Ballarat Council advises outdoor pools to undergo safety procedures before reopening

Responding to the Victorian Government’s latest COVID-19 announcement regarding the reopening of outdoor pools, the City of Ballarat has advised that all council-run pools must undergo a series of safety checks and procedures before they are ready and equipped to open to the public.

The City of Ballarat staff are ensuring that all outdoor pools are ready for visitors and are setting in place a regime of safety measures to protect community members, families and staff.

Maintenance is scheduled to commence next week and will include a series of checks regarding pool hygiene, water chemistry, the removal of debris and maintenance of equipment. 

The Parks and Gardens team will also need to assess and review all the outdoor pools surrounding trees and lawns to make sure the environment is safe for the public to visit.

All outdoor pools will also have to undergo planning and preparation to ensure social distancing requirements are met and that all staff have undergone a comprehensive COVID-19 workplace and hygiene induction.

At this stage, all of Ballarat’s outdoor pools are scheduled to reopen in November. 

Due to the colder climate, Ballarat’s outdoor pool season always commences later in the year than other parts of Victoria.

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre will also remain closed as indoor pools and exercise facilities are not permitted to open under the next steps to ease restrictions.

Image: Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre