Council wades in on water safety this festive season

As Townsville residents immerse themselves to escape the summer heat, the community is being urged to brush up on their water safety practices.

Councillor Brady Ellis said water safety was essential for all north Queenslanders.

“While life in north Queensland is better when you’re having fun cooling off in the water, safety should be on everyone’s mind,” Cr Ellis said.

“Water safety includes everything from supervising children and appropriate pool fencing, to not swimming while under the influence. Every decision around water is vital making sure everyone has a safe festive season.

“We’re reminding all adults to keep a close eye on children if they’re near a pool, creek or at the beach.

“As the rain sets in, avoid entering storm water or flood waters, as there can be a risk of wildlife, diseases and hidden obstacles, not to mention heavy rain can create currents that can sweep both children and adults away, so stay away from drains, spillways and swollen rivers or creeks.”

Councillor Ellis said it was important people were aware pools and spas needed to be compliant with the Queensland Development Code.

“If you have a pool at home it needs to be fenced correctly. What people often don’t realise is that if your portable pool or spa is capable of holding more than 30cm of water, it needs to be fenced - the same rules apply for fences around inflatable pools, in-ground pools and above-ground swimming pools,” he said.

“Council takes water safety extremely seriously, which is why we recently offered free water safety lessons through Love2Swim schools and installed new safety fencing around our upper Riverway lagoon.

“Don’t forget, if you’re looking to escape the heat, both the Riverway lagoon and the Rockpool are open for use for the school holidays, not to mention Tobruk, Long Tan, Kokoda and the Northern beaches Leisure centre will have their own Christmas operating hours so make sure you check out Council’s website for more details.

“We just ask that parents are keeping a watchful eye on their kids. While there may be lifeguards on duty, it’s your responsibility to be supervising your children in and around the water at all times.

“A split-second distraction, or scrolling on your phone can have devastating consequences, remember parents supervise, and lifeguards save lives.”

To learn more about pool fencing requirements, head to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission’s website.

For Christmas operating hours are Council venues, visit our Christmas Operating Hours page.