19 Nov 08 - Dive into Birthday Celebrations at Pool

Everyone is invited to join in the Orara Valley Community Pool's first birthday celebrations at Nana Glen on Sunday, November 23, from 3pm-6pm, weather permitting.

The pool was opened last November by international movie star and Nana Glen local Russell Crowe, Olympic medallist Geoff Huegill and Rabbitohs stars Nathan Merritt and Dean Widders.

"The pool was billed as a great community asset when it opened. The anticipation of its success was intense, but its popularity has surpassed all expectations," said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades.

"Clearly the widespread community support the project gained from the very start has continued and grown over its first year of operation," he said.

The 25-metre, seven-lane pool was built on a site adjacent to the grounds of Nana Glen Public School, but is available for use by members of the public from across the Orara Valley area as well as students from all local schools.  

The facility also includes an amenities block, kiosk, shade sails, a landscaped barbecue and picnic area, security fencing, carpark and lighting.

The Pool was built with the support of Russell Crowe and his family, the three levels of government and around 60 local businesses, families and individuals who contributed funds, building materials and their time and expertise.

Since it opened the Pool has been delivering a number of swimming education programs and has been widely used by the Orara Valley Community.

One student at Nana Glen Primary School - Mika Cain - has even proceeded through the ranks of competitive swimming despite only learning to swim a year ago when the Pool opened.

The Birthday Celebrations will begin at 3pm and entry is via a gold coin donation with all proceeds going towards Nana Glen Heartstart.

There will be free Face Painting, a Jumping Castle and also a free Sausage Sizzle. There will also be a special competition with prizes for the 'Wackiest Swimsuit'.

All are welcome to attend the celebrations.