The southern two-thirds of NSW coastline feature short to medium length sandy beaches tucked between rocky headlands. Many of these headlands are composed of sandstone, an ideal material to dig into while remaining stable over human time scales; thus enabling ocean pools to be constructed on foundations which will not alter the shape or fill with excessive amounts of sand, while still remaining firm and accessible over the years. These ocean pools and magnificent sandstone buildings give Sydney its nickname of “Sandstone City.” Additionally, its mild temperatures combined with cool waters from East Australian Nemo Current makes Sydney an ideal location for swimming, bathing, bathing, surfing.
Sydney’s ocean pools hold special significance for many. Not only are surfers and swimmers fond of them; these places evoke childhood and youth memories for many others, such as intoxicating smells of chlorine and hot chips combined with long days spent splashing and swimming together with all of your neighbours in one spot.
Ageing city pools face an uncertain future, prompting some residents to campaign to save them. Lawyer Yusra Metwally is among them; she learned swimming at Greenacre Pool (closing this year). “Greenacre Pool represents Australia in my mind, reminding me of childhood summer memories with my friends,” she noted.
Even though she cannot save Greenacre Pool, she hopes to help preserve Canterbury Pool which is set for demolition. “Our aim is to raise awareness about their value as public pools and get government support for preservation efforts. Canterbury is one of only few remaining pools left in this region and must remain alive,” she stated.
Cremorne Point on Sydney’s north shore is home to Sydney’s oldest pool. Built above the high water mark and surrounded by a wooden boardwalk, swimmers can take in stunning harbour views while they swim. Another historic swimming location nearby is MacCallum pool – originally established as a safe harbour swimming hole during World War I before later being rebuilt into an accessible platform above its high water mark.
Public pools in Shelby County are licensed and inspected by the Shelby County Health Department to ensure they comply with state and federal requirements for a safe aquatic environment, minimize disease transmission risk, and offer swimmers a clean, healthy place to swim. Unfortunately, however, public pool operators’s budget constraints make keeping up-to-code maintenance challenging; some public pools across the nation are even facing funding reduction or closure altogether – to learn more please subscribe to the Morning Edition Newsletter.