Sydney Pools – More Than Any Other City in the World
When you think of Sydney, perhaps you imagine the opera house, bridge and harbour, but there’s one lesser-known fact about our city that’s worth celebrating. It’s that Sydney has more ocean pools than any other city in the world. “It’s quite unique,” says Marie-Louise McDermott, an academic who specialises in the history of ocean pools.
She points to Coogee’s Wylie’s Baths as one of the city’s most beautiful tidal pools, shaped like a shell and built into the cliffs with sweeping views over Wedding Cake Island. It was established in 1907 by Henry Alexander Wylie, a champion long-distance swimmer. Then there’s McIver’s Ladies Baths in Coogee, the only ocean pool in Australia that is exclusively for women and children, with raised decking built into the cliffs to protect swimmers from strong waves and shark attacks.
In Balmain, the Victorian elegance of the corrugated iron and painted cream and green swimming pavilion tucked below the sandstone cliffs is another highlight. Built in 1883, it was formerly known as Elkington Park Baths and is named after the Olympic swimmer. Today, the pool is a favourite of locals who swim for exercise and enjoy the subterranean feel that makes it cool and refreshing on a hot day. It’s also a bit of a tourist attraction, drawing international visitors who admire its vintage charm and the stunning view over the harbour.
Not everyone is happy with the way that the pool is maintained and run, however. Some residents have been urging their council to make more changes, while others prefer its’shabby chic’ and old-school charm. “This is how it was when I grew up here and I still love it, even with the bits that are not perfect,” says one local. “It’s an iconic place that people come to see.”
If you are considering a pool installation, there are many things to consider. For starters, research your options and find a builder with a good reputation. Check out their websites, portfolios and customer reviews. Also ask friends and family for recommendations. You should also look for builders who are members of professional associations, as this shows their commitment to industry standards.
The process of installing a new pool can take varying amounts of time, depending on several factors. The best way to determine how long it will take is to get a quote from a local pool builder. Be sure to choose a builder that offers transparent pricing and a flexible payment schedule. You should also check whether they are a member of professional associations, such as the Master Builders Association. Choosing the right pool builder can ensure your project is completed on time and within budget.