You can’t wipe the smiles off the faces of the members of the Friends of the Newcastle Ocean Baths this weekend.
After much campaigning, the iconic complex, treasured by locals and visitors alike for more than a century, has been officially listed on the State Heritage Register.
“This is a big win for the community,” president Peter Wickham said.
“It’s fantastic news for the ‘people’s pool’.
“Nothing could be more deserving for this icon of the city of Newcastle, now it’s significance can be celebrated statewide.
“Thanks everyone for your support.”
The long-awaited accolade formally recognises its outstanding significance as a landmark of beach culture, recreation and architectural heritage in the city.
Opened in 1913, the Newcastle Ocean Baths was established during a period of rapid growth in Newcastle… and marked a shift in public bathing practices, which had been previously segregated by gender under NSW law for decency.
However, that regulation soon changed.
The Newcastle Ocean Baths complex was funded by the NSW Labor Government in 1911 on the condition that it included mixed-gender bathing.
That move reflected evolving social attitudes and promoted ocean baths as a safer, tourism-friendly alternative to ocean swimming.
“Every Novocastrian has a story involving the Newcastle Ocean Baths,” Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said.
“It’s a place both locals and visitors have been drawn to for generations.
“By including the baths on the State Heritage Register, we ensure this iconic landmark will be managed for even more generations to enjoy.”
With its distinctive and architecturally-significant Art Deco pavilion, the Newcastle Ocean Baths stand as a prominent example of the style that characterised many beach and ocean bath pavilions across NSW in the 1920s and 1930s.
Together, the pavilion, baths and canoe pool form one of the largest complexes of its kind in the state.
“This listing protects an important part of Newcastle history and culture,” Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said.
“The baths are still a popular recreational spot.”
It’s a sentiment shared by Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery.
“The Newcastle Ocean Baths have been a treasured part of Newcastle for more than 100 years,” she said.
“This listing is fitting recognition of the whole complex as a vital cultural and social asset to the people of the Hunter and NSW.”
The Minns government also included the Newcastle Ocean Baths complex on the State Heritage Register in an acknowledgement of the city’s rich coastal heritage.
As for the precinct itself, it’s provided a place for recreation, relaxation and social connection for generations.
“This recognition proves that the Newcastle Ocean Baths are more than just a local treasure… they’ve become a must-see for all of NSW,” Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said.
“The complex perfectly captures the essence of life here in the Hunter, making it a real icon of our region.
“These baths are a timeless spot, blending history and recreation in a way that’ll keep drawing people in for years to come.”
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