Walgett pool closed early as safety concerns escalate

It’s farewell from the Walgett Pool for now, with Liaison Officer, Garry Trindall, and lifeguard Firth Demmrich, providing valuable support to pool-goers over the summer. Photo contributed

Story: Kristin Murdock – kmurdock@outbackradio.com.au

Walgett Shire Council has closed the Walgett Swimming Pool for the 2025–26 season, citing safety concerns as the ageing facility continues to deteriorate.

Council had hoped to keep the pool open for longer, but said conditions at the site have now reached a point where it is no longer safe for public use.

General Manager Andrew Brown said the decision to close was disappointing but unavoidable.

“This is not the outcome any of us wanted, and I know it will be very disappointing for the community,” Mr Brown said.

Throughout the season, users have seen the decline first-hand, with temporary fixes such as chipboard covering holes, cracked tiles and sections of lifted concrete creating hazards around the pool.

While Council has conducted maintenance to keep the facility operating, it says the pool has now reached a stage where short-term repairs are no longer sufficient. […]

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