Guaranteed opening hours for all outdoor pools will be among changes being introduced by Wellington Shire Council this summer.
The changes also include a longer summer season at the Yarram pool and the launch of Free Swim Fridays at all sites.
Following community consultation where council heard feedback from over 500 local people, these improvements aim to provide more opportunities for everyone to enjoy the water and make the most of the summer season in Wellington.
The biggest change is guaranteed opening hours at all outdoor pools, which will be open every day, regardless of temperature. The update means the pools no longer rely on the old 25-degree temperature rule, a change based directly on community feedback.
With the exception of Yarram, outdoor pools will open daily and stay open longer on days when the temperature reaches 24deg.
The Yarram pool will have a different schedule, staying open later on specific days but closing on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays outside of school holidays when fewer people use the pool. During school holidays, the Yarram pool will open every day and offer Free Swim Fridays, just like other pools.
For the first time, the Yarram pool will extend its season to 19 weeks, from Monday, November 25, to Sunday, April 6 — four weeks longer than usual. Guaranteed opening hours and Free Swim Fridays will be offered all season.
Rosedale’s season will run for 10 and a half weeks, from Friday, December 13, to Friday, February 28, with daily guaranteed hours, Free Swim Fridays, and extended hours on days over 24deg.
The Sale (Aqua Energy), Maffra, Heyfield, and Stratford outdoor pools will have a 15-week season from Friday, December 13 to Sunday, March 30, with daily guaranteed hours, Free Swim Fridays, and extended hours on days over 24deg.
Lap swimming will remain available at Sale and Maffra outdoor pools during designated hours.
Council chief executive David Morcom said knowing it needed to make changes this season, council listened to the community and made meaningful adjustments to suit.
“By engaging with the community early on, we gave ourselves time to consult, prepare, and update our services,” he said.
“Our communities biggest requests were to remove the unpopular temperature trigger, and to offer guaranteed opening hours. We are happy that we can offer that across every pool this season.
“Last summer, over 27,000 people enjoyed Wellington’s outdoor pools, and with 20 new lifeguards now on board, this year is shaping up to be even bigger.
“Our regional pools are the perfect place to cool off and have fun, and we can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors back this summer.”
All outdoor pools will be closed on Christmas Day.
For operating hours, visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/pools or phone Wellington Shire Council’s leisure services team on 5142 3700.