Whether serene at low tide or choppy at high, Sydney pools are a welcome retreat from our big city beaches. The sand-filled pools, found at every beach, are the original infinity pools, and just about all offer changing rooms and showers. Serious swimmers often swim laps there, while families with children or pets can relax on the decking or a jetty. They also provide a respite from the cold, and in some cases the wind, while still giving the opportunity to get in some water exercise or a spot of sunbathing.

In fact, there are so many swimming spots in Sydney that it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s why this year, the RLSSA has created a statewide campaign to get more community pools open and in better condition. This is important because research shows that swimming is a great way to reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes.

Those who swim regularly can also expect better sleep patterns and increased brain activity, while it’s known to reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. RLSSA chief executive Nick Scarr says it’s important to have good quality swimming infrastructure in all suburbs, especially in the fast-growing outer city and inner regional areas. “With escalating costs forcing councils to cut back on cash reserves, increased borrowing and reduced investment in infrastructure renewals, it’s time to make swimming a priority,” he said.

The campaign will see RLSSA and its partners work to ensure swimming facilities are safe, accessible, affordable and fun, he added. It will involve community consultations, education campaigns and a series of activities to support local groups who are working towards getting more pools open and in better condition.

Public pool inspections are a critical part of our work to protect the bathing public from injury, minimize the potential for disease transmission and provide a safe and healthy aquatic recreational environment. We inspect and license all public swimming pools, wading pools and spray grounds. In addition, we test water samples at private pools on a scheduled basis and provide information about proper water testing and pool maintenance to the community.

SS 185-5 Regulations for construction, installation and location of private pools

A private swimming pool may be constructed, installed and located only as an accessory structure to a principal building used for residential purposes. A pool shall not be constructed, installed or located within 20 feet of any side lot line, residence or other permanent building unless a special permit is obtained from the Planning Board in accordance with chapter 215. This includes both pools and hot tubs.