Council denies claims of lifeguard shortage at Fitzroy Pool on Cup Day

Dozens of patrons looking to cool off at Fitzroy Pool were locked out amid claims the venue did not have enough lifeguards, a claim later denied by Yarra council.

Fitzroy Pool is a popular place to cool off.

Dozens of patrons looking to cool off at Fitzroy Pool were locked out amid claims the Yarra council-run venue did not have enough lifeguards on duty.

Queues snaked back along Alexandra Parade from late morning because swimmer numbers were limited at the 50m outdoor pool.

By noon as temperatures neared 30C more than 100 people were in the line.

A Yarra spokesperson denied there was a staff shortage at the council’s leisure centres.

“The delays to entry at Fitzroy Pool were the result of the pool being at capacity.

“Capacity limits are determined by the Victorian Government and Life Saving Victoria.

Fitzroy Pool also has venue capacity limits which are in place to maintain the health and safety of all visitors.’’

Many people were waiting in full sun as staff advised that their lifeguard ratios wouldn’t allow for more people to be admitted.

Hot weather brought many people to the Fitzroy Pool.

Queue outside Fitzroy Swimming Pool on Alexandra Parade on Cup Day. Picture: Supplied

Resident and regular pool user Catherine Mililli said staff were advising the wait would be about 15 to 20 minutes.

“But I waited, didn’t get in and just gave up,’’ Ms Mililli said.

A similar staff problem occurred during a hot spell in late September, prompting reassurances from Yarra that the lifeguard ratios would be adequate for the summer.

Cr Stephen Jolly said the queues were unacceptable.

“The council should employ more lifeguards and front-office staff and provide shade to those queuing,’’ Cr Jolly said.

No queues were reported at the nearby Carlton baths on Rathdowne St, run by the YMCA for the City of Melbourne.