The Aquarena main facility will undergo a major refurbishment of it mechanical ventilation system in early 2026. The works will replaced the aged system that has reached its end of life.
As there will be no ventilation in the facility during the works some of the Aquarena's facilities, including the indoor pools, will be temporarily closed and some swimming lessons will be disrupted to ensure community safety and to comply with the Aquatic Facilities Code of Practice.
Project Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the project taking place in summer and not winter?
The project has been scheduled for Term 1 so the community will still have access to a pool during the summer months. During the winter, the water temperature in the unheated outdoor pool is too cold for swimming which makes it unsuitable for use and why it closes during these months.
Will the indoor changerooms still be accessible?
Due to ventilation works also taking place in the indoor changerooms, they will only be intermittently accessible during the closure. The public will be provided with as much notice as possible when the indoor changerooms won’t be available.
What about the disabled and family changerooms?
There will always be at least one family or disabled changeroom accessible to the public.
Will the slide and inflatables be available during these works.
No. The slide, SMIFF and BIFF will not be available during the works as their use is restricted to the indoor pools.
Classes, Lessons, Sporting Groups, Schools
Will group fitness classes continue?
Yes, group fitness classes will continue at a reduced capacity. A timetable will be distributed leading up to the indoor pool closure.
What about baby/children swimming lessons?
Swimming classes for children aged three years and older will continue. However, classes for younger children aged six months to 2 years, will be paused until the indoor pool reopens as the outdoor pool temperatures are not suitable for that age group.
Is the outdoor pool heated?
No, the outdoor pool is not heated. Please keep this in mind when preparing your child for lessons, especially during cooler weather.
Why are only Stages 1 to 4 swimming lessons being offered?
During the works the outdoor pool will need to be shared between the swim schools, sporting groups and general public. Due to the limited availability of space all user groups will need to reduce the amount of time and space they require to ensure everyone can still have access to the pool.
Can I get a refund if my child doesn’t like swimming in the outdoor pool?
Yes. If your child is uncomfortable with outdoor lessons, please email us. We will cancel their lessons for the term and refund the cost of any unused sessions. To help us manage schedules smoothly, we would appreciate it if this were done as early as possible.
What will happen to the sporting groups who regularly use the indoor pool?
The City is working with user groups to identify the best way to share use of the outdoor pool while the refurbishment takes place.
Will school swimming carnivals still be held in Term 1?
Yes, staff are working closely with all relevant schools to ensure their school swimming carnivals can still be held in Term 1.
Other
What happens in bad weather?
In the event of storms or lightning the outdoor pool will close to ensure community safety. If this occurs, entry fees, including swimming lessons, will be refunded.
Will the Café be open?
Yes the café will remain open during the works. However, there are ventilation works happening in the café as well, so there may be less food options available at times.
Will the volleyball court still be open?
Yes it will.