The Sidney Pools Scandal
Swimming pools are a summer staple in many Sydney homes and offer respite from the heat of the day. They also provide opportunities for exercise and relaxation, but it’s important to ensure that your pool is properly maintained to ensure safety. Before choosing a Sydney pool builder, be sure to research them to make sure they’re licensed and insured. They should be able to provide you with a detailed quote and ensure that their work complies with local laws.
There’s no doubt that the city of Sydney is famous for its iconic landmarks, including the opera house and bridge. However, there’s a lesser-known secret that makes the city even more special – its collection of ocean pools. Located on the surf coast, they protect swimmers from rough waves and sharks, and allow them to do laps without worrying about the risk of drowning.
From the infinitely-Instagrammed Bondi Icebergs to neighbourhood pools tucked into the northerly beaches, Sydney has more ocean pools than any other city in the world. And they’re all free for swimmers to use.
But the city’s pool culture is not without controversy. In fact, the construction of one of its most well-known pools has been the source of a political scandal. The Sidney Water Park is undergoing a major upgrade, but the project has been plagued by delays and cost overruns. As a result, residents who had already paid deposits for new swimming pools are now left waiting.
This is just the latest chapter in a long story of problems for this once-proud swimming centre. The redevelopment began in 2021, and was expected to include new indoor and outdoor pools, a family leisure pool and a gelato bar. However, the contractor, Icon, has recently been struggling to complete its work on time. Earlier this month, it sent emails to customers announcing that it was liquidating and they should expect to receive a call from the liquidator soon.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the problems at this centre, and many argue that councillors were not in the best position to oversee a project of this magnitude. Tink Baker, for example, argues that the project was destabilised by a $10m pre-election cash injection intended for regional women’s sports. This added a layer of complexity to the work that had previously been budgeted at around $28m, and made it more difficult for councillors to weed out unworkable proposals.
Those interested in becoming a Sydney lifeguard can apply for the job by applying for a lifeguard certification class at the Sidney-Shelby County YMCA. The two-year course includes training in CPR and basic first aid, lifeguarding skills, and water rescue techniques. Applicants must pass a background check and drug screening before they can begin their training. Classes are offered in March, May, October and December, with recertification available at the end of each year. Those who successfully pass the course will be certified for two years and are eligible to work at any of the city’s public beaches.