where all could come to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sydney’s landscape and to swim in a protected natural environment.
Many of the pool locations are in parks and nature reserves, and their presence is a part of the area’s cultural identity. They’re also important sources of recreational and exercise opportunities for people in the region, and are a significant attraction to tourists. The preservation of these spaces is a significant challenge in the face of increasing pressure on coastal ecosystems, climate change, and the rising cost of maintaining public pools.
In an era where many of Australia’s iconic parks are under threat, it’s essential to preserve these sites and celebrate their legacy. Fortunately, there are ways that we can ensure the survival of Sydney’s historic pool culture and continue to enjoy these beautiful, natural spaces for generations to come.
If you’re considering building a new pool in Sydney, it’s crucial to find a pool builder with experience and an excellent reputation. You’ll want to choose a builder that follows the laws of Sydney pool construction, and can provide you with a certificate of insurance that shows they are a licensed contractor. Also, make sure that they have a warranty for their work, and read the terms carefully to be sure it covers the entire pool construction process.