Calls to build ocean pool in Batemans Bay after years of debate

There are renewed calls to construct an ocean pool in the Eurobodalla, the only local government area on the NSW south coast lacking one. Here’s the latest.

The Bermagui 'blue pool'.

There are renewed calls to construct an ocean pool in a NSW south coast region “begging” to have one built, after half a decade of debate on the issue.

In 2019, then Eurobodalla mayor Liz Innes said there was a “definite need” for an ocean pool, with the coastal region being the only local government area on the NSW south coast lacking one.

In the Bega Valley Shire, Bermagui is home to the famous ‘blue pool’, while in the north Shoalhaven is home to multiple ocean pools.

Batemans Bay has been labelled the perfect area to build the pool, with residents and tourists pleading for one to be built for years, according to Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber vice president, David Maclachlan.

Mr Maclachlan – who has been championing the construction of an ocean pool – said Batemans Bay was the perfect spot.

Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber vice president, David Maclachlan.

He said the pool could be built at Corrigans Beach with minimal construction.

“It could be done so quick; the area is begging to have one,” he told this publication.

Corrigans Beach has been labelled the perfect spot for an ocean pool.

“The area is already kind of a natural pool, but building it into one by moving some rocks would not be hard to do.”

Mr Maclachlan said the pool would be the perfect addition for the tourist town.

“We’ve had so many examples of people visiting the area during the summer holidays and asking where our ocean pool is,” he said.

“It’s embarrassing having to say, we don’t have one, but they do further up north or down south in Bermagui.”

The Huskisson ocean pool located in the Shoalhaven.

In 2019, Corrigan locals called for a feasibility report to see if an ocean pool was possible in Batemans Bay, saying a 50m pool be constructed for around $1m.

At the time, then mayor Ms Innes said any ocean pool would be a “fantastic asset to the community”.

However, five years on, nothing has happened.

A Eurobodalla Council spokesman said an ocean pool was currently not on council’s agenda, despite the previous discussions and current calls.

“Councillors will meet in early 2025 to decide on their priorities, informed by community sentiment, for the next term of office,” he said.

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