Coolamon Swimming Pool Update

In response to recent media coverage, Council would like to correct/update several points mentioned in relation to the incident involving the Coolamon Swimming Pool.

  • Water that entered the swimming pool was not ‘pumped raw sewerage water’, it was treated effluent water that is used on Council’s parks and gardens. This water is treated and tested in accordance with EPA license. Before it entered the pool, this water receives further treatment through the pool filtration system including adding chlorine. While treated effluent water is not treated to the same level as our drinking water, it has been through a thorough treatment process. Council installed a brand-new effluent treatment system in 2025.

  • Independent testing was conducted once this incident was identified. Council was pleased to report these results came back within required swimming levels. Although, the test results came back with a positive outcome, recommended advice was to empty the pools.

  • Council has had numerous meetings with all relevant Govt Departments and received verbal communication that there has not been an increased number of sicknesses recorded to date within the LGA. NSW Health continues to monitor this.

  • An investigation into the incident has been carried out and confirms that three separate unrelated events occurred which led to the incident. Council’s internal procedures have been strengthened to ensure this is an isolated incident.

The safety of pool users and the community have been Council’s highest priority when making decisions in relation to this incident. We acknowledge the impact this has had on the lessee, pool staff and the community. We are disappointed that the incident occurred and that emptying the pool and closing early is the final outcome.

Council would like to remind community members, if you or your family members are feeling unwell, to seek medical advice.

Council has issued two public statements and FAQ’s regarding the incident, we encourage you to read these, they are available on Council’s website:

https://coolamon.nsw.gov.au/news/public-statement-coolamon-swimming-pool

If you would like to discuss the matter further with Council, please email or phone.

 

Laura Munro