Teen Activist's Campaign Seeks to Revive Canberra's Beloved Big Splash Water Park
The ACT government is under increasing pressure to intervene and take control of the derelict Big Splash water park, which has remained closed for three consecutive summers. This closure comes during what has been recorded as one of the hottest weeks in recent years, highlighting the community's need for accessible aquatic facilities.
Deadline Passes Without Action
The deadline for reopening the iconic water park passed last week, leaving its owners facing potential fines or lease termination. This development has sparked renewed urgency among local residents who have been deprived of one of Canberra's most cherished summer attractions.
Youth-Led Petition Gains Momentum
Eighteen-year-old activist Amelia Tattam has taken matters into her own hands by launching a petition that has already garnered significant community support. Sponsored by Greens MLA Jo Clay, the petition collected more than 600 signatures within its first 24 hours of circulation.
"I knew that there'd be a lot of people on board with this petition, but getting 500 plus signatures in 24-hours is absolutely amazing," Ms Tattam said. "This isn't just a minor concern among a few people in our community, people are making a lot of noise."
Formation of Save Big Splash Group
Ms Tattam founded the protest group Save Big Splash with friends just one week ago, expressing devastation that the public has been barred from what she describes as a fundamental part of Canberra's summer experience. The group's formation represents growing frustration about the prolonged closure of what many consider an essential community space.
"Like many Canberrans, Big Splash was a very fundamental part of my experience growing up in Canberra during the summer," she explained. "Especially with the under-16 social media ban as well, I think it's so important that we have more of these spaces, not less. Because outdoor public recreation spaces are so important for mental and physical health."
Clear Demands for Restoration
The petition outlines three non-negotiable requirements for any future development of the site:
- A 50-metre outdoor pool
- Water slides
- A substantial lawn area
Beyond these core elements, Ms Tattam emphasizes the importance of community consultation to shape the remaining design features. "With this campaign I really care about ensuring that the space suits as many community needs as possible," she stated.
Broader Community Impact
The closure has affected not just the immediate Macquarie area but all of Canberra and surrounding regions. Ms Tattam noted that people would travel from Goulburn and Yass specifically to visit Big Splash, underscoring its regional significance.
"I don't think anything compares, Big Splash was pretty unique," she said, highlighting the distinctive nature of the facility that has left a void in the community's recreational options.
Uncertain Path Forward
While Access Canberra now has the authority to compel the current owners to relinquish the site, whether this action will be taken remains unclear. Ms Tattam described this moment as pivotal, stating: "The deadline passing hasn't suddenly solved anything at this stage, but it has clarified that this is a pivotal moment, where decisions really matter."
She expressed confidence that the petition will successfully initiate the restoration process and welcomed the support from both the community and ACT Greens deputy leader Jo Clay. If the government does terminate the lease, Ms Tattam has indicated her willingness to collaborate with both government and potential new private operators to revive the water park.
The campaign represents more than just an effort to reopen a recreational facility—it's about reclaiming a space that fosters community connection, physical activity, and social interaction during Canberra's hot summer months.
