Our community's voice is clear, and NOW is the critical time to stand firm and make our voices heard!

The so-called "consultation" window being offered by the City of Newcastle Council from 19th Aug - 20th Oct is merely a token gesture. It fails to address the critical issues we've raised, focusing only on superficial aspects like the "look and feel" of the proposed additions, while ignoring the crucial elements such as size, location, and function.

The proposed 25m indoor pool for learn-to-swim programs doesn't meet the needs of our growing city or the increasing popularity of water sports and fitness activities. The council's own data shows that the age groups most likely to use the pool—25-49 and 70-84—are existing swimmers who need a year-round, outdoor heated 50m lap pool. 

The council knows what our community needs, yet they continue to play politics, offering upgrades that lack substance, timelines, and commitment. It's time to make our voices heard—loudly and clearly.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

I urge you to visit the "ideas board" created by the City of Newcastle Council as part of their so-called community consultation. I've posted a response there, reiterating our demand: investment in the existing facilities to make Lambton Pool a viable year-round facility immediately.

Please like and comment on my response (linked here) to boost engagement and show the council that we will not be ignored. You can also share it on Facebook to get your friends, colleagues, and teammates to show their support. This forum will only be open until the 20th of October, so we need to strike while the iron is hot!

Additionally, there will be a "workshop" on Thursday, 29 August 2024, anytime between 11:00 am and 04:00 pm. If you can, turn up and ask the representatives why they have not responded to over 1,100 voices calling for a simple and immediate solution for Lambton Pool. Ask them:

• If they have read the petition that has gained the support of over 1,100 people and attracted the attention of the Newcastle Herald, NBN News, and ABC Breakfast.
• Why a petition of over 1,100 signatures is not considered community consultation?
• Why they continue to ignore the results of their own consultation processes, which clearly show that we want year-round access to existing heated facilities?

The proposed changes and tokenistic consultation are out of touch with our community's needs. We demand year-round access to the existing outdoor 50m lap pool, with necessary improvements to the heating system and proper funding to ensure it remains open throughout the year.

This isn't just about what we want—it's about what the evidence shows is necessary. Our petition reflects a community that has already been consulted and is demanding action. We must hold the council accountable to their duty to serve the needs and interests of the City of Newcastle.

Keep up the pressure, and please like, comment and share. The fight isn't over and your support makes all the difference!

Ellen - PADI Freediving Instructor (Selkie Freedivers)