General News
1 May, 2026
Popular pools, pricey problem for Council
DESPITE the three swimming pools in Pyrenees Shire showing signs of age, new figures show they remain a popular asset for many local residents. However the cost of the pools remains an issue for council as it struggles to maintain services in a tight budget framework. A recent report to council shows that each person visiting one of the three pools in Avoca, Beaufort and Landsborough is subsidised by an average $61.11 per visit.
The report reveals Beaufort swimmers are subsidised by $45.25 per visit and Avoca swimmers are subsidised $66.14 a visit.
The smallest and least used pool at Landsborough has seen swimmers subsidised $142.51 per visit.
The report shows the pools were used almost nine thousand times over the warmer months.
Beaufort Swimming Pool was by far the most used of council’s aquatic facilities with 5,011 uses over summer, up from 4,602 the previous season.
Avoca Swimming Pool saw a slight reduction in usage with 3,086 visits, down from 3,505 the previous year and Landsborough Pool saw a substantial increase with 786 visits up from 457 the previous season.
Daily usage for the season was averaged out with Beaufort receiving 55 visits, Avoca 39 and Landsborough 9.
Council says the season was successfully managed by Belgravia Leisure, with community feedback reflecting high satisfaction, particularly regarding staff professionalism, water quality, community programs and events.
However the pools remain an annual drain on council’s finances with all three pools running over budget this season.
The report to council shows Beaufort Pool is $58,372 over budged and Avoca Pool $33,828 in the red.
The total cost of running the three pools this season is currently $542,921 with further costs likely by the end of June.
Council says it recognises the significant social, health, and recreational value of public swimming pools and continues to invest in their seasonal delivery.
They say the annual review process and strategic planning ensures that ageing infrastructure is managed effectively, with financial and operational decisions proportionate to community demand and broader service obligations.
The contract for running the three pools comes up later this year and will be decided at a future meeting of council.
Read More: Avoca, Beaufort, Landsborough