Outdoor pools set for another big summer

Wellington Shire Council has confirmed the operating dates for its outdoor pools for the 2026/27 summer season, with residents and visitors set to enjoy another summer of swimming and family fun across the shire.

Outdoor pools in Heyfield, Maffra, Rosedale and Stratford will continue to operate with guaranteed opening hours, maintaining the successful model introduced over the past two seasons. Extended opening hours will also apply at these facilities on days when temperatures reach 24 degrees or above.

The Yarram Outdoor Pool will continue to operate under its current guaranteed hours arrangement, ensuring the community maintains access to swimming and recreation opportunities throughout the summer season.

Free Swim Fridays will return following strong community support. The initiative has become a popular way for families and young people to enjoy Council's aquatic facilities, with more than 23 per cent of all visits to Council's outdoor pools (excluding Sale) during last year’s summer swim season occurring on a Friday.

As part of a new pilot program, entry to the Rosedale Outdoor Pool will be free for the entire 2026/27 season for Wellington Shire residents.

The trial aims to encourage more residents and visitors to use the facility while helping Council better understand whether entry fees are a barrier to participation. Usage data gathered throughout the season will help inform future planning and decision-making for the pool.

The upcoming summer swim season will see Yarram Pool open from 23 November 2026 to 4 April 2027, Maffra, Heyfield and Stratford outdoor pools operate from 30 November 2026 to 14 March 2027, and Rosedale Outdoor Pool open from 14 December 2026 to 28 February 2027. The Sale Outdoor Pool at Aqua Energy is already open and will remain open until 11 April 2027.

Wellington Shire Mayor Cr Cindy Madeley said the confirmed season dates provided certainty for residents, schools, community groups and visitors planning for the warmer months.

"Our outdoor pools are an important part of summer in Wellington, giving people a safe and welcoming place to cool off, stay active and spend time with family and friends.

"We're pleased to maintain the current operating model, including guaranteed opening hours and the existing temperature trigger, which residents have told us works well.

"We're also pleased to introduce a free-entry trial at the Rosedale Outdoor Pool this season.

"While our outdoor pools provide important opportunities for recreation, exercise and water safety, participation varies across our facilities. This trial will help us better understand whether entry costs are affecting attendance and whether removing that barrier encourages more people to use the pool.

"Importantly, this is about gathering better information to support future decisions while giving the Rosedale community every opportunity to enjoy the facility throughout the season.

"We're encouraging residents to make the most of the free-entry season and show their support by getting down to the pool this summer."

All outdoor pools will be closed on Christmas Day.

Residents can visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/pools for detailed opening hours, peak and off-peak dates, lap swimming times and facility information. Alternatively, contact Wellington Shire Council’s Leisure Services team on 03 5142 3700.