The Closure of Sydney Pools
In the hot Australian summer, a swimming pool is a popular way to cool off. Many people also use a pool for exercise, as swimming can help improve strength and flexibility. However, owning a pool comes with a lot of responsibility, including maintaining the pool regularly and following all of the state’s pool safety rules. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury in Australia, so it’s important to take all the necessary precautions to protect your family.
Sydney is home to a variety of beautiful outdoor pools, from iconic ocean pools to smaller rock pools. The city is also renowned for its long beach and warm seawater temperatures. This combination of natural swimming spots and man-made pools has helped to create a unique and beautiful aquatic culture. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced some of Sydney’s pools to close, causing many swimmers to seek alternative ways to enjoy their favourite activity.
The closure of Canterbury pool in south-west Sydney is just the latest blow to a once-grand pool that was hailed by public advocate Yusra Metwally as “a symbol of modern Australia”. Her memories of swimming lessons, poolside food stands and what she calls “the intoxicating scent of chlorine, salty chips and sunburnt skin” are fading fast. She was among many beachgoers to lament the pool’s closure, but she also pointed out that the pool’s demise wasn’t due entirely to financial issues.
As a swimmer, Metwally knows that public pools have a magical quality and embody values of equality, diversity and mateship. While the demolition of Canterbury and others like it will make it harder for the city to maintain its illustrious pool culture, she remains hopeful. “I hope that the closure of this particular pool will prompt discussion about how best to provide accessible and equitable public swimming facilities for Sydney residents,” she said in the Morning Edition newsletter, a daily guide to the day’s most important news, analysis and insights.
A swimming pool is a great way to keep your kids busy and cool, especially during the hot Australian summer. A pool can also be a good investment, as it can increase the resale value of your property. It’s important to maintain your pool properly to avoid costly repairs in the future. In addition, you should consider installing a solar heating system to reduce energy costs.
An important step in constructing your backyard pool is choosing the right site for it. It’s best to find a location that is away from trees, as the weight of a pool can damage their roots. You should also check the local council to see if you need a permit for construction. Finally, you should check whether any nearby trees are protected by preservation orders.
Then, you can decide if you want to build your pool in-ground or above ground. An above-ground pool can be cheaper and easier to install, but an in-ground pool is a more durable option. It’s also easier to access if you have young children or elderly relatives living in your home.