“Dive in” I say. The Brunswick Baths awaits with over a century of stories. This isn’t just a swimming pool. It’s a community hub steeped in history.
Designed by Peck & Kemter, the Brunswick Baths first opened in 1914. It was built on the site of a former pound for stray livestock. Only the west wall facing the railway track is part of the original building. The art deco facade you see today came later, from a 1929 rebuild.
In 1927, a second indoor pool was added. The original pool was modified to meet Olympic standards. For several years, the pool hosted Victorian swimming championships.
1932 was a big year for the Brunswick Baths. The national swimming championships were held here. Around 2,600 spectators watched Andrew “Boy” Charlton, an Olympic champion, win a race. There was even a proposal to use the pool for the 1956 Olympic Games. But that changed when the Olympic Swimming Stadium was built.
The Brunswick Baths served many purposes over the years. Early on, people without home bathrooms came here to wash. Mixed bathing wasn’t allowed until 1930. Before that, women had only one day a week. The rest were for men only.
The Baths even faced closure in the winter of 1932 due to financial concerns. A debate raged in the Council. Many Brunswick residents lacked hot water. For them, the Baths were the only way to stay clean in winter. Fortunately, the motion to keep the Brunswick Baths open year-round passed.
The Brunswick Baths wasn’t always gender inclusive. Up until the 80s, it had a blokey culture. The Brunswick City Council wanted to introduce women-only sessions. Some residents objected and the case went to the Equal Opportunity Commission. The council lost. Women’s sessions couldn’t proceed at that time. The culture shifted when the YMCA took over.
Between 2007 and 2013, new facilities were added such as a gym, childcare centre, indoor pools, spa, sauna and steam room. Construction faced delays due to leaks, cracks, and contaminated soil.
The Brunswick Baths’ outdoor pool officially opened in October 2013. The mayor, Oscar Yildiz, even jumped in fully clothed.
Today, the focus is on health and fitness. The Brunswick Baths offers gyms and fitness classes. There are classes for seniors and the LGBTIQ+ community.
The Brunswick Baths has truly been central to Brunswick lives for many years. A place where memories were created and the community gathers. A place where you can relax, exercise and connect.