After listening closely to the community over recent summers, the Orbost Outdoor Pool is set to operate with a new, more predictable schedule for the 2025 season.
Residents had previously shared that pool opening hours, activities such as aqua aerobics, and the promotion of swimming lessons weren’t always meeting their needs.
In recent years, council strengthened its engagement with the Orbost community through a stakeholder group (including the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and has made steady improvements to pool operations and communications.
This year, engagement was expanded through a short community survey that included three proposed operating models.
Pool users and members of the Orbost
and District Chamber of Commerce and
Industry reference group were invited to provide feedback.
The response was clear: the community wanted a pool schedule that was easier to understand, better aligned with family routines and school-aged swimmers, and responsive to warmer weather.
The pool will open on November 1:
– Monday to Friday, 6–8.30am all season.
– November 1 – December 19: Weekdays 3.30–7pm; Weekends 11am–7pm) when temperatures exceed 24°C.
– December 20 to January 27: Open daily, 11am–7pm. No temperature minimum.
– January 28 – March 15: Weekdays 3.30–7pm; Weekends 11am–7pm) when temperatures exceed 24°C.
Which results in:
– Guaranteed peak season (December 20 – January 27) hours – 68.5 hours across seven days a week, removing confusion and ensuring reliable access during the busiest periods.
– Flexible off-peak season hours – 12.5 guaranteed hours, with additional openings triggered by warm weather (24°C or higher).
This includes a 3.30pm opening to accommodate school-aged swimmers and a 7pm closing time to make the most of warmer afternoons.
This model reflects what the community asked for – clarity, flexibility, and accessibility.
By listening and acting on local feedback, council has created a schedule that better suits families, school-aged swimmers and casual pool-goers, while responding to
local conditions.
Mayor Cr John White said the new schedule shows how local input can drive positive change for the community.
“This is a great example of how community feedback can directly shape how community can access and use local facilities,”
Cr White said.
“The new schedule gives residents certainty and the opportunity to enjoy the pool for longer during the warmer months.”
The 2025 season will run for 19 weeks from November 1 until March 15, with the possibility of extension depending on weather.
The new schedule ensures more opportunities for fun, fitness and family-friendly activity throughout the summer.
For full details on the Orbost Outdoor Pool operating hours and activities for the 2025 season, visit lakesaquadome.com.au/aquatic/orbost-outdoor-pool.
