History
A History of Swimming in Parramatta
Swimming has long been an important part of life in Parramatta. For generations, people have used the area's rivers, lakes, swimming baths and pools to cool off, exercise and connect with their community.
The Dharug Yura (people), the Traditional Owners of this area, have passed down knowledge about where, when and how to swim safely on Country. While access to freshwater changed as European settlement expanded, swimming remained an important recreational activity for the growing community.
One of Parramatta's most popular early swimming spots was the waterhole now known as Little Coogee in Parramatta Park. Families and visitors gathered there to swim, picnic and enjoy the outdoors.
In 1888, Council opened the Centennial Baths on the site now occupied by Riverside Theatres. At the time, they were celebrated as one of the finest public swimming facilities in the colonies. By the 1930s, Lake Parramatta had also become a popular destination, attracting swimmers seeking relief from the summer heat.
Parramatta War Memorial Pool
In the 1950s and 1960s, communities across New South Wales built war memorial swimming pools to honour those who served in World War II while creating lasting community facilities.
The first stage of the Parramatta War Memorial Pool was opened by Mayor Mobbs on 24 October 1959. More than 5,000 people attended the opening, which marked a significant milestone for the city. The project cost £140,000.
A teaching pool and wading pool were completed in late 1960 and officially opened by Olympic swimming champion John Devitt, who won gold in the men's 100-metre freestyle at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
Over the following decades, the Parramatta War Memorial Swimming Centre continued to grow and evolve. In 2009, a $10 million redevelopment delivered a new ten-lane 50-metre pool, grandstand, shade structures, security fencing and upgraded amenities, including change rooms, a kiosk and program room.
The centre closed on 31 March 2017 to make way for the construction of CommBank Stadium.
A New Chapter: Parramatta Aquatic Centre
In 2019, the NSW Government and City of Parramatta announced a $77 million funding partnership to deliver the new Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC).
Construction commenced in 2021, creating a new world-class aquatic and leisure facility that continues Parramatta's long and proud connection to swimming.