The Coonabarabran Memorial Swimming Pool is now open to the public for limited hours, with a weekly timetable updated each Friday on Warrumbungle Shire Council’s website.

Outside of bookings for school activities, season ticket ‘Key Holders’ can use their electronic tag to access to the pool from 6am-6pm daily, without lifeguard supervision.

For individuals and families, an annual (six- month) season ticket remains the same cost as previous years ($135 individuals, $269.50 family pass), however, Senior Card holders can now enjoy a 50 per cent discount ($67.50).

Half-season passes are also available, however they run strictly from October 2022 – December 2022 or from January 2022 – April 2023. With pool openings this season delayed by almost seven weeks, a six- month pass beginning in January seems the most economical option.

Each pool in the Shire is subject to their own opening times in accordance with pool attendant availability. Timetables, fees and charges for all pools are updated each Friday on the Council’s website.

PHOTO: Coonabarabran Memorial Pool in Summer 2022

Plans to upgrade

Warrumbungle Shire Council has secured $200,000 to begin redevelopment plans for the Coonabarabran Memorial Swimming Pool.

The masterplan for the pool, which was originally constructed in the 1950s, will include a recreation building and a new heated program. Pool length will be reduced to 25 metres, to accommodate a new learn-to-swim and exercise area, as well as widening the pool for wheelchair accessibility.

The $200,000 comes from a $560 million Resources for Regions program by the State Government, focussed on supporting communities across regional NSW impacted by mining.

Warrumbungle Shire Council mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan, said the money is a “vital first step in the development in the much- needed redevelopment of the Coonabarabran Pool.”

After a previously unsuccessful $8 million application for upgrades to the Coonabarabran Pool as part of the Building Better Regions grant, this new approach hopes to get the project “shovel-ready” in time for the next round of funding.