First opened in 1936, the heritage-listed North Sydney Olympic Pool is one of Sydney's most beloved public pools and has a significant part of Australia's sporting history. The pool hosted the 1938 British Empire Games (now known as the Commonwealth Games) and has witnessed an impressive 86 world records over the decades. While the pool was due to reopen in 2022, it was hampered by delays and ballooning costs.
The pool's significant Art Deco heritage has been carefully restored, and original 1930s bricks were salvaged and reused wherever possible, while replacement bricks were individually hand-painted to match the originals. Four heritage structures remain onsite including the Eastern Stair Tower, the Southern Heritage Wall with its restored neoclassic stucco motifs, the outer Gym wall, and Western staircase. But while the old-school charm is still the defining vibe, the facilities have had a very 2026 upgrade.
The revamped complex now includes a refurbished outdoor 50-metre pool, with a boom that can divide the pool into halves or quarters for everything from competitions and school carnivals to extra lap swimming and birthday parties. There are also two indoor pools – a 25-metre lap pool and a program pool – plus a children's outdoor pool and splash pad. If you're more interested in unwinding than smashing out laps, there's a spa, sauna and steam room, alongside an upgraded sun deck, plus a state-of-the-art gym, group fitness studio and Reformer Pilates studio, as well as a revamped group fitness program. There's also a creche with indoor and outdoor play areas, and spaces available to hire for birthdays and corporate events.
The official Opening Ceremony featured a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country led by Cammeraygal elders Auntie Tarunna and Auntie Jeanie, speeches from North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker, Olympic Swimming Legend Shane Gould and the Honourable Sophie Cotsis MP, plus a 1930s-inspired performance celebrating the Pool’s rich history.
“Families have learned to swim here, athletes have chased their dreams here and generations of residents and visitors have gathered here to enjoy one of the most spectacular waterfront settings in the country,” said North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker at the Ceremony. “Seeing the Pool open once again, in its 90th year, is a proud moment for our community. Today marks the return of a true Sydney icon and I am delighted to welcome everyone back to create the next chapter in this extraordinary Pool's history.”
North Sydney Olympic Pool is now open from 5.30am to 9.30pm Monday to Friday, and 7am to 7pm on weekends. On public holidays, it's open from 8am to 5.30pm. The pools close 30 minutes before the facility itself.