The Baw Baw Shire community can look forward to another season of free swimming at the Thorpdale outdoor pool thanks to a generous sponsorship by the Thorpdale Swimming Pool Committee.
For the third year in a row, the committee has worked with Baw Baw Shire Council to provide a donation that covers the entry cost for all using the pool between December 1 until March 31.
To encourage social connectedness among the Thorpdale and surrounding communities following the disruptions of COVID-19 lockdowns, the community-led committee donated a portion of the unspent volunteer funds back into the facility, allowing the community to use the pool at no charge for the 2020/21 summer season.
After receiving an overwhelming amount of support and praise for the generous sponsorship, the popular initiative has continued each year since.
Thorpdale Pool Committee member Natasha Hammond says that by offering free entry, it has been a welcomed benefit to the local town of Thorpdale and the public of all ages.
“We’ve seen this initiative bring people from all over the shire to our town to use the pool as well as explore the local businesses we have on offer such as the famous bakery and local pub, the Travellers Rest,” Natasha said.
“We are so passionate about our local assets here in Thorpdale and look for opportunities to maximise their use for the benefit of the whole community. We look forward to welcoming more people to our pool this season.”
The pool is open on days when temperatures are forecast for 25 degrees or more (except early morning swims, which are not weather dependent). The pools may close prior to or during thunderstorm activity or in extreme weather conditions.
Opening times:
Monday to Friday: 3pm-7pm
Weekends, school and public holidays: 1pm – 7pm
For more information about council’s swimming pools, including full entry pricing, locations and operating hours, visit www.bawbawpools.ymca.org.au
