Friends of Nagambie Pool

Today we attended a meeting with the Shire, and the pool contractor, Belgravia Leisure. We were able to get an update on the progress of the pool infrastructure works and the position on hiring lifeguards. Belgravia have started a very rigorous campaign, some of you may have seen and hopefully shared on Facebook. We really need to work on promoting the pool and this hinges on having available lifeguards and the knowledge about what is happening at the Nagambie Pool.

The Shire has asked us to canvas the community to give feedback on the opening hours we would like to see our pool operating. Last season was not a big success, with many days that the pool was unable to operate, and frustration reigned with many that came to the pool and finding it closed for one reason or the other. We are hoping that the infrastructure will hold up better this season, with only the unforeseeable break downs which are beyond our controls.

We need to provide them our preferred opening hours, and as most days there seemed to be little patronage before 2pm, the 12 noon opening was always a quiet time. We could suggest opening at 1.00pm or 2pm with the 8 hour window possible, closing at 7pm or 8pm. This is still governed by the temperature, if it is 21 degrees or under the pool doesn’t open.

The opportunity for early lap swimmers is also on the table, but in the past has not been supported.

If you have an opinion on what would be the best opening times, please give us your feedback. There can also be some flexibility, if we are unable to get enough lifeguards. If not we may need to share with guards working at Avenel and Nagambie combining, with alternate days or sessions.

The key focus is on finding enough life guards to prevent this being the reason the pool cannot open. Think about doing the training, or telling someone you think may be interested. The training courses are provided by the contractor at no charge. If we were able to get enough life guards, this would give us more certainty around the opening hours of the pool.

Violet Town pool, has now recruited 3 or 4 retired seniors’ lifeguards, and they are proving to be very beneficial to their pools operation. They are mature, well versed in customer service, well trained in first aid and have been acting as mentors to the younger guards. In all, a big success story for them, and we are hoping to emulate their success in finding some willing to do the training and help out our Nagambie pool. If we had 3 or 4 seniors, it would mean they could be called on if there were shortages. What a great way to earn a few extra dollars, giving your services to the pool and enjoying the outdoors. Please consider if you can help or interested to find out more about the Grey Medallion Lifeguard set!!!

We are also seeking feedback on what events you would like to see at the pool. Suggestions of pool party, movie nights, bar-b que functions, youth group music days and triathlon events involving our sporting clubs. Lots of option, just need your suggestions. Applying for grants will also help us, especially if we had the interest to set up a Bush Nippers group, perhaps in conjunction with the other three pools in the Shire. It would be a wonderful addition to water training skills for our youngsters. There are more signs being put up by the Shire, to help raise the visibility of the pool. We will also have a sign at the Water Park that advises the location and facilities at the pool. This should help visitors & locals to locate the pool easier.

The Friends of the Pool are a group of interested community minded people wanting to see the pool thrive, so if you are interested in joining us, we do have an official membership register with a $5 annual charge. Mainly it is to provide an email listing to keep you updated with what’s happening. We do not hold many meetings, mostly information sharing via email.

Contact Jill on 0419 567 580 or email: friendsofnagambiepool@gmail.com program to be ongoing,” Cr Binks said.

“We offer a maximum of $150, or 50 per cent off the purchase price, to Shire residents to purchase cloth and swim nappies, reusable liners for nappies, reusable wipes, wet bags and reusable nursing breast pads.

“It’s a fantastic way to get on board with cloth nappies. As we know, based on studies, if washed correctly, cloth nappies can also generate less energy and water usage as well as significantly reducing around 20 times less waste going to landfill.

“All residents need to do is to provide proof of address via a recent rates notice, utility bill, lease agreement or similar as well as the receipt of purchase which includes the company, date purchased, and the cost and name of items.

“Just visit https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/strathforms/cloth-nappy-reimbursement- application/ to fill in an application form.

“If you need any further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Council.”