Outdoor swimming pools
From the 1960s, Council began to establish a network of swimming pools in response to increasing interest in aquatic sports. Between 1967 and 1975, outdoor swimming pools opened to the public in Sutherland, Caringbah, Engadine, and Como. Olympic-sized pools, program pools and diving platforms were offered for both competitive and recreational swimmers.
Leisure centres
Over the years, our Leisure Centres have evolved.
In 1993, what is now known as Sutherland Leisure Centre, introduced the first indoor facility at the Waratah Park Swimming Pools site. The upgrade included new indoor heated pools, children's waterplay, and expanded gym facilities, including aerobic and circuit rooms. The Centre also includes a utility pool suitable for international water polo matches and various aquatic programs.
Engadine Swimming Complex was upgraded to Engadine Leisure Centre in early 2008 featuring new gym facilities.
Sports centre
Menai Indoor Sports Centre opened in 2004 and has become a bustling hub for indoor netball, basketball, and a wide range of other indoor sporting activities.
Water park
In the 2020s we refurbished our centres to meet the demands of our growing community. At Sutherland Leisure Centre, we introduced a new water park and we maintain one of only three internationally recognised pools for water polo in Sydney.
Nurturing talent
Our Leisure Centres not only provide for our community but also play a crucial role in nurturing and honing the skills of some of the world's top athletes. Top athletes, such as Ian Thorpe and Craig Stevens, have engaged in our programs at our facilities, inspiring the next generation of talent.
Leisure Centre Strategy
Our Leisure Centre Strategy was adopted in September 2023 and sets the framework for further enhancing our Leisure Centres and Indoor Sports Facilities over the coming years. We are committed to promoting an active, healthy, vibrant, and liveable region.