Sport and Recreation, Published 9 September 2026
Brisbane’s Floating Swimming Baths
Imagine going for a swim in Brisbane — not at a modern swimming pool, but in a huge floating enclosure right on the Brisbane River!
The Metropolitan Swimming Baths were a popular swimming and sporting venue in Brisbane’s early years. The timber structure actually floated on the river, with changing cubicles around the swimming area and river water flowing underneath.
The baths were moved several times as Brisbane’s riverfront developed, including locations near the Gas Works, Boundary Street and Alice Street.
Competitive swimming was also held here, including Queensland championship events.
It’s hard to imagine today, but generations of Brisbane swimmers once jumped into the Brisbane River for their daily swim!
A fascinating little piece of Brisbane history that has almost disappeared from memory.
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