Nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, Aqualink Box Hill is a premier aquatic and leisure facility that serves as a central gathering point for families, fitness enthusiasts, and community members alike. Set within the picturesque surrounds of Surrey Park, this modern facility is designed to cater to a wide range of recreational and wellness needs. Offering a blend of state-of-the-art aquatic amenities, comprehensive fitness programs, and community-oriented services, Aqualink Box Hill has earned a stellar reputation for its inclusive and dynamic environment.
A Legacy of Aquatic Excellence
The site of Aqualink Box Hill holds historical significance in Australian swimming history. Originally home to the Surrey Dive, a deep-water swimming hole, the area was once the location of Australia’s first Olympic-standard pool. Over time, the need for a more modern, accessible, and functional aquatic center became evident. In response, a major redevelopment was undertaken in the early 2010s, transforming the aging facility into a world-class leisure center. The project resulted in a facility that is not only larger and more functional, but also environmentally sustainable and accessible to all.
World-Class Aquatic Facilities
Aqualink Box Hill’s aquatic offerings are among the most comprehensive in the region. The facility features both indoor and outdoor pools, catering to a variety of swimming and recreational needs. The indoor pool is a 25-meter, six-lane heated pool designed for lap swimming, aquatic exercise, and general recreational use. It includes accessible ramp entry and pool hoists to support users of all abilities.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the 25-meter, ten-lane outdoor pool is ideal for competitive swimming, training, and recreational laps. With shaded seating areas and a spacious deck, it provides a comfortable space for both swimmers and spectators.
For families and young children, the toddlers’ pool offers a safe and enjoyable space to explore the water. With beach entry, warm temperatures, and interactive water features, it’s designed with comfort and fun in mind. Meanwhile, the warm water therapy pool provides a tranquil environment for low-impact exercise, hydrotherapy, and rehabilitation.
Other aquatic highlights include a diving pool equipped with triple springboards, a spa and sauna area for relaxation, and an aquatic play zone featuring splash pads, tipping buckets, water cannons, and slides.
Comprehensive Fitness and Wellness Programs
In addition to its aquatic features, Aqualink Box Hill is equipped with a full-service gym and wellness center. The 700-square-meter gym includes the latest cardio and strength-training equipment, catering to users of all fitness levels. Whether someone is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete, the gym’s layout and resources support diverse training goals.
The group fitness timetable includes a wide range of classes, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Pilates, yoga, cycle classes, boxing, and aqua aerobics. These classes are conducted in well-equipped studios and led by qualified instructors who focus on both physical conditioning and mental well-being.
The facility also includes a multi-purpose stadium with three courts, supporting indoor sports such as basketball, netball, futsal, and martial arts. Regular competitions, social games, and school sports events are hosted here, making it a lively space for community engagement.
Learn to Swim and Dive Programs
Aqualink Box Hill places a strong emphasis on water safety and skill development through its learn-to-swim and diving programs. These programs cater to participants of all ages, from infants to adults, and are designed to foster confidence and proficiency in the water.
Swimming lessons are structured according to age and skill level, with a focus on foundational techniques, stroke development, and safety awareness. The classes are delivered in a supportive, engaging environment that encourages steady progress and long-term participation.
For more advanced swimmers, squad training offers a path to competitive swimming, with opportunities for swimmers to progress through levels and participate in competitions. Diving lessons are also available for children and teens who want to explore this unique and challenging sport. These programs introduce the fundamentals of diving, including safe jumping and basic acrobatic techniques, in a controlled and supervised setting.
Family Fun and Aquatic Play
Aqualink Box Hill is designed to be family-friendly, with features that make it an enjoyable destination for children and parents alike. The aquatic play area is a favorite among younger visitors, providing a vibrant and interactive environment where kids can play safely. With elements like water jets, small slides, and spray tunnels, the area is always bustling with activity and laughter.
During weekends and school holidays, the center offers supervised aquatic play sessions, including the use of Tarzan ropes and diving boards, creating exciting experiences for kids while maintaining high safety standards.
Accessibility and Inclusion
One of Aqualink Box Hill’s standout features is its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. The facility is designed to be fully accessible, with step-free entries, lift access, pool hoists, accessible changerooms, and wayfinding signage featuring braille. These features ensure that all members of the community, regardless of physical ability, can comfortably access and enjoy the facility.
Aqualink also supports individuals with hidden disabilities and offers visual communication boards, water wheelchairs, and modified gym equipment to ensure that everyone can participate in health and fitness activities. Staff are trained to assist visitors with varying needs, and the environment is welcoming and respectful of all backgrounds and abilities.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
Environmental sustainability played a central role in the design and operation of the redeveloped facility. Aqualink Box Hill incorporates a range of green technologies and practices aimed at reducing its environmental footprint. These include the use of energy-efficient lighting and heating systems, an onsite cogeneration plant to minimize energy waste, and advanced water filtration systems to reduce water consumption.
Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to the flushing and irrigation systems throughout the facility, further conserving resources. The building materials were selected for durability and low environmental impact, ensuring that the structure remains efficient and easy to maintain over time.
Facility Hire and Community Engagement
Aqualink Box Hill is not just a place to swim or work out—it’s a true community hub. The center offers a variety of spaces for hire, including meeting rooms, fitness studios, and outdoor areas. These spaces can be used for corporate events, school excursions, community meetings, and private celebrations.
The facility also hosts community events, holiday programs, and educational workshops throughout the year. These initiatives strengthen community ties and promote health, wellness, and social inclusion. By offering programs that cater to a wide demographic, from young children to older adults, Aqualink helps foster a strong sense of belonging and engagement.
A Place for Everyone
With its blend of aquatic excellence, fitness resources, inclusive programs, and environmental stewardship, Aqualink Box Hill stands out as a benchmark for modern community leisure centers. It is more than just a fitness facility—it is a place where people come together to learn, play, train, heal, and connect.
Whether you’re looking to train for a competition, rehabilitate after injury, take your child for their first swim, or simply enjoy a relaxing spa session, Aqualink Box Hill offers the space, services, and spirit to support your journey. It truly is a facility that embodies community, wellness, and innovation in every sense.
