For the first time since it opened in 2012, the Aquatic Centre will change its opening time from 6am to 5.30am. 

Aquatic Centre manager Josh Maley said the time before work is routinely a busy time for swimmers. 

“Many Orange swimmers like to arrive early in the day to make use of the pool before it gets even busier,” Mr Maley said. 

“There’s often people waiting at the door, and now we’ll be able to let them in earlier.

“The staff are already there preparing the pool for the day, so it won’t cost any more to open an extra 30 minutes earlier. 

“We’ll trial the change for a month or so and see how the community responds but I’m guessing it will be a popular move.” 

The colder weather signals the closure of the outdoor 50-metre pool which won’t be open to the public for winter.

Outdoor swimmers will be able to take part in their last swim sessions on Sunday before the outdoor pool closes. 

Council spokesperson Allan Reeder said the indoor 25 metre pool and the children’s leisure pools will be open throughout the winter months. 

“Extra demand for the aquatic centre’s learn to swim classes will also result in extra classes next school term,” Mr Reeder said.

Currently classes are held Monday, Wednesday and Saturday however from the start of the new school term classes will also be offered on Thursdays.