The Narromine and Trangie Aquatic Centres reopened on Monday 6 October, marking the start of another season of summer fun, but this season they are running under new local management.

The facilities are now operated by THRIV3 Indigenous Corporation, a local non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering transformative change in communities.

THRIV3, guided by its values of Respect, Innovation, Vitality, Empowerment, Engagement, and Education, manages programs and projects tailored for at-risk and rural remote communities.

Its vision - for communities to “THRIV3 together” - focuses on empowering individuals to realise their fullest potential while building collective well-being.

Narromine Shire Mayor Ewen Jones said the new arrangement represented a positive shift for the Narromine Shire.

“I’m very delighted that it’s a local business person that’s managing the pools,” Cr Jones said.

“They are a really passionate group, and it’s great that they are based in Trangie so have plenty of local knowledge.

He said the successful operator, Pat Skinner, was a proactive young man whose leadership had already made an impression.

Pat Skinner, founder of THRIV3, leads a team that now manages the Narromine and Trangie pools as well as offering training in lifeguard skills.

“The previous contractors for the pool were not locally based, and they had multiple pools in multiple towns," Cr Jones said.

"THRIV3 are doing a great job since they’ve taken over and reports have been very positive.”

Cr Jones said early feedback suggested the new management had already made improvements for pool users.

“They’ve extended the hours,” he said.

“It’s good to see local people running it and having that connection with the community.”

There’s even fresh new flavours at both Trangie and Narromine Aquatic Centre kiosks including burgers, smoothies, ice-creams and fresh sandwiches and wraps.

According to the team at THRIV3, the food is “freshly made and ready to fuel your swim, splash, or sunbake!”

The Narromine and Trangie communities are encouraged to follow the Trangie & Narromine Aquatic Centres social media pages for updates and seasonal announcements.

“Make sure to grab your goggles, slip into your cossies, and dive into another great season of fun,” Narromine Shire Council said in announcing the reopening.