Maccallum pool is a harbourside hidden gem with unique local history that is becoming increasingly popular on social media – but not everyone is happy about it.
For decades, North Sydney locals have enjoyed a hidden swimming spot with panoramic views of what has been named the world’s most beautiful harbour.
However, its photographic appeal has incited a whole new sweep of visitors, leaving some locals irritated.
The pool, built in the 1920s, is found on the western side of Cremorne Point.
According to North Sydney mayor Zoe Baker, its beginnings were a community endeavour.
“Champion swimmer Fred Lane got some locals together and literally moved rocks and boulders to create an enclosure,” she told news.com.au
Initially known to locals as ‘The Pool’, Maccallum Pool was renamed in the 1930s after one tenacious local, Hugh J Maccallum, invested his own money to keep it maintained for the people of Cremorne.
“It has always had this hidden gem quality because only the locals of North Sydney know about it” Ms Baker explained.
“Once, while I was visiting the pool, I saw a family with luggage who had come straight there from the airport.
“The father had grown up in North Sydney and when arriving back in Australia had taken his family straight to Maccallum pool for a swim.”
Over the years, it has grown in popularity – a trend that’s been fast-tracked by social media. And this has angered locals who’ve taken to TikTok to complain.
“Great, now all the eshays are going to find this and overrun it like every other spot,” one disgruntled TikTok user wrote.
“Bring back gate keeping! Why can’t we just share among close friends, especially for small places like this,” another wrote, while a third added: “Shhhh, it’s our secret”.
Ms Baker said its usage was also intensified by the Covid-19 lockdown as the walk through Cremorne reserve became so busy it resembled Pitt Street.
Many who lived within the 10km radius would post photos of the hidden spot at a time when Sydneysiders were desperate for outdoor adventures.
The pool is free and open to the public all year ‘round – making what was once strictly a local haven, the must-be spot during Sydney’s summer.
“It is an incredible experience to be so close to the city of Sydney in a bushy reserve,” Ms Baker said.
“As you approach the pool, you feel like you could be anywhere, then you see the blue water and the sparkling lights of the city and it is magical.”
In the age of social media, a spot this spectacular was destined to be found by the masses.