LOW visitation to the Rosedale Pool has prompted Wellington Shire Council to approve a free-entry pilot at the pool for the entire summer season.
The Rosedale Outdoor Pool will be open from December 14, 2026, to February 28, 2027.
Council made the announcement as it approved opening dates for the summer pool season at a meeting last Wednesday.
The free trial aims to encourage more residents and visitors to use the facility while helping council better understand whether entry fees are a barrier to participation. Usage data gathered throughout the season will help inform future planning and decision-making for the pool.
A council spokesperson confirmed any Wellington resident can make the most of the free trial, not just residents of Rosedale.
The upcoming summer swim season will see Yarram Pool open from November 23, 2026, to April 4, 2027. Maffra, Heyfield and Stratford outdoor pools will operate from November 30, 2026 to March 14, 2027. The Sale Outdoor Pool at Aqua Energy is already open and will remain open until April 11, 2027.
Outdoor pools in Heyfield, Maffra, Rosedale and Stratford will continue to operate with guaranteed opening hours, maintaining the successful model introduced over the past two seasons. Extended opening hours will also apply at these facilities on days when temperatures reach 24 degrees or above.
The Yarram Outdoor Pool will continue to operate under its current guaranteed hours arrangement, ensuring the community maintains access to swimming and recreation opportunities throughout the summer season.
Free Swim Fridays will return following strong community support. The initiative has become a popular way for families and young people to enjoy local aquatic facilities, with more than 23 per cent of all visits to outdoor pools (excluding Sale) during last year’s summer swim season occurring on a Friday.
Wellington Shire mayor Cindy Madeley said the confirmed season dates provided certainty for residents, schools, community groups and visitors planning for the warmer months.
“Our outdoor pools are an important part of summer in Wellington, giving people a safe and welcoming place to cool off, stay active and spend time with family and friends.
“We’re pleased to maintain the current operating model, including guaranteed opening hours and the existing temperature trigger, which residents have told us works well,” she said.
“We’re also pleased to introduce a free-entry trial at the Rosedale Outdoor Pool this season.
“While our outdoor pools provide important opportunities for recreation, exercise and water safety, participation varies across our facilities. This trial will help us better understand whether entry costs are affecting attendance and whether removing that barrier encourages more people to use the pool,” the councillor said.
“Importantly, this is about gathering better information to support future decisions while giving the Rosedale community every opportunity to enjoy the facility throughout the season.
“We’re encouraging residents to make the most of the free-entry season and show their support by getting down to the pool this summer.”
All outdoor pools will be closed on Christmas Day.
Residents can visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/pools for detailed opening hours, peak and off-peak dates, lap swimming times and facility information. Alternatively, phone Wellington Shire Council’s leisure services team on 5142 3700.
