First Basin and Lilydale pools set to open

Published on 22 December 2022

The Cataract Gorge's popular First Basin Swimming Pool has opened to the public.

Lifeguards from the Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre will supervise the pool daily between 11am and 4pm for the duration of the summer school holidays, except for Christmas Day.

When school returns for Term 1 in February, lifeguard supervision at the First Basin Swimming Pool will revert to between 11am and 4pm on weekends only.

Following upgrades to its heating system, the Lilydale Swimming Pool will open to the public from Saturday December 31.

The Lilydale Swimming Pool will be open daily between 2pm and 6pm, with lifeguard supervision courtesy of the Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre.

When school returns for Term 1 in February, the Lilydale Swimming Pool's opening hours will revert to between 3pm and 6pm on weekdays.

Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson thanked City of Launceston crews for getting the First Basin Swimming Pool open, following repeated flooding in the Cataract Gorge throughout 2022.

"We've seen the pool inundated a number of times by floodwaters throughout the year and this created a number of challenges in getting the First Basin Swimming Pool open to the public," Mayor Gibson said.

"We know this particular pool is an extremely popular attraction, and I'm pleased City of Launceston crews have been able to prioritise the work required in order to open the pool ahead of Christmas for the public to enjoy."

Mayor Gibson encouraged people to swim safely this summer.

"No matter where you swim this summer, be conscious of your safety and the safety of those around you," Mayor Gibson said.

"Remember that alcohol and water never mix. Keep children six years and under within arms' reach, and actively supervise children under eleven.

"If you're at a privately-owned pool or a river swimming hole, remember children need constant supervision. Never assume someone else is supervising your children.

"Swimming is an extremely popular past time in Launceston, and we hope everyone dives into a fun and safe summer in the water."

Mayor Gibson said he was so excited by the opening of the First Basin pool that he would consider going for a swim himself.