Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre celebrates 10 years

Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre is celebrating 10 years since it reopened to the community, making it the perfect time to reflect on the history of this important local facility.

Originally named ‘Hornsby Olympic Swimming Pool’, it opened in 1962 at a cost of £130,000. The opening was the last official function of retiring Shire Clerk Mr FA Creighton, who was asked to open the pool as a tribute to his long and devoted service to Hornsby Shire Council. Olympic swimmers Murray Rose and John Devitt added to the event’s prestige with their attendance and by swimming the first lap of the pool.

The local newspaper said the pool is ‘claimed to be one of the most picturesque pools in the metropolitan area’.

By 1995, the pool was refurbished to extend its lifespan, but its condition continued to decline. This led to its closure in December 2010 and the eventual construction of the modern $27m Aquatic and Leisure Centre, which reopened on 22 November 2014, complete with a gym, fitness studio and water slide. The new centre was officially opened by the then Prime Minister Tony Abbott.