Killarney Glen rock pool: Defence officially announce popular attracting closed for good

The Department of Defence have announced an iconic heart-shaped swimming spot will not reopen following a lengthy safety review.

Diana Voigt and Tom Bridges enjoy a dip at the Killarney Glen rock pool in December 2015. Picture: Luke Marsden.

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THE Department of Defence have announced the iconic heart-shaped Killarney Glen rock pool will not reopen following a lengthy safety review.

The area has been closed to the public since a 19-year-old swimmer died there in December 2016.

The death followed a number of accidents at the popular swimming spot.

Despite calls from local tourism leaders to develop a plan to allow the public to safely visit the attraction, Defence today officially announced that the are has been permanently closed.

Crowds at the rock pool in 2016 before it was closed after a fatal accident. Photo: Regi Varghese

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“After the tragic drowning of a member of public at Killarney Glen in December 2016, Defence closed public access to the site pending a review of the safety risks associated with the area,” a statement said.

“The safety review of Killarney Glen identified a number of dangerous hazards at the falls and rock pool area, including steep rock cliff-faces, submerged objects and fast-flowing water.

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“These hazards, and Killarney Glen’s large visitor numbers, led to multiple injuries at the site prior to December 2016.

“Based on the findings of the safety review and expert legal and recreational advice, the Department of Defence has decided not to reopen Killarney Glen to the public.”

Originally published as Killarney Glen rock pool: Defence officially announce popular attracting closed for good