“Imagine the scene” a voice whispers. We stand before the Redleaf Pool Opening Plaque. Its bronze surface gleams. It commemorates a momentous occasion. The official opening of Redleaf Pool back in 1941.
This isn’t just any plaque. It’s a portal to the past. It tells the story of a community’s vision. A vision realized at Seven Shillings Beach in Double Bay. The Woollahra Council purchased the Redleaf property. This included a section of the beach. They built a shark-proof pool. A remarkable feat for its time.
The plaque itself is a testament to this achievement. Its inscription proudly declares the opening date November 29 1941. The Hon WJ McKell MLA the Premier of New South Wales officiated. J C Lough Town Clerk and L H Moore Mayor also played key roles. Their names are etched in bronze. A permanent record of their contribution.
More than just a swimming pool Redleaf Pool became a hub. A place for community gatherings and celebrations. The opening day featured a carnival. It raised money for the Woollahra Patriotic Fund. Events included swimming diving water polo physical culture demonstrations and life-saving exhibitions. A vibrant scene of community spirit and national pride during wartime.
The pool’s history extends beyond its opening. It later gained national recognition. It was renamed the Murray Rose Pool in 2012. This honored Olympic swimmer Murray Rose. He learned to swim there as a toddler. His legacy is intertwined with the pool’s story.
Touch the cool bronze. Feel the weight of history. Imagine the excitement of that November day in 1941. The splash of water the cheers of the crowd. The Redleaf Pool Opening Plaque isn’t just a piece of metal. It’s a time capsule. It captures the spirit of a community its vision and its enduring legacy. A legacy that continues to resonate today. It’s a place where generations have made memories. Let the plaque’s inscription transport you to the past. Let it inspire you to reflect on the enduring power of community.