By Peter Douglas
A GRASSROOTS campaign that saved the Olinda Pool has been further rewarded with the announcement locals will manage the iconic site this summer.
Yarra Ranges Council has awarded the Olinda Community Pool Association (OCPA) a one-year contract to run the pool, with the OCPA’s committee of management taking over from Belgravia, which will continue to manage all other council pools.
The unanimous council decision is just reward for the OCPA, which engineered a highly successfully refurbishment and re-opening of the pool late last year.
Many pool-goers have supported the re-opening of the site since, with one major highlight an exceptionally well-attended pool party held in March this year.
OCPA President, James Edge, said the committee was ecstatic over the decision.
“We’re really excited the pool is going to be managed this summer by the local community,” Mr Edge said.
“Even though we are volunteers, this will be a professionally-run pool and we’ll be hiring qualified pool management and lifeguards.
“We’re about increasing community engagement.
“As a not-for-profit group, there is plenty we can do to secure the future of the pool.”
Mr Edge said to be awarded the chance to manage the pool, the OCPA had to submit a comprehensive budget and business plan.
He emphasised there was a professional team leading the site.
“The existing committee will oversee operations in the same way that a football club or not-for-profit childcare centre operates,” he said.
Mr Edge said the pool is set to re-open again in early December, with several summer activities being planned.
“It’s going to be an amazing summer at the pool,” he said.
The 25-metre pool originally opened in December 1964 and became a favourite hang-out for local teenagers.
However, cracks were discovered in the pool in November 2013 and it was closed by Yarra Ranges Council.
Local families joined forces to run the Save the Olinda Pool campaign, lobbying councillors and politicians and raising funds.
In November 2014, Yarra Ranges Council voted to repair and re-open the pool, and a successful season ensued.
Pool lifeguard positions have been advertised and qualified locals are encouraged to apply via www.seek.com.au.
