Latest News

• Add My News • Search Old News

Gippsland › Latest news › East Gippsland Local News

Orbost Outdoor Pool has operating period extended in coming 2022/23 season

Extended Orbost Outdoor Pool season that will deliver increased access to swimming lessons and other aquatic programs.

By news@gippsland - 29th September 2022 - Back to News

East Gippsland Shire Council is making water safety programs more accessible for the Orbost community this summer with an extended Orbost Outdoor Pool season that will deliver increased access to swimming lessons and other aquatic programs. In line with industry research and in consultation with the Orbost community, council decided that the centre will dive into the 2022/23 summer season a month earlier than usual, on Tuesday 1 November, and the season will run until Monday 13 March 2023.

Council has used Life Saving Victoria's research along with findings in its Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan in deciding to extend the operating period of Orbost Outdoor Pool

Missed important aquatic education

Life Saving Victoria research has shown that many children missed important aquatic education due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Council has used this research along with findings in its Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan in deciding to extend the operating period of Orbost Outdoor Pool.

The popular six-lane, 50m solar-heated pool will offer two, five-week learn-to-swim programs - one in November/December, the other in February/March, plus a one-week VICSWIM program in January. There will also be a holiday swim program in January and Free Swim Fridays from 3.00 pm until close each week. Aquatic Group Fitness classes and summer fun activities will also be available.

Mayor Cr Mark Reeves noted that Orbost's outdoor pool is an important social hub for the community and neighbouring areas. "Last season, Orbost's pool attracted about 6,000 swimmers, but a lack of swimming programs meant some 70 Orbost families had to regularly drive to Lakes Entrance to attend programs there. So, the new Orbost-based programs not only meet high local demand, they will also cut a lot of travelling," Cr Reeves said.

Water-safety programs at BARC

Due to a downturn in numbers using Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool over the past five years, its summer season will run from Monday 26 December to Monday 13 March.

Morning lap swimming sessions will not be offered as part of the reduced season. Lap swimmers are encouraged to continue to use Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre. The outdoor pool will remain accessible to schools for aquatic education and swimming carnivals, and clubs can book the venue for training outside of standard opening hours.

The season reduction was prompted by council's ongoing review of pool attendance figures and research that demonstrated an increase in other recreational swimming practices in the Bairnsdale area. "Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool differs from the Orbost Pool because Bairnsdale's water-safety programs are held at Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre," Cr Reeves said.

Promoting inclusions

Mr Reeves added, "Bairnsdale also has the most registered residential pools in the shire. Research has shown that the increase in home pools has coincided with a downturn in outdoor pool attendance."

Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool will continue to offer Free Swim Fridays from 3.00 pm until close every week of the season, and Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre pool will soon offer programs that promote inclusion.
‍

Pictures from Orbost Swimming Pool Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

• Darren Chester praises Orbost Community College student leaders for passion, ideas and commitment to East Gippsland's future
  Darren Chester praised Orbost Community College student leaders for their passion and ideas during discussions on education, health, economy, and community, highlighting the importance of listening to youth for regional Victoria's future.
• Discover Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest with nature, water fun, walks, and local gems
  Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest offers swimming, walking trails, and camping, with nearby pubs, breweries, and attractions providing a perfect Gippsland getaway for nature, adventure, and local experiences.
• Discover Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest with nature, water fun, walks, and local gems
  Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest offers swimming, walking trails, and camping, with nearby pubs, breweries, and attractions providing a perfect Gippsland getaway for nature, adventure, and local experiences.
• Melina Bath appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, championing regional lifestyles and economic opportunities
  Melina Bath has been appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, pledging to champion outdoor access, community wellbeing, and the vital economic and lifestyle benefits outdoor activities bring to regional Victoria.
• South Gippsland Eat, Drink Play Festival celebrates local food, drinks, live music, kids' activities, and outdoor fun and other updates
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns this spring at Leongatha Railway Precinct, showcasing regional food, drink, and live music. With daytime tastings, evening entertainment, and kids' activities, it's a family-friendly celebration of Gippsland.
• Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre (Glen Eira Leisure) claim fourth consecutive victory at 2025 Life Saving Victoria Pool Lifeguard challenge
  Glen Eira Leisure won the 2025 Life Saving Victoria Pool Lifeguard Challenge for the fourth consecutive year, excelling in rescue, emergency response, and team-based competitions against 23 Victorian aquatic teams.
• Bass Coast announces fee-free green waste period to help residents prepare for upcoming fire season
  Bass Coast residents can dispose of domestic green waste for free from 1 - 23 November 2025, helping the community prepare properties and reduce fire hazards ahead of the summer season.
• Forge Theatre's school holiday season brings classic tales, comedy chaos and heartfelt community spirit to East Gippsland
  The Forge Theatre's school holiday season features The Velveteen Rabbit, Polite Mammals, and The Heartbreak Choir, offering family fun, comedy, and heartfelt community spirit with something for everyone to enjoy.
• Gippsland’s top picnic spots: Gardens, wineries, hot springs, and historic settings for relaxing outdoor feasts
  Discover Gippsland’s magical picnic spots: Broughton Hall gardens, Metung Hot Springs, The Gurdies Winery, and Old Gippstown - each offering stunning views, serene settings, and unique outdoor dining experiences.
• Danny O'Brien seeks explanation for South Gippsland entering fire danger period earlier than neighbouring regions
  Danny O'Brien has urged the Emergency Services Minister to explain why South Gippsland entered the Fire Danger Period early, leaving farmers concerned about limited time for essential burn-offs and cleanup.
• Darren Chester praises Moogji Aboriginal Council for advancing health and sustainability in East Gippsland
  Darren Chester visited Moogji Aboriginal Council in Orbost, praising its vital health, youth, and environmental programs that support East Gippsland communities and promote Aboriginal culture, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability.