Media Releases

The new Centre on OG Road at Felixstow delivers a state-of-the-art aquatic and recreation facility, featuring a new Olympic-sized 50-metre 10-lane heated outdoor pool, a 25-metre indoor lap pool, a warm-water pool, a 14-metre-tall waterslide tower with dual waterslides, a children’s zero-depth waterplay area, as well as meeting rooms, a swim school and café.

It also offers accessible pool entry and changerooms, kiosk and will be open from early mornings through to after school and into the evenings.

City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters Mayor Robert Bria says all three free community sessions for opening day, which promise a carnival atmosphere, were booked out well in advance — with 3,500 patrons expected through the door on Saturday - a strong sign of the interest and excitement in the project.

“Today is about welcoming everyone back to a fantastic new facility that will deliver joy to residents and families and all South Australians for years to come — there’s no better way to do that than with a day of free celebrations, activities and entertainment,” Mayor Bria says.

“Payneham pool has been part of our community for generations, so we know how much excitement there is to see its return — bigger, brighter and better than ever.

“Modern, accessible community infrastructure like this gives people more opportunities to be active, connect with their community and enjoy the places where they live.”

“Whether you’re here to swim laps, cool off with the kids, take on the waterslides or simply relax poolside and enjoy the facilities, there is something for everyone.,” Mayor Bria says.

“This is a Council that is committed to providing quality infrastructure for the community it represents, and this new swimming centre is proof of that commitment.”

Premier Peter Malinauskas will join Mayor Robert Bria in officially opening the $64 million Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre, supported by a $5.6 million State Government contribution through the Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program.

“This is a wonderful new facility for the residents of the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters, and one that will bring enjoyment to local families for generations to come.

“We want our kids spending less time on screens and more time being active, having fun and connecting with others. This centre will give families a fantastic opportunity to do exactly that.

“We’ve seen how enthusiastically South Australians have embraced the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre, and I’m confident this centre will be just as popular with the local community,” the Premier says.

Amongst those present for the opening will be local resident 78-year-old Kerry Hammill, a keen lap swimmer who first visited Payneham pool for its opening in 1968.

“It’s really special to celebrate the opening with my family. We have younger family members learning to swim, so it’s exciting to see a new generation making their own memories here.”

“I first swam here nearly 60 years ago when I was 20 and the Payneham pool had just opened. There was no warm water to jump into back then, so coming back to see what’s here today is pretty incredible.

“I’m still a regular swimmer and having various pools I can use throughout the year is fantastic. And I couldn’t resist trying the waterslides — they were great fun and I’ll definitely be going again.

Additional car parking has been made available for the grand opening, with people also encouraged to use public transport, take the free shuttle bus from Drage Reserve, carpool, be dropped off, walk or cycle where possible.

Experienced aquatic and leisure facility operator BlueFit will manage the day-to-day operations of Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre, including the delivery of water safety and learn to swim programs.

Fast facts:

• Three pools designed for everything from learn-to-swim and recreation to training and competition
• 1900sqm of swimming space which is equivalent to around five basketball courts and is 1.8 times more swimming space than the previous facility
• 18 lanes to swim, train and compete
• 80 steps to reach the top of the 14-metre-high waterslide tower with dual waterslides
• Aquatic wheelchairs will be available for public use to ensure inclusivity for all visitors
• 38 new trees and 1800sqm of new landscaping
• 309 solar panels generating 140kW of renewable energy for the Centre
• More than 500 LED lights helping to reduce energy consumption
• A pool filtration system that circulates and clean approximately 10,000 litres of water every minute
• 58 Metro South Australian businesses were involved in the construction supply chain
• Supported 1170 FTE jobs for SA residents during construction.

What: Official opening of Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre

When: Saturday 10 October 2026

Where: 194 OG Road, Felixstow

Time: 9:45 am (Premier will be touring the facility), formalities from 10:15 am

Spokespeople: Premier Peter Malinauskas, NPSP Mayor Robert Bria and long-time swimmer Kerry Hammill.

Media enquiries: Robert Bria on 0431 754 077, Jemima Hickman 0419 754 564 or Allison Kane on 0499 558 834

More information: paynehamswim.com.au

Running from 5 September to 7 November 2026 at The Gallery at St Peters Town Hall Complex, this special centenary program of events invites visitors to step back into the Dunstan era.

Through a unique exhibition of personal items and an exciting series of free and ticketed events, the program celebrates Don Dunstan’s remarkable life, legacy and enduring connection to Norwood, where he lived, worked and represented the local community as the Member for Norwood (now Dunstan) for more than 25 years.

Don Dunstan was a passionate reformer, social justice advocate and champion of the arts who fundamentally transformed South Australia during his decade of leadership as the South Australian Premier in the 1960s and 1970s.

His pioneering reforms in multiculturalism, Aboriginal land rights, anti-discrimination legislation, heritage protection, environmental and electoral reform, and robust support for the arts established South Australia as a progressive leader.

A unique glimpse beyond politics

“In 2026, we mark 100 years since the birth of Don Dunstan, who was not only one of South Australia's most influential leaders but also one of Norwood's most prolific residents,” says Mayor Robert Bria.

Thanks to the generosity of Dunstan’s widower, Steven Cheng, the exhibition features personal items from Don Dunstan’s Norwood home.

This exclusive collection offers visitors a rare, intimate look at the man behind the political office, highlighting his personal passions, culinary interests and life beyond the public sphere.

“We are thrilled to host this landmark exhibition in Norwood, celebrating the remarkable life, legacy, and vision of Don Dunstan and highlighting his lasting, deep connection to Norwood,” says Mayor Robert Bria.

“Thanks to Steven Cheng's generosity, this program goes beyond his public achievements to offer a truly personal glimpse into Don's creative spirit and lasting local connection.

“We invite everyone to experience his legacy through these diverse events that invite visitors to step back into the Dunstan era."

Highlights of the centenary event program

• A Seat at Don’s Table (17 September & 22 October)
  Step inside a reimagining of Don Dunstan’s iconic dining room for an intimate, two-part conversation series. Inspired by his spirit, intellect, and famous hospitality, leading voices from South Australia's political, cultural, culinary, and arts communities will explore his life and legacy.
  • Brian Parkes & Friends (17 September): Join Brian Parkes, CEO of JamFactory, to discuss the story of this leading craft and design centre, established in 1973 with the vision and support of Dunstan’s government, and Dunstan’s subsequent role as Chair from 1987–1990.
  • Greg Mackie OAM & Friends (22 October): Join Greg Mackie OAM and a panel of special guests for stories, reflections, and insights into Dunstan the person, his decade of reform, and what remains of his legacy today.
• Author Talk: Professor Angela Woollacott (25 September)
  Acclaimed historian and biographer Professor Angela Woollacott will discuss her definitive biography, Don Dunstan: The Visionary Politician Who Changed Australia, offering fresh perspectives on the man and the movement that transformed the state.
  
  
• Story Walk at Dunstan Adventure Playground (30 September)
  A delightful outdoor reading experience for families, celebrating storytelling, imagination, and community connection at the playground bearing Dunstan's name.
  
  
• History Walks: In the Footsteps of Don Dunstan (Various Dates)
  Led by expert guides, these walking tours explore the local Norwood neighbourhoods where Dunstan lived, worked, and engaged with the community he represented for over a quarter of a century.
  
  
• Democracy Sausage Sizzle (24 October)
  A lively community gathering to celebrate the closing weekend of the exhibition, inspired by the progressive spirit, cultural vibrancy, and community values that define Dunstan's legacy.

Event and ticket information

• Exhibition Dates: 5 September – 7 November 2026
• Venue: The Gallery, St Peters Town Hall Complex (St Peters Town Hall Complex, 101 Payneham Road, St Peters)
• Admission: Exhibition is free. The program includes both free and ticketed events
• Bookings and full program: Some events have strictly limited places. Early booking is highly recommended. View details and secure tickets online at: www.npsp.sa.gov.au/dondunstan

^{Don Dunstan: 100 Years — photographic collage installation}

Media enquiries: Robert Bria on 0431 754 077 or Allison Kane on 0499 558 834.

The funding is part of the Australian Government’s $32 million South Australian Alternative Water Supply Efficiency Measures (AWSEM) Program, which supports local governments in building infrastructure that reduces reliance on the River Murray. 

As a member of the ERA Water—a joint venture between the City of Burnside, Town of Walkerville, and the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters—this investment will directly impact our local streetscapes, ovals and reserves. 

Expanding our sustainable water network 

ERA Water’s infrastructure captures stormwater flowing down Third and Fourth Creeks which gets treated through wetlands and biofiltration and by UV disinfection before being pumped into underground aquifers for storage, primarily during the wetter winter months. 

In summer, the captured stormwater that is held in the underground aquifer is extracted from the aquifer and distributed through the ERA Water pipe network to more than 40 different parks and reserves in the eastern region. 

ERA Water Chairperson Jeff Tate says the grant funds will be “Used to improve supply to already connected sites in the foothills, provide new connections to parks and schools, and shore up the availability of water in response to predicted impacts of climate change”. 

“This includes predicted less overall rainfall for Adelaide and heavier downpours when it does rain.” 

Key components of the project include: 

• Upgrading infrastructure to harvest more recycled stormwater. 

• Improve water pressure to enhance network supply. 

• Connecting the scheme to new sites across the alliance area where feasible. 

• Generating projected water savings of between 105 and 110 megalitres (ML). 

“This funding also allows ERA Water to further improve our financial performance though improved provision of water supply to paying customers.” 

A commitment to water security 

Jeff Tate notes that the scheme acts as "a type of insurance" against drought and impacts of climate change. 

"The eastern suburbs are known for their beautiful open spaces and streetscapes. This scheme is an environmental initiative that aims to drought-proof our suburbs and reduce our reliance on water from the Murray-Darling Basin," Mr Tate said. 

South Australian Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Emily Bourke, emphasises the vital role of local councils in this effort, stating that the program is a key step in making "better use of all available water sources, including for irrigation and green space". 

Project timeline 

Construction and roll out of the new measures have already commenced with preparations for a new booster pump to be installed at Adey Reserve in Firle. 

“This, in particular the booster pump, will help improve pressure and supply to sites in the Adelaide foothills,” says Jeff. 

“Practical completion of the funded projects is targeted for August 2027.” 

Mayor Robert Bria welcomes the funding and is excited about the opportunities this presents for the local community. 

“ERA Water is an important intergenerational project that reinforces the Council’s commitment to environmental sustainability and ensures that our community's high-quality parks and ovals are preserved for future generations.” 

ERA Water Chairperson Jeff Tate concurs. 

“We are very grateful to have received this vital funding to increase the supply and reliability harvested and treated stormwater, in particular to irrigate public spaces in the eastern suburbs. 

“By using captured stormwater instead of precious drinking water for irrigation, the project helps ensure our parks remain leafy green even during dry periods.” 

For more information on water security and network sustainability initiatives in Adelaide’s eastern suburbs, visit the ERA Water website. 

Media enquiries: Robert Bria on 0431 754 077 or Allison Kane on 0499 558 834. 

This achievement signals the final stages of a three-year construction collaboration between the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters and construction partner, BADGE. 

“Delivering a facility of this scale is no easy feat but collaboration between the Council, BADGE and other project partners has been second to none, to ensure that our community inherits an aquatic centre that stands the test of time,” says Mayor Robert Bria. 

“While the construction is largely behind us, the Council now has a significant task ahead to prepare the Centre for operations.” 

To lead the Centre into this new era, the Council appointed experienced leisure facility management company BlueFit to oversee day-to-day operations. 

BlueFit will deliver an exciting program of aquatic experiences with a focus on swim safety and learn-to-swim programs, ensuring that the facility remains an inclusive space for everyone. 

Waterslide testing with a purpose 

Before the facility is handed over to the Council in the coming days, rigorous testing of the two new waterslides is required to ensure they are ready for public use ahead of the official opening of the Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre on Saturday 10 October. 

Rather than treating this as a routine procedure, the leadership team at BADGE turned the requirement into a significant physical challenge to raise funds and awareness for FightMND and supporting vital Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research. 

BADGE SA’s General Manager Jay Johnson, Operations Managers Ed Whiting and Nick Yorston, and Project Manager Isoa Ronavuso completed a combined total of 240 test slides—60 slides each. 

This "BADGE Big Freeze” for MND is more than just a trip down the flumes; it represents a challenging physical undertaking for an important cause, including a combined: 

• 16,800 stairs 

• 3.92km of climbing 

• 6.1km of sliding. 

Donations can be made online at FightMND. Your contribution helps turn this construction milestone into hope for those battling MND. 

Watch video: Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre: Sliding into action

The home stretch 

This milestone marks the transition into an intense six-week program to prepare the Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre for operations and its Official Opening and Community Celebration on Saturday, 10 October. 

Once open, these slides will be a centrepiece of the new premier aquatic destination, which also includes a 50-metre outdoor Olympic-sized pool and a zero-depth waterplay area, in addition to indoor swimming facilities. 

To ensure a high-quality experience for all visitors at the Community Celebration on Saturday, 10 October, bookings for the Community Celebration are essential and will officially open on Tuesday, 1 September. 

For more information, visit: www.paynehamswim.com.au 

Media enquiries: Robert Bria on 0431 754 077 or Allison Kane on 0499 558 834. 

Commissioned through the Council’s Quadrennial Public Art Program, the sculpture was created by local art and design team Wills Projects, comprising artists Laura Wills and Will Cheesman.

Mayor Robert Bria will officially welcome Rain to the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters, at a special ceremony marking a major milestone in the Council’s commitment to public art, urban enrichment and curation of the City’s strong sense of place.

“Public art has the ability to transform our streets and public places,” Mayor Robert Bria says.

“It invites us to pause, to look more closely, to question, and to see familiar places in new ways. It enriches our everyday lives and helps tell the stories that make our City unique — and Rain is a wonderful example of this.

“I congratulate Laura and Will on creating this incredible addition to our public artwork collection and extend my thanks on behalf of the Council for their creativity, vision and dedication.

“They have delivered a landmark artwork that will become part of the City’s identity and further enhance our unique sense of place.”

A tribute to nature and place

Inspired by the humble rain moth, Rain celebrates one of nature’s often-overlooked inhabitants.

On behalf of Wills Projects, Laura Wills says, “The artwork explores the story of the rain moth, an amazing local story exploring temporality, fertility and connection to place, and we are pleased to be sharing it with the community.”

The sculpture features striking wings that act as a canvas for local stories, featuring intricate, lace-like imagery woven into patterns of camouflage.

The installation provides an immersive experience; beneath the main sculpture, glowing caterpillars and a constellation of lights create a sense of simultaneously looking underground and into the night sky, encouraging curiosity and imagination.

“I hope everyone who encounters Rain, whether they are passing through the area, visiting for the first time or have lived here for decades, will discover something new each time they stop to look, and be inspired by the story of Rain,” says Mayor Bria.

A collaborative vision

Laura says, “The quadrennial artwork commission has been a rewarding process. It has enabled us to assemble a skilled team of collaborators, and we've enjoyed realising our vision for the artwork, from concept phase through to delivery.”

The project is the result of extensive collaboration between the Laura and Will and the many talented collaborators whose expertise has contributed to Rain.

“This includes an artistic partnership and Kaurna consultation with artist Violet Buckskin, author Jennifer Mills, filmmaker Tayla Stabile, and entomology experts from the South Australian Museum.

Investment in the Arts

The City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters is widely regarded as a leader in the public art space.

“The Council’s Quadrennial Public Art Program realises one new major public art commission during each term of Council, with the first work, Spectrum, installed on Osmond Terrace in 2010 as an impressive entry statement to the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters,” says Mayor Bria.

Under the Council’s Public Art Policy, a total budget of $300,000 was allocated for this commission, including a $100,000 grant secured from CreateSA, through the Government of South Australia.

“The backing of the State Government through the provision of this significant and much appreciated grant represents a strong vote of confidence in the Council’s ability to deliver impactful major public art.”

A growing collection

Rain joins a prestigious collection of major public artworks in the City, including:

• Seed Mix (Hackney, 2022)
• Perpetual Sun (Stepney, 2018)
• Fallow (St Peters, 2014)
• Spectrum (Norwood, 2010).

Media enquiries: Robert Bria on 0431 754 077 or Allison Kane on 0499 558 834.