From General Manager

Gwydir Shire Council

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From the General Manager

IMPORTANT INFORMATION - GWYDIR SHIRE SWIMMING POOLS

With the 2026/27 swimming season underway, Council would like to share some important information about the Bingara and Warialda Swimming Pools.

Entry is FREE for Gwydir Shire residents and ratepayers!

Pool Management & Staffing

Both pools are now managed internally by Gwydir Shire Council, with a Recreation Facilities Supervisor overseeing operations, supported by casual kiosk attendants and lifeguards.

Opening Hours & Kiosk

Both pools are open 7 days a week, 11:00am - 6:00pm, with closing time extending to 7:00pm during summer.

Kiosk attendants are on site during opening hours, with hot food, cold drinks and ice creams available daily!

Lifeguard Supervision

Lifeguards are rostered during the following hours:

  • Weekdays: 3:30pm - 6:30pm
  • Weekends: 10:30am - 6:30pm
  • School Holidays: 10:30am - 6:30pm daily

There will be times when the pools are open WITHOUT a lifeguard on duty.

Signage will indicate when lifeguards are not present, including during unexpected staff absences. Please remember that kiosk attendants are not lifeguards and do not provide swimming supervision.

Swimming Safety & Personal Responsibility

All swimmers should consider their swimming ability and confidence before entering the water. If you are not comfortable swimming without lifeguard supervision, we encourage you to visit during supervised hours.

Everyone has a role to play in maintaining a safe swimming environment.

Supervision of Children

  • Children 14 years and under must be accompanied and continuously supervised by a parent or responsible guardian aged 16 years or over.
  • Children under 5 must have a responsible adult in the water and remain within arm's reach.
  • Parents and guardians must maintain a clear view of children at all times and remain responsible for their supervision, even when lifeguards are on duty.

Emergencies & Pool Rules

In a life-threatening emergency, call 000. Emergency equipment is available at both pools.

All visitors must follow pool rules, signage and staff directions. Opening hours and lifeguard availability may change due to weather, maintenance or operational requirements, with updates provided where possible.

Early Morning Access

Early access is available at Bingara Pool from daylight until 11:00am for approved access holders who have completed an induction. Early access is unsupervised, and swimming alone is not permitted.

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