Reopened pool ready for the wet

Residents of Port Hedland made a splash as they took the opportunity to cool off with the long-awaited reopening of Gratwick Aquatic Centre.

The popular leisure and swimming spot was closed in April last year for scheduled maintenance and was due to reopen last month before tiling issues delayed testing.

The filtration system failed during testing in September last year and a replacement was required to comply with WA Department of Health regulations. The upgrades included replacing the equipment that unloads and stores the chlorine gas, changing the tiling in the toddler pool, and installing a replacement water feature pump.

Town of Port Hedland commissioner Fred Riebeling said he was thankful for the community’s patience during the aquatic centre’s upgrade process.

“Gratwick Aquatic Centre’s longer-than-expected closure time has meant we have been able to rectify all the issues comprehensively,” he said.

Mr Riebeling said he was looking forward to the community and sporting groups enjoying the facility. Port Hedland resident Yoland Night said it was fantastic to have the aquatic centre open again.

“We love how close it is to where we live,” she said. “We love the new facilities. The pool is beautiful.

“I’m planning on coming here for my morning swim before work and for my son to come as well.

“It’s just ideal.”