In Queensland, communities are grappling with the closure or impending upgrades of their local swimming pools, prompting residents to take action to maintain access to these vital recreational facilities. In Roma, residents are facing an 18-month hiatus from their local pool due to required redevelopment, forcing them to seek alternatives in nearby towns or utilize other local water bodies. Kirby Johnstone, a resident, converted her backyard pool into a swim school to ensure local children learn essential water safety skills, highlighting the community's commitment to preserving these facilities even in challenging circumstances.

In Babinda, tensions are rising as the Cairns Regional Council deliberates on the future of the local swimming pool. Residents are actively campaigning for its continued operation, emphasizing the pool's importance not only for recreation but also for swimming education and health. With an increasing number of pools across Australia nearing their expiration for use, Royal Life Saving Australia has underscored the urgency for more funding directed toward maintenance to ensure the longevity of these crucial community resources.

This trend of community engagement around local amenities reflects a growing sentiment among Australians that access to public facilities is essential for social cohesion and public safety. The commitment of residents like Johnstone reveals a grassroots initiative that could inspire similar movements elsewhere, potentially influencing local councils' decision-making processes about public funding and facility maintenance in the future.