The indoor pools at Peninsula Leisure Centre have been re-opened to those who are fully vaccinated following the NSW Government announcement that indoor pools could open from Monday, October 11.
Under the current rules, indoor pools are now accessible for all children and for those aged 16 and over who are fully vaccinated.
Originally indoor pools were supposed to open when NSW hit 80 per cent double-dose vaccination rates for people aged sixteen and above but the date has since been moved forward.
Peninsula local and retiree, Sue McCarthy, said she was looking forward to getting back into the pool.
“I’m really happy that somebody saw sense to make life a bit bearable for the elderly,” McCarthy said.
“I need the warm water for pain relief for my arthritis and health conditions and honestly it has actually been quite miserable not being able to get in the water.
“I am only ever pain free and can move my body around freely when I am in the pool, so for me the reopening is a huge relief.
“For some of my friends they can only walk when they are in the water, and I think that goes to show just how valuable the pool is for the whole community.
“Right now, I am the happiest person in NSW and I [was] certainly back in the pool on Monday.”
Peninsula Leisure Centre said there may be a wait time to swim as capacity and lane limits will apply.
The spa, sauna and steam room remain closed.
From Monday, October 18, squad swimming is expected to resume, along with learn to swim and sports programs returning on the following Monday (October 25).
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, said she wrote to the Minister for Health to push for the reopening of indoor pools, understanding the value they have for all members of the community.
“This is an opening we can all get behind, with so many people in our community using heated pools for their therapy and well-being,” Tesch said.
“As an avid swimmer myself, I understand the value pools have to our well-being, and while I now prefer to swim in the ocean, when I was recovering many years ago the pool was the first place, I began my rehab therapy.
“The hydrotherapy pool was so important to me after my accident and a crucial part of my routine and rehabilitation journey.
“Although it was 30 years ago that I undertook that journey I know for so many people heated pools are at the centre of their wellbeing.
“The reopening of our indoor pools is a huge win for our community, and I am thankful the Liberal Government has finally seen the value in this resource.”
Peninsula Leisure Centre will be operating under amended operating hours due to a reduced service.
For more information, visit Central Coast Council’s website.
Maisy Rae