After extensive community consultation, the City of Ryde has endorsed a new discount entry scheme for eligible resident pensioners and health care cardholders wishing to use the Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre (RALC).
Under the scheme, which will come into effect from 1 July 2026, the current free casual swim entry for pensioner and health care cardholders will be replaced by a modest $1 entry fee. There will be a $2 charge for those in that cohort wanting casual swim, spa, sauna, and steam access during off-peak peak hours, and a $10 charge for casual swim, spa, sauna and steam access during peak hours.
The new scheme provides a significant discount on the full-price adult entry fees of $10.50, $16.90, and $20 respectively for the same access.
City of Ryde Mayor Trenton Brown and Acting Chief Executive Officer John Angilley – who was unanimously appointed to the role by Council vote on 16 March 2026 while the CEO is on a period of absence – visited the RALC this week to talk to staff and pool users about the new scheme.
"The extensive feedback we received from the community during the 35-day Have Your Say engagement process was vital in determining the carefully considered resolution about the new fee structure carried at the 24 March 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting," said Mayor Brown.
"I believe the updated entry charges are a fair and equitable solution as we balance our need to support active and healthy lifestyles for vulnerable groups with the increased costs of maintaining this much-loved facility, which is now over 25 years old."
Mr Angilley, who brings 25 years' experience across local government, finance, recycling and not-for-profit sectors to the City of Ryde, said significant investment in the RALC will be required in coming years, in line with ageing pools in other parts of Sydney.
"There is a deficit of $1.2 million projected for the current financial year and solely modifying the Pensioner Scheme does not resolve this deficit," he said. "A full review of the operation of RALC is required to ensure its equitable and sustainable future.
"I want to assure all our residents that Council remains committed to engaging with you over the matters that concern and interest you, such as the RALC. In the past few weeks, I have met with teams across Council to talk about the important work we are doing on your behalf – those discussions and follow up actions will continue as usual while I occupy this vital role."
