I’ve been going to Cook and Phillip Park for years. It’s conveniently located near my workplace, making it the perfect spot for a walk around the park followed by a swim before heading home, dodging the worst of peak-hour traffic.

The facility has three shower areas, with the largest located right next to the pools. It’s always bustling—no matter the day or time, there’s a steady stream of people coming and going.

A few weeks ago, I mentioned the place to a colleague, and we decided to go for a swim after work. He’s built quite differently from me—where I have a solid rugby build, he’s lean and athletic, having played semi-professional sports for years. After our swim, we hit the showers. As is my routine, I stripped down completely, but he stayed in his speedos at first.

It was a busy moment, and at one point, there were five other men showering, all fully nude, with him being the exception. I think he started to feel a bit out of place because eventually, he joined the rest of us. That’s when I noticed something—I couldn’t ignore it—his penis was… well, significantly larger than anyone else’s. Easily twice the size. I wondered if this was the reason he hesitated at first.

To be clear, our friendship is entirely platonic—nothing sexual. I have a wife, and he has a long-term girlfriend. But since that day, our routine has evolved. Now, we swim together weekly, and instead of rushing through a 3-4 minute shower, we take our time—sometimes up to 20 minutes—chatting about life, work, and everything in between. I’ve recently opened up to him about my open relationship with my wife and he has been asking lots of questions. He is coming around soon for a spa at ours and I told him to leave his speedos at home as a joke.

Interestingly, this simple ritual has deepened our professional relationship. We’re more open with each other, and I feel our camaraderie has strengthened. He’s even invited a few other colleagues to join us, and we’re planning a group swim soon.

It’s funny how something as simple as a communal shower and shared exercise can bring people closer.

(Pictures of two of the shower blocks for context.)