Residents across Bellingen Shire can once again enjoy swimming, fitness programs and water safety activities, with the Bellingen and Dorrigo swim centres reopening for the 2026-27 summer season.
Both facilities opened on Monday, 28 September, offering casual entry, season passes, swimming lessons, squad training, aqua-fit classes and other aquatic activities.
Community Aquatics Pool Contract Manager Brad Paterson has returned for his second season operating the facilities, with preparations completed ahead of the reopening.
“We have been preparing both swim centres for reopening, including refreshing lane markings, updating pool furniture and generally tidying other areas around the pools,” said Paterson.
“Season passes and casual entry will again be available, along with coaching, squad programs, aqua-fit and other activities.”
The centres are also recruiting learn-to-swim instructors, with free training courses scheduled throughout October and November.
“We are currently recruiting learn to swim instructors for both pools, with free training courses running in October and November. If you are someone who loves the idea of teaching people how to swim, contact either of our pools for more information.”
Bellingen Shire Mayor Steve Allan said the pools played an important role in supporting community health, recreation and water safety.
He welcomed the return of a full swimming season at Bellingen following disruptions caused by construction work at the Connell Park Sporting Precinct last year.
“After a delayed start to the pool season last year for the Bellingen Swim Centre because of the work being done at the Connell Park Sporting Precinct, it’s good news for pool users that they will get the use of their pool facilities for the full season,” said Allan.
Visitors to Bellingen Swim Centre will also benefit from upgraded amenities, including new showers, toilets and a Changing Places facility designed to improve accessibility for people with significant disabilities.
“They will also have full access to new amenity buildings, including new showers and toilets, as well as the Changing Places facility, a fully accessible public toilet and changing space designed for people with profound or multiple disabilities.”
Residents can find information about opening hours, swimming programs and season passes through the Bellingen and Dorrigo swim centre websites and Facebook pages.
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