The big kids in Gareth Ward and Marianne Saliba couldn't help but try out the new all-abilities splashplay attraction at Albion Park Swimming Pool on Friday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But young siblings Reign, 4 and two-year-old Rome Mastrodomenico just wanted the adults to go away so they could have the new acquatic play space all to themselves.
From Monday, October 26 the whole community can use the new water play feature.
It incorporates a variety of user-activated and sequenced water sprays including tipping buckets, water rings, ground sprays and cannons, as well as a shade cloth and seating for caregivers.
The project represents an investment of more than $556,000.
Shellharbour Council contributed $306,000, while the remaining money was delivered through a NSW Government Stronger Country Communities Fund grant.
Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said the water feature was designed to create fun and highly sensory experiences for all children.
"The new splashplay will make trips to the pool over the warmer months an exciting experience for the whole family," Cr Saliba said.
"It's great. This is one of the best parts of the job - being able to be like a kid and to enjoy our outdoor spaces, and something as magic as this splash and play is just an absolutely fantastic asset for Albion Park and the rest of our city.
"I thank the NSW Government and Member for Kiama and Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Gareth Ward, for their assistance with this project."
More than $1.5 million has been spent at the pool since the last swimming season.
Kiama MP Gareth Ward said the $1 million investment from the NSW Government had made a world of difference to local families.
"From the splash park to the improvements that have been made around this facility, I'm really pleased with the investment," Mr Ward said.
"I've tried it myself and I can tell you it is a real winner.
"We've been able to use solar power to power this facility, so it is not only a great win for the local community, but a great win for the environment."
Mr Ward added the Albion Park pool was now more accessible and inclusive for families in the region.
"I'm sure this will be a very popular place to come as we see the temperature and mercury rise a little bit."
Cr Saliba agreed, adding the pool was now more accessible and inclusive for young and old.
"We've provided shade, barbecue and of course for those who have got the ability to have a leisurely day, there is exercise equipment here as well," she said.
"So you can come in use the exercise equipment, you can have a swim, you can run around like a big kid, a bit like I have done in the splash and play, and have a great day.
"The whole family can come here and enjoy themselves."
Bookings are required for the splashplay facility.
Under current COVID-19 restrictions, a maximum of 50 patrons (including parents and caregivers) are allowed in the toddler swimming pool and splashplay area at one time.
A booking system with different coloured wristbands to represent one-hour time slots will be implemented to help ensure all patrons can experience the new area.
Albion Park Pool will reopen for the summer swim season on Monday 26 October from 6am to 6pm. Phone 4256 3744 to make a booking.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.