On 29 November 1969, Doncaster’s very first municipal swimming pool, now known as Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre, officially opened its doors. Offering one 50 metre outdoor pool, it soon opened an indoor pool 12 months later.

In 1992 the venue earned its now, well-known name, ‘Aquarena’ coined by the winner of a naming competition, Mark Leopold. Alongside the new name, the venue opened new community facilities including a dive pool, toddler pool, waterslide, gym, group fitness, café, childcare and two more indoor pools.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Paul McLeish, said the aquatic facility has a special place in Manningham’s history.

“Aquarena is a well-loved icon in the Manningham community. For generations, it has been a place to come together with friends and family and be active,” Cr McLeish said.

“Aquarena’s 50th birthday is a great opportunity for people in the community to share their stories and to celebrate the many great memories that have been created here,” says Aylie Spence, Aquarena Centre Manager.

Since its inception, the core purpose of Aquarena has been to connect communities through recreation, health and leisure.

Manningham Council has continued to invest in Aquarena, including completion of a $21.4 million redevelopment of the centre in 2016.

Aquarena has not only benefitted the health of those in the region, but its acted as a community hub and meeting place, created athletes, driven business and strengthened the lives of people in Manningham and beyond.

To many, the facility now holds a special place in their hearts. From those who currently live in the region, to those that grew up in the Manningham community, Aquarena is a place connected to incredible stories at the iconic facility.

Whether learning how to swim, spending time with friends on a hot summer’s day, getting fit in the gym, starting their first job or meeting the love of their life – stories and special memories continue to be created at Aquarena.

Event details

Aquarena invites the Manningham community to Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre to share their stories for the milestone event of Aquarena’s 50th anniversary.

Date: Sat 30 Nov 2019

Event Time: 12.00 pm – 7.00 pm

Entry: The event will be a $5 donation entry.

All funds raised will contribute to the Manningham community via Belgravia Foundation community programs. For more information about the work of the Belgravia Foundation visit https://www.belgraviafoundation.org.au

For more information about the event, visit https://www.aquarena.com.au/ or follow the memories on Facebook and Instagram @aquarena_manningham and #aquarenaturns50