Introduction

The need for enclosed swimming baths was widely recognised in the Nelson Bay area in the early 1920’s.

The first swimming baths in Nelson Bay (1923-1937) were located on Crown land leased from the State Government in the vicinity of the current carpark adjacent to the D’Albora Marina. .

The second swimming baths were constructed by the Port Stephens Shire Council and opened in 1939. These were located in an area to the west of the earlier baths in Teramby Road near the present-day fish markets and associated port facilities.

This paper looks at the history of the two bathing facilities.

FIRST SWIMMING BATHS

The first swimming baths in Nelson Bay, constructed circa 1923, were located on Crown land leased from the State Government in the vicinity of the current carpark adjacent to the D’Albora Marina.

These baths were operated under the auspices of the Nelson Bay Progress Association until 1937.

After the initial construction, torpedo worm destroyed the original poles surrounding the baths. The baths were then reconstructed on the existing site with a mesh enclosure. Dressing sheds for the bathers were built in 1928.

Original swimming baths at Nelson Bay – 1923

View of the original swimming baths – circa 1925

Bid to Receive Refund from the State Government for Pool Land – 1924

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 8 August 1924, page 3, reported:

‘Messrs Vincent and Fitzgerald, Ms.L.A., have forwarded the following correspondence, from the Under-Secretary for Lands. In reply to representations made on behalf of the Nelson’s Bay Progress Association, in relation to a request that the rental paid by the Association for its Permissive Occupancy for swimming baths at Nelson’s Bay be remitted, I beg to inform you that so far as the records of this Department show, there is no Permissive Occupancy held by the Association for such a purpose; it is assumed that the occupancy referred to is that held in the name of Mrs. Esther Roche for boat slip, dressing and boatshed and swimming baths below high water mark at Nelson’s Bay, at a rental of £2 per annum, paid to 31st August, 1924.

It is not clear whether this Permissive Occupancy is under the supervision of the Association or whether a fee is charged the public for the use of conveniences. If a fee is charged, and the Permissive Occupancy is revenue producing to the proprietress or the Association, the rental of £2 is considered fair and reasonable, but if the entrance is free and the conveniences of benefit to the public, the question of a peppercorn rental would be favourably considered. I am to add that the matter has been referred to the District Surveyor for inspection and report on all aspects of the case, and when finality is reached, you will be duly advised.’

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 3 October 1924, page 3, further reported:

‘Mr. Vincent. M.L.A., is in receipt of the following from the Leases Branch of the Lands Department: — ‘In reply to your representations in relation to the request of the Nelson’s Bay Progress Association, (Mr. A. Vesper, secretary), to have the rental remitted in connection with the Permissive Occupancy over site for swimming baths at Nelson’s Bay, I beg to inform you that the Association has been offered a Permissive Occupancy over 60 feet for site for swimming baths, parish of Tomaree, County of Gloucester, at a peppercorn rental, subject to no admission charge being made to the public.’

Fundraising for Reconstruction of the Baths – 1924

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 9 October 1924, page 9, reported:

‘There was a large attendance at the monthly meeting of the Progress Association on Saturday night. The president, Mr. W. Thompson, occupied the chair. The Under-Secretary for Lands wrote, stating that a special lease would be granted for swimming baths. It was also decided to call a meeting of ladies to form a committee to assist in raising funds for the construction of the baths. Further donations of £3 12s 6d were also received.’

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 21 November 1924, page 3, also reported:

‘At the monthly meeting of the Nelson’s Bay Progress Association the President Mr. W. Thompson, presided, and there was a good attendance of members present. Matters in connection with the reconstruction of the baths are proceeding favourably, over £20 being in hand with a further £10 promised.’

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 12 December 1924, page 3, further reported:

‘At the monthly meeting of the Nelson’s Bay Progress Association the President W. Thompson, Esq., presided, and there was a good number of members present. The baths sub-committee reported having ordered the necessary material for the reconstruction of the baths, and every effort was being made to have the work complete for the school holidays, to avoid the possibility of a shark fatality.’

Reconstruction of Baths Nearing Completion – 1925

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 6 February 1925, page 2, reported:

‘On anniversary night the ladies committee held a successful supper dance in aid of the baths reconstruction fund. The function was largely attended, and £4/2/9 settled as the result of the effort. The contractor Mr. J. Dillon has stared the work and given fine weather will have the job completed in a fortnight.’

Reconstructed Baths Completed – 1925

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 10 March 1925, page 3, reported:

‘The monthly meeting of the Nelson’s Bay Progress and Tourist Association was held on Saturday ……

The baths committee reported that the contract for erection of the baths was completed. The work to date cost £90 13s 8d, and donations and other receipts totalled £57 8s 6d. As these baths are free, and for the use of the public and visitors, it is expected that further donations will be received.’

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 27 March 1925, page 3, also reported:

‘The swimming baths have been completed and are now well patronised. Swimmers being able to enjoy a dip without any chance of sharks interfering with their pleasure. The total cost was £90/13/8. From donations, dances, and sports, £58/1/6 has been raised, and further efforts will be made to secure the balance during the next few months.’

View of the reconstructed swimming baths at Nelson Bay with the dressing sheds – 1935 [E L Button Collection, University of Newcastle Library Living Histories]

Governor’s Daughter Swims at the New Baths – 1925

Admiral Sir Dudley de Chair became the 25th Governor of NSW on 18 February 1924. On an unofficial visit to Nelson Bay in October 1925, his daughter Elaine, enjoyed a swim at the new swimming baths. The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 23 October 1925, page 2, reported:

‘His Excellency the Governor, Sir Dudley de Chair, accompanied by Lady De Chair, Miss Elaine De Chair, and Flight-Lieut. M. H. Coote, A.D.C. to the Governor, paid an unofficial visit, and spent four days at Nelson Bay, on a quiet holiday. The party made several trips with Inspector Hinchman, of the fisheries Department, and had good sport line fishing. His Excellency made himself very popular, and during the day visited the wharf and conversed freely with the fishermen. He specially sent for Mr. G. H. Pepper, with whom he had a long conversation.

Miss De Chair enjoyed herself immensely in the new swimming baths, and is a good exponent of the natatorial art. As an appreciation the following reference speaks for itself. His Excellency, Lady De Chair, and Miss De Chair have immensely enjoyed a restful holiday at the Sea Breeze Hotel, Nelson Bay, and especially Mrs. Firkin’s excellent cuisine.’

Sir Dudley and Lady de Chair at Perth Government House in 1924 [State Library, Western Australia]

Improvements Planned for Swimming Baths – 1926

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 13 October 1926, page 9, reported:

‘The baths committee, through the secretary, Mr. Vesper, reported having repaired the front of the baths. Efforts are to be made to erect two dressing sheds, with showers, for the convenience of bathers.’

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser (of 10 December 1926, page 1, also reported:

‘Nelson’s Bay Progress Association asked [the Shire Council] for leave to obtain a Per. Occ. [permissive occupancy] for dressing sheds on the beach near the baths — Agreed to.’ 

The Dungog Chronicle of 14 December 1926, page 6, further reported:

‘Nelson’s Bay Progress Association [asked the Shire Council for assistance for the erection of dressing sheds at the baths at Nelson’s Bay.— It was agreed [by Council] that £25, the cost of the material, be given.’

A view of the swimming baths at Nelson Bay – 1927

Swimming Baths Continued to Prove Popular with Tourists – 1930

The Dungog Chronicle of 21 November 1930, page 4, reported:

‘Not the least of the attractions afforded to visitors, in the Bay are, the baths which under the direction of the local Progress Association and largely through the efforts of our, energetic townsman, Mr. Roche, of ‘Ocean View,’ [Guest House] have been recently repaired. Bathers fully appreciate the security they now enjoy. It is hoped that in the near future the Gay Goers’ Social Society will organise an entertainment, the proceeds of which will assist in the future up-keep of this very essential adjunct to the place.’

Accident at the Swimming Baths – 1931

The Singleton Argus of 7 January 1931, page 2, reported:

‘Diving into the baths at Nelson’s Bay yesterday, John Shepherd, aged 58, a grazier, of Jerry ‘s Plains, Singleton, struck his head on the bottom.

Suffering from an injury to his skull, he was conveyed by Newcastle Ambulance to the General Hospital, where he was admitted. Enquiries made to the Newcastle Hospital this afternoon disclose that Mr Shepherd is still very sick, and so far, there is no change in his condition.’

It appears that Mr Shepherd recovered from his injuries.

SECOND SWIMMING BATHS

The first swimming baths appear to have fallen into disuse in the Depression years of the 1930’s.

In 1936, a proposal to construct new swimming baths was put forward by the Port Stephens SHire Council. The site was to the west of the original baths on Teramby Road between the two existing wharves.

Moves for the Shire Council to Construct New Baths at Nelson Bay – 1936

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 13 February 1936, page 2, reported:

‘At the [Port Stephens] Shire Council meeting on Friday Cr. Tranter brought up the question of public baths at Nelsons Bay. In the interests of decency he thought they should be erected. There were thousands of people going there and public baths would be an economical proposition as well as a pleasure to those who went there. He moved the Council should ask the engineer to report on the question. Cr. Markey seconded.

They knew how popular baths were. Most shires and Municipalities were taking them up where possible. Baths at Nelsons Bay would be a good asset and one of the best advertising means they had. He seconded the motion.

The clerk said he had recently seen the baths at Forster and the Council should inspect them. He would be willing to drive Councillors there if they desired to make an inspection in about a fortnight’s time. Cr. Russell also supported the baths suggestion. They would be popular. But they wanted a good road there first. They did not want to put the cart before the horse. Baths were essential but the road should be improved. The motion was carried. Cr. Russell suggested writing Mr. Spooner and ask him how roads like Nelsons Bay Road were going to benefit under his proposed scheme.

Tourists were paying taxes for roads and were they getting them spent on the roads. We must look for a grant to put his road in order. We can’t provide it for tourists. We must have a road. Newcastle Council will assist in the agitation. We should try it as a tourist’s road. When we apply for a grant, the Government refers us back to the Main Roads Board. He moved that the Council ask the Government in what way this road would be benefited. There were too many complaints about it now. Cr. Markey seconded and it was agreed to.’

The Maitland Daily Mercury of 29 February 1936, page 11, further reported:

‘Councillors Clode, Markey, and Russel, in company with the engineer (Mr. Payten) and the shire clerk (Mr. C. L. Monkley), of Port Stephens shire, paid Forster a visit for the purpose of inspecting the baths there. The idea of baths at Nelson’s Bay was the stimulus for the inspection. The party was impressed with the imposing appearance of Forster baths but think a much less elaborate design will serve the public purpose, at Nelson’s Bay. The baths at Forster cost over £6000 and cost £12 weekly to run them.’

Reports on Proposed Swimming Baths – 1936

The Maitland Daily Mercury of 9 April 1936, page 8, reported:

‘The engineer of Port Stephens Shire, Mr. R. G. Payten, in his report for March, to the shire council, referring to baths at Nelson’s Bay, said: “Preliminary surveys have been made of a site which I consider very suitable for this purpose, and although rough estimates have only so far been made the cost of baths as shown on sketches attached would be about £4500, and the cost to the council over and above labour supplied under the emergency relief scheme would be about £2000. This would provide a bath 180 feet by 80 feet, the reclaiming of an area enclosed within the sea wall, and the building of an up-to-date dressing shed with all conveniences and refreshment rooms. Before going any further I would suggest that council inspect the site.” The engineer said the depth of water would be 7′ 6″, which was enough for springboard diving, but 9′ 6” was required for high diving. The council decided to inspect the site on April 22, leaving Raymond Terrace at 9 a.m. The urban committee will be informed.’

The Maitland Daily Mercury of 7 May 1936, page 9, further reported:

‘At the Port Stephens Shire Council meeting on Friday last the engineer, Mr. R. G. Payten, reported on the proposal to erect baths at Nelson’s Bay, that on making further surveys and drilling for foundation on the area first proposed it was found that the area available was more restricted than was anticipated, as rocks showing on the surface proved to be boulders lying in sand. The site had therefore been moved midway between the two wharves, and the bathing pool was 150 feet long by 80 feet wide, and the area to be reclaimed for dressing pavilion was 6000 square feet. The pavilion contained dressing room, refreshment room, and quarters for caretaker. The estimated cost for the completion of the whole scheme was £4800, of which council would have to find £2300 and the balance, £2500, being cost of labour under the Emergency Relief Scheme [Work for Dole]. The annual cost to repay the principal and interest on a loan of £2300 over a period of 15 year’s was £208/18/8 at 4½ per cent. interest and £212/10/4 at 4½ per cent interest.

Councillor Parish asked how many people would require to enter the bath’s to produce the revenue mentioned by the engineer in the report. Councillor Russell, said at 3d. per head 17,000 would need to use the baths. The engineer said the charge was 3d per head and 1d for hire of costume. Caretaker’s wages were not included in the cost. If tenders were called for leasing they may get their money out of that. Councillor Markey: We must know how much it is going to cost us for a caretaker. The engineer said the council could call for tenders for leasing the baths or they could engage a man on a salary. Stroud Shire baths at Forster had, since the middle of January, shown a profit for the year of £300, after paying all expenses.

Councillor Russell said there was a larger population at Forster than Nelson’s Bay. The president said Nelson’s Bay had a much larger population at holiday time. Councillor Russell said they knew the floating population was growing at Nelson’s Bay. Councillor Tranter said this was one of the things the Government should help in, and they should get a grant. The engineer said Stroud Shire had obtained a small grant. Councillor Russell moved that the plans and specifications be adopted and forwarded to the Minister with a request for a grant; and that a deputation wait on the Minister, to urge the grant. Councillor Tranter seconded the motion and said it was one of the things, the Government should give grants for. Councillor Parish and the president supported the motion, which was carried. Councillors Russell and Markey moved that the president and engineer wait on the Minister and lay the position before him, with a request for a grant. This was agreed to.’

Government Responds to Grant Request – 1936

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 22 August 1936, page 20, reported:

‘The Department of Local Government has advised the Clerk of the Port Stephens Shire Council (Mr. C. L. Monkley) that the plans of the pavilion and caretaker’s quarters in connection with the proposed public baths at Nelson’s Bay did not contain sufficient detail to allow of a report being made on the construction. It was considered that the pavilion would look better if it were square with the roadway. The Chief Engineer reported that the plan appeared to be generally satisfactory. It might be an improvement if the baths were up to Olympic standard—165ft. instead of 150ft.—with a proportionate reduction in the width, and concrete to be used in the wall on the side of the reclaimed area instead of rubble and mortar. It was also suggested that dressing sheds be constructed with a 5ft. roof around the sides, a centre to be left open for sun-light and ventilation. Completely roofed dressing sheds were found to be difficult to ventilate, and to keep clean and dry. The Shire Engineer (Mr. R. G. Payten) has not yet prepared a full specification.’

Increased Government Grant Sought – 1936

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 12 September 1936, page 7, reported:

‘Port Stephens Shire Council, which was offered £1000 by the Local Government Department towards the cost of public baths at Nelson’s Bay, has decided to ask for a larger grant. The view of the Mayor of Raymond Terrace (Ald. E. L. Markey), who is a member of the Shire Council, is that it will be impossible to carry out the work unless a larger grant is given. The council will ask for £3000.’

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 7 November 1936, page 7, further reported:

‘The Mayor of Raymond Terrace (Ald. E. L. Markey), who is also one of the councillors of the Port Stephens Shire, and, with Cr. G. J. Russell, has taken a keen interest in the proposal to establish public baths at Nelson’s Bay, has been informed that the Minister for Works and Local Government (Mr. S. Spooner) has given consideration to the request to increase the amount of the grant to £3000. The Minister, in his letter, stated he noted the shire council’s reasons for making the request, but was afraid that it was quite out of the question to grant it, in respect of a revenue-producing undertaking of the kind. He was prepared, however, to increase the amount of the grant in the special circumstances to 33 per cent. of the cost, not exceeding £1525. “This,” he wrote, “on the estimate of £4580, would leave the council with approximately £3055 to borrow.

If the baths are an urgent necessity, as represented, the people needing them should be prepared to find the greater part of the cost; the alternatives are to meet the estimated deficit from the general fund, budget for an increased income for the baths, or reduce the cost of the baths.” During the last Christmas holiday season there were 5000 or 6000 tourists and campers in the locality. The only means of bathing was that provided by the open harbour, which is infested with sharks. The Port Stephens Shire has since interested itself in the matter of building baths, and appointed a deputation to proceed to Forster several months ago, to investigate a splendid ocean-front baths, having recently been completed there. The Engineer (Mr. R. G. Payten) also accompanied the councillors, and a favourable report was presented.’

Construction of Swimming Baths Deferred – 1937

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 14 January 1937, page 4, reported:

‘Mr. C. E. Bennett, M.L.A., forwarded a letter to the Shire from the Local Government Department concerning the proposed baths at Nelsons Bay whereby the Government proposed to grant 38 per cent of the cost estimated at £4,580. The Department asked what was the position in regard to the matter now. Cr. Russell, said he did not know if they would be justified in spending the money. He thought the letter should be left over pending further information. Cr. Markey said he thought the amount offered by the Government not large enough.

The Urban Area [Committee] was not prepared to go further. If a rate had to be put on to recoup principal and interest it would be too heavy on the property owners at the present time. He thought Mr. Bennett should be asked to point out to the Minister that the grant was insufficient. Cr. Russell moved that the matter be deferred. Cr. Lantry thought the Council could not carry on the scheme. It would be a burden on the ratepayers. Cr. Markey said they could hardly ask ratepayers at Hinton or Paterson or Karuah even to pay towards baths at Nelsons Bay. The Council should deal with it now. The President said he agreed with the suggestion to deal with it now. The grant was not enough. The secretary of the Urban Area at Nelsons Bay said the Committee was not prepared to finance the proposed baths and could not see their way to make any contribution.

The Committee thought the Minister was under a misapprehension regarding the local value of the baths, as 90 per cent of the patrons of the present baths were visitors, principally campers. Council agreed that the scheme could not be proceeded with in its present form.’

Government Again Requested to Increase Grant – 1937

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 5 June 1937, page 20, reported:

‘Representatives of the Port Stephens Shire, who met the Minister for Works and Local Government (Mr. E. S. Spooner) at Raymond Terrace yesterday, asked that reconsideration be given to the question of more liberal assistance for the establishment of public baths at Nelson’s Bay. The request, the Minister said, would have consideration, with others placed before him by the representatives of the bodies concerned.’

Plans for New Swimming Baths Prepared – 1937

The Dungog Chronicle of 7 September 1937, page 2, reported:

‘The Engineer of the Port Stephens Shire (Mr. R. G. Payten) has prepared the plans and specifications of the public baths to be erected at Nelson’s Bay, and had them forwarded to the offices of the Department of Works and Local Government in Sydney.’

A loan to be raised to fund New Swimming Baths and Other Works – 1937

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 6 November 1937, page 7, reported:

‘Port Stephens Shire Council is to raise a loan of £6237 to meet the expenditure on public baths at Nelson’s Bay, and the sports ground and buildings at Raymond Terrace. The Shire Clerk (Mr. C. L. Monkley), in anticipation of executive approval of the raising of the loan informed the council in a report on the subject that arrangements had been made for a loan with the Mutual Life and Citizens’ Assurance Co. Ltd. The interest would be at the rate of 4½ per cent. per annum. It had been arranged that the loan should be taken up in six instalments, the first being £1237, and the remaining five being in £1000 each. By arranging the payment of the loan in this manner instead of in a lump sum, the interest for the first half year would be £84/1/8 instead of £140/6/8.’

Swimming Baths to be Constructed at Tea Gardens – 1937

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 25 December 1937, page 12, reported that Tea Gardens, on the other side of Port Stephens, was also to have swimming baths erected:

‘Nelson’s Bay and Tea Gardens are to have public baths. Work is in progress on the former, at the entrance to Port Stephens. In anticipation of the approval of the loan with which to carry out the work at Tea Gardens, the Shire Engineer (Mr. F. G. Stone) has called tenders for the supply of 32 piles, each 35ft. long, and 175 piles 33ft. long, delivered at the site of the baths.’

Construction of the Nelson Bay Swimming Baths Proceeds – 1938

Construction of the new Nelson Bay Swimming Baths proceeded during 1938 and through to August 1939. Various construction progress reports were reported in newspapers.

The last progress report for 1938 was published in the Maitland Daily Mercury of 17 December 1938, page 6:

‘In a report to Port Stephens Shire Council, the engineer stated that work was progressing satisfactorily on the Nelson’s Bay baths. The whole of the exterior walls had been completed, and the interior walls of the swimming pool completed, except for a gap left for getting the bottom out. Cutting out the rock bottom had been started and would probably be finished by the holidays. In any case, the pool would be available for use during the holidays.’

Construction of the second swimming baths [Newcastle Morning Herald, 29 September 1938]

Construction of the second swimming baths [Newcastle Morning Herald, 29 September 1938]

Completion of the Swimming Baths – 1939

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 26 August 1939, page 20, announced:

‘The public baths at Nelson’s Bay have been completed. The Shire Council is arranging for the leasing of the baths, which will be officially opened shortly.’

The completion of associated facilities, such as the entrance pavilion, were still to be completed.

Tender for operation of Baths not accepted and Official Opening Postponed – 1939

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 14 September 1939, page 2, reported:

‘One tender only for the Nelsons Bay baths was received by the Shire Council at the last meeting and this at the modest amount of 10/ per week. Council decided not to accept this but will confer with the tenderer as to whether some arrangement cannot be made for him to carry on the baths for a time. The official opening was postponed till the war conditions improve.’

Building of Pavilion Nears Completion – 1939

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 16 September 1939, page 20, reported:

‘The building of the pavilion at the Nelson’s Bay baths is nearing completion. The interior walls are being plastered and the roof put on. Underground tanks, holding 4000 gallons of water, have been completed. Work on the turning circle at the wharf and on the retaining wall is also well advanced.’

Official Opening of Nelson Bay Swimming Baths – 1939

The new Baths were officially opened on Saturday, 11 November 1939, complete with an ornate pavilion and a concrete pool and surrounds.

The Maitland Daily Mercury of 13 November 1939, page 8, reported:

‘Nelson’s Bay was en fete on Saturday afternoon when the former Minister for Works, Mr. E. S. Spooner, M.L.A., opened the new baths and pavilion. A large number of visitors and district residents assembled.

The baths proposal had the cordial support of Mr. Spooner, who paid several visits to the locality, and assisted the council by subsidising its expenditure. Assistance was also given in having the highway improved. The baths, cut into rock, have all the requisite buildings for the convenience of the people. The shire engineer (Mr. R. G. Payten) designed and constructed the baths.

Mr. Spooner was accompanied by Mr. V. C. Thompson, M.H.R., and the Mayor of Greater Newcastle (Ald. G. W. Jenner) and amongst those present were Messrs. C. E. Bennett and A. Howarth, Ms.L.A., Dr. J. B. Meredith, president of Port Stephens’ Shire Council, Cr. G. J. Russell (Mr. W. J. Cartwright), Crs. S. Parish and R. Elkin, the president of the Hunter District Water Board (Mr. C. G. Schroder), the president of Stroud Shire (Cr. R. E. Zeininger), the secretary of Miller’s Forest Progress Association (Mr. A. J. O’Brien), and Mr. W. L. Priddle (Milk Council).

Dr. Meredith said the baths proposal was brought forward in 1936, when Cr. G. W. Tranter was President. An application was made to Mr. Spooner for assistance. On the amalgamation of the Shire and the Raymond Terrace Council he made a proposition, as a result of which they had been able to build the baths there and also the showground at Raymond Terrace. They had another benefit in having the road over the Sandhills. It had cost £28,000.

Mr. Spooner was presented with a key, with which he turned the lock at the entrance, and officially opened the baths and pavilion. A gold-mounted fountain pen was presented to him as a memento. The baths, as an attraction, and the road, on which £29,000 had been expended, Mr. Spooner said, would bring people to Nelson’s Bay. It was the beginning of the development of that pretty spot. Shortly they were to have electricity brought to Nelson’s Bay from Newcastle. That would revolutionise the resort. On the improvement of rural roads, they had expended £10,228 in the area, and another £4300 on the Show Ground at Raymond Terrace.

The baths were to have cost £5080. They were actually constructed at less than the estimate, and the people now had a seaside resort that catered for a large section of the population of the coalfields and further north. Those amenities would quickly develop the area. The district would be the richer because of the development. “I want you to keep in front of you the possibilities of your local government authorities,” Mr. Spooner added, in emphasising the need for greater development in those parts, as in others. “Get behind and support your councils and shires. There must be a great future for local government in New South Wales.” Congratulating the people on having a public baths that ranked high among the possessions of the port, Mr. V. C. Thompson said it was pleasing also to see such improvement being made in the roads between Newcastle and Port Stephens.

Mr. C. E. Bennett; M.L.A., who is president of the Port Stephens Development League, said the extension of electricity to Tea Gardens and the construction of the baths at Nelson’s Bay were forward steps in the progress of that port. It was also hoped to see a naval base established on its shore. Other speakers referred to the advantages of the baths and the new road. The baths are 150 feet in length, 50 feet wide, and have a depth varying from a foot to 11 feet. The walls at the base— which is set in the rock on the harbour bottom — are six feet, and taper to 18 inches at the top, which allows a wash of four inches over the top. The supply of fresh water is thus constant. The men’s dressing sheds cover an area of 30 feet by 15 feet, and those of the women 24 feet by 15 feet. The roof consists of corrugated fibrous cement sheeting, and the baths area is enclosed by an ornamental iron fence. Two underground tanks impound a supply of 4000 gallons of water for the service of bathers.’

The Dungog Chronicle of 17 November 1939, page 4, also reported further information about the new swimming baths and surrounds:

‘The site of the new baths is in ideal location, having regard to the future growth of Nelson’s Bay township. Fronting the main business block is a park area, with its tennis court, band rotunda and picnic facilities, and immediately off this, on Wharf-road (a prettier name has yet to be chosen) is the swimming pool. The gardens area of the whole surroundings naturally lends themselves to beautification works to follow, and it will not be many years before Nelson’s Bay has here its magnificent Marine Parade.

The main building is of ornate architectural design in reinforced concrete, with spacious promenade concrete surround, for sunbakers. The dressing sheds for both sexes are roomy and fitted with locker systems. The control is under lease to Mr. and Mrs. J. Lane and daughter, formerly of Clarence Town. The swimming pool is in concrete. It is 150 feet in length by 84 feet width, and graduates in depth from 18 inches to 11 feet. Four inches of water comes over the outer wall at high tide, thus providing fresh water daily. In addition, the baths are fitted with an 18-inch gateway permitting emptying of the baths within half an hour.’

Entrance to the second swimming baths at Nelson Bay – circa 1940

Second swimming baths and pavilion building fronting Teramby Road

Nelson Bay Swimming Baths -circa 1950

Aerial photo of the Nelson Bay Swimming Baths located on the waterfront between two wharves – 1950 [ University of Newcastle Living Histories Collection]

Photo showing the location of the swimming baths (white building in foreground) – 1960 [William Dalton Collection, University of Newcastle Living Histories]

Swimming Baths Increased Tourism – 1939

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 27 December 1939, page 4, reported:

‘The holiday traffic to Port Stephens was the heaviest on record, to the delight of the Development League. Coalminers and men from the secondary industries of Newcastle were there in thousands yesterday. At Nelson’s Bay 600 camps were spread out over the site near the waterfront. At Tea Gardens there were another 400, and a similar number at Bulahdelah, Hawk’s Nest and Soldier’s Point, Tanilba and Salamander Bay had their share also. Identities of the port were convinced that it had never entertained larger crowds under more pleasant conditions. …..

Visitors who have been accustomed to spending their holidays at Nelson’s Bay commended the steps taken by the Urban Area Committee to bring the surroundings into conformity with those ruling in all well-ordered and healthy pleasure resorts. Improved sanitation, water supply and bathing facilities are achievements of local government organisation. ……

The baths, which proved such a popular attraction, were completed, and opened within recent weeks. The cost was £5000. The depth varies from a foot to 11 feet. The length of the pool is 150 feet and the width 85 feet, the design providing for the filling with fresh water at every rise of tide. The baths scheme originated three years ago, and was taken up by the Port Stephens Shire, with the Department of Public Works. The baths ensure safety.’

Problems with the New Swimming Baths – 1940

The Dungog Chronicle of 2 January 1940, page 4, reported:

‘The Shire Clerk, Mr. Monkley, states the takings at the Nelson’s Bay baths during the Christmas week were about £15. This did not include the New Year holiday. The takings since the baths opened were then somewhere in the vicinity of £37. The holidays were not the best to encourage the patronage of the baths or any swimming places, as a cold north-easterly wind blew in the daytime.

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 11 January 1940, page 4, further reported:

‘Cr. Russell said he was disappointed at the results, as there were more people at the Bay than ever before. You could see 300 or 400 in the water along the sand. He thought campers would have patronised the baths better, but complaints were heard about part of the baths being slippery and required to be flushed out, as a certain amount of deposit accumulated where the water remained. It would be more popular with the public if the baths were flushed out. He thought the baths should be concreted further out. The engineer, (Mr. Payten) said continual flushing out would get rid of the slippery deposit. The attendant was very good and flushed out the low parts every morning. The water did not appear as clear as it did outside, but that was owing to the colour on the bottom. The same thing occurred in Newcastle and Merewether baths as he took particular notice of it. More concrete later on may be beneficial. Cr. Russell moved that the flushing out of the baths be left with the engineer to attend to. Cr. Elkin seconded and it was carried.’

Further Swimming Baths Improvements Approved – 1940

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 12 December 1940, page 1, reported:

‘The Engineer, Mr. Payten, reported to the Shire Council on Friday that the addition of a glassed-in verandah were complete. In reference to the proposal to cover in the area on the east side of the building to be used as a refreshment room, the estimated cost of enclosing this area with lattice on the side and galvanised iron roof would be £66. The area is 55 feet long and from 20 to 10 feet wide. The engineer said it would a big benefit to the baths to have it done. Cr. Russell said it was a question as to whether the expenditure was warranted. If it would bring more people to the baths, it would be alright. It may possibly do that. He moved that the recommendation of the engineer be carried out. Cr. Elkin seconded the motion stating he thought the work should be carried out. The motion was agreed to.’                                    

Petrol Rationing Affects Patronage of Swimming Baths – 1941

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 13 February 1941, page 2, reported:

‘The Clerk, Mr. Monkley, reported to the Shire Council on Friday night last that the return from the baths at Nelson’s Bay for a period from week ending 24th November 1940 to Jan. 1941 was as follows: Adults 2256, admission charges. £28/4/0 Locker and Cubicle Hire . . . ..16/5 Children, 2284 . . . . . . . £9/10/4 Total £38/10/9. The revenue for the similar period up to 28th January, 1940 was £61/7/1 the falling off being due to less visitors this year than last at Nelson’s Bay. Probably due to petrol rationing.’

Military Use of the Swimming Baths Causes Problems – 1943

The Newcastle Sun of 12 December 1942, page 3 (and several other newspapers) announced the proclamation of a prohibited area at Nelsons Bay for military purposes, which placed severe limitations on civilians travelling to the area. The prohibition lasted for just under one year. The Dungog Chronicle of 16 November 1943, page 2, reported:

‘Councillor Upton reported at last meeting of the Port Stephens Shire Council that the military restrictions on people travelling to Nelson’s Bay had been lifted, and the road was now open.’

Although the travel prohibition was lifted in 1943, the military continued to control the use of many recreational reserves and other areas in the Nelson Bay area, thus interfering with tourist travel to the area, which hindered the ability of council to receive revenue from the use of the baths.

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 9 September 1943, page 4, reported:

‘The President reported at the meeting of the Shire Council on the 3rd last, that in company with the engineer he had visited Nelson’s Bay and inspected the baths. He considered the Council should try and make some arrangements with the military authorities concerning the use of the baths. They had got very little from the military last season about £29 altogether. They should try to get some arrangement with them. They must also see that the general public should have the use of the baths also. We want to make them self-supporting.

The engineer, Mr Payten said they had agreed last year with the military that the soldiers should use the baths free if they kept them cleaned out. But they did not do that. The baths were not cleaned out and they got into a filthy state. The Council should arrange that the military should be asked to keep the bath in reasonably good order. They want pumping out now. If we have to do that it will mean a good deal of money.

Cr. Morgan said last year was unsatisfactory regarding the use of the baths. The public should not be precluded from the baths. He thought the military should have the baths for use on certain days in the week and on certain hours. He moved that the President and Engineer call on Col. Penfold and try and make some concrete proposal for the coming season. The Council should, he thought have the right of entry at any time. Cr. Upton seconded the motion. The soldiers would no doubt use the baths a good deal and some terms, should be arranged. The public has to be considered also. The motion was agreed to.’

Tenders called for Lease of Swimming Baths – 1947 and 1950

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 11 September 1947, page 4, reported:

‘The following tenders were received for Nelson Bay baths: W. Buie, Adamstown— £45/10/. A. Brown, Cessnock, £78. J. Brown, Nelson Bay, £106/14/. The rate was per annum and the lease for a term of three years. The tender of J. Brown, (the present lessee) was accepted.’

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 15 August 1950, page 5, reported:

‘Port Stephens Shire Council accepted a tender of £175 a year for a three-year lease of Nelson’s Bay Baths. Two tenders were received—Mrs. E. Roberts, New Lambton, £175; A. Brown, Nelson’s Bay, £106.’

Renovations required at Swimming Baths before Tenders For Lease Called – 1952

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 14 May 1952, page 5, reported:

‘Nelson’s Bay baths would be renovated at a maximum cost to be determined by the Building Committee, before tenders were called for the leasing of the baths and the adjoining cottage, Port Stephens Shire Council decided yesterday.

Lessee Reports problems with Swimming Baths – 1954

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 21 January 1954, page 6, reported:

‘The lessee of the baths at Nelson Bay complained to the last meeting of the Port Stephens Shire Council that the baths had been empty since last November and only at high tide was there enough water. Mrs. E. M. Hill, who is the lessee, said also that the water was dirty, and enough water could not get in to clean them out. On Boxing day, the tides were small and the baths were empty all day. The valve was not working. She was greatly disappointed in the two seasons she had been there. Cr. Norburn said the lessee had informed him the valve was not working. Cr. Rodgers said he was there on Saturday and a number of people were in the baths. There was easily, a foot of water over the baths. Mr. Cook, (Engineer) said the letter inferred that the valve trouble was long standing. It was the first he had heard of it when the letter came, and we took immediate action to have it remedied.’

Pool Lessee Sought End of Lease – 1954

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 23 December 1954, page 2

‘At question time at the last Shire meeting Cr. Randall enquired about baths at Nelson Bay. The Clerk said the present, lessee had asked for cancellation of the lease and had been told that her request would be acceded to. Cr. Scott said a Mr. Ward had made enquiries regarding the baths. Mr. Cook, (Engineer): ‘If you get the right man the Council should be prepared to let the baths at a low price to make it interesting. Cr. Shearman asked could not public use them now. It seems a shame to have a show costing thousands and they cannot be used. Cr. Norburn said an application could be made for say 12 months. If it proved satisfactory then the question of an extension could be considered. It was left with the Clerk and Engineer to interview the prospective lessee.’

Future of Swimming Baths Lease to be Considered – 1955

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 23 June 1955, page 2, reported:

‘Cr. Rodgers considers that the baths at Nelson Bay should be locked up and the buildings put in condition for renting as a residence. He made this statement at the Port Stephens Shire Council meeting following on a report by the Health officer regarding vandalism and unsatisfactory use of. Cr. Rodgers said there were many other places at the Bay being used as residences that were little better than boatsheds and they were returning £3 and £4 a week. The baths buildings could easily be convertible to a suitable dwelling.

Cr. Norburn thought the baths and building should be put in order and tenders called for them. Mr. Geer, (Engineer) said he thought they could be put in order at no great expense. Cr. Rodgers: Are we to be faced with a cost of £1000. The place is only used by a lot of louts. Health Inspector, (Mr. Conroy) said it was only a good lavatory now. Cr. Randall said he was not interested in it as an item of income but as an amenity. Already we have decided on the matter. Mr. Conroy said it could be let as a shop and dwelling. Engineer will inspect and report further on the matter.’

Concluding Comments

The swimming baths at Nelson Bay served the community well as a bathing facility over the ensuing thirty years. Many local children learned to swim there and regular swimming carnival were held.

The Baths were demolished in 1987

This paper does not cover the further history of the second swimming baths, as no significant development action would have occurred past this point until it was demolished to make way for port developments in 1987.

The story of the two Nelson Bay swimming baths illustrates how vigorous community action was required to achieve construction of the swimming facilities, which demonstrate the community spirit in those earlier years.

Information on the following swimming baths in the Port Stephens area are also available on this website at the following links:

History of the Tea Gardens Baths

History of the Karuah Baths

Researched and compiled by Kevin McGuinness

December 2023