Stanhope ladies soak in last few drips of summer

By Jemma Jones

Feb 28, 2025

Stanhope Pool aqua aerobics put on by community members for community members. Attendees of one class, Jenny McGrath, Glenda Cowie, Christine Dicketts and Susie McCraw. Photo by Jemma Jones

As summer dwindled to a close, most public pools in Campaspe are set to close for the colder months, but one group of women made the most of the sunshine.

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The Stanhope community has embraced Campaspe Shire Council's fee-free summer initiative, organising thrice-weekly open aqua aerobics classes at their local pool.

The concept of utilising Stanhope Pool during the summer months emerged from a casual conversation, and has become a popular activity for those in and around the town.

These grassroots classes are a true community effort, with participants cheerfully taking turns to lead, sharing their favourite aerobics moves from memory.

Glenda Cowie, a regular subscriber of the class, said it was a great way to make use of the pool and get some exercise in.

As the summer initiative wraps up, the group plans to continue with chair yoga classes during the colder months to stay active. Attendees of one class, Jenny McGrath, Glenda Cowie, Christine Dicketts and Susie McCraw. Photo by Jemma Jones

She and fellow participants said they have noticed significant improvements in their mobility and overall wellbeing, thanks to the consistent exercise routine.

Class numbers fluctuate, but the pool has seen as many as 15 aerobic lovers in the water at once before.

And, just because summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean it’s the end for the group.

They hope to encourage everyone to join them in chair yoga classes during the cooler months.

For more information, visit the Stanhope Victoria Facebook page.