Yuendumu Swimming Pool

The opening of the swimming pool was an absolute highlight. The pool was officially opened on 27th October, 2008 by Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs Jenny Macklin, Member for Stuart Karl Hampton, Thomas Jangala Rice (Chairperson), Jean Napanangka Brown (Chairperson), members of the Kantor family and the Jaru Pirrjirdi Lifeguards.

Since opening the pool has operated consistently. Over a 3 month period the pool was open a total of 54 days, providing 160 hours of cool enjoyment for 3,969 swimmers. The pool day provides specific times for Childcare, Playgroup and School, and there are plans to provide for early morning lap swimming. There is no doubt the “yes school, yes pool” policy had a major impact on school attendance during the summer.

Ten Jaru Pirrjirdi men and women, and 3 Mt Theo youth workers, attained their bronze medallions and lifeguard qualifications through Royal Life Saving Society Australia, and work on a roster system. Ongoing training of Jaru and community members will ensure the safety of swimmers at all times, and the ability to operate consistently.

In March 2009, we held our first inter-community School Swimming Carnival with Willowra, a huge hit for all concerned, especially when Yuendumu and Willowra schools tied as winners!

Stop Press!!! The landscaping and the installation of shade shelters and play equipment has commenced!

The Pool construction was funded by the Commonwealth and Northern Territory Governments, Yuendumu Community members, the Poola Foundation (Kantor family), the Ian Potter Foundation, Warlukurlangu Artists and Yuendumu Mining Store. Statewide Pools, SA and ProBuild, Alice Springs, built the pool and amenities block. Newmont Asia Pacific and the Mt Theo Program provided operational funding.