Ararat Rural City spotlights popularity of its outdoor pools

The Rural City of Ararat, a local government area in western Victoria, has highlighted how their outdoor pools have proven to be a popular attraction this summer, drawing crowds from across the municipality.

With consecutive sunny days and warm temperatures, residents are taking advantage of these free local facilities, enjoying a cool escape from the heat.

Australia Day pool party celebrations were a big hit this year, with 320 attending at Ararat’s Olympic outdoor pool, 215 at Lake Bolac Peter O’Rorke Memorial Pool, and 50 at Willaura Outdoor Memorial Pool. 

The Ararat Olympic Outdoor Pool has so far welcomed over 11,000 attendees for the 24/25 summer season. The 50 metre main pool features a waterslide at the shallow end. A shaded area offers a toddler pool, mushroom spray, water cannons, tipping buckets, and ground sprays for younger children.

Both Willaura and Lake Bolac outdoor pools offer 25 metre pools. Willaura's outdoor pool has a partly shaded toddler pool and umbrellas, while Lake Bolac's Peter O'Rorke Memorial Pool provides a shaded toddler pool under sails and additional shaded seating areas.

Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Jo Armstrong shared "Staying active and healthy is so important, and our outdoor pools offer a great opportunity to do so.

“Swimming is a great form of exercise for all ages, and we want to make it as accessible as possible. We encourage residents to get out outdoors, make the most of summer, and take advantage of these free community facilities.”

All Ararat Rural City Council outdoor pools offer free entry for the 2024/2025 summer season.

Season Passes for the pool can be purchased from reception at the Ararat Fitness Centre.

For more information on the municipalities’ aquatic facilities