Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Thursday 17 September 1953, page 8


Plans 3 swim pools here to cost£1 00,000

Bv TOM LINNETH

PLANS for construction of three swimming pools in Brisbane at an estimated cost of £1 00,000 are expected to be finished this month.

They include the latest design Olympic swimming pool and an Olympic standard diving pool.

Construction organiser Mr. W. J. Newton said last night the pools will be built on his land opposite the Mt Gravatt showground. He said the third pool would be a shallow one for children. 'I expect the plans to be finished before the end of the month, and will start work immediately they are approved. 'Brisbane at present badly needs more swim pools, and I am certain the scheme will be welcomed by the public, Mr. Newton said. Glass sides The main Olympic poo] will have glass sides so that coaches can watch the swimmers' movements in the

It will be 50 metres long. ,'ith at least seven lanes, :ach eight feet wide. The separate diving poo] vill be 164ft deep and will lave a 10 metres tower. The Brisbane Valley pool s not suitable for Austraian championships, be;ause the diving requirenents are not up to reguation. _ , Queensland Amateur Swimning Association assistant secretary (George Johnston) said last night: 'An Dlympic swim and diving jool is urgently needed. Our Drescnt pools are overcrowded, and Brisbane s top swimmers have difficulty in training.' Form company Mr. Newton said he intended to form a company to help finance the project. He said four tennis courts, a mini golf course, and an ice skating rink Would also be built near the pools. 'I have four acres of land at Mt. Gravatt, which will eventually be a big sporting area,' he added. Several, years ago a city businessman planned to build an Olympic pool in Brisbane, but could not get a permit. Mr. Newton said that he was assured of a permit for nonstruction.