Swim safely this summer
Published on 03 November 2017
With warmer weather ahead, Launceston residents will have plenty of options when it comes to cooling off this summer.
The First Basin Pool will open to the public this morning, after passing water quality testing with flying colours.
The Lilydale swimming pool is being repainted this year ahead of its official opening on December 2, while the Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre's outdoor area has already proven popular.
Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said the First Basin pool represented a fun and free swimming option that would be staffed by lifeguards over summer.
"Our lifeguards will be on duty at the First Basin pool every weekend between 11am and 4pm from December 2, and then every day between 11am and 4pm from December 18 through until March," Mayor van Zetten said.
"It's a fantastic free swimming option, and we'd certainly encourage people to make use of it."
Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre Manager Andrew McCarthy encouraged Northern Tasmanians to be water safe this summer.
"We've already seen very high demand at the Aquatic Centre throughout October, and a lot of people enjoying the outdoor facilities, which indicates the weather doesn't have to heat up very much before Northern Tasmanians are ready to hit the pool," Mr McCarthy said.
"There's already been high demand for the 65m waterslide at the Aquatic Centre, and the diving boards, inflatables and interactive water play equipment are always very popular over the summer period."
"No matter where you swim this summer, be conscious of your safety and the safety of those around you. Remember that alcohol and water never mix. If you're going to swim at the First Basin swimming pool, swim when the lifeguards are on duty and pay attention to their instructions. 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.
"Make this summer one to remember, for all the right reasons."
City of Launceston Director of Facilities Management Bruce MacIsaac said the Council had recently undertaken a number of improvements to swimming facilities.
"This year we've undertaken major upgrades at the Aquatic Centre, we're giving the Lilydale pool a new coat of paint and upgrading the fence, and the First Basin pool is up and running," Mr MacIsaac said.
"Swimming is clearly a pretty popular pastime in Launceston, and enrolments at our Learn to Swim School have been high all year. We've even had a few adults learning to swim for the very first time in their lives this year, so that's incredibly exciting for them and for our Instructors.
"We're gearing up for a great summer at the Aquatic Centre, Lilydale and First Basin, and we hope everyone has a great time."