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The Glenorchy pool in Hobart's northern suburbs has reopened after $6.5 million in repairs, but the council says a new $84 million aquatic centre is still needed.
The Glenorchy pool in Hobart's northern suburbs has officially reopened to a delighted crowd after lengthy repairs. The pool, built in the 1960s and dedicated to those who served in World War II, was closed in 2023 following an independent report that identified a number of safety issues. After three years and $6.5 million in repairs, it reopened just in time for summer.
Safety issues forced closure in 2023
An independent report in 2023 identified several safety problems at the Glenorchy pool. Among the issues were faults in the pool shell, structural issues with the concrete grandstand, and an urgent need to update the electrical switchboard. The closure meant three long summers without the pool for the local community.
The repairs, costing $6.5 million, addressed these problems. Cr Hickey described the work as extraordinary, covering everything from electrics and plumbing to painting. Staff worked late into the night cleaning and preparing the facility, even shooing away a few ducks, to ensure everything was spectacular for the opening.
Community celebrates reopening
Long-time residents shared fond memories of the pool. Ms Kasprzak recalled bringing her children there when they were young. Her daughter met her future husband at the pool at age 14, and they are still happily married 28 years later.
Glenorchy City Council alderman Steve King spent much of the reopening day working the barbecue. He noted that he was at the pool 60 years ago as a kid, and now his daughter and grandson are also there, representing three generations. Over 600 sausages were cooked, and the demand was so high that volunteers had to make a quick dash to the supermarket.
Olympic bronze medallist and Tasmanian local Max Giuliani attended the celebrations. He raced against community members and joked that he had lost a few races. He mentioned giving one swimmer a 25-metre head start and still being beaten to the wall. Giuliani said someone went past him like a rocket, and he gave up.
Future aquatic centre needed
While the community celebrates the reopening, the council is looking ahead. The council says that a new aquatic centre is needed in the long term, but the project comes with an $84 million price tag. The council is still pursuing financial backing for this facility.
Cr Hickey stated that whilst they have done everything possible to ensure the pool is open for as long as possible, there is a desperate need for a full aquatic centre in the future. The reopened Glenorchy pool will serve the community in the meantime, but the council acknowledges that a more comprehensive facility is necessary.
Glenorchy Pool Hobart Reopening Repairs Aquatic Centre Max Giuliani Glenorchy City Council
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