Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre opens with a splash

20 August 2007

Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP will officially open the City of Sydney's Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre on Sunday 26 August.

The Centre is a tribute to one of Australia's most successful athletes and is the last public building designed by the late Harry Seidler.

The state of the art centre has a wave-shaped roof and includes an Olympic-size heated pool, leisure pool, program pool, spa, sauna and steam room, café and fitness centre.

Ms Moore said the new aquatic centre will benefit local residents in the Pyrmont and Ultimo area which has doubled in population in the past decade.

"It is fitting that this cutting edge facility and architectural icon is dedicated to one of the Australia's greatest athletes," Ms Moore said.

Following City of Sydney environmental leadership guidelines, the Centre includes green initiatives including hydraulically operable roof vents for natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting for internal amenities such as toilets and sprinkler systems, and automated lighting to reduce energy consumption.

"I am honoured to have this incredible building named after me," Ian Thorpe said. "I hope the Centre will inspire young people to enjoy swimming and recognise the importance of exercise in a healthy lifestyle. Who knows, this may be where we find the next Olympic champion."

The Centre will be managed by the YMCA of Sydney. To ensure everyone can enjoy the facilities this Sunday, the YMCA reminds visitors that there may be long waits, and timed access to use the facilities to manage high demand on opening day.

The pool will open to the public at 10 am on Sunday 26 August.

For more information visit www.itac.org.au or www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

MEDIA OPPORTUNITY
What: Official opening of Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre
When: Sunday 26 August 2007
Time: 9.30 am
Who: Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP, Penelope Seidler and local school students
Where: Corner of Harris & William Henry Sts, Ultimo
Media contact: Josh MacKenzie (02) 9265 9082 or 0402 351 459

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