Police have released details of the high profile arrest of a man who allegedly assaulted a life guard at Walgett Swimming Pool.

Just after 4pm on Sunday (19 October 2025), emergency services were called to a public swimming pool on Montkeila Street, Walgett, following reports a lifeguard had been assaulted.

Officers attached to Central North Police District attended and were told a 31-year-old man had been allegedly assaulted by one of the parents at the pool.

The man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for serious facial injuries, before being taken to hospital for further treatment.

Following inquiries, police attended a home on Keepit Street, Walgett, where a 30-year-old man was arrested.

He was taken to Walgett Police Station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He was granted conditional bail to appear before Walgett Local Court on Monday 10 November 2025.

Late last night (Monday 20 October) Council’s General Manager Andrew Brown reached out to the Principals of Walgett Community College High School, Walgett Community College Primary School, and St Joseph’s Primary School, inviting them to bring their students to the Walgett Swimming Pool this week between 11 am and 3 pm.

Entry will be free for all students and accompanying teachers or supervisors.

During these visits, the splash park will not operate, but the large and small pools will be open for swimming and water activities.

''We encourage each school to come along, enjoy the pool, and make the most of these supervised sessions in a safe and positive environment," Mr Brown said.

"Council has also contacted a range of local community groups, inviting them to get involved by organising coordinated and supervised activities at the pool. If your community group would like to hold an event or program at the pool get in touch.''

The council is looking to add CCTV technology at the facility to monitor for bad behaviour.

Barwon MP Roy Butler said he was encouraged to see the local Aboriginal Corporation working with Mayor.

“After clashes between the public and staff at the Walgett pool, Gary Trindall of the Walgett Cultural and Community Aboriginal Corporation (WACCA) will work with Mayor Jasen Ramien and Walgett Council on an immediate solution that will involve locally sourced and trained staff," he said. 

"Roy congratulates the Council and WACCA for finding an immediate solution that will allow continued access to the pool and avoid young people swimming in the river.”