Each swim at the Nangwarry pool over summer cost Wattle Range Council an average of $48.

There were 2327 attendances at the pool with the total running costs being $112,000. In the same period, there were 7153 attendances at the Penola pool. The running costs were $152,000 for an average cost of $21.

Council allows free access to the two pools as well as the Millicent swimming lake. Engineering services director Peter Halton told the April council meeting the average cost-per-swim had declined at Penola and Nangwarry compared to 2019/20.

The data about public swimming sessions had been requested by Councillor Dale Price. A staff report noted the Penola and Nangwarry pools have been used by additional school and community groups for swimming lessons, school activities, SAPSASA training and swim club training.

“These have been well supported by local residents and families from Mount Gambier, Millicent and Beachport, with flow on effects for local businesses particularly food and beverages,” stated the staff report.

Council had signalled it would close the Nangwarry pool a few years ago but backed down following a community back-lash and a successful local fundraising campaign.