Big Splash Water Park Faces Critical Deadline as Mystery Owners Emerge
With only three days remaining before a crucial government deadline, the future of Canberra's iconic Big Splash water park hangs in the balance. The situation has evolved into a high-stakes standoff between private lenders and the ACT government, with millions of dollars potentially at risk.
Government Issues Final Warning
The ACT government confirmed on Tuesday that it had contacted solicitors representing a group that recently posted a notice of repossession at the derelict water park site. A spokesperson for Access Canberra stated that no response had been received from the new owners at this time.
The Controlled Activity Order remains active, and Access Canberra is prepared to take further regulatory action if compliance is not achieved by the January 23 deadline. This could include imposing penalties, pursuing prosecution, or even terminating the lease entirely.
The government's primary interest continues to be bringing the operator into compliance with legislation and achieving an outcome that benefits the community, the spokesperson emphasized.
Uncertain Future for Canberra Icon
It remains unclear what specific action the government will take once the deadline passes. Cancelling the lease could potentially allow the government to buy back the site for resale or, as many community advocates hope, resume permanent ownership and find a new operator to bring it in line with other public pools in Dickson and Manuka.
However, the lenders who have taken possession of the site from current owner Translink Management Group may argue that the government should grant them additional time to find their own solution through a new pool operator or buyer. This could prolong the uncertainty surrounding the site's future.
Last-Minute Ownership Change
The appearance of the repossession notice on Monday surprised many observers, coming just days before the government's deadline for the owners to rectify issues and resume operations. The deadline itself was triggered by something as seemingly minor as a broken fence.
The beloved recreational facility, a Canberra summer favourite for decades, has been closed for the past year and experienced maintenance issues for several years prior. Access Canberra confirmed it had been actively engaging with Translink Management Group throughout 2025 to resolve ongoing problems, including security issues that allowed graffiti and vandalism to occur.
Compliance Timeline Breakdown
The regulatory timeline reveals a pattern of non-compliance:
- On September 9, Access Canberra issued a Controlled Activity Order regarding fence repair and maintenance at Big Splash.
- When this order wasn't satisfied, a Rectification Notice was issued requiring completion of fence repairs by December 10.
- After no action was taken, another CAO was issued on December 12, requiring the owner to use the land for its intended purpose by January 23.
Mystery Owners Revealed
The new owners are identified as a lending syndicate consisting of:
- Goodland Alpha
- Foodie Family
- ATF Jiang Family Trust
- CA Capital Management
- Nouri Superannuation
- ATF Nouri Family Superannuation Fund
All are privately listed entities registered outside the ACT with no apparent public profile. The notice indicates that Sydney finance law firm Kingston and Partners is handling the matter.
Conflicting Visions for the Site
This development comes just one month after Translink shared concept plans that included 250 commercial accommodation units and a single indoor pool, eliminating water slides and the existing four pools. The fundamental question remains whether the new owners intend to fix and operate the business as originally intended or continue waiting for the government to soften its stance on rezoning the land for apartment construction.
The community now watches with bated breath as the clock ticks down toward Thursday's deadline, wondering whether this Canberra institution will be revived or redeveloped beyond recognition.
