Free pool access for seniors is on the way in the City of Karratha, with Council backing a new initiative to support active, healthy ageing.
Council endorsed a Notice of Motion from Councillor Sarah Roots for fees to be waived for seniors at the City’s aquatic facilities, including the Karratha Leisureplex, Wickham Recreation Centre and Roebourne Aquatic Centre for 12 months.
To receive the free entry, seniors just need to show their WA Seniors Card, Australian Government Seniors Health Card, or Pensioner Concession Card.
City of Karratha Councillor Roots said Seniors play an integral role in our community.
“This initiative was inspired by discussions with them, in support of whole-of-life liveability for the City of Karratha,” Cr Roots said.
City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said the initiative recognises the important role seniors play in the community and supports their health and wellbeing.
“This is about making it easier for our seniors to stay active, connected and engaged in the community,” Mayor Scott said.
“Swimming is a low-impact, accessible form of exercise that supports both physical and mental wellbeing, and removing cost barriers will help more people take part.”
Mayor Scott said the initiative aligns with the City’s commitment to being an age-friendly community.
“We know staying active becomes even more important as we get older, and this initiative is a practical way we can support that,” he said.
Eligible seniors will include holders of a valid Australian Government Seniors Card, Western Australian Seniors Card or Pensioner Concession Card.
The initiative comes on the heels of the City extending its Free Swims and Shots youth program for a further three years.
The January program provides free access for youth to the aquatic facilities at the Karratha Leisureplex, Wickham Recreation Precinct, and Roebourne Aquatic Centre and the KLP’s indoor and outdoor basketball courts.
Since its launch n 2023, the program has seen close to 30,000 free visits at the three facilities and overall participation increasing 24 per cent.