Bendigo East Swimming Pool has been more than just a facility; it has been the heart of our community for generations. As residents and stakeholders, we value it for its accessibility, offering swimming options right at our doorstep. Not only does it support our young athletes by providing essential sporting pathways, but it also generates local employment and serves as a vital community hub, rich in history and cherished by locals.

However, the City of Greater Bendigo has put forth a proposal to convert Bendigo East Swimming Pool into a summer-only facility, shifting year-round operations to the Faith Leach Aquatic Centre. This proposal is up for a vote by our Councillors at the Council Meeting on March 16, threatening to disrupt the community fabric that this pool weaves together.

The decision will ripple through several facets of our lives:
- Local swimmers and families will lose accessible year-round swimming.
- Staff and volunteers who depend on the pool for employment will face uncertainty.
- School and community groups that rely on it for events and gatherings will have fewer options.
- Winter training programs crucial for athletes will be jeopardized.
- The future of Bendigo East Swimming Club, which so many hold dear, will be at stake.

This change will not only displace long-standing programs and services but also dismantle the communal ties that have established the Bendigo East Swimming Pool as a cherished institution. We believe that maintaining it as a year-round facility is not just beneficial but necessary for preserving our community spirit and ensuring continued growth and support for swimmers and families.

We ask the Councillors to hear our collective voice and recognize the indispensable role the Bendigo East Swimming Pool plays in our lives. Join us in urging them to reconsider their recommendation in favour of keeping the pool open all year round. Help us maintain this beloved cornerstone of our community for future generations.

Please sign this petition to show your support for keeping Bendigo East Swimming Pool open year-round, ensuring it remains a beacon of community, health, and unity all year long.