The pool season kicked off over the weekend with both Branxton and Cessnock Pools opening their gates.

Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent said that the 2018/19 pool season would offer something for everyone looking to beat the heat.

“The Family Fun Days will be held again over  the Christmas and New Year school holidays at the Branxton Pool, Cessnock Pool and Kurri Kurri Acquatic and Fitness Centre,” Cr Pynsent said.

“This allows residents free access to the pools on certain Sundays, Keep an eye out for more details on Facebook, the website and at the facilities. Thais is an opportunity for residents without a pool pass to unjoy our aquatic facilities.

Cr Pynsent added that an inflatable fun park will be rotating between the three pools and is sure, once again, to be a star attraction.

This year, Council has also teamed up with Royal life Saving NSW to introduce the national Keep Watch at Public Pools water safety awareness program locally.

Children aged between 0 and 5 years will be issued with a yellow wristband and pool staff will ensure that a parent or caregiver is in the water, at arms reach from the child at all time.

It is also recommended that parents and caregivers of children aged 6 to ten years be actively supervising at all times and be dressed ready to enter the water.

To find out more about your local pools, visit http://www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/community/sport/pools.