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North Sydney Olympic Pool

Community Consultation Report

Version 5

Prepared for:

By:

On behalf of:

http://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/

Acknowledgements

The preparation of this Study has been a collaborative effort between North Sydney Council, Brewster Hjorth Architects and Smart Connection

Consultancy.

Copyright

This report (Study) has been prepared by Smart Connection Consultancy Pty Ltd (Smart Connection) on behalf of Brewster Hjorth Architects for North

Sydney Council.

The information contained within this Study is intended for specific use within and by Brewster Hjorth Architects and the North Sydney Council only

and may not be used by any other organisation or for any other project without the permission of Smart Connection Consultancy.

All recommendations and considerations identified by Smart Connection Consultancy are based on data and information provided to it, and Smart

Connection Consultancy has relied on such information being correct at the time this report was prepared.

The information within this Study is provided with good faith. Whilst Smart Connection Consultancy has applied its experience to the Study, we have

relied upon information and views expressed by officers or other stakeholders involved in the project.

We have therefore not conducted an audit of the information provided but have accepted it to be accurate and beneficial to this report, and received

it in the same good faith as we now use that information. Readers should be aware that in the preparation of this report it has been necessary to

provide commentary on future projections that may be inherently uncertain, and that our opinion is based on the underlying assumptions at this

point in time – which has been influenced by the information provided in good faith.

We do not express an opinion as to whether actual results will achieve our estimates, or underwrite or guarantee the achievability of the projections

or value assumptions which are based on future events.

North Sydney Olympic Pool Final Summary of Findings

Smart Connection Consultancy © of 35

Contents

Contents............................................................................................................................................................................. 3

1. Introduction and Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................... 4

1.1 Project Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 4

1.2 Project Principles of Masterplan .......................................................................................................................... 4

1.3 Objectives of Study .............................................................................................................................................. 4

1.4 Consultation Strategy ........................................................................................................................................... 4

1.5 Summary of Key Findings ..................................................................................................................................... 5

2. Consultation Report ...................................................................................................................................................... 8

2.1 Community Engagement Strategy ....................................................................................................................... 8

2.2 Embracement of Engagement Strategy ............................................................................................................... 8

2.3 Community Consultation ..................................................................................................................................... 8

3. Latest Trends in Sport and Leisure Provision ................................................................................................................... 18

3.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 18

3.2 Changing Trends in Australian Sporting Culture ................................................................................................ 18

3.3 The Future of Australian Sport and Recreation Participation – The Research Findings ..................................... 19

3.4 Implications on People, Programs, Partners and Places (4 P’s) ......................................................................... 22

Appendices .......................................................................................................................................................................... 28

Appendix 1: Summary of Consultation Meetings ................................................................................................................ 29



1. Introduction and Executive Summary

1.1 Project Introduction

North Sydney Council is preparing a Masterplan that will be used to guide the future development and decisions about

the North Sydney Olympic Pool. The Masterplan has come about due to the serious degradation of the 50 meter pool

tank, which according to engineers1 is beyond repair and needs replacing.

Council has taken the opportunity to invest in extensive community consultation as part of the Master planning

exercise. The Masterplan is being developed by architect’s Brewster Hjorth in partnership with a consortium of

specialist’s consultants and engineers. Smart Connection Consultancy is the aquatic management specialists who are

handling the community consultation as part of the process.

This report is a summary report from the consultation process that has been extensive and has been developed and

coordinated with Councils’ Community Engagement Coordinator (William Adames).

1.2 Project Principles of Masterplan

Council has identified a number of key principles that it would like the Masterplan to address. Development should:

recognise the heritage of the Pool complex

ensure the Pool is sustainable for future generations

meet modern user requirements for people of all abilities and ages

ensure any future designs embrace management best practice and sustainability principles

improve the user and visitor experience

Maintain the Pool complex as an iconic Sydney attraction.

1.3 Objectives of Study

This Study aims to provide the architects (Brewster Hjorth) and Council with an understanding of the consultation

findings to date, together with the following:

views of users and the broader community of their perceptions, needs and priorities for the Pool complex;

results of stakeholders consultations as to their professional views of any Master planning for development of the

complex;

identification of aquatic trends that provide insights on the participation use and planning that may impact on the

design considerations; and

Provide priorities to the Architects on what needs to be considered from the consultation perspective

1.4 Consultation Strategy

In conjunction with Council there are three phases, which are summarised in Section 2 of this report, namely:

Phase 1: Identify what is Important

A detailed consultation strategy which is aimed at including feedback from users, stakeholders, in North Sydney and

the broader community. This report summarises this and compares the results to industry trends so that guidance

can be provided to the architects.

1 Ninnes Fong Report



Phase 2: Design Options

Brewster Hjorth Architects will use the consultation feedback from the community to develop design options for

Council to review. They will provide three options for consideration, including:

BASIC UPGRADE – keep the existing layout and upgrade the 50 meter pool to bring it into line with 2014

standards and accessibility and legislative obligations

UPGRADE PLUS – upgrade the 50 meter pool to bring it into line with 2014 standards and take the opportunity

to significantly improve other facilities or provide additional facilities

GENERATIONAL DEVELOPMENT – redevelop the Pool complex to create an iconic new facility for the 21st

century

Phase 3: Further Consultation

The draft Masterplan will go on exhibition for a second round of community consultation prior to Council

considering its final options.

1.5 Summary of Key Findings

1. Introduction

The following key insights can be collected from the initial two rounds of consultation, together with the Authors

impressions of the discussions, to create a list of the opportunities that can both be shared with the Architects to assist

their thinking and also with Council’s project officers to ensure that we are covering all aspects. In addition the detailed

commentary on the stakeholder meetings is attached as a reference point.

2. Iconic nature of North Sydney Olympic Pool

There is a consensus from the stakeholders that general perceptions of the pool being an iconic landmark is either

linked, or due to:

The location and pictorial views of the harbour (Bridge, water, Opera House etc.)

The history of the pool - physical attraction and specialism with its art deco style; the history of world records

achieved in the pool;

The community history of so many generations swimming there and therefore that “connection” with the Pool

It being part of the Bridge-side precinct with the Bridge on one side and Luna Park on the other

3. Recognition of current status

All stakeholders recognised that the charm of the pool (belonging to a by-gone era; closeness to the sea; architectural

design of 80 years) is also providing the present-day challenges, such as:

Access issues – into the site, a poor reception area, around complex; between buildings; within the buildings,;

water (no ramps); with the feeling of a “rabbit warren” of small rooms and long corridors;

Aging infrastructure – plant room; circulation of pools on same system; grandstand steepness; changing rooms;

Disconnection – with surrounding/nearby parkland and between the areas of the complex (e.g. Hall of Fame;

gym; crèche, indoor and outdoor facilities etc.);

The focus of complex – for serious (lap) swimmers, who may not be as embracing of other users (e.g. families

and children) if they impact on their availability to swim laps; and



User passion – well articulated community who enjoy what they have and want to keep it as it is, even if that

means new users find it harder to use.

4. Improvement opportunities

There is a consensus from the stakeholders that improvements could make a significant difference to both the pool

complex and the precinct, which could create a ‘generational impact’. The opportunity is to build upon a number of

themes or pillars that could underpin the iconic enhancement of the North Sydney Olympic Pool (NSOP).

This may include:

Strategic Focus

From the initial stakeholder conversations a vision and strategic focus should ensure that:

“North Sydney Olympic Pool provides:

a destination for visitors to appreciate the iconic vistas, history and story of Sydney, the precinct and the Pool;

a unique venue for people who live, visit and work in North Sydney to enhance their lifestyle;

a place to meet and congregate; play and recreate and develop fitness and aquatic skills

To achieve such a focus the key themes or pillars would be around:

i. Developing a destination attraction – that joins the precinct together (Parklands, Luna Park, Olympic Drive, Bridge,

vista, NSOP etc.) and provides a reason for people to want to go to the precinct. Such ideas may include:

Iconic Sydney – bring to life the story of the Vista, the history of the precinct – from the “run-down” pillars

entering the street to the reconnection of the pool with the precincts history and the parkland.

Creation of an events space – offer a new event space and building where the current sun lounge area is and

then over the unusable three levels of open space to the left of the pool, without encroaching over the outdoor

kid’s pool. This new building could be managed through the pool for both community use and destination

events.

Connecting the Parkland to water trail – there needs to be better connections between the parkland, the NSOP

and the water;

Eateries – if the pool was extended and reconnected to the parkland then Ripples could be extended along the

front towards the Bridge and backwards up the street, satisfying more people and removing the temporary

hoardings;

- Aqua Dining needs some internal developments for garbage management and deliveries which were

not addressed when built

- A new event space should stand alone from the current eateries and can be used for major events,

commercial hiring’s, community use and destination/tourist activities.

ii. Wellness & Wellbeing - For the facility to be able to offer community wellness and wellbeing programs and

opportunities it will need to be able to compete against the commercial sector. This means it needs to be able to offer a

larger facility, with views and space. The emphasis needs to change from a weights and cardio facility to a cardio and

programmable space, for group training and wellness activities. Key issues and opportunities raised included:

New space is needed which is bright, has vista, should be around 1,200 – 1,500m2 to optimise ROI and be

sustainable

Benefit of wellness space being built in for consultation rooms (massage, rehab, counselling etc.)

Emphasis on cardio and program space, not weight training



Links to the parkland and outdoor fitness equipment and trails

iii. Community Aquatic and Swim Centre - To optimise the positioning of the Centre it needs to be redeveloped to

provide swimming and aquatic activities to the broad community including:

Swimming Centric Programs and Pathways with spaces to allow progression, including:

- Water play areas for families, young children and older youths to encourage them to use water as a

means of play and recreation

- Swimming areas that allow for learn to swim, aquatic based programs and for the committed

swimmers

- A 50m pool that allows for local competition (carnivals), swimming club needs and builds on the

history of world records

New reception that provides a warm, accessible entrance and views of the majority of the facility and allows

for extended merchandising and retail;

Changing facilities that reflect the needs of the community for the future (large, inclusive, accessible, warm and

airy, family orientated and accessible to each space with the centre) and do not provide exclusive

arrangements at the risk of alienating others in the community (e.g. private cubicles);

Redesign of the children’s area on the 50m pool deck to include adult’s water leisure space, including spas,

saunas, cold plunge etc….

IT systems and communication across complex

iv. Pool enhancement - The key considerations to enhance the Pool Complex would include:

50 m pool Offer wider pool (1 more lane); with movable boom, which can be split in half providing

flexibility between 50m (half pool) and 2 x 25m (half pools)

Deck level pool, with blocks at one end

On pool showers

Ramp for pool entry

New Program

and family pool

space

Conversion of 25m pool into Program Pool space, for all family programs, with the Spa,

sauna removed and relocated onto 50m deck

Correction of current problems in pool, ramp, width of pool

Add in outdoor water play areas by claiming the Park triangle and reclaiming the present

outdoor space into a fun, family and program space.

Changing

rooms

Need to be redeveloped and modernised for both sexes and if possible family changing

with new family pool

Grandstand Appreciation of its heritage value if this can be redeveloped to be useful, safer and add

value to the pool as not seen positively presently

If the grandstand is NOT heritage listed this could allow for the current space to be

completely demolished and a new three level building created that could house a state of

the art gym, management and administration spaces and space to connect with the

current indoor 25m pool and extend over the space to the left of the Pool (looking out to

the water).



2. Consultation Report

2.1 Community Engagement Strategy

To maximise feedback from users, North Sydney residents and workers and the broader community, Council and Smart

Connection Consultancy identified a wide range of stakeholders and a variety of communication channels to encourage

feedback. These needed:

1. Council’s Website – anyone who was interested was able to complete an online survey. The website provided a

focal point for information sharing from Council to the community.

2. User Survey – all users of the Pool complex were invited to complete a user survey. This was available in hard copy

at the Pool and online at Council’s website.

3. Stakeholder Meetings – groups identified as having a high interest in the complex had the chance to meet Smart

Connection Consultancy provide feedback and also encourage their constituents to complete the questionnaire.

4. User Focus Group – a selected number of Pool users were invited to join a focus group facilitated by the consultant.

5. Letters – a letter was sent to all stakeholder groups including past users/members providing information and

directing them to Council’s online survey.

6. Community Group Meetings (including Precinct Committees) – had the chance to meet the consultant.

7. General Communications – Council used its regular communication channels including posters, e-newsletters, social

media, newspaper advertisement etc. to let the community know about the survey.

2.2 Embracement of Engagement Strategy

To measure any consultation process, the level of engagement is normally measured in the level of response and

passion of their views. The passion of the community workshops was very evident as was the response to the surveys

and the patronage at the forums etc.

Method No. Commentary

Community Questionnaire 1,145

Stakeholder meetings

(one on ones)

5 Luna Park, Sydney Rest Group, Badger Swim School, Swim

clubs

Stakeholder forums

(Group 2)

40 Precinct Groups (10), User Group (30)

Council Stakeholder Meeting 6 6 Departments represented

Site staff and management meetings 3 Management meetings and 2 staff

2.3 Community Consultation

2.3.1 Stakeholder Consultation Results

The consultation with stakeholders explored a number of general themes so that the focus of the meetings were

positive and identified aspects of improvement, appreciation of why people felt that NSOP was “iconic” and how they

perceived it should be both positioned for the future and what improvements should be considered. They key

considerations were therefore categorised into the following aspects:

Iconic perceptions and positioning of the pool complex

Recognition of current status and challenges

Improvement opportunities



2.3.1.1 Iconic nature and current positioning of the Pool complex

There is a consensus from the stakeholders that general perception of the pool being an iconic landmark is either linked,

or due to:

The location and pictorial views of the harbour (Bridge, water, Opera House etc.)

The history of the pool - physical attraction and specialism with its art deco style and the history of world records

achieved in the pool;

The community history with so many generations swimming there and therefore that family or community

“connection” with the Pool

It being part of the Bridge-side precinct with the Bridge on one side and Luna Park on the other

Although the majority of the users of the facility are swimmers, with a very close and passionate bond to the Pool, their

focus is for the facility to remain a Swim Centre. Other users of the Complex including the gym users; management,

swim school and eateries have a more holistic view of its positioning and suggest that the priorities should be around:

- Swimming and aquatic centre for local community

- Fitness and wellness facilities to complement aquatics

- A modern facility – including eateries, space for events and tourists, culture and history celebrated both inside

and outside of the pool complex

- A modern facility that is easy to access and has accessible routes around the complex to encourage people of

all abilities to use and enjoy the facilities

- A complex which is designed to be sustainably managed and not an impost on the community

2.3.1.2 Recognition of current status

All stakeholders recognised that the charm of the pool (belonging to a by-gone era; closeness to the sea;

architectural design of 80 years etc.) is also providing the present-day challenges, such as:

Access issues – into the site, a poor reception area, around complex; between buildings; within the buildings,;

water (no ramps); with the feeling of a “rabbit warren” of small rooms and long corridors;

Ageing infrastructure – plant room; circulation of pools on same system; grandstand steepness; changing

rooms;

Disconnection – with surrounding/nearby parkland and between the areas of the complex (e.g. Hall of Fame;

gym; crèche, indoor and outdoor facilities etc.);

The focus of complex – for serious (lap) swimmers, who may not be as embracing of other users (e.g. families

and children) if they impact on their availability to swim laps;

User passion – well articulated community who enjoy what they have and want to keep it as it is, even if that

means new users find it harder to use; and

Lack of car parking.

2.3.2 Broad community consultation

The consultation strategy agreed with North Sydney Council aimed clearly to communicate with key stakeholders and

the broader community. This Summary Report identifies the key findings from the various surveys for Councils

consideration.

The surveys completed included:



Community Survey 1,035 responses

School Survey 5 responses

Pool User survey 105 responses

TOTAL 1,145

This is an excellent response and demonstrates the passion and ownership that the community has for the pool. A

number of questions can be answered from the consultation which will assist in the Master planning

2.3.2.1 Who uses the pool complex?

A local population use the pool, but it also has a wider draw, with an emphasis on the older users (60% of the User

Survey are over 50 years) and 40% over 40 years of age of the community surveyed. These two points may explain why

so many people use their cars (i.e. older and live more than 3km away) with more than 40% using motorised vehicles.

From talking with some staff and some swimmers they expressed a view that over the last 5-10 years the demographic

is getting older and the pool lanes are NOT as busy early morning or later in the evening as they used to be. The view

suggested that as people were getting older and not frequenting the pool as often there was limited reasons for

younger people to attend.

The demographic profiling of the survey completions seems to substantiate this.

Pool Users Community

No. % No. %

1

.

Male/female 39.8% / 60.2% 42.7% / 56.9%

2

.

Age Groups 60-69 years

50-59 years

30-39 years

31.3%

29.3%

13.1%

30-39 yrs

40-49 yrs

50-59 yrs

20-29 yrs

25.1%

21%

18%

15.1%

3

.

Top 3 postcodes 2060

2061

2088

22%

20%

13%

2060

2089

2088

2065

18%

11.4%

10.3%

10.3%

4

.

Transport to NSOP Walk

Bike

Car/motorbike

Public transport

30.6%

12.2%

46.9%

4.1%

16.9%

6.3%

47.9%

28.9%

The main reason for attending are provided as:

Health and fitness 43.5% (including lap swimming, aquatic classes, fitness)

Sport 21.9% (including squad, stroke correction, Learn to Swim, personal training)

Recreation/Leisure 34.6% (including recreational swimming, sun deck, Ripples/Aqua Dining etc.)

The majority of users are self-motivated (88.6%) and organise their own patronage, with the swim school (5.2%) and

centre staff (5.3%) offering other options as the reason why they attend, as seen in the table below.



2.3.2.2 Views on Present Services and Facilities

The two key surveys explored a number of key themes and satisfaction levels around those themes, which explored:

Accessibility to the pool and around the complex

The actual facilities being offered

Overall perception of meeting the community needs

The insights from the surveys include:

Accessibility

Overall accessibility scored well for access on foot (6.02 average) opening hours (6.18 average) with access around

building only 5.36 and access by vehicle only 4.64 average, from the Community Survey. The User Survey rated open

hours at high as well (6.12) with physical access (5.94 average) and around the building 5.85 average) and car parking

4.87.

From the comments on the survey the key trends/issues are around:

Car parking - Lack of availability, despite the pools effort to include parking into an entry cost package at key

times

- Too expensive for regular users

- Respondents appreciate Councils refunding scheme for parking

- Some contextualised that given the closeness to parkland and harbour that parking charges

are appropriate and it should encourage more public transport

- More disabled parking requested

0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00

Opening hours

Physical access into the building

Access on foot (i.e. paths)

Access by vehicle (i.e. car parking)

Community Survey Results: In terms of the level of accessibility please rate each of the following in meeting your needs (7=

exceeds needs, 1= not meeting needs.) If a particular aspect does not meet your needs please tell us why.

0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00

Opening hours

Physical access into the building

Access on foot (i.e. paths)

Access by vehicle (i.e. car parking)

User Survey Results: In terms of the level of accessibility please rate each of the following in meeting your needs (7=

exceeds needs, 1= not meeting needs.) If a particular aspect does not meet your needs please tell us why.



- Motorbike, cycle and scooter parking to be increased

- Difficult for school groups to park and collect children

Access into and

around the

facility

- Not user friendly with turnstiles

- Schools (2) believe that service is poor than they have to fit around lap swimming

- Better signage with and around complex

- Prams, chair access around facility poor and cumbersome

- Access between bottom level (harbour side) requested

- Not a good reception, especially in winter when so open

Opening Hours - Majority are positive

- Requested for additional hours later/earlier on weekends

Facilities on Offer

The surveys explored how satisfied the users and community was with the key facilities within the complex. The results

show the following:

Community Survey Results

User Survey Results

The key issues from the Community Survey are around the children’s outdoor area, the kiosk, the gym / fitness centre

and the outdoor 50m pool. The schools surveys also qualify this with limited options for younger people to attend

presently due to lack of facilities.

The school feedback and expectation is that they need additional facilities and more water space.

Overall Perception

The overall facility rating for the needs of the community was scored as a rating average of 5.72 (Community Survey)

and 5.78 (User Survey) out of a maximum of 7.

The insights provided complement those of Section 3.2 of this report, with the following new suggestions:

Greater facilities for young people (5-16 years)

Leaking indoor pool roof

Cost of entry high (with parking and showers)

School children do not like salt water and they want more fun and play ability

This section also allowed for more positive commentary and recognition of the benefits that the pool brings.



2.3.2.3 Improvements Identified

The combined insights identify key aspects that need to be addressed as follows:

Area Insights/Commentary

50m Pool Outdoor pool and children’s pool could be warmer

Ladder access to be improved in/out of pool

Too much salt (numerous comments) and all of the schools commented on this

Accessibility into pool - needs ramp entrance

Diving blocks in place

Chemicals/salt too strong (numerous)

25m Pool Lanes often crowded when swimming lessons are on

Hygiene in pool poor, ‘stop street shoes in there’

Accessibility for people with disability, pregnant etc. poor and need ramp

Lanes too narrow

Pool side cannot cope with number of parents when children in pool

Children’s Outdoor Pool Make family, baby friendly

Too cold – the pool water and in winter as limited protection

Toilet facilities close to children’s pool would be beneficial

Better and more facilities for children

Indoor spa/Water area Smaller than most and colder than expected (many comments)

Outdoor tub would be well received

Possible repositioning of spa with a sauna area

Separate pool for babies, not the 25m pool

Gym/Fitness Area Needs to be improved

Larger space for classes

There should be more classes offered (e.g. yoga, pilates etc.)

Limited space presently and needs much more space integrating the different spaces

Sun Deck More space on hot days would be great

Shade options should be considered (significant No. of suggestions)

Hard to access in wheelchair

Furniture old and needs updating

Spectator/Grandstand Too steep

Shaded suggested

Kiosk Very limited choices and poor quality

Lacks healthy options

“Service with a smile” needed

Larger seating area

Significant negative commentary

Café/restaurant No significant responses

Changing Rooms

Consensus that they need upgrading

Need for token to have hot shower is outdated and inconvenient

Changing cubicles – needed for everyone, not just ‘members’

Upstairs – too small, damp and need refurbishing already

Double paying for showers

Lockers updated and more introduced, as there are many comments expressing uncomfortableness on so many ‘naked people’(especially women)

Entrance Not covered and open to elements

Barriers do not make for a friendly welcome

Access around complex not signed

Life access, movement poor



2.3.2.4 Future Upgrades

The surveys asked a number of key questions on what the respondent believed were the top 5 priorities for the future.

These include the top 10 being:

Priority Suggested Percentage Level of Upgrade Suggested

Outdoor 50m upgrade 78% Basic

Toilet / changing room upgrade 70% Basic

Fitness/Pilates/yoga spaces (combined) 50% Upgrade plus/Generational

Indoor 25m pool 46% Generational upgrade

Kiosk improvements 42% Upgrade plus/Generational

Outdoor children’s pool 35% Upgrade plus/Generational

Spa/sauna/relaxation areas 25% Generational upgrade

Accessibility upgrade 25% Upgrade plus

Sun Lounge 24% Upgrade plus

Grandstand upgrade 20% Upgrade plus/Generational

Health Spa and pampering 17% Generational upgrade

Community Health/wellness facilities 16% Generational upgrade

Family water/playground inclusion 15% Generational upgrade

From the second question the budgetary implications are cognoscente with the respondents requesting the basic

upgrade (68.9%) and upgrade plus (23.1%). Only 8% wanted Generational Development.

Although ‘a basic upgrade’ is preferred by the majority, the comments, suggestions and priorities indicate that they

waited and believed that the second level, the Upgrade Plus is needed.

On the Consultation document this was described as “Upgrade the 50m pool to bring it into line with 2014 standards

and take the opportunity to significantly improve other facilities or provide additional facilities”.

2.3.3 Councillor Consultation

The consultation with Councillors took place on Monday 15th

December and their commitment to the redevelopment of

the Pool complex was evident across all Councillors’. There was no clear mandate as to any or all options and the

consulting team was requested to develop the concepts from the Consultation to the next level so that a more detailed

discussion and understanding could be achieved.

2.3.4 Strategic Positioning for the Future

As part of the project the consultation process aims at guiding the future positioning of the Pool for the community.

Eight decades ago the architects at the time built a leading edge facility for the community to recreate and play in, built

around the key active leisure pastime of the day, aquatics and swimming. Eighty years on the leisure times of the

community are more sophisticated and people have less time (due to work and other lifestyle choices/commitments),

but more options and the Pool needs to be cognoscente of that to ensure its sustainability.

With that in mind the following positioning is suggested for the new redeveloped facility:

North Sydney Olympic Pool celebrates its’ heritage, while providing a modern day experience for the local and broader

community who want:

- A place to swim, learn aquatic skills and improve one’s fitness through an aquatic experience;

- To enhance their fitness and wellness lifestyle;

- A unique destination for people to visit, meet and enjoy the vistas history of the pool in a unique location.



To achieve this, the core aspects around such development and improvements are focused on North Sydney Olympic

Pool offering to the local and broader community:

Swim Centre – for all ages to enjoy the aquatic experience of swimming, through play, recreation, skill development

and competition

Health, Fitness and Wellness – offering latest programs, activities and facilities in health, fitness and wellness

Destination Complex – building on the Ripples, Aqua Dining experience and considering a tourism destination,

space, where both locals and tourists can enjoy eateries, a distinction space; events and celebrate the vistas and

history of the pool

2.3.5 Improvements to the complex

2.3.5.1 Community Aquatic and Swim Centre Suggestions

To optimise the positioning of the Centre it needs to be redeveloped to provide swimming and aquatic activities to the

broad community including:

Swimming Centric Programs and Pathways with spaces to allow progression, including:

o Water play areas for families, young children and older youths to encourage them to use water as a

means of play and recreation

o Swimming areas that allow for learn to swim, aquatic based programs and for the committed

swimmers

o A 50m pool that allows for local competition (carnivals), swimming club needs and builds on the

history of world records (salt water requested mainly by users, but not schools and families - so this

wouldn’t meet the FINA standards)

New reception that provides a warm, accessible entrance and views of the majority of the facility and allows

for extended merchandising and retail;

Changing facilities that reflect the needs of the community for the future (large, inclusive, accessible, warm and

airy, family orientated and accessible to each space with the centre) and do not provide exclusive

arrangements at the risk of alienating others in the community (e.g. private prepaid cubicles);

Redesign of the children’s area on the 50m pool deck to include adult’s water leisure space, including spas,

saunas, steam rooms, cold plunge etc. with children’s water play areas

IT systems and communication across complex

Pool Enhancement Suggestions

The key considerations to enhance the Pool Complex would include:

50 m pool Offer wider pool (1 more lane); with movable boom, which can be split in half providing

flexibility between 50m (full pool) and 2 x 25m (half pools)

Deck level pool, with blocks at one end

On pool showers

Ramp for pool entry

Movable floor that can raise and fall depending on the aquatic and events needs for at

least 25m of pool

New Conversion of 25m pool into Program Pool space, for all family programs, with the Spa,



Program and

family pool

space

removed and relocated onto 50m deck

Correction of current problems in pool, ramp, width of pool

Add in outdoor water play areas by claiming the Park triangle and reclaiming the present

outdoor space into a fun, family and program space.

Changing

rooms

Need to be redeveloped and modernised for both sexes and if possible family changing

with new family pool

Grandstand Appreciation of its heritage value if this can be redeveloped to be useful, safer and add

value to the pool as not seen positively presently

If the grandstand is NOT heritage listed this could allow for the current space to be

completely demolished and a new three level building created that could house a state of

the art gym, management and administration spaces and space to connect with the current

indoor 25m pool and extend over the space to the left of the Pool (looking out to the

water).

2.3.5.2 Sun Lounge Areas

Although this has strong support, and would need to be kept, if integrated as part of new event space then this area

could be connected as a forecourt for community/ corporate use, when sun not needed (evening events etc.). Council

needs to consider its long term risk of promoting a service which all research shows increase causes skin cancer. It may

believe that this is not a service it should provide.

2.3.5.3 Wellness and Wellbeing

For the facility to be able to offer community wellness and wellbeing programs and opportunities it will need to be able

to compete against the commercial sector. This means it needs to be able to offer a larger facility, with views and space.

The emphasis needs to change from a weights and cardio facility to a cardio and programmable space, for group

training and wellness activities. Key issues and opportunities raised included:

New space is needed which is bright, has vista, should be around 1,200 – 1,500m2 to optimise ROI and be

sustainable

Benefit of wellness space being built in for consultation rooms (massage, rehab, counselling etc.)

Emphasis on cardio and program space, not weight training

Links to the parkland and outdoor fitness equipment and trails

2.3.5.4 Destination Opportunity

The Pool joins the precinct together (Parklands, Luna Park, Olympic Drive, Bridge, vista, NSOP etc.) and provides a

reason for people to want to go to the precinct. Such ideas may include:

Iconic Sydney – bring to life the story of the Vista, the history of the precinct – from the “run-down” pillars entering

the street to the reconnection of the pool with the precincts history and the parkland.



Creation of an events space – offer a new event space and building where the current sun lounge area is and then

over the unused three levels of open space to the left of the pool, without encroaching over the outdoor kid’s pool.

This new building could be managed through the pool for both community use and destination events.

Connecting the Parkland to water trail – there needs to be better connections between the parkland, the NSOP and

the water;

Eateries – if the pool was extended and reconnected to the parkland then Ripples could be extended along the

front towards the Bridge and backwards up the street, satisfying more people and removing the temporary

hoardings;

- Aqua Dining needs some internal developments for garbage management and deliveries which were not

addressed when built

- A new event space should stand alone from the current eateries and can be used for major events,

commercial hiring’s, community use and destination/tourist activities.

2.3.6 Blue Sky Ideas

The Stakeholders are able to articulate the enhancement opportunities for the Centre but larger the ‘Blue Sky’ ideas so

easily, they have all been provided with the encouragement to continue to add their ideas into the consultation process.

Some of the Blue Sky Ideas could be based around:

Closure of the road under the bridge and expansion of the parkland into the centre

Development of a two tier decking over the road and connecting the Pool with the Park

Relocation of the two Luna Park pillars into the Decked Bridge so that the NSOP becomes the starting point for

the Precinct Experience

Integration of the tourist market to providing a destination around the NSOP by creating space both outside

the pool and inside to connect people, place and experiences



3. Latest Trends in Sport and Leisure Provision

3.1 Introduction

Australian local government forward planning for sport and recreation provision and facilities has historically been developed

around community facilities and sports club provision. New research from the Australian Sports Commission now questions

whether that traditional approach is still appropriate.

The Australian Sports Commission research over the past 18 months has reviewed trends of participation and key characteristics

of market segmentation in sport and recreation to allow the industry to contemplate what the community’s interests, drivers and

barriers are. By reviewing this research, in relation to NSOP and exploring international trends in both aquatic, health and fitness

and leisure facilities it should provide for the guidance any future development by providing insights into the future of what

facilities should look like.

3.2 Changing Trends in Australian Sporting Culture

For the last sixty years, Australia has “punched above its weight” in world sport when you consider its success in the Olympics,

rugby, tennis, netball and swimming, to name but a few. As the population continues to grow from under 10 million in the 1960’s

to over 20 million now, the challenge for Australia is how to keep performing at the highest level, whilst also providing community

sport and leisure facilities to satisfy and encourage community participation.

With changing trends in society, sports participation is no longer as high a priority as it used to be. The challenge for local

government, sports teams and organisations is how to connect with the local community to keep people active, recreating and

playing sport?

Indeed, in some cities, although the level of sedentary lifestyles is growing in the community, the number of junior participants of

some sports continues to grow. However, many of the children playing sport are showing overweight tendencies, so they need to

exercise more often and reduce their food intake, which is a far bigger challenge than just sports participation, but one that many

local governments are considering in facility developments. Recently the YMCA (Victoria) banned all sugary soft drinks from their

pools and sports centres.

The challenge for Local Governments, who are the key investors for community sport and recreation facilities, is that many cities

and communities were designed for a smaller population, meaning that the number of facilities is not relative to the population

growth. This simple ‘supply and demand’ model is presenting challenges for most outdoor and indoor facilities.

This coupled with the changing preferences for participation is impacting on traditional community sports facilities such as indoor

stadiums, traditional 50m swimming pools and fitness facilities. These were predominantly designed and built for specific and

traditional sports usage, which may not be the need in the future.

The SMART approach to planning and identifying future needs is to:

Understand the PEOPLE needs in the community – the Australian Sports Commission’s Market Segmentation and Mega-

trends reports will show the trending preferences and needs of the community

Identify and develop PROGRAMS and activities for these people to play, recreate and participate in sporting pathways

Ensure that the PLACES people want to be active can be accessed and can cope with the demand

Collaborate with PARTNERS who move with the times and can provide the best programs, in accessible places to the People

who want the service provision



So planning for the future has become a challenge, not only for the peak bodies of sport, local sports associations and sports clubs,

but also for the key owners of these facilities, Local Government. The question must be around what can be learnt from the new

research, and how does this impact on the future design of NSOP.

3.3 The Future of Australian Sport and Recreation Participation – The Research Findings

Recognising that Australians are becoming increasingly time-poor and more cognisant of their fiscal positions post GFC, the

Australian Sports Commission completed a series of research projects to identify trends in participation in sport.

The first three reports in 2012 and 2013 explored the Mega-Trends of Sport2 together with specific participation trends for adults

(14 – 65 years)3 and children (5 – 13 years

4). The Mega-Trends report explored the major shifts in environmental, social and

economic conditions that will alter the way people live and perceive sport.

3.3.1 Megatrends of participation

The six megatrends have been defined by the report as:

1. A Perfect Fit

People are fitting sport into their increasingly busy and time-fragmented lifestyles to achieve their own personal health and

wellbeing goals. This is reflected in the participation rates of ‘casual activities’ such as aerobics, jogging/walking, gym membership

and casual kick-a-round’s in the park with friends which have grown significantly over the past decade. At the same time

participation rates in many traditional organised team sports have declined. Australians are increasingly playing sport to get and

stay fit, rather than staying fit to play sport.

2. From Extreme to Mainstream

Capturing the rise of adventurous lifestyles and alternative sports, that are popular with the thrill-seeking, younger generations.

Adventure sports such as BMX, skateboarding, Parkour, rock climbing, and extreme running are growing in popularity. Even the

Olympics are embracing these sports to stay relevant. In simple community recreation terms people are looking for more of a

challenge, this is why events such as adventure and multi-sport events have become so popular.

3. More than Sport

A holistic view of sport, providing broader benefits is being recognised by all levels of Government, as well as the commercial and

community sectors. The benefits of mental and physical health gain, social inclusion and equality of opportunity as well as crime

prevention, is being seen as reasons for the promotion, development and participation of sport.

4. Everybody’s Game

Australia and many other OECD countries face the challenge of an ageing population, affecting the type of sports the population

can play. Indications are that Australians are embracing sport into their old age. To retain strong participation rates, sports of the

future will need to cater for the change in cultural make-up of Australia, recognising that a multicultural society brings multi-

needs, preferences and habits. The industry needs to capture the interest and investment of these diverse cultures.

5. New Wealth, New Talent

2 The Future of Australian Sport – CSIRO/Australian Sports Commission 2012 3 Market Segmentation for Sports Participation: Adults (March 2013) 4 Market Segmentation for Sports Participation: Children (May 2013)



Population growth and investment in developing countries, especially Asia, will increase athletic prowess at major competitions,

such as the Olympics. It will also provide emerging new business markets through media (social and traditional), sports equipment,

services and events.

6. Tracksuits to Business Suits

Market forces are likely to put greater pressure on sports to be more professional in the future, with larger associations expected

to use paid staff as opposed to volunteers to ensure ‘quality of experience’. Directly linked to this is the level of recompense that

participants receive and expect to benefit from. The result may see some of the less supported sports losing participants to the

‘richer sports’.

The participation drivers for adults and children will help local government and service providers understand the market

segmentation better so that programs can be developed to encourage them to play, recreate and participate in sport and physical

activity more.

3.3.2 Market Segmentation of Adults for Sports Participation

The Australian Sport Commission publication Market Segmentation for Sports Participation (March 2013): identifies that

Australians (14 - 65 years) are becoming increasingly time-poor and more fiscally aware of what they can afford. Changing

lifestyles, lack of time, reserve money consequence and a change of priorities from sport to recreation, as well as using sport as

part of their fitness campaign is making it difficult to understand the changing attitudes and behaviors of the community in

relation to sport, or should we say ‘traditional sport’.

Recognising the changing community preferences, this Market Segmentation Study identified the market into groups of

consumers, with similar needs, attitudes and behaviors. The report identifies the consumer’s perceptions and needs and then

provides key insights regarding how participation in traditional sport is affected by:

sport delivery that focuses on competition rather than fun and enjoyment

a lack of flexibility around the scheduling of sport in traditional sporting clubs

organising individuals and teams according to talent rather than retaining friendship groups

limited opportunities for people with limited sports competency to join sporting clubs

self-consciousness amongst adolescents and embarrassment by their lack of sporting ability.

These insights should underpin the management of any future facility that Council is considering investing in. The strongest

aspect, when combined with ‘The Future of Australian Sport’ study, is that the change provides a clear indication that more people

are using sport as a means to an end (e.g. for fitness, social interaction, health benefits etc.). This provides an exciting opportunity

for community recreation facilities and programs and the way we think. The Study divides the consumer into three categories:

Consumer segmentation grouping

Summary of Group What are their interests

Existing Sports Club Members

Sports loyalists

6% percent of

Australians (980,683)

Sport is their life, mainly male under 30 - high proportion of

teenagers, are competitive and participate regularly.

Competitions

Advanced training – enjoy challenges and skill development

Self-motivated

Socially engaged

7% percent of

Australians (1,052,618),

Predominantly males with high incomes and white collar jobs who

enjoy all aspects of sport especially with a social aspect.

Rewards for membership & introducing friends

Promote social aspects

Keen to be active with friends

Sports driven High level of physical activity but social interaction low as the sports Flexible terms and schedules



Consumer segmentation grouping

Summary of Group What are their interests

4% of Australians

(583,186)

participation is main driver. Normally younger, wealthier urbanites,

high proportion from CALD backgrounds. They have personal drivers

of self-improvement.

Normally have busy lives and try to balance sport, family and work. If

clubs don‟t offer options they are more than capable of „finding

alternative options‟ as their free time decreases.

Team or groups activities

Participation and loyalty schemes appeal

Apathetic clubbers

4% of population

(599,952)

More likely to be male and teenagers and less likely to be positive

about sport and need to feel less pressure to be „good at sport‟ to

belong and have a certain ease of joining

Non-competitive leagues,

personal training and goal setting programs

Competition to suit their level

Non-sports club members with high potential for acquisition

Side line sportsters

13% of population

(2,035,878)

They value the opportunity for personal time, participation and the

friends it makes.

They have stopped „playing‟ traditional sport, maybe because of

family or work and normally can‟t commit the time that „traditional

club membership‟ programs expect.

Casual participation as many are older people (40+) who have left

sport but still keep fit. With the right option, this is a prime group to

get back into the sport.

Low impact sport – sport to stay fit

Short time spans – 45 mins. at lunch time, on way to or home from work

etc

Don‟t want to have long term commitment which costs but flexibility of

membership etc

Club wary

8% of population

(1,145,957)

Enjoy sport but have reservations about clubs due to previous

experiences and see clubs or membership based packages as

wanting significant commitment which they don‟t want to offer.

Avoid over commitment and could be happy to be recreation

members as they actually want to get involved but don‟t know how or

where to look.

Upskilling and personal development

Flexible membership

Proactive communication – it‟s about the relationship

May have interest in low key fun competitions (mini-triathlons) to test their

fitness levels in a sporting environment without the traditional sports

pressure of winning

Ponderers

20% of Australians

(1,969,162)

Often married with children at home, active to very active people that

take part in activities that are solo or fit around other commitments.

They understand the benefits of physical activity and sport and derive

strong personal satisfaction and achievement from participation.

Flexible membership (time and cost)

Family membership

Different class type (level and age) linked with their perceived ability

Non-sports club makers with low potential for acquisition

Self-focused

13% of population

(1,943,503)

Typically female with personal drivers who are turned off by the

competitive nature of sport.

Exercise alone, need balance from other commitments they have and

in essence want something that focuses on their needs.

Individual growth and personal development programs and opportunities

Flexible membership

Non-competitive recreation

Beginners classes etc.

Sports indifferent

19% of Australians

(2,938,300)

Less engaged, indifferent to all types of sport.

Hard to engage and may need to highlight other benefits which may

be more appealing such as Wii-fitness or workplace health programs.

Fitness facilities and activities

Social opportunities

Sports atheists

6% of population

(844,056)

Totally disengaged in sport, clubs and physical activity is low (less

than once a week). Leads a more sedentary lifestyle.

Few products to engage these people in traditional sports activities.

Need educational program of benefits of participation

Lifestyle choices may appeal

Destination programs

Eateries and passive leisure options

Wellness programs to target “less active” and less confident people in

being more physically active

3.3.3 Market Segmentation of Children for Sports Participation

The Australian Sports Commission publication (May 2013): Market Segmentation for Sports Participation: Children, identifies the

trends, needs, motivations and barriers for sports participation for the 5 - 13 year olds.

The study provided some strong insights to what youngsters are looking for with sports participation and why many are not being

part of the traditional sports club structure, which provides ample opportunities for recreation and aquatic centres, namely:

providing sport delivery that focuses on fun and enjoyment rather than competition



providing activities and services that are inclusive; promote equal treatment; and focus on fun and participation regardless of

skill level and ability

providing a variety of pricing packages and different types of membership that allow for flexibility of attendance and time

commitment

identifying the potential for growth opportunities with regards to sport club membership by understanding the needs of

different segments and the products they may be attracted to

The study identifies six segmentation groups for this population cohort and is classified as follows:

Social Loyalists ‘Sport clubs are the best! I love to be able to play sports and with friends’.

Sport Driven ‘Like being part of a club to play sports but they sometimes want to try other activities and that is annoying’.

Apathetic Clubbers ‘I don’t mind playing sport with my club but I am a bit over it’.

Thrifty Enthusiasts

Po

ten

tial

s

‘Sport is great and so are clubs – I’d like to be part of a club again’.

Ponderers ‘I’d like to do more sport but I don’t really know how’.

Sport Resistant

No

n P

ote

nti

als ‘I don’t really like sport, people just want to win’.

The Study provides key summaries and insights of how the sport and community recreation sectors can understand the

motivations and barriers and therefore have a greater change of embracing this cohort and encouraging them to be more

physically active and play sport. As an industry we can embrace these findings and the study states:

“Australian children were generally more positive than Australian adults in their views of physical activity and sport, with adults

ascribing fewer positive benefits to sport due to a perceived association with competition. The vast majority of children believed

sport provides a multitude of benefits that include physical benefits, mental benefits, social benefits, and fun and enjoyment. To a

lesser degree, competitive success was important to children.”

To further help sport consider how it might deliver opportunities for children, the ASC has also released a new report from

research it commissioned from Victoria University, the ‘Validation of the Playing for Life (P4L) Philosophy’. The P4L report

provides a validated approach that sports may be able to adapt to better target Australian children whose primary motivation to

participate in sport is to have fun and play with friends. The P4L report can be accessed at www.ausport.gov.au.

3.4 Implications on People, Programs, Partners and Places (4 P’s)

The key opportunities from the ASC three trend and market segmentation publications clearly identify the key drivers and barriers

for each target audience. How this is interpreted for the 4P’s of people, programs, partners and place management needs to be

carefully explored.

3.4.1 PEOPLE - Impact of research on target audiences

The Mega-trends report explains that people are trying to fit in physical activity, recreation and sport into a busy and fragmented

lifestyle, so the traditional approach from previous decades will not have the same impact for this cohort. At the same time young

adults and teens are more focused on the adventurous lifestyles and thrill seeking that are becoming more popular.

http://www.ausport.gov.au/



At the opposite end of the age spectrum people are staying in sports longer or returning to sport in the older years, as long as

those sports can provide the outcomes that they are looking for, including, social, health and fitness outcomes. They are happy to

use sport to achieve their own goals; they don’t feel that they will change just to fit what sports want them to be!!!

The market segmentation reports show that not everyone will embrace sport in the community, so the priorities should be for an

organisation to target audiences that can be converted easily and then those with some encouragement.

1. Adult priority segmentation

Existing sports club members including sports loyalists, socially engaged, sports driven and apathetic clubbers can be identified as

“low hanging fruit” if the offering can be fine-tuned to encourage them back or to ensure NSOP retain them. Lap swimming for the

self-motivated and programs for others to have a stronger reason to attend and participate, around Stroke Correction, Aquarobics

for the older and less mobile, as well as opportunities to be competitive in Swimming, Masters and Triathlon clubs would provide

good options for these type of people.

The second key category is the non-sport club members with high potential to reconnect as they have always loved sport and for

whatever reason have drifted away. With the right options they can reconnect and ‘get back into sport’. The key focus for these

people is that they only need a good reason to participate and just being part of a program to compete is not a good enough

reason to return. These less motivated people need to be regular connected to, both in the program and also when they are not at

the facility. A more structured customer retention program would be needed to attract and retain these people. The health and

fitness gym and associated programs could be expanded to build on these opportunities.

Programs both on and off site such as personal training, group training, team adventure races, and even 5-a-side football and

touch football on synthetic turf on the top of a car park roof or in the local park should be considered.

2. Children priority segmentation

The three key groups for under 14 year olds are sports loyalists, sports driven and apathetic clubbers, with the potential groups

being the thrifty enthusiasts and the ponderers.

Across all children’s segments, the underlying motivation for participating in sport is to have fun and socialise. This is a key

message to be emphasised in communications, in addition to ensuring that clubs actively maintain this aspect of participation

across all age groups and grades.

Consideration should also be given to whether modifications to existing or new product offerings would retain current or attract

new consumer segments for children. Large growth of private coaching programs and social or recreational competitions where

they do not have to be part of a registered team is growing with key sports offering 5-a-side/Futsal (Football); AFL 9’s (AFL);

Hockey 5’s (Hockey); T20 (Cricket) etc.

For NSOP the opportunity is not offering the different sports but focusing on the fun aspect of aquatics, with play pads for the less

competitive of the age group, and larger more exciting slides for the older and more adventurist ones. There are limited reasons

for this age group to use the Pool presently, unless they participating in the Learn to Swim Program, a serious swimmer or they

pop in on a hot day to cool down! This needs to be changed if the Pool wishes to attract a younger age group for the future.

3. Insights for consideration

By targeting the broader community the People Priorities should be for NSOP:

Swimmers – for people who are keen on swimming and using aquatics for their play, recreational, fitness and competitive

needs. A number of sub-groups should be considered here including:-



o Lap Swimmers – for the self-motivated who have a health and sports improvement gain – with the present emphasis

on for the Pool in this aspect – there is a feeling that the numbers are dropping and as the age of the swimmers are

increasing then there needs to be new generations refreshing the older ones as they reduce or stop their patronage

o Learn to Swim classes – for the youngsters primarily but also options for adults from beginners to stoke correction,

which needs more pool space and program options

o Aquatic programs – for specific age groups building on the programs in place, epically in the 25m pool (e.g.

aquarobics)

o 50m Pool - Club programs – with the swim clubs and also encouraging triathlon training etc… so that the participants

have more options to participate at their desired level and ability

o Play space

Fitness and Wellness Enthusiasts – encouraging more people who work and live in North Sydney to come and use the fitness

facilities means that the membership can grow with more space and a membership base of around 3,500 people should be

realistic (based on a minimum of 1,300m2) the desires to provide a broad based health and fitness program will attract far

more members including;-

o Traditional health and fitness members – people who are self-motivated and who like to be part of group class

routines

o Local workers who can come before or after work, or at lunch times for a 45min exercise program

o Holistic wellness participants who enjoy the benefits that relaxation, pampering and holistic wellness can bring – this

section of the community is growing and many centres around the world are now investing more space and

resources to appeal to this community cohort.

o Children’s fitness should be centred around play and fun to encourage them into the centre and then for them to run

around and play while they are there. this can be achieved with water play equipment in zero level water pads

Life-stylers and recreationalists – the complex presently offers services and opportunities to both the active cohorts in the

community as well as the more passive enthusiasts, including people who enjoy the social side of eating (Ripples & Aqua-

dining) where many congregate. If there was greater space then events could be programmed which provide a greater return

and normally appeal to a grate r element of the community. Events such as corporate events, tourism events, moonlight

cinema’s; cultural events etc where people come to the Complex as a destination could be maximised better.

Tourists – both with the vista and the history of the poo, presently they arrive and see the wall and the water with the vista

and then continue on their journey around the foreshore etc. many attractions are now interactive and tell the story of the

history, and NSOP and its precinct could be used as such an attraction, with specific space for that as well as to encourage

them to stay for 30 -45 mins.

3.4.2 PROGRAMS - Impact of research on activities to encourage participation

The reports identify that people are time poor and desire greater participation for ‘casual activities’ and programs, not just

traditional organised sports club membership. “Australian’s are increasingly playing sport to get and stay fit, rather than staying fit

to play sport”.

The key learnings can be summarised as:

Providing sport delivery that focuses on fun and enjoyment rather than just competition, especially for the children;

Providing products and services that are inclusive; promote equal treatment; and focus on fun and participation regardless of

skill level and ability;



Providing a variety of pricing packages and different types of membership that allow for flexibility of attendance and time

commitment; and

Identifying the potential for growth opportunities with regards to sport club membership by understanding the needs of

different segments and the products they may be attracted to.

Government, the commercial and community sector recognise that sport brings additional benefits around mental and physical

health, social inclusion as well as crime prevention etc.

Participant’s expectations have grown and the quality of experience needs to grow to meet those expectations. The range of

programs and activities need to include examples such as:

Sport for Fun – socialisation of sport where participants want the ability to socialise and increase their friendships – they are

not as keen for “closed clubs” which are hard to get in and be accepted. Casual and recreational competitions where new

people are being introduced is embraced. Fun runs as opposed to Athletic Club track, field and road races are more popular.

Sport for Fitness – using sport to keep fit, whether that is a casual 5-a-side league competition once a week or a fitness class

around a specific sport such as Tennis Australia’s Cardio Fitness or indeed fitness equipment in the adjacent Parklands linked

to NSOP.

Recreational Sport – many sports and leisure centres are offering mid-week competitions and programs where there is a form

of casual competition for indoor and outdoor sports where the participants do not need to be part of a club. These programs

are growing considerably. This could be appropriate for ‘Stroke Clinics’, Triathlon and running groups form the Centre.

Sports Express – many people only have a short period of time to exercise and participate – so if an activity can be

programmed into 45-60 minutes this will encourage a greater number of the time poor people who still want to ‘play’ but

struggle to incorporate it with the busy work or family commitments. Fitness type programs should be targeted before work,

at lunch and post work times.

3.4.3 PLACE – Impact of research on place management and facility needs

The most important aspect from the research is that the needs for the community are based around having places for the

programs and activities to be delivered from. This should drive both the design and the management to optimise the possibility of

community participation.

Traditionally local government has invested significantly in traditional sporting and recreational facilities. The next generation of

exercise and recreation need more flexibility.

Place Management – Parks and Places

The different perspectives relating to outdoor PLACE management that should be considered include:

Places to recreate – especially important for young people to have a kick around and be able to play ‘street sport’ – which

historically has been on street corners, in parklands and back alleys. In Europe the adoption of Multi-use Games Areas

(MUGA) has seen significant investment and designs for young people to hang out and play safely. If a new car park was to be

built this should be on its roof.

Places to Play (sport) – With greater participation the ability for facilities to cope with greater usage will allow for more

people to play sport, more often. The design needs to allow for the traditional sport, such as water-based play – pools for

children and families.

Flexibility of Place – combining multi-sport at a competitive level allows for seasonal variations and encourages greater

utilisation of the facility.



Support from both the eateries and Luna Park to provide art/cultural events and spaces for the precinct was suggested and would

fall into this category to enhance not only the vista but also increase the precinct as a destination. This could include new

destination spaces, such as:

Enhanced event space within the pool complex to ‘tell the story of the precinct’

Cultural space on Olympic Drive to encourage greater time spent in the precinct (e.g. music in the park on Sundays,

Saturday market days etc.)

History of the pool on the outside of the building as well as inside to connect with the community better

Connectivity with pedestrian walk ways under bridge and along water front so that the Pool is more of a destination and

not just a vista.

Place Management – Aquatic and Fitness Facilities

Future facilities may need to be designed as community hubs where there is “more than sport” being coordinated – in Europe

these are being called Lifestyle Centres. In the mid 1980’s centres such as the LINK Centre in the South West of England opened

and had sports facilities, such as a swimming pool, sports hall, ice rink, climbing wall; community facilities such as snooker hall,

community meeting spaces, arts studio, child care area, spa and sauna, as well as base for community groups such as police,

community workers and youth services. It really was a community recreational and sporting hub.

The trends in aquatic, fitness and recreational facilities continue to change quickly to meet the changing needs of the community

with programs that organisations are offering to try and attract as many people to participate as possible. The key industry trends

are based around:

1. Aquatic Facilities – greater flexibility and specific targeting of facilities to attract key cohorts in community, including:

Pool water – using Booms to divide the pool water into defined spaces (2 x 25m pools etc.)

o Movable floors to raise the floor for the specific users, such as children’s learn to swim etc who need shallow

water and then the same pool tank can be used for competitive swimming

o Movable floor can offer dry side and event space - the floor can be lifted to zero level and used as an event space

overlooking the vista etc.

o Supported entrances for people with mobility challenges – such as ramp access into the pool

o Leisure water integration, including smaller pools with spa’s, sauna, and steam rooms etc.

o Larger learn to swim pools that are also using warmer water to encourage the older cohort of the community to

use it for health reasons, with seats around the edges

Aquatic Play – family friendly areas

o Larger space around pool decks for families to move – also would assist with management as seen presently with

indoor pool and not adequate space

o Splash deck water play areas

o Beach entry into leisure water

o Play equipment to encourage children to play with low supervision levels

Adventure Play – large attraction based play equipment which is seen by families and children as exciting and adventurist

– so they would travel to use it, this may include:

o Slides

o Moving water

o Wave riders



o Wave pools

o Large slides – such as Space Bowls, internal and external water slides – for individuals and group rafts etc.

2. Health, Fitness and Wellness Facilities – the holistic approach to wellness and fitness is now being integrated into facilities and

program offerings. This includes services such as:

Flexible Space – for large and small rooms that will be able to meet need over 20-30 years and programs not even

thought of yet.

Functional training – equipment and programs for specific muscle groups and training methods

Emphasis on cardio fitness – both in terms of programs and equipment aiming to attract the community cohorts who

are keen to keep fit, have more energy and keep their body toned.

Wellness and wellbeing – around rehab programs, relaxation and ‘pampering’ of men and women, allowing people to

“invest in their own health’. You would expect to see more consultation rooms – many with dividing walls so that

they can be changed into other larger or smaller rooms as needed.

3.4.4 PARTNERS – Impact of Research on Collaborations

The ability for a comprehensive and complex leisure facility to be able to provide high quality services in community recreation,

fitness and well as events, food and beverage is not common. Council has already recognised that and has leased out the three

eateries. In addition, the learn to swim school is also leased out.

The food and beverage eateries is common, but for the sustainability of the centre moving forward the Learn to Swim centre and

the proposed extension of the fitness facilities should be managed in house as this will provide the greatest return to Council on

the facilities.

Appendices

Appendix 1: Summary of Consultation Meetings

Appendix 2: Questionnaire



Appendix 1: Summary of Consultation Meetings



Group 1: Council Staff

Representation from Community Development staff, historian, project managers

Why iconic? Location and views, uniqueness, sense of drama/romance

Structural history of pool and surrounding area

Event history – world records etc.

Craftsmanship of by-gone era

If Council wants to

encourage greater

usage, what should

then focus

improvements on?

Ramp needed to encourage greater access

Interpretation of history should not be hidden away – more to outside centre, not

where it is presently

Connection with park

“Open up” pool more

Use “Universal Access” principles

Concern of “lane Nazi’s”

Healthy eating food choices for kiosk

Destination/tourist should be tied into precinct

Specific space

commentary

1. Health and Fitness gym

Poor siting

Too small

2. 50m pool

Ramp and access issues

3. Access/Reception

Enclosed and protected from outdoor elements

Connection between pool/gym (ground floor) and 25m pool and reception

needed

4. Parkland

Need to explore outside of pool confines to encourage greater “destination

opportunity

Target audience People with accessibility issues need greater support

Families – need more opportunity to participate

Older/aged community – need greater reason for them to use the centre.

Ideas around Fitness/walking in parks to be considered

Group 2: Pool Staff – Group 1 & 2

Why iconic? Vista and view while rest is the participation history of families and history of

swimming at the pool

Community is ‘proud’ of the history – records etc.

If Council wants to

encourage greater

Lap swimming is key focus of the pools, most of the time at the detriment of other

groups (families and children)



usage, what should it

then focus

improvements on?

Focus of ‘management’ is about keeping current clients happy – (lap swimmers)

Segmented space needed for other groups

Access to all parts of the pool

Need defined space for programming and not trying to squeeze in as present

Specific Space

Commentary

1. Health and fitness gym

- Too small, cold “down back corridor”, forgotten space; doesn’t provide positive

environment and views

- Needs to be state of the art and have program space to be able to ‘compete’

2. 50m pool

- Grandstand – only used once a year for New Year’s Eve really; partly used for

Carnivals – perceived by staff to be dangerous and not user friendly

- 50m should be modernised – deck level

- Should have a Boom in place to allow greater flexibility

- Disabled access into pool not good, lift doesn’t always work

- Ramp needs to be designed for access into main pools

- Needs to remain ‘salt water’

- Changing facilities need to be completely updated

Target audience Children’s/family – needs attraction, but also needs to be kept away from lap

swimming

Young adults/youth – need something to attract them other than lap swimming

Learn to swim could better use the space to allow a higher number of participants

Group 3: Swim School Concession – Stephen Badger

Why iconic? Views and iconic nature of world records

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

Wider pool, increased lane space for lap swimming, carnivals and learn to swim

Not enough space to satisfy learn to swim numbers despite ‘renting more water

space’

Use bulkhead to divide pool into 2 x 25m or 1 x 50m (4 or 5 lanes) and 2 x 25m (4/5

lane) flexibility

Need to integrate IT across site. System needs to be specific for industry and not

‘councilfied’

Specific improvements 1. Parking/access

Improve parking

Improve access

2. Park

Integrate outside/green areas into pool as areas not utilised well presently

Play area for kids in parkland

3. 50m pool / 25m pool

Stay salt water and update plant



Ramp access in pools

Additional lanes to allow greater usage

Shade over grandstand if it stays

Learn to swim pool

Wet deck essential

Changing rooms need updating

4. Gym / fitness centre / other

needs expanding

Crèche facilities

Event space

Target Audience Families – need learn to swim space

Older people – warm water pool – access needs to be improved

Tourists/commercial – event space to attract more people

Group 4: Catering Concessions – Kiosk, Ripples, Aqua Dining – Bill Drakopoulos

Iconic Status History and stories

Views

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

Function space to meet demand of ‘destination interest’

More families need better space to encourage them to visit

Serious pool swimmers presently - can be built upon

Specific improvements Eating

Kiosk needs participation numbers to ensure food can be quality level that Bill

aspires to be

By having an ‘event space’ which is flexible it can meet the commercial, tourist and

community events that the ‘destination’ draw of the complex can build upon

Present Garbage/recycling doesn’t work presently and should be redesigned

Orders/trade entrance needed in Aqua Dining

Frontage of Ripples could be redesigned

Parkland Encroaching people to come and be ‘entertained’ in the parkland/ Olympic

Boulevard should be considered. This will allow the Pool and eateries to meet the

destination needs better.

Greater focus on precinct and not “just pool” to encourage more people to precinct

needed

Should tell the story of the precinct, not just the pool

Group 5: Luna Park – Peter Hearne MD and Brad ………….



Iconic status Precinct has the iconic status; iconic nature of the two attractions, when joined is far

greater, so emphasis should be on that.

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

Anything that will bring more people to precinct and will receive support from Luna

Park

Specific Improvements Olympic Drive as their only ‘drive’ or entrance into Luna Park needs to be:

i. Kept clear so large vehicles can ‘bump-in and out’ easily

ii. Be the focal point of people ‘coming to precinct’

iii. No more coffee tables encroaching

Agree with ‘precinct destination’ and will work with Council to ensure success

State Government aspires to double visitor economy by 2020 so a destination

development should get their support

Joint story for precinct should be considered

Group 6: Pool Management (Norman Boyle & Travis McKinlay)

Iconic Status Precinct views, history, facility architecture

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

Targeting specific audiences and have the facilities to provide them with the services

needed

Specific Improvements Consider upper levels and ad din false floor to maximise space

Extend gym into male toilet, meeting room etc

Develop committee rooms into multi-purpose rooms, consulting suites, admin area,

storage and meeting rooms

Crèche space needs to be redeveloped

Wider pools

75m pool with 2 booms

Sun deck and easterly end to be redeveloped in line with road footprint etc

Incorporate existing pocket park (triangle) into facility

Develop external space with aquatic play features landscape areas and offer seasonal

café

Possible movie screen on side of facility

Function and event space needed

Seasonal canopy to enclose space in winter



Group 7: Swimming Clubs

Iconic Status Vista’s history, world records and generational usage

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

Targeting specific audiences and have the facilities to provide them with the services

needed

Specific Improvements 50m pool needs updating and FINA standards

If grandstand stays – shading needed

Access issues to be sorted out

50m by 25m needed

Type of water… prefer to be salt water, if FINA recognition

Space on pool side for coaches etc.

Ladder design into pool to be indented into wall not have ladders all way down pool

side as not good for swimmers, as present design in 25m pool is

Parking

Impact on residents by making facility more popular needs to be considered

Group 8: Precinct Representatives

Iconic Status Vista’s history, world records and generational usage

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

Specific Improvements Cover with roof to allow 365 day usage

Families and young families need to be catered for better

Improved changing rooms

Accessibility issues to be addressed

Lap swimming should be seen as an asset and don’t want to lose it

General ambience views need to stay

Gym needs to be appealing and updated

25m pool to work properly

Wasted space to be addressed

Iconic events should be attracted again

Parking difficulties



Group 9: User Group

Iconic Status The vistas history of being a Swimming Centre for locals, up to elite swimming with

so many world record

If Council wants to

encourage greater


then focus

improvements on?

The majority of the audience were swimmers and they wanted the centre to remain

a swim centre, so that they could continue to enjoy lap swimming and so focused on

how the Centre should be upgraded to their own needs – swimming.

A small group spoke privately afterwards and explained that the regular patrons

were getting older and the numbers have decreased for lap swimming because they

believe that there isn’t enough younger people (less than 40 years old) attending and

swimming

A further group of gym users wanted more space, more light and a broader range of

facilities and programs

Specific Improvements 50m pool to be replaced with salt-water pool

Majority of swimmers didn’t want kids fun pools to be part of the redevelopment

New entry ramps into pool for people with mobility needs

Parking to be addressed

Keep façade of wall overlooking bay/bridge

Changing rooms to be updated

Do NOT cover the outdoor pool

Entrance into Pool complex – cover, make more accessible and more friendly

25m pool – make more accessible and correct poor design

25m gym waste are – a disgrace and needs resolving for both Aqua Dining and the

complex users

Gym area – larger, better planned with space for classes and more cardio activity

Children’s pool on 50m platform should be replaced

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