The fully refurbished John Houston Memorial Swimming Pool is more than a safe place to swim. It is more than being the largest capital project in Council history.

In her official address during the opening ceremony on December 19, Hay Mayor, Carol Oataway said the pool complex was a community hub, a place where families gather, friendships are forged, and active, healthy lifestyles are encouraged.

“It will attract visitors, support local businesses, and host events that breathe new life into Hay,” Cr Oataway said.

“This revitalised complex is a bold investment in both the prosperity and wellbeing of our town, ensuring that Hay continues to thrive for generations to come.

“The refurbished pool honours John Houston’s vision while looking firmly to the future.

“It is a place where new generations of children will learn to swim.

“It is a place where families will gather, where young people will connect, and where our community will utilise the facility for swimming and water safety lessons, competitive swimming, recreation and exercise.

“In 2020 and 2021, Council undertook a community co-design process to reimagine the pool precinct.

“The result? The JHMS Pool Masterplan, which received overwhelming community support and was adopted by Council in 2021.

“And now, today, we see that vision comes to life.

“The new pool represents a total investment of $8.1 million, complementing the amenities block (2023), Teenage Adventure Zone (2023) and Hay Splash Park (2022).

“The total cost of the precinct is $11 million, with Council contributing just $200,000—the rest generously provided through government grants.”

The reconstructed facility includes a 50-metre, 8-lane competition pool, complete with a diving board, a 15-metre Learn to Swim pool with resting ledge, a zero-depth, beach-style children’s pool with splash play, full all-abilities access throughout, heated water systems for a longer swimming season of six months of the year, modern shade, social spaces, and furniture including yarning circle, basketball court and covered BBQ area, solar and battery energy systems as well as energy-efficient filtration and pumps, motion detection AI for swimmers safety – the first of its kind outside of a metropolitan area and upgraded lighting, electrical, plumbing, and irrigation systems.

The canteen, run by Mara on Food, is of commercial kitchen grade and adds to the overall experience—another investment in ensuring the pool remains a vibrant, family-friendly community hub.

“Simply put—it’s a world-class facility, and one that other towns will envy,” Cr Oataway said.

“Out of interest, the total volume of concrete used in the project is 1,100 cubic metres and 52,000 tiles have been laid.

“The volume of water in each pool is: 50m – 1,550,000 L and LTS – 178,000 L.

“This pool is more than infrastructure—it’s an investment in Hay’s health, wellbeing, and vibrancy.

“Economically, it will attract visitors, support tourism, and create events that stimulate local businesses.

“Socially, it’s a safe, inclusive space for everyone—young and old—to swim, play, learn, and connect.

“And importantly, it carries forward John Houston’s vision.”

David Houston, one of the speakers at the opening ceremony, also paid tribute to the late Michael Beckwith who served on the original committee with John Houston and Perce Stratton from inception to completion.

“If it wasn’t for Mick Beckwith, we would not have the pool on this site,” he said.

“Mick used both his strong connections with the Labor Party and the Lands Department to achieve this.

“My father, John Houston was touched when they named the pool after him, but wanted it to be known as the Hay Free Olympic Pool.

“He believed it would potentially attract tourists during drought.

“John Houston always said we need something to tie us over in the drought, and that Hay had great potential for tourism.

“I was speaking to a visitor from Echuca Moama at a swimming carnival on a stinking hot day, and mention that it was a long way to Hay and back; 400 kilometres.

“She said, We don’t mind. We love coming to Hay because you people up here are looking after us.

“That is the secret of our tourist trade.

“We have a reputation. Let’s keep it up.”

This article appeared in The Riverine Grazier, 7 January 2026.