Bushy Park pool meeting hears Council hopeful of securing State Government funds

Over 40 people attended an important meeting at the Glenora District School today about the future of the much loved Bushy Park Pool.

The site has been closed to recreational swimming since bridge upgrades on the Styx River.

At today's meeting Derwent Valley Council’s General Manager Ron Sanderson expressed hopefulness about securing State Government fundings for the pool to reopen. 

Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said that that she'd spoken with Deputy Premier Guy Barnett regarding potential State Government support grants which should pave the way for the pool’s restoration in time for the 2026-27  swimming season.

At the meeting, acknowledgement was given to Bushy Park resident Tamara Walton for her efforts in rallying local support and preparing a petition that’s been widely circulated. showing how important the pool is to people in the region.

Mayor Dracoulis also presented a letter received from RSL Tasmania State President Mike Gallagher, which expressed strong support for the continuation of the Bushy Park War Memorial/ Pool.

This was backed by attending RSL Tasmania's Vice President Ross Byrne, New Norfolk RSL President Randall Wilton, and also President of the Maydena RSL Pat Gillhespey.

The letter highlighted the sites’ unique significance serving both as a place for recreation and social benefit and also as a war memorial which honours those who served our great country.

Three other Derwent Valley councillors who attended also spoke and mentioned their commitment to pursue the restoration and continuation of the site.

It was also mentioned that there could be opportunities for federal funding as well as RSL contributions to support the restoration of the site, further strengthening the case for its revival and survival.

Mayor Dracoulis praised local efforts saying "Your united voice and unwavering pride in this important community and memorial space has been heard right across the State and there’s every reason to feel confident that the Bushy Park War Memorial Pool will continue to serve and inspire generations for years to come".