Dawn Fraser Baths site study
Three Inner West Council Aquatic Centres are named after three Australian swimming legends – Fanny Durack, Annette Kellerman and Dawn Fraser. This second enquiry-based historical site study created by Helen Nicholson investigates the historical sea baths at the inner Sydney suburb of Balmain now known as the Dawn Fraser Baths and its immediate surrounds. Using a wide range of diverse historical sources students consider how the area has changed since European occupation and obstacles sometimes faced by female swimmers in the 19th and early 20th century.
Designed to provide teachers with everything they need for the mandated site study required in the NSW Years 7–10 History Syllabus it can either be undertaken virtually in the classroom or by an actual site visit. Aspects are also pertinent to the NSW Years 7–10 Physical Activity and Sport Studies Syllabus.
This site study aims to develop student skills in the use and analysis of sources needed to undertake an historical inquiry, the communication of their results and to foster an interest in local history. It consists of comprehensive historical sources, teacher’s notes and resources, syllabus links, objectives and outcomes, a PowerPoint of maps, photographs and images for use in the classroom, and student worksheets.
Dawn Fraser Baths Site Study Presentation by Helen Nicholson