Bilgoman Swimming Pool is one of those classic Perth Hills spots that many locals grow up with, and then rediscover again once they have kids of their own. The landmark “diving lady” sign beside Great Eastern Highway in Darlington is hard to miss, and if you travel that route often it quickly becomes a temptation to stop for a cool‑off on a hot day. For families, it makes an easy detour either as a destination in its own right or as a break on the way to or from a visit with relatives in the hills.
The centre is built around a 50‑metre heated Olympic‑sized pool with an access ramp, so lap swimmers, learners and families all share the main space comfortably. At the shallow end of this pool there is a slide straight into the water, which is a big hit with primary‑school‑aged kids who love climbing out and splashing back in over and over. Depth ranges from just over a metre to around 1.7 metres, so older children and adults can stand comfortably in parts of the pool while younger swimmers tend to stay closer to the shallow end or use flotation aids.
For little ones, the shaded toddler pool is usually the first stop. It has a gentle beach‑style entry and is divided into sections that gradually deepen, making it easy to find a spot where small children can paddle, splash and chase sinking toys with confidence. Parents can wade in alongside them without feeling rushed, and the shade over this pool is very welcome on scorching summer afternoons.
At the deep end there is a dedicated diving pool with substantial depth and proper diving boards. This area is popular with older kids and teens perfecting their bombies and dives under the watchful eye of lifeguards. The diving boards operate to a set schedule and are generally open to the public during the day on weekends, public holidays and school holidays, which creates a fun, slightly carnival‑like atmosphere in that corner of the pool. Confident swimmers relish the extra challenge, while families with younger children can easily stick to the main and toddler pools.
Away from the water, Bilgoman works well for a longer stay. There is a sand‑based Playground with a slide, swings and climbing frame, with shade over parts of the area so kids can have a break from swimming without being in full sun.
Extensive lawns wrap around the pools, with shade sails, gazebos, bleacher‑style seating, benches near the shallow pool and some sun lounges, so families can spread out towels or set up a picnic spot for the day. A kiosk sells drinks, ice creams and hot food, and there are barbecues on site if you prefer to bring your own supplies. Being right beside Great Eastern Highway means there is constant traffic noise, including the rumble of trucks, but younger vehicle fans often see this as an added bonus.
Bilgoman Aquatic Centre operates as a summer‑season outdoor pool, with long opening hours that suit both early‑morning lap swimmers and families looking for an after‑school or after‑work swim. During the warmer months it typically opens from 5.30am on weekdays and from 7am on weekends and public holidays, closing in the early evening, with extended closing times on summer nights in December, January and February. The centre is closed on Christmas Day and Easter, and on some days public access can be restricted while school swimming carnivals are underway, so it is worth checking the website or phoning ahead before a special trip. Entry fees apply for adults and children, with family passes and concessions available, but prices do change from time to time, so the most up‑to‑date details are listed online.
A few simple rules keep things safe and family‑friendly: adults must be in the water within arm’s reach of children under five, children under 12 must be actively supervised by an adult at all times, and glass and alcohol are not allowed on site. For birthdays or group catch‑ups, you can arrange group bookings and make use of the lawn, barbecues and shaded areas. Whether you’re popping in for an hour between errands or settling in for a full day of swimming, playing and snacking on the grass, Bilgoman Swimming Pool is an easy, relaxed place to cool off in the Perth Hills and to share a bit of local nostalgia with the next generation.
Bilgoman Aquatic Centre
Address: Corner Lionel Road and Great Eastern Highway, Darlington WA 6070, Australia
Opening hours: Summer season outdoor pool. Typically open Monday to Friday 5.30am–7pm (extended to 8pm in December, January and February) and weekends/public holidays 7am–7pm. Closed Christmas Day and Easter, and public access may be limited during school swimming carnivals. Check the website for current season dates, opening hours and diving board times.
Website: Bilgoman Aquatic Centre – Shire of Mundaring
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Claire Tondut is currently a stay-at-home mother of one daughter and a puppy. When she is not chasing little Miss around she loves to spend time with hubby, friends and family.
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