Kensington celebrates grand opening of new aquatic and recreation centre

The Kensington community turned out in force on Sunday, September 28, to celebrate the official opening of the long-awaited Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre (KCARC) – a multi-million dollar transformation that has reimagined one of the suburb’s most loved facilities.

The event, held at 99 Altona St, marked the return of the much-loved “Kenny Rec” after years of planning and construction. Locals joined City of Melbourne councillors, sporting stars and Olympians for a day of entertainment, fitness and celebration inside the state-of-the-art facility.

The new centre, operated by The Y Victoria, features a 25-metre indoor pool, children’s water play area, three multi-sports courts, a fully equipped gym, health and wellness rooms, and community meeting spaces. The redevelopment replaces the 1970s-built centre and delivers modern, accessible facilities designed for every generation of the Kensington community.

Speaking at the official unveiling, Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the new centre had already been embraced by the community.

“I could not be happier to have officially opened the incredible new Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre,” Cr Reece said.

Kenny Rec is back bigger and better than ever – with the best pool, the best gym and the best facilities of any rec centre in Australia. It took a while, but it was worth the wait!

The day featured live entertainment including African drumming, stilt walkers, cheerleaders and breakdancers, alongside fitness classes, dance workshops, swimming races and pickleball games. Fans also had the chance to meet Australia’s most decorated Olympian Emma McKeon, who joined the celebrations alongside AFL and AFLW stars.

Cr Gladys Liu, who leads the City of Melbourne’s Community and City Services portfolio, said the project had been designed with future generations in mind.

“With amazing new facilities and bigger spaces to meet the needs of our growing population, we’re delivering everything our community needs to stay active and connected,” she said.

The Y Victoria CEO Carolyn Morris said the new facility would be a “welcoming and inclusive hub for everyone,” highlighting the centre’s universal access, family-friendly amenities and wide-ranging programs for all ages.

As residents took their first laps in the new pool and explored the expansive courts and gym, the overwhelming sentiment was one of pride and excitement.

“Now it’s time to hit the hoops, lift some weights and take a dip in the pool – and I look forward to seeing everyone there,” Cr Reece said.

The Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre is now officially open to the public. Memberships, swim lessons and program timetables are available through The Y Victoria website. •