Swearing and threats pose 'serious risk' to staff at Orange Aquatic Centre resulting in cut in pool entry numbers

Abusive behaviour toward staff members at the Orange Aquatic Centre over recent weeks has seen Orange City Council reduce patron numbers allowed in the facility.

Having before Christmas reminded patrons on social that “respect is non-negotiable” citing instances of “lifeguards and Customer Service superstars hav(ing) faced multiple instances of disrespect and threats while diligently carrying out their duties”, on Thursday the Council advised “entry numbers to Orange Aquatic Centre will be limited over the weekend, due to poor behaviour by members of the public in recent weeks.

“Abuse of staff and other users of the centre will not be tolerated. The behaviour has included threatening staff, property damage and refusal to follow rules and instructions. People who breach the rules will be removed and can be banned from future entry.”

With the facility hosting the 2024 Swimming NSW Country Championships this weekend, Orange City Council Chief Executive, Dave Waddell explained "this weekend is special in that hundreds of athletes will be at the Orange Aquatic Centre for a two-day event, the 2024 Swimming NSW Country Championships.

"As a result, the outdoor pool and surrounds will not be available to the public at the weekend, resulting in a confined indoor space only available to the general public."

Conditions are the numbers permitted for entry will "be determined by the type of use" and demand for the available pools in the indoor section.

Reports in the Parkes Champion Post and Central Western Daily indicate that "poor patron behaviour" at the Centre reached a height during a period of free entry during January with instances that, according to Waddell, have “included threatening staff, foul language, aggressive behaviour, property damage and refusal to follow simple instructions and rules."

Noting that the community pool is a space designed for peoples' enjoyment, Waddell explained “as is often the case, a great experience for the vast majority of users is being negatively impacted by the very poor behaviour of a small minority.

"This is meant to be a fun place, but it also has to be a safe place.

"Abuse of staff and other users of the centre will not be tolerated (and) such behaviour in a confined space will present a serious risk to staff and public safety, hence the limiting of numbers this weekend."

Abuse of Council staff appears to be a growing issue in Orange, with Waddell having released a statement last September explaining “I want to make it clear that the vast majority of our local community members treat Council employees with respect and courtesy, but when abuse does happen it can be damaging and should be called out … I have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace to all Council staff

“Our staff are very patient and thick-skinned, but it’s time to draw a line in the sand and push back against a problem that seems to be getting worse. Our staff are mothers, fathers and neighbours who live here in Orange too.

“Most of my staff live in Orange, grew up here and love this city. I assume that the people who are abusive wouldn’t treat their mother or brother this way, but they feel it’s okay to say these things to Council staff. It’s not okay, and I hope this campaign can start to turn attitudes around.”

Swimming NSW 2024 Country Regional Championships
The Centre is hosting competition among the best regional swimming talent in the region this weekend for the highly anticipated 2024 Country Regional Championships.

Supported by the Council, the event on 20th and 21st January not only serves as a vital opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills but also acts as a pathway to qualify for the prestigious 2024 NSW Country Championships.

The Orange Swimming Club has also been selected to present the event, which provides a platform for upcoming regional swimmers to compete against each other while also providing an opportunity for family and friends to enjoy the delights the area has to offer.

Welcoming the event, Orange Mayor Jason Hamling stated “we welcome all swimming competitors along with their families to the region to enjoy not only the fantastic Orange Aquatic Centre but also everything that the region has to offer.

“We thank Swimming NSW for choosing our city to host this exciting event and look forward to working with them for successful outcomes.”

Are your staff experiencing abuse from members of the public? Share your experiences with us at: leisure@ausleisure.com.au

Main image: The Orange Aquatic Centre. Credit: Orange City Council.