If you grew up in Sydney during the 90’s and have raised children since, chances are you have spent time at this iconic suburban pool. Complete with waterslide, hot tubs and kids area this pool rocks! They even host movie night-themed ‘Dive Ins’ during summer where visitors can watch movies by the water! In winter they drain it to fill it up with trout for fishing opportunities!
“Pools aren’t just places for swimming; they’re also community gathering points,” states photographer Ignacio Palacios, “where we socialize, relax, and let go.” His new book explores Sydney’s rockpools – ocean baths cut straight out of rocky headlands – which offer serenity during low tide but become turbulent at higher tide. These ocean baths serve as infinity pools that all tell their own unique tale.
Public pools provide swimmers with an essential space to gather and connect, but also serve an integral purpose in improving health and wellbeing. Swimming can help alleviate depression and anxiety while research shows it reduces heart disease risk factors like stroke and high blood pressure – no wonder swimming has become such a popular recreation activity worldwide!
Swimming pools may offer many benefits, yet their construction can sometimes cause controversy. Many have encountered cost overruns, political disagreements and logistical complications; North Sydney Olympic Pool’s redevelopment was once held up as an example for other councils to follow but since its relaunch it has become the subject of intense public scrutiny and controversy.
At the core of this drama lies an unprecedented rate increase that will quadruple pool operating costs and befuddle many residents, recalling what former mayor Zoe Baker describes as a “bloated vanity project”. But not everyone shares this sentiment.
Michael Easton believes we all gravitate towards water for some unknown reason, which prompted him to start exploring suburban swimming holes with a friend a few years ago, documenting their journey on Instagram. Since then he’s visited 68 different pools, finding each experience magical – “There’s just something about being in water that just feels right!”
Suburban pools not only bring back memories, but they also offer their own special charms. Mount Druitt’s quiet location and parkland setting makes it special. Mr Easton mentions “creative ways they find to get people through the gate”, saying this makes these pools truly exceptional.
Swimming pools offer more than just fun; they also represent cultural landmarks. When visiting one, take time to admire its design and consider all those who have spent their lives using it.