Splash Back! Kensington’s Beloved Rec Centre Has Reopened With A Glowing Olympic Endorsement

20th Oct 2025
Written by: Arshia Anand

After a long wait, the beloved local on the corner of Altona Street and Kensington Road has finally returned, and it’s bigger and brighter than ever. The Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre, known fondly as Kenny Rec, has finally unveiled its massive transformation, and on Sunday, 28 September, the community showed up in force to celebrate what feels like the return of a much-missed friend.

Locals flocked to celebrate the beloved institution's stunning transformation, turning the forecourt into a vibrant block party. Breakdancers, stilt-walkers and African drummers filled the space with rhythm and colour. A line for the new on-site café already stretched out the door, making it clear the community has reclaimed their spot.

In a move that solidifies this as a top-tier facility, the City of Melbourne enlisted none other than Australia’s most decorated Olympian, swim queen Emma McKeon, to officially get things wet. If anyone knows a good pool, it’s her.

“The Rec centre looks incredible, obviously my favourite part is the pool. The whole centre looks amazing,” McKeon said, giving the new digs her gold-medal stamp of approval.

So, what’s inside? Kenny Rec has levelled up from a simple pool to a complete wellness hub. The aquatic hall boasts a pristine 25-metre indoor pool for serious lap swimmers, a dedicated learner pool for kids finding their fins, and a splash zone destined for family fun.

And that's just the splash zone. On dry land, the upgrades get even better. The centre now features a 24-hour gym stocked with modern equipment, three full-sized courts ready for basketball, netball and even pickleball, and dedicated studios for reformer Pilates and group fitness. It’s the all-in-one active playground Kensington has been waiting for.

“We’re creating a space where people feel welcome and empowered to live well,” said centre manager Nathan Prosser—and you can already feel it. The design, flooded with natural light, encourages you to linger, a feeling echoed by the packed new café that’s sure to become a post-workout ritual for many.

After the original pool closed its doors back in 2021, its absence left a real void. Now, Kenny Rec is back, and it’s already clear that it’s the community’s new living room.

THE DETAILS
What: Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre
Where: 99 Altona Street, Kensington (corner of Kensington Road)
 
How to get there:
  • Train: A 6-minute walk from South Kensington Station.
  • Bus: Route 402, with a stop a 2-minute walk away.
  • Bike: Bike hoops are located at both entrances.
  • Car: Limited on-street parking is available nearby.

Plan your trip, because this is one new-old local is all equipped to handle the action.

Main Image Credit: Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre | Website