Southern Grampians Shire Council has announced that their 2019-2020 swim season with free outdoor pool entry, will officially commence this Saturday 2nd November with pools in Penshurst, Glenthompson, Balmoral, Dunkeld and Coleraine opening in early December.
Manager Community and Leisure Services, Susannah Milne advised that the pools were in great shape leading up to the season’s opening: “We’ve worked hard over the winter to ensure that our pools are looking and operating at their best for the start of the season and we’re looking forward to opening the gates now that the weather is improving.
Milne added: “We’re also pleased to announce that following the success of last year and based on the results of our recent survey, entry to all pools will once again be free this year.”
Southern Grampians Shire Council waived all casual outdoor pool entry fees for the 2018-19 pool season as part of a trial to increase patronage and promote active lifestyles.
Council committed to engaging with the community at the completion of the 2017-18 pool season to provide information about the season and obtain feedback on the operation of the pools and the policy.
Consultation sessions were held in 2018 within all townships where an outdoor pool is located. Attendees were provided information on pool season, attendance, cost and capital works undertaken the previous financial year.
By offering free pool entry for recreational swimming, it is hoped that more community members and visitors will be able to enjoy the many health benefits that swimming provides.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Mary-Ann Brown encouraged residents to support their local pool and take advantage of the fantastic facilities in the shire.
Brown noted: “Local pools are such valuable community assets and continue to be great way for families to get together outdoors, enjoying the beautiful weather.
“We encourage everyone to take advantage of the free entry and make the most of our outdoor pools this summer.”
As per the Outdoor Pool Operations Policy, pools will be opened from 3:00pm to 7:00pm seven days a week, when the forecast temperature is 21 degrees + for all heated pools and 23 degrees + for unheated pools.
All pools will open 12.00pm to 7:00pm on weekends and throughout January when the air temperature forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology at 4:00pm for the next day is more than 35 degrees.
For more information go to www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au/swimmingpools
Article Courtesy of Australasian Leisure
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