Numbers skyrocket

Visitor numbers have peaked at Horsham Aquatic Centre following the re-opening of its outdoor war memorial pool.

The new-look pool underwent a $1.5-million redevelopment last year, which saw upgrades to water depth, filtration and accessibility.

After the pool re-opened last month, centre visitor numbers have skyrocketed to their highest in recent years.

Horsham Aquatic Centre manager Sam Winter said there were just under 1600 visits across December, compared with an average of 1200.

She said while these 1600 visits included people using any of the centre’s facilities, the majority of that stemmed from outdoor pool use, which she said was thanks to the upgrade and good summer weather.

“The outdoor pool is ridiculously busy, it’s been amazing,” she said.

“The redevelopments have made the pool more inviting.

“It looks nice and fresh and blue, and there’s lush green grass and shade sails out there now thanks to Horsham Sharks.”

Ms Winter said the outdoor pool’s new access-ramp was also a welcome addition for customers.

“The access ramp is being used a lot by families, particularly with children who might not be as confident going into the water,” she said.

“It used to be just two or three steps and then you were right into the water but now it’s good to see people being able to walk up and down the ramp.” As summer continues the spotlight is set to remain on Horsham War Memorial Swimming Pool.

Ms Winter said the centre would continue using the pool across the month for activities as part of its 2020 summer school-holiday program.

She said preparations were underway for the centre’s annual Australia Day Pool Party on January 27 from noon to 3pm.

She said event admission was $7, including pool access and food, which would help raise money for YMCA’S Open Doors program that provides people in need with full or subsidised access to YMCA programs and services.

“There is definitely heaps of action happening at the moment,” she said.