Following a consultation meeting with Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council on Wednesday evening and Thursday in Captains Flat, Council staff will be recommending that the pools in Braidwood, Captains Flat and Bungendore be open for 17 weeks (until end Feb) for 7 days a week (an increase of 2 days for Braidwood).
This is also a significant increase for Captains Flat who had been looking at a season end on January 29.
It was also agreed that there could be some flexibility for split opening hours to accommodate early morning swimmers.
Residents pointed out the crucial health, fitness and safety benefits of the pools in rural areas.
Council staff Paul Spyve and Daniel Fulton explained the need to apply for greater funding to bring the pools up to standard and make them sustainable council businesses. Council has allocated $100,000 to enable safety treatments on the pools for the 2016-17 season and intends to apply for a further $400,000 for more upgrades.
The need for two staff at each pool at all times, a key safety and risk requirement, was also explained. QPRC will be advertising for two contracted lifeguards and casual lifeguards. A new report will be presented on 24 August at the QPRC meeting at Bungendore.
In the former Palerang Pools: Single entry for an adult remains at $5.50, concession $4.00. Season Pass prices are: Family $185.50, Adult $127.50, Senior Card Holder & Students $93.00, Aged pensioner and Disabled Pensioners $70.00, Child 3 years and over $90.00
A 12 Month Adult Pass to Queanbeyan Pool is $615.00 or Child, Senior and Student $425.00 and Concession $235.00.
It is also being recommended that Council “Endorse the use of aquatic season passes between Queanbeyan, Bungendore, Braidwood and Captains Flat pools, allowing patrons within the QPR Local Government Area greater flexibility and access to aquatic recreational facilities.”
