Global Pandemic won’t stop Darwin council from increasing local pool admission fees

DARWIN’S three public pools are set to see a hike in entry fees for the first time in eight years, despite ratepayers emerging from the back end of a global pandemic

YMCA and Darwin council will icnrease Parap Pool’s entry fee from $4 to $5 at the new financial year.

DARWIN’S three public pools are set to see a hike in entry fees for the first time in eight years, despite ratepayers emerging from the back end of a global pandemic.

The increase comes despite council waiving fees and charges across their facilities and services for the final three months of the 2019/2020 financial year in a bid to provide relief to their ratepayers.

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After a complaint came through about the 25 per cent increase, which will only see general admission fares increase by a dollar for adult entry from $4 to $5 on July 1, a Darwin council spokeswoman said prices were still competitive and swimmers could swim for less by purchasing multi-passes.

“Entry and Lane Hire fees at all Public Swimming Pools will be increased in City of Darwin’s 20/21 Budget and come into effect on and from 1 July 2020,” she said.

“When compared to other public pools across Australia, Darwin pool entry fees are significantly lower.

“By purchasing a Swim Club Seasonal Pass or Yearly Entry Pass, swimmers can continue to enjoy discounted entry fees.”

It will see adult yearly early passes will increase from $380 to $475 while 30 swim passes will increase from $76 to $95.

One time entry fees for children and concession card holders will increase from $2 to $2.50 per swim

Those looking to improve their technique or even learn to swim could be slugged more.

“Swimming Clubs are able to charge fees for coaching on top of entry fees,”.

“This covers insurance, coaching, lane hire, storage.

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“These fees are set by the individual Swimming Clubs, with lane hire being one element in that cost.”

Council rates won’t increase under the municipal plan, which is open for consultation until June 26.