Southern Grampians Shire Council will waive all casual outdoor pool entry fees for the 2018-19 pool season as part of a trial to increase patronage and promote active lifestyles.
The trial will come into effect immediately for Hamilton and at the commencement of the season for all other outdoor pools, after Council adopted the Outdoor Pools Operational Policy at last night’s meeting.
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.
Manager Recreation Melanie Starr said it was a valuable experience for Council and helped inform operations for the 2018-19 season.
“We wanted feedback from pool users on how they felt the season went, what if any changes should be made to the pool policy and obtain feedback on ideas to increase attendance and reduce costs,” she said.
“The feedback received was extremely positive and supportive with the majority of people happy with the changes we had implemented over the last 12 months.
“A number of positive suggestions were offered to assist in increasing patronage at the pools and we will be implementing some of those in the upcoming pool season including trialling free entry at all outdoor pools,” Ms Starr said.
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. “We’re looking forward to welcoming the additional swimmers at all six council pools over the summer, making the most of these great community assets,” Ms Starr concluded.
The Operational Policy and opening hours for the outdoor pools can be found on the HILAC website at www.hilac.com.au/aquatic/outdoor-pools. Daily opening information will be updated on the Greater Hamilton Outdoor Pools Facebook page, and available on the outdoor pool hotline 03 5551 4333.