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In Praise of Outdoor Pools

Outdoor pools instil a particular kind of shimmering nostalgia in anyone who’s ever devoured an icy pole from the kiosk while dancing frantically across scorching concrete back to the safety of grass. To jump into sparkling icy blue chlorinated water (supposedly) warmed by the hot summer sun seems like a rite of passage for Aussie kids.

But the outdoor swimming pool may well be headed for Australia’s endangered species list. This once-celebrated stalwart of council facilities has become threatened by a rising takeover of fancy, over-heated indoor leisure centres, forcing some smaller communities to fight to save their local pools.

While Victorians may not have the pleasure of particularly tropical summers, we still enjoy the bracing freshness of an outdoor dip. In praise and worship of the beloved community outdoor swimming pool, here is a list of some that are still hanging in there in regional Victoria. Most are only open from December through to March and close if the weather drops below 23 degrees, so be sure to check opening hours before you pack your bathers.

Cobram Outdoor Pool

Yanguduban Country
Water is at the heart of Cobram, a town sitting right on the Murray River, so the outdoor pool fits right in. The immaculate 50-metre lap pool takes pride of place in this council-run facility, set beside a learner’s pool and a toddler’s pool. Facilities include a kiosk, BBQ area, children’s playground and shaded seating areas, so you can make a full day of it all summer long. Moira Shire also runs outdoor pools in Nathalia, Numurkah, Starthmerton and Yarrawonga.

Woodend Outdoor Pool

Dja Dja Wurrung Country
At the foot of the grand Geboor/Mt Macedon lies the much-loved Woodend Outdoor Pool. Shunning the region’s frosts, which regularly occur right up until October each year, locals love to make a splash at this beautiful blue oasis. Perfectly situated close to the brilliant Woodend Children’s Park, pack a picnic and enjoy a fun day out for the whole family.

Lancefield Memorial Swimming Pool

Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country
Only twenty minutes from Woodend, Lancefield boasts their own outdoor pool well worth a visit. The main pool is L-shaped, and the square toddler pool sits just nearby, covered with shade sails. There are plenty of trees, seating and grassy patches so you can relax and unwind after a refreshing swim. Quench your thirst at the nearby Lost Watering Hole Brewery to cap off a sweet summer afternoon.

Olinda Community Pool

Wurundjeri Country
Technically classified as metro, the town of Olinda in the Dandenong Ranges is nestled far enough up a ferny mountain that it feels like a world away from Naarm/Melbourne. Olinda Community Pool has been a social hub since it opened in 1962, and was saved by the community in 2015 after damage threatened it with permanent closure. Great for diving, laps, playing and BBQing, there’s fun for adults and kids alike. Wheelchair-access toilets and change rooms are available.

Ararat Olympic Outdoor Pool

Djab Wurrung Country
Did somebody say waterslide? They know how to make a splash in Ararat, with a canary-yellow tunnel slide inviting you to take the plunge. As well as the main 50-metre outdoor pool there’s also a toddler pool with a mushroom-shaped sprayer, water cannons and tipping buckets that will delight the kids. Classic kiosk treats are available along with a full-service cafe so you can refuel after having fun in the sun. Ararat Rural Shire also runs outdoor pools in Lake Bolac and Wilaura.

Marysville Swimming Pool

Taungurung Country
In the picturesque town of Marysville, the brilliant blue outdoor pool perfectly complements the leafy green of the town’s abundant trees. The main pool is a modest 33 metres, while the toddler’s pool doesn’t disappoint, with mushroom and animal-themed sprayers the centrepiece. There are plenty of shady areas complete with picnic tables and seats, and accessible change rooms and amenities. Make a day of it with a visit to the incredible Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden afterwards.

Chewton Pool

Jaara Country
The little town of Chewton in Victoria’s goldfields is a long way from any beach, and Chewton Pool offers a welcome watery respite to its passionate residents. This unique community-owned and operated summer hub relies on volunteers to run it. Built in the ‘50s, the residents rallied to prevent the pool from closing in 2011, and now need to raise funds again to refurbish it. Check out their website if you want to help!

Castlemaine Swimming Pool

Dja Dja Wurrung Country
Could things get any cooler in Castlemaine? Yes indeed—at the Castlemaine outdoor pool, where everyone’s welcome and the water is fine. Enjoy the 50-metre outdoor pool, delightful toddler’s pool, shady grass areas for lounging and picnicking, and a kiosk for snacks and drinks. The perfect place for lap swimming, kids’ birthday parties, or aqua aerobics. Fill your belly at one of Castlemaine’s many pubs or eateries afterwards, or grab some secondhand bargains on an op-shopping spree.


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