Residents of Lightning Ridge in New South Wales are very proud of their new short course 25 metre heated pool and diving tower. Like many small councils acquiring the necessary funding for such a facility is not easy but thanks to strong community and local business in kind support, the covered pool and diving tower was built for just $1.5 million.
Walgett Shire Council acted as a facilitator providing advice as well as in kind support to see the project through to fruition.
The Local Olympic Pool Committee now operates the pool and it is run with a subsidy from Council.
Situated in far northwest New South Wales, Walgett Shire has a population of close to 7200 and covers a large area of 22,000 square kilometres.Opened in May, the pool and tower are very much a regional facility.
Walgett Mayor Ian Woodcock said since the opening, the pool has proven very popular with young people.
"It is great to see young people using the diving pool," he said.
The pool is located next door to the indoor sports centre so the gymnastic club can now branch into diving, the natural progression for many gymnasts.
