Better streets and spaces

Green Square celebrates its stunning new aquatic centre

Sydneysiders are invited to dive into the biggest pool complex in Sydney since the 2000 Olympic Games.

GPARC kids waterplay area Photo Credit-Brett Boardman Photography

Green Square’s state-of-the-art $106.5m centre inspired by Sydney’s ocean pools is open for Sydneysiders to explore.

The City of Sydney complex includes a 50m outdoor pool, a 25m indoor pool with moveable floor, a kids’ water playground, a hydrotherapy pool, gym, creche, café and sports field.

“We’re thrilled to open the doors to the largest pool complex built in Sydney since the 2000 Olympics, and we invite you to dive right on in,” Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

“The jewel of the complex is the 50m outdoor lap pool. Its unusual shape inspired by Sydney’s coastline edge allows swimmers to walk and paddle in or sit for a breather on the shoreline.

“For children there’s a shallow pool for waterplay with slides, spraying devices and a tipping bucket, while adults can also make use of a hydrotherapy pool, the gym, and fitness studios.

“This is our 6th and largest aquatic centre and it’s in the middle of one of Sydney’s fastest growing precincts. From kids splashing and serious swimmers improving their lap times to gym-lovers and sports teams on the field, this terrific centre has something for everyone.”

Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre kids waterplay area. Credit: Brett Boardman Photography
Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre kids waterplay area. Credit: Brett Boardman Photography

Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre features:

  • a 50m heated outdoor pool set in a larger pool inspired by Sydney’s best-loved ocean pools
  • a 25m heated indoor pool with a moveable floor to change the pool’s depth for activities from water polo to kids’ swimming lessons
  • a kids’ waterplay area with a shallow pool, slides, spraying devices and a tipping bucket
  • an indoor hydrotherapy pool
  • a gym, fitness studios and consultation rooms
  • a creche with indoor play area, café and meeting rooms for hire
  • a multipurpose synthetic sports field and outdoor fitness area
  • a bronze sculpture Bangala by Aboriginal Elder Aunty Julie Freeman and artist Jonathan Jones.

Sustainable design features, including waste, water and energy initiatives, mean this is the first centre to achieve a 5-star design rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.

The pools also have accessible entry options including ramps and hoists, and changing and toilet facilities for people with disability.

An artwork Bangala (water carriers) is by Aboriginal Elder Aunty Julie Freeman and artist Jonathan Jones. The bronze sculpture is modelled on handheld water carriers once used by Aboriginal communities along Australia’s east coast.

The aquatic centre was designed by Andrew Burges Architects and Grimshaw with landscape architects Taylor Cullity Lethlean.

The centre is a 10-minute walk from Green Square train station and close to walking and cycling connections.

For programs, membership and bookings call 1300 198 412 or visit Gunyama Park’s website.

You can also check out our exciting new centre in pictures.

Published 2 February 2021, updated 17 October 2023