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Great news, you guys! Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne has announced that Balmain's historic Dawn Fraser Baths will reopen to the public later this week. And the best part? Entry will be completely free for the next two weeks, until September 22.
The historic site has been closed since 2019 while it underwent a major $8 million renovation. Even though we're still in lockdown, the baths have been given the go-ahead by health minister Brad Hazzard to open for daily exercise, but there will be some special restrictions in place to keep visitors safe. If you live within the inner west LGA or within five kilometres of the baths, you can book a splash from Wednesday, September 8. Just in time for the warmer seasons, swimmers will be able to book in for one-hour sessions, with a maximum of 26 patrons at any one time.
Sunbaking will not be permitted so it’ll be slip, slop, slap, swim. Though there were plans to include exercise classes like yoga, pilates and aerobics, these have been put on hold to align with current health orders.
Constructed in 1880, the Balmain Baths were renamed in the 1960s after Olympian Dawn Fraser to immortalise her sporting achievements and the 2019 refurbishments were completed back in August to correct structural issues.
Head to the Inner West Council’s website here to read full details and book your session.