Imagine being able to swim at the new indoor aquatic centre any time you want for free.
For one lucky family this dream has become a reality, with Renae Venner taking out the competition to win a family season pass to enjoy the heated pools all year round.
Ms Venner’s name was drawn out of more than 400 entries to take home the $1030 prize made possible thanks to a partnership between the Central Western Daily and Orange City Council.
Mayor John Davis said the competition was designed to make people aware of the new facility.
“This promotion was fantastic ... it’s about telling people to come down here,” he said.
Central Western Daily managing editor Tony Rhead agreed.
“We’ve had a great response,” he said.
“It’s important to make people appreciate that it’s an all-year-round facility.”
Cr Davis said as the weather warms up even more people were set to take advantage of the new indoor 25 metre pool, children’s pool, beach area and cafe.
The outdoor pool will also be reopened later in the month with freshly painted grandstands to greet swimmers.
“Kids can have a fantastic time in this environment,” Cr Davis said.
He said patronage would gradually increase as the new facility wins over newcomers to swimming.
“We don’t expect miracles in the first 12 months, but we’ve got all the summer and all the people who already enjoy swimming,” he said.
“They’re the converts now we are talking to other people.”
Cr Davis said he expects elderly people with arthritis and aches and pains to use the facility to relieve their symptoms, while some adults may be able to learn to swim for the first time.
Although learn to swim classes are all booked out, Cr Davis said parents should inquire with the pool attendants to see if they can secure a place.
clare.colley@ruralpress.com
