Unley's swim season just got longer!
Published on 26 July 2024
The extended swim season will assist in meeting the demand for swimming pools whilst the Adelaide Aquatic Centre (AAC) is under construction.
With the Aquatic Centre in North Adelaide due to close its doors on 1 August 2024, the Unley Swimming Centre will officially open its season on the same day and will remain open through to the end of May in 2026.
Currently the Unley Swimming Centre boasts the longest swim season in the state with a 36-week season that extends from mid-September to end of May each year. The extended season will now see avid swimmers able to utilise the facility during the winter months for the first time in its history.
Mayor Michael Hewitson said Unley’s Elected Members had supported the decision to assist with extended hours at its Forestville pool site to accommodate swimmers who would not be able to access the new Aquatic Centre while it is being totally rebuilt.
‘The Government have assured us that there will be no delays during construction and the reopening of the new centre in North Adelaide, and that normal hours of operation can be expected to recommence at the Unley Swimming Centre for the 2026-27 season’.
‘The State Government have offered to fund all extra operational costs to extend the Unley Swimming Centre’s swim season, so there is no cost to our ratepayers in having a longer season. I’m sure many keen residents who use the pool regularly will be pleased about greater access during the cooler months.’
Unley Swim Centre staff have been putting funding to good use in preparation for an extended swim season over the winter months. Swim Centre Lead Craig Solomon said ORSR funding has supported boosting the capacity of the Centre’s main pool heating system, as well as installation of a new heating system in changerooms to keep pool users warm and comfortable after cold-weather swims.
‘An advantage for Unley Swimming Centre members is that 12-month memberships apply from the date of purchase, which means extra weeks available to access the pool as an added bonus.’
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis said the Malinauskas Government was delighted to work with the City of Unley to extend the Unley Swimming Centre’s operating season with additional funding.
‘Swimming centres are a vital part of community life and there are quite a few clubs and squads who train all year round, so this is a great outcome for the local swimming community.'
'Our agreement with the City of Unley will provide an additional location for swimmers to pursue their sporting or recreational activities and I thank the Council for their willingness, flexibility, and support.’
For details about times, programs and access please visit unley.sa.gov.au/swimming-centre.