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Established in 1996

Dawn Fraser Baths, Balmain

TKD Architects

The Dawn Fraser Baths are an iconic reminder of the history of Australian aquatic sports. First opened in 1882, the salt-water venue was a magnet for people across Sydney. Swimming champions of the day competed in swimming competitions that were watched by thousands.

The Balmain Swimming Club remains the nation’s oldest such club. Inner West Council faced serious issues with the southern pavilion at the baths, which was in poor structural condition and flooding.

GBA Heritage prepared a detailed Conservation Management Plan (CMP) that provided the first comprehensive account of the history of the baths.

The CMP argued that dismantling the baths and rebuilding it to current standards at a higher level was in the interest of the long-term conservation of the structure in the face of rising water levels.

GBA Heritage consulted closely with project architects, TKD to work through specific conservation issues to arrive at a strong outcome.

The project received the Australian Institute of Architects (NSW) Heritage Conservation Award and was short-listed for the Australian Institute of Architects 2022 National Architecture Awards