If the hype around this past weekend’s City2Surf proves anything – aside from Sydneysiders’ collective willingness to work hard for a well-earned beer – it’s that running and swimming are a match made in heaven (and no, we’re not just talking about the weather). So today’s announcement will be music to the ears of jogging enthusiasts in Sydney’s Inner West: thanks to a $3.8 million investment, the beloved Bay Run is getting a swimming spot.
Located on the Iron Cove foreshore, on the edge of Lilyfield’s Callan Park, the Callan Park tidal baths will offer a place to cool off along the Bay Run, easily accessible from nearby sports fields including Leichhardt Oval and King George Park. Protected by a shark net, the beautiful tidal baths are expected to feature an accessible pathway and ramp, a generous fixed jetty, and a pontoon for easy access and dreamy days in the sun.
To bring the project to life, the NSW Government and Inner West Council have finalised a funding agreement and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the baths due to open in time for the summer of 2026.
The $3.8 million swimming spot will be supported by $2 million in funding from the NSW Government, which is committing an additional $4.8 million to revitalising the Inner West area – demolishing derelict buildings and returning 1.6 hectares of parkland to the public.
“The iconic Bay Run and surrounding parklands are already a community hub for family fun, sport, relaxation, and exercise, so adding a swim spot where people can cool off in summer will be the perfect addition to an already thriving public space,” explained Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully.
Greater Sydney Parklands is also preparing a master plan for the Callan Park foreshore to “support integration of the swim site with the waterfront areas of Callan Park” – these will be shared for community consultation over the next few months.
Keen? You can learn more about the Callan Park Tidal baths over here.
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