The community pool in Underbool, Australia, is essential for the local residents and has been a focal point for many activities, though it faced potential closure.
In the small outback town of Underbool, located in the wheatbelt region of Victoria, the community pool is considered a vital part of the local lifestyle for its residents, who number around 220. With significant distances to the nearest regional centers for basic amenities, the pool serves as a critical area for social engagement and recreational activities for families. Residents have been actively fighting to maintain their pool, which they utilize at a rate that surpasses the national average, demonstrating its importance to their well-being and community structure.
The pool is a hub for a variety of activities, providing a space for children to learn swimming, teenagers to enjoy their holidays, and adults to engage in fitness and social gatherings. Events such as birthday parties, Christmas celebrations, and barbecues further illustrate the pool's role in fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The closure of other local amenities like the pub and the golf course has intensified the pool's role and significance in the residents’ daily lives.
Residents like Sonia McVicar, who moved to Underbool two decades ago, highlight the tough challenges faced by rural communities like theirs, including the struggle to keep vital facilities operational amidst declining support and resources. The ongoing fight to preserve the swimming pool underscores the broader issues of rural sustainability and the importance of community spaces in fostering social cohesion in isolated areas.
