Problems at pool

SIR, – I bring to the attention of Horsham ratepayers that Horsham’s outdoor War Memorial Swimming Pool has been closed when temperatures have been around and in excess of 30 degrees.

This is on top of the sporadic openings, where the pool was closed after 9am and reopened at various times later in the day for only a couple of hours.

We have a magnificent facility which, in the past couple of years, has had funds in excess of $1.25-million spent on it.

Yet, in the middle of summer, it has been closed with the alternative being the indoor pool or Wimmera River should the public wish to swim.

The reason for closure given by both the council and YMCA is the lack of staff, which seems ironic when staff are available for school sports but not the general public.

I remind all that it is ratepayers who have contributed to the refurbishment of this facility either by rates and-or taxes and therefore have the right to use this facility during normal working hours of summer.

My cynicism suggests a cost-cutting exercise and if not, it’s not the responsibility of the public to organise staff.

Between the council and YMCA, it is their responsibility to ensure adequate staff are present for this facility to be open to the public during normal working hours of summer.

If staff can be found to ensure swimming sports proceed, then staff should be found to ensure the pool is open to the public at all times.

The council and YMCA need to immediately address this issue. F. Tursi Horsham

Aim to do better

SIR, – There have been many failed civilisations before us.

Some people want to avoid the mistakes of the past to benefit humanity.

A few look at past despots for inspiration. We all aim to do it better. J. Mcinerney Horsham