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🇦🇺 Australia /Culture & Society

Brisbane's Centenary Pool to close for 2032 Olympic upgrade after 67 years

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Brisbane's historic Centenary Pool will close at the end of August for a major redevelopment ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
  • The 1959-built pool, designed by James Birrel, was a cultural hub with a distinctive restaurant and was inspired by Australia's swimming success in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics.
  • The site will become part of the new National Aquatic Centre, featuring new pools and seating for 8,800 attendees, with the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority taking over on September 1.

Brisbane's Centenary Pool, a landmark opened in 1959, will soon close its doors for a significant transformation. The pool is set to undergo a major redevelopment to prepare for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

I can actually remember as a child, Dad holding my hand and walking me through the project. He talked a lot about how his role as a city architect, how he had a sort of ethical and moral obligation to make public buildings not just financially stack up but to be the most they can possibly be for all people.

— Jack BirrellThe son of the pool's designer, James Birrel, reflects on his father's vision for the Centenary Pool.

The heritage-listed pool was Brisbane's first Olympic-standard facility, built during a period of national enthusiasm for swimming following Australia's strong performance at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Designed by city architect James Birrel, the pool was envisioned not just as a sporting venue but as a public space that served all people.

All the dignitaries of the day would be seen there, it was a real place to promenade and look out over the world.

— Jack BirrellJack Birrell describes the Centenary Pool's status as a 'cultural mecca' in its heyday.

Its unique design, featuring a restaurant that appeared to float above the water, made it a "cultural mecca" in its prime. This elevated dining spot was a popular venue for events and a place for the city's elite to gather. Many locals have fond memories of the pool, recalling childhood visits filled with swimming, sunbathing, and even the smell of curries from a former Indian restaurant.

We would go from when it opened to when it closed, the whole day.

— Donna HansenA 67-year-old Brisbane resident shares her childhood memories of spending entire days at the Centenary Pool.

Upon its closure at the end of August, the Centenary Pool will be handed over to the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority. This body is responsible for delivering the infrastructure for the 2032 Games. The site will be integrated into the new National Aquatic Centre, which will include three new pools and permanent seating for 8,800 spectators, marking a new chapter for this historic Brisbane location.

I can remember when you would take a breath and you could smell curries coming from the restaurant.

— Allana FrenchAllana French, a long-time visitor, recalls the distinct aroma from an Indian restaurant that once operated at the pool.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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