Olympic star takes on challengers at pool's grand reopening
A much-loved old pool has finally reopened after it was feared it might stay shut forever — and the occasion was not a moment too soon for those enjoying school holidays.
The Glenorchy War Memorial pool in Hobart's northern suburbs has officially reopened after a three-year closure for extensive repairs. The iconic pool, built in the 1960s and dedicated to World War II veterans, faced closure due to structural and electrical issues. Long-term, the council plans to replace the pool with a new aquatic center, but the project is estimated to cost $84 million.
Diane Kasprzak, a devoted pool-goer, fondly recalled bringing her children to the pool and her daughter's future marriage. Now, her daughter is one of the first lifesavers at the reopened pool. Hundreds gathered for the weekend reopening, with Olympic bronze medallist Max Giuliani offering to race against locals. Giuliani jokingly admitted that he may need to retire if he loses too many races.
Mayor Sue Hickey expressed gratitude for the community's efforts to keep the pool open, but emphasized that a new aquatic center remains a priority for the council.
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