The Tobruk Memorial Baths on The Strand in Townsville have re-opened following an $11.3 million redevelopment.

The project was undertaken by local contractor Jackson+Semler and supported more than 120 jobs, Townsville City Council said.

Acting Mayor Mark Molachino said the redeveloped complex included new 50m, learn-to-swim and toddler pools as well as an updated filtration system, new shade structures and refurbished facilities.

An additional focus of the project was to enhance access to the facilities for people with disabilities.

“The re-opening of the baths is great news for swimming enthusiasts as well as the wider Townsville community,” Cr Molachino said.

“Since the project kicked off in August last year, the community has watched as this much-loved piece of community infrastructure has been re-born.

“The baths have served our community since the 1950s and now they’re ready to serve for another 50 years.”

Division 3 councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the re-opening was made all the more special with Olympian Chris Bell swimming the ceremonial first lap.

“Chris trained for the 1956 Melbourne Olympics at Tobruk Pool. He also taught a lot of locals to swim so I was thrilled to organise for him to be involved in the re-opening,” she said.