Pool story

1915

The New baths fundraising committee is established. Funding is sought by organising a `monster surf day’ with a procession, which included the surf club, band and other public bodies, as well as a street collection.

The residents of Coledale decide upon a site for the excavation of a bath in the rocks.

The stone coming out of the baths was used to make repairs on the roads.

Working bees consisted of volunteer labour and men otherwise employed in the mines who were able to work on the baths when the mines were idle.

November 1921

Coledale baths were officially opened. There was a large celebration, which included foot racing and swimming events as well as prizes and a band.

1923

During the holidays the Coledale baths were well patronised.

December 1924

Coledale baths were 150 feet in length but were without a concrete bottom. Working bees continued to extend and improve the baths. The baths were considered a great asset to the township of Coledale.

February 1926

The swimming baths were ‘taxed to full capacity’. The baths were considered more popular than the surf.

1927

Plans to extend Coledale baths to three times their size were actioned. Local funds had been raised for the purpose.

1934

The Coledale baths were finished by men working for the dole.

Early 1960s

Wollongong Council offered to re-locate the baths onto the main beach. A petition with over 200 signatures rallied to keep the baths in their existing location. The President of the Coledale Improvement Committee, Mr Frank Smith believed new baths were not necessary and what was needed was for the floor of the baths to be concreted over so the razor sharp oyster shells would no longer be a problem.

1965

The Coledale Oyster winter swimming club was formed.

2011

Coledale pool was relined