One of the treats of winter in Ipswich is continued access to the city’s public swimming pools.
Most people are scared off by the thought of single digit degrees and can’t comprehend a dip in the pool.
But the temperature in those blue sky middle months of the year, combined with the heated water, makes a trip to any of the council’s public pools, or Orion Lagoon, a rewarding experience.
And the added bonus – much smaller crowds to deal with than in the height of summer.
Justin Lemberg, 1984 Los Angeles Olympics bronze medallist in the 400m freestyle and director of Just Sports ‘n’ Fitness, which manages the pools at Bundamba, Goodna and Leichhardt, said winter swimming was a hidden gem and also helped with fitness.
“Over winter our pools are heated to ensure the comfort of swimmers,” he said.
“Swimming year round is a benefit to all to help with health and general wellbeing.
“Over the years we have seen people continue to swim over winter and we have a great atmosphere around the pool as swimmers do their laps and enjoy a hot coffee on the way out.”
The just-managed pools are mostly open from 5.30am on weekdays and close at 7.30pm. The hours vary on weekends.
“If you are unsure of what we have on offer please ask one of our staff or check our timetable at justsportsnfitness.com.au or find us on face book or Instagram at justsportsnfitness,” Mr Lemberg said.
The 25m pool at the Bundamba Swim Centre will be closed for about three weeks from Monday June 10 for maintenance. Depending on weather conditions, the pool is expected to re-open on July 1.
The 50m pool and children’s play pool will remain open during that time.
In most cases the water temperatures in the pools are about 27-29 C in winter.
The Rosewood Aquatic centre in closed over winter, but the Orion Lagoon at Robelle Domain parklands, Springfield Central, remains open.
Lifeguards are on duty at the lagoon’s interconnected pools from 7am-5pm from now until 31 August.
A trip to the pool or splash park is more than just a swim these days. Council swim centres and parks provide a number of facilities that make a trip a full day outing.
Pack a picnic or barbecue lunch with your towel and togs and enjoy a great family fun day – especially in winter.
