Cool off, have fun and stay active at the Adelaide Hills War Memorial Swimming Centre (AHWMSC) in Woodside, a friendly, community-based pool in the heart of the Hills.

The centre offers something for everyone: families, lap swimmers, kids learning to swim, aqua fitness fans and community groups.

• Three shaded and heated pools: a toddler pool, a mid-sized pool and a 25-metre pool (with a barrel shade).
• Exciting new splash park playground
• Lap swimming lanes and squad training available.
• Qualified, friendly lifeguards on duty.
• Hot showers, accessible amenities, and shaded lawn areas for picnics or relaxation.
• Kiosk selling snacks, goggles and accessories.
• Community-run and managed by volunteers through the AHWMSC committee.

The pool operates during the warmer months and is weather dependent. For public sessions, the forecast temperature in Mount Barker must reach 25 degrees or more for the previous night.

Typical hours:

• School term: Monday to Friday 3:30pm to 6pm; Saturday and Sunday 11am to 6pm. If forecast 35 degrees or above, open until around 8pm.
• School holidays: Every day 11am to 6pm (weather permitting).
• Lap swimming: Monday to Friday 6am to 9am; Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 6pm to 8pm; Saturday 9am to 11am.

Note: Always check via phone or Facebook before visiting, as openings depend on weather, carnivals and classes.

Swim School:
Levels from ‘Duckling’ through ‘Shark’ and ‘Squad’, with downloadable certificates and structured progression.

Community Fitness:
The “Active Fitness and Lifestyle Group” (established 2006) runs year-round classes including aqua, Zumba, yoga and more for all ages and fitness levels, connecting the centre with the broader community.

Address: 8 Nairne Road, Woodside SA 5244

Just a short stroll from the Woodside town centre, the pool sits beside the Woodside Recreation Ground and is easily accessible by car with plenty of parking or by public transport.

• A relaxed, family-friendly environment in a beautiful Hills setting
• Programs for all ages, from toddlers to fitness-focused adults
• Strong community connection and volunteer spirit
• Good value and seasonal flexibility
• Accessible and welcoming for locals and visitors

• If the forecast in Mount Barker the night before is below 25 degrees, public swimming may not be available. It is best to check the centre’s Facebook page or call ahead.
• For swimming lessons or aqua fitness classes, book early, places fill quickly, especially during school holidays.
• Bring bathers, towel, sunscreen and a drink. The lawn and shaded areas make it great for a full-day outing.
• For lap swimming, early morning slots are available even when public swimming is restricted.
• Check for special programs such as holiday swim weeks run by the Royal Life Saving Society of South Australia, and altered hours in peak summer.

The centre was officially opened on 28 November 1970, six years after local residents identified the need for a dedicated swimming facility in the Hills.

Fundraising efforts such as selling chopped wood, holding debutante balls and novelty competitions helped raise the initial funds to build it.

Today the centre remains community-oriented, staffed professionally but overseen by a committee of local residents and community groups.