A BUSY calendar of events will add to enjoyment as swimmers make a splash at Willaura's Outdoor Pool this summer.
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Along with a 25-metre lap pool, the facility boasts a shaded toddler pool surrounded by green grass, shaded areas, kiosk, amenities and a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Pool committee president Anthony Evans said this season the committee aim to attract more pool goers than ever with a series of events.
"It is vital that we have support not just from our community but from the entire shire residents," he said.
"The Ararat Rural City Council recently expressed their concerns of the sustainability and future of our pool and the committee is now more determined than ever to showcase our community and what we have to offer.
"Our pool is the hub of our community over the summer months and a meeting and recreational venue for all patrons it's a vital asset to our community.
"We have many local young residents who train as lifeguards and come home over the summer to work at the pool and give back to their hometown."
Pool secretary, Kate Kirkpatrick said the first major event will be a free barbecue at a New Year's Eve party.
Kicking off at 5pm on Wednesday, December 31 the night will include an array of activities, music and games for all pool goers to enjoy.
On Friday, January 16 the Lions Club will prepare a barbecue to celebrate the achievements of swimmers and on Monday, January 26 Australia Day celebrations will be marked by a free barbecue from 2pm.
There will be another games and activities afternoon between 4pm - 6pm before residents join the Harvest Cut at the Willaura Recreation Reserve on Friday, February 6.
"Last season we saw many people attend from Ararat, Great Western, Pomonal, Tatyoon and surrounds," Ms Kirkpatrick said.
"It is encouraging to see such great support for our facilities and town.
"We encourage all who use our pool to stop at the Willaura shops on the way home and spend some money in our town."
Another initiative the committee has undertaken is morning lap swimming. Held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8am - 10am, it is just $3 for a casual swim or free for pool members.
"We wanted to offer this service for those who are unable to travel to Ararat for casual lap swimming or training and it fits in really well with the Active Ararat Campaign," Ms Kirkpatrick said.
"We've already had a great response in the first week with more interest from residents outside Willaura, which is terrific."
A 'Friends of Pool' membership is also available for those who may not wish to swim but to support the pool. These memberships can be purchased by calling Kate on 0408 414 660.
For the duration of the school holidays the pool is open every day of the week from 2pm to 7pm. On days exceeding 30 degrees at 5.30pm it will remain open until 8.30pm.
The pool is supported by the YMCA Grampians Region, Willaura War Memorial Pool Committee and Willaura Development Group, which has sponsored the free barbecues.
For information about full season memberships, upcoming events, pool opening hours and conditions phone 5354 1588.