Published on Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 12:19:22 PM
The Murray Aquatic and Leisure Centre (MALC) are celebrating 30 years of operation in Pinjarra, marking three decades of movement, community and connection.
Officially opening as the Murray Districts Community Recreation Centre on 12 October 1996, MALC has grown significantly over the past 30 years. However, its history stretches back further, with the original facility constructed in 1983 to support Pinjarra Senior High School and community use.
The original facility featured a single court, drama room and kitchen amenities. A major expansion in 1996 added two additional courts, upper-level spectator viewing, a gymnasium, group fitness studios, a creche and a consolidated administration, reception and kiosk area.
Since then, MALC has continued to evolve alongside the community. Aquatic facilities were introduced in 2011, including a 25-metre lap pool, leisure pool and hydrotherapy pool, followed by the addition of the Aquatic Clubroom in 2017.
The centre has also embraced new ways for people to stay active, with 24-hour gym access introduced in 2020, a new primary group fitness studio created in 2024, and the Virtual Fitness and Cycle Studio expanded into a 24/7 fitness space in 2025.
In 2026, MALC is looking towards the next chapter, with its Virtual Reformer Pilates Studio and Sauna moving closer to opening and further developments in the pipeline.
Shire of Murray President Douglas McLarty said the anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate MALC's history while recognising the people who have helped shape its future.
“Thirty years is a wonderful milestone for MALC and the wider Murray community,” President McLarty said.
“MALC has become a much-loved part of community life in Murray. It's where generations of children have learnt to swim, parents and grandparents have proudly watched little ones take their first strokes, and friendships have been formed through a shared love of sport and recreation. From first games of basketball and netball to fitness classes and swimming lessons, the Centre has been part of countless milestones and memories for local families.”
“Today, MALC continues to welcome nearly 4,500 visits each week, bringing people of all ages together and playing an important role in the health, wellbeing and social connection of the Murray community.”
“While the Centre has grown and evolved considerably over the years, what has remained constant is its ability to bring people together and create a real sense of community,” added President McLarty.
To mark the milestone, MALC will host a free family friendly Open Day on Saturday 14 November between 10am – 2pm celebrating 30 years, showcasing the centre and the many ways it brings people together through sport, fitness, recreation and aquatic activities.
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