With extreme heat forecast across the region, Council is reminding residents to take extra care, check in on family, friends and neighbours and take advantage of a range of free heat relief options.
Free entry to Council swimming pools will be available from Sunday 25 to Wednesday 28 January 2026 inclusive. Griffith City Library and Griffith Regional Sports Centre will also be open as safe, air-conditioned spaces to escape the heat.
Griffith Mayor, Councillor Doug Curran urged residents to look out for vulnerable community members, including older people, young children, people with disability and those living alone.
"Extreme heat can affect people very quickly. A simple phone call, visit or offer of help can make a real difference," Mayor Curran said.
"For anyone without air-conditioning, I encourage you to take advantage of the free pools or spend time in our cooled facilities. Families can also enjoy the City Park Splash Pad as a fun way for children to cool down."
Heat relief locations and hours:
- Griffith City Library, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 January, 12 noon to 4pm, Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 January, 9am to 6.30pm (enjoy free ice blocks and family friendly movies)
- Griffith Regional Sports Centre, free entry on Sunday 25 and Monday 26 January 1pm to 6pm, Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 January, 9am to 4pm
- Council swimming pools, free entry from 25 to 28 January. Sunday 25 January 10am to 5pm, Monday 26 January (Australia Day, Splash Pool Party) 11am to 5pm, Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 January, 6am to 8pm.
Pool entry conditions apply:
- Children aged 14 years and over may enter unsupervised with a student ID showing date of birth
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by a supervisor aged 16 years or older with valid ID
- Entry will be refused where supervision requirements are not met
Council will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as required. For updates check out Council's social media channels.
Key reminders:
- Drink water regularly, even if you're not thirsty
- Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, use fans or air-conditioning where possible
- Visit cool public places like the library or shopping centres
- If outdoors, wear light clothing, a hat and sunscreen, avoid strenuous activity
- Never leave children, older people or pets in cars
- Check in on vulnerable people
- Keep pets cool with shade, water and limited exercise
For more hot weather safety advice: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat
Stay cool, stay hydrated and look out for one another.
