Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne last month announced the reopening of the historic tidal pool, which was built in 1880, as soon as restrictions are lifted allowing for the reopening of public pools.

Serving the community for 141 years, the Dawn Fraser Baths are Australia’s oldest saltwater pool.

From the 1800s to the 2000s, the Baths have been a sacred space for residents of the Inner West, where they could go to cool off on hot summer days.

Even in winter, the tidal pool and the surrounding parkland attract people who enjoy the sea breeze and salty air.

First-generation Italian immigrants who settled in the Inner West will certainly remember the many events held at the Baths.

Photographs of the era, some in black and white, capture the joy brought to locals by the public facility – perhaps even budding romances beneath the beach umbrellas.

Extensive renovations forced the closure of the harbourside site, where important structural work was carried out.

The southern pavilion was demolished and reconstructed, the entrance building was restyled, solar panels were installed on the north pavilion, walkways and grounds levels were raised, a fire-safety plan was created and emergency procedures developed to suit the new design. 

The baths were also fitted with a lighting system for water-polo, and were modified with other general improvements.

Overall, the restoration cost approximately $8 million – $6 million from the City, $2 million from the New South Wales government and $500,000 from the Commonwealth.

“Here at Dawn Fraser Baths, for many generations, local people have been gathering to meet with family and friends,” Byrne said. 

“Many councils across Sydney have been walking away from public pools, because the truth is, they’re expensive to build and maintain.

“We see investment in public pools as an investment in the health of our local community.”

Despite its completed restoration, the pool remains closed.

The COVID-19 pandemic has postponed its reopening, with restrictions in force throughout New South Wales.

With summer around the corner, residents of the Inner West are hopeful they will soon be able to enjoy the sea without having to journey to the Eastern Suburbs or the Northern Beaches.

Meanwhile in Canada Bay, an undertaking to restore public access to Parramatta River, in McIlwaine Park in Rhodes, is underway.

Led by Mayor Angelo Tsirekas, the $6.67 million dollar project aims to rehabilitate the historic access points, as they have been desecrated over time by changing circumstances, pollution, neglect and a host of other factors.

The project, funded by the New South Wales government’s Precinct Support Scheme, involves construction works that guarantee access to those who wish to kayak or paddle-board.

There are also works aimed at improving the park itself with equipment, a dual pedestrian and cycle path as well as the installation of lights.