Horsham’s outdoor pool is open for summer, with $2 entry on extreme heat days helping local families stay cool, active and connected.
Horsham Rural City Council and YMCA Victoria have confirmed the return of the Cool Off for Summer initiative at Horsham Aquatic Centre, offering $2 swims on days forecast to reach 35 degrees or above. The offer applies to all ages and will run throughout the outdoor pool season.
Last summer more than 6,000 visits were recorded through the $2 program alone, following the reopening of the outdoor pool and its feature on ABC television. The strong response showed just how important the pool is as a place to cool down, meet friends and feel part of the community.
Mark Meyer, Centre Manager at Horsham Aquatic Centre, said the outdoor area has quickly returned to its place in local life.
“Opening weekend set the tone for summer. As temperatures started to climb, we saw families coming in early and staying later into the afternoon,” Mark said.
“On the hottest days you can feel the whole town drift toward the pool, it feels like a real meeting place for Horsham.”
Alongside lap swimming and casual play, the outdoor pool season will include family evenings, social activities and other low cost events designed to suit a wide range of ages and abilities.
As part of the program, there will be a Pool Party on Sunday 7 December from 2 pm to 5 pm, with $2 entry for everyone.
“We want people to see the pool as their space,” Mark said.
“Whether you come for a quick dip after work, bring the kids down for a full day or drop in during a heatwave, the door is open.”
The outdoor pool is located at Horsham Aquatic Centre, 53 Hamilton Street. Standard entry fees apply on non-heatwave days, with $2 entry automatically available on days over 35 degrees.
For opening hours and heat day updates follow Horsham Aquatic Centre on social media.