wellness
Collingwood’s Aquatic Centres Make Waves With Swim Programs for All Ages
From Park Street pools to local clubs, Collingwood’s aquatic facilities are drawing residents of every generation to dive into fitness this winter.
How we reported this
On Saturday morning, swimmers ranging from toddlers in armbands to grey-haired regulars in lane two packed the pool at Collingwood Aquatic Centre on Hoddle Street. The centre’s winter swim series has seen registration double over the past year, signalling a renewed appetite for community fitness and social connection built around the water.
Interest in group exercise has surged locally as residents seek accessible ways to stay healthy without the monotony of solo workouts. With Collingwood’s reputation for an active, inclusive wellness culture, aquatic centres are now fast becoming social anchors for both newcomers and long-time Collingwoodians. Increased participation in these programs follows recent citywide initiatives encouraging physical activity for all ages, particularly during months when outdoor options are limited.
Aquatic Facilities Anchor Local Fitness
The historic Fitzroy Pool, less than a kilometre from Smith Street’s café strip, continues to draw big numbers for both its family swim lessons and adult technique clinics. Meanwhile, the Collingwood Leisure and Aquatic Centre (CLAC) on Turnbull Street has expanded its roster: the All Ages Swim Club, launched last spring, now fills three lanes every Tuesday evening with everyone from under-10s to retirees working towards their swim goals.
Leanne McCarthy, who oversees programming at CLAC, reports a notable rise in intergenerational enrolments for Saturday aquafit classes. Many Collingwood families are turning swim sessions into weekly traditions, citing not only fitness benefits but a sense of community. There’s also a pragmatic appeal: with affordable pricing-casual pool entry at CLAC sits at $7.80 for adults and $3.90 for children-many say aquatic fitness is one of the city’s most budget-friendly wellness options.
The Numbers Behind the Surge
City of Yarra figures show that aquatic centre attendance across Collingwood and surrounds increased by 26% in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year. Youth swim lessons at CLAC booked out within two weeks of release for the current term. According to the Active Healthy Yarra 2026 report, over 3,400 Collingwood residents of all ages now participate in structured aquatic activities monthly, a record number since 2019.
Many programs are designed to accommodate all abilities. The Collingwood Lifesavers Club’s free Sunday Swim Safe sessions-held fortnightly through the winter at Fitzroy Pool-have seen particular uptake among adults returning to the water after a long break.
For those eager to get involved, term three swim programs at both Collingwood Aquatic Centre and Fitzroy Pool open for enrolments on July 15, with some classes accepting drop-ins if spots remain. Residents are encouraged to check the City of Yarra website or contact venues directly for updates on lesson availability and special community events.
As aquatic centres continue to thrive as hubs for fitness and social connection, Collingwood’s pools promise a warm welcome, even as the temperature drops outside.