The countdown to summer is officially on, with Shellharbour's beach aquatic season kicking off on Saturday 27 September 2025. Locals and visitors can once again enjoy the city's stunning beaches and pools, with lifeguards returning to patrol key locations.
Caption: Lifeguard on patrol at Warilla Beach. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Mayor Chris Homer said the start of the season is a welcome return to the outdoor lifestyle Shellharbour is known for.
"Shellharbour's beaches and pools are a big part of our lifestyle. It's great to see people getting outside and enjoying the water again," Mayor Homer said.
"We want everyone to enjoy the water safely, so please remember to swim between the flags and follow the signs so everyone can stay safe."
From 27 September, Shellharbour North Beach and Warilla Central Beach will be patrolled seven days a week from 9am to 5pm, continuing through to 26 April 2026.
Oak Flats Pool will also extend its operating hours for the summer season from Friday 26 September, operating Monday to Friday from 6am to 7pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 6am to 6:30pm.
Albion Park and Warilla swimming pools will open on 1 November.
Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool is closed from Monday 8 September until mid-December 2025 for major accessibility upgrades. Council thanks the community for their patience while this important work is carried out. While the pool is closed, free swimming is available at Oak Flats Pool during designated hours. Please check the Let's Chat website for more details.
In the 2024-25 summer season, Shellharbour lifeguards welcomed 343,151 beachgoers and 367,489 pool visitors, performing 73 rescues, a decrease from 77 in the previous season.
Council lifeguards were also involved in 20 emergency incidents coordinated by the State Operations Centre alongside other emergency services.
For updates on patrols and pool hours, visit Shellharbour City Council's website.
KEY MESSAGES:
- Shellharbour's aquatic season begins Saturday 27 September 2025.
- Lifeguards will patrol Shellharbour North and Warilla Central beaches daily.
- Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool is temporarily closed for accessibility upgrades. Free swimming is available at Oak Flats Pool during selected hours
