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Citing "critical aquatic staff shortages across Western Australia" the Town of Port Hedland has been forced to close the Gratwick Aquatic Centre as of Tuesday 5th March.

In an explanatory note the council explained "given the substantial shortage of qualified pool operators across Western Australia, particularly in regional areas, the Town has had to make the tough decision to close Gratwick Aquatic Centre earlier than usual.

"This closure will however enable the Town to focus on delivering a greater level of service at South Hedland Aquatic Centre, which typically sees nine times more visitors than Gratwick."

The last day of operations at the Centre as it wrapped up for the season was on Monday.

The Town went on to advise "existing seasonal bookings will not be affected by this closure - water polo, swim club and school swim carnivals will continue uninterrupted to facilitate ongoing training, competitions, and activities."

Port Hedland Leisure has also contacted non-seasonal booking holders affected by the change.

The Town is presently working on a number of solutions to attract more qualified and experienced aquatic pool operators to Port Hedland and anticipates the return to regular operations later in the year.

Gratwick Aquatic Centre is a seasonal pool which ordinarily operates between September and April.

For enquiries, email leisure@porthedland.wa.gov.au

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