Vandals close 25 metre swimming pool in Longreach

A random act of vandalism has closed the one of the two swimming pools at the Longreach Aquatic Centre for up to two weeks while repairs are carried out.

Staff at the centre discovered that the silicone expansion joint in the heated 25 metre pool had been compromised by vandals. The expansion joint is integral to sealing the pool, meaning it is no longer watertight and will require immediate repair.

The heated 25 metre pool will close from 5pm today (Tuesday) to allow for work to commence. Learn to swim classes will transfer to the 50 metre pool until the repairs are concluded.

Public Facilities Manager Brendon Harvey said the vandals likely had no idea about the consequences of their actions.

“It’s regrettable that someone has chosen to damage community property in this way” he said. “Unfortunately there’s simply no way of knowing who is responsible. Whoever it is though, I doubt they realised the seriousness of what they were doing. 

“It may have been kids being kids for all we know, but it’s still a very destructive thing to have done.”

He said staff would conduct routine maintenance on the 25 metre pool while it is closed.

“Obviously it’s a major inconvenience, but it does give us the opportunity to bring forward some maintenance that we were planning for later in the year. It’s also worth mentioning that the 50 metre pool will remain open.”

The urgent repairs will have no impact on planned improvements to the Longreach Aquatic Centre, which are still on track for completion this calendar year. The planned improvements include upgrades to shaded areas and the installation of new barbeques.

It is expected that repairs to the 25 metre pool will take up to two weeks. For more information contact Council directly on (07) 4658 4111.