A stay of execution on the future of the shire’s seven pools was delivered earlier this year when the debate on the future of the pools reached fever pitch.
An original recommendation to close Colbinabbin, Lockington, Rushworth, Stanhope and Tongala at the end of the 2021-22 season was delayed by council, along with a recommendation to close Rochester pool at the end of the 2024-25 season.
Campaspe Shire Council is now calling for expressions of Interest from the community to complete a two-day lifeguard training course.
Mayor Chrissy Weller said it has been particularly difficult to recruit qualified lifeguards across the past few years, particularly in townships outside Echuca.
During the 2021-22 season there were several unscheduled closures of pools in Campaspe Shire because of staff unavailability, COVID-19 complications and illness.
“In adopting our budget for this financial year, council approved funding to cover the course fee for the training of 10 lifeguards,” Cr Weller said.
In addition to the expression of Interest process to join the lifeguard course, applications are also now open for current qualified lifeguards to register for the season.
Council operates outdoor pools in Colbinabbin, Kyabram, Lockington, Rochester, Rushworth, Stanhope and Tongala.
“We are particularly focusing on addressing the shortage of lifeguards at our outdoor pools,” Cr Weller said.
“We are also keen to attract lifeguards that can work at multiple locations.”
Applicants for the lifeguard course need to be available to complete the two-day training, scheduled for Saturday, October 8, and Sunday, October 9, from 9am to 4pm each day at the Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre.
Expressions of Interest close on Sunday, September 18, with full details and online form available on council’s website, “now open”. Successful applicants will be contacted directly to ensure the registration process is completed, ready for the training in October.
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