Lord Mayor Nick Reece reverses decision on pledge to offer 50,000 free classes and $2 swims

The Melbourne City Council recently concluded a trial program that offered free swimming lessons and $2 entry at two of the city’s pools. The trial cost $26,000 to deliver and was deemed a “huge success” by Lord Mayor Philip Reece, who noted an increase in visitation to the pools as a result. Reece expressed his desire to see the program expanded so that more residents can benefit, stating that thousands of Melburnians could have happier, healthier summers as a result of the initiative.

The council has budgeted $59,000 for the swimming lessons and reduced entry fee, including a $25,000 revenue reduction for the two participating pools and an additional $34,000 for staffing, cleaning, and security. Despite not providing estimates for the cost of the 50,000 free swimming lessons and $2 pool entry offer all year, Reece was committed to providing these benefits to the community. Councillor Olivia Ball suggested limiting the $2 entry offer to specific groups such as concession cardholders, student cardholders, families, and children, but this proposal was ultimately rejected.

A report by Life Saving Australia revealed that 104 people lost their lives to drowning during the past summer, representing a 5% increase from the previous summer and a 14% increase from the five-year average. When asked about the potential impact of the reduction in swimming lessons and discounted entry, a spokesperson for Life Saving Victoria expressed support for any initiative that improves access to swimming lessons and public pools, as these efforts can help communities develop vital water safety skills.

Overall, the trial program offering free swimming lessons and discounted pool entry in Melbourne was considered successful by both residents and city officials. Lord Mayor Philip Reece expressed his desire to expand the program to benefit more residents, citing increased visitation to the pools as evidence of its popularity and impact on the community. While the cost of providing these benefits was significant, the potential to save lives through improved access to swimming lessons and water safety skills was seen as a valuable investment by both the council and Life Saving Victoria.

Despite some debate within the council regarding the eligibility criteria for the $2 pool entry offer, the initiative ultimately aimed to provide affordable and accessible opportunities for residents to enjoy the city’s pools and improve their swimming abilities. With drowning statistics highlighting the importance of water safety education and access to swim lessons, programs like the one implemented in Melbourne have the potential to make a significant impact on community health and safety. Moving forward, efforts to expand and enhance these types of initiatives could further benefit residents and contribute to a safer and healthier city environment.