Warm weather and the October long weekend have seen families across the western plains flock to the water, with lakes and pools reopening for the 2025–26 season.

In the Lachlan Shire, Gum Bend Lake has been filled and is now officially open for the water-ski season, providing opportunities for skiing, camping, fishing and relaxing by the water.

Lake Cargelligo also continues as a year-round draw card for boating, fishing and camping.

Condobolin, Lake Cargelligo and Tottenham pools opened on Saturday 4 October, giving residents plenty of places to cool off.

Lachlan Shire Council Mayor John Medcalf OAM said the region’s waterways are central to local life.

“Our lakes and pools are the heart of summer in the Lachlan Shire.

"They bring families and friends together, support our local economy through tourism and provide great places for everyone to enjoy the water.

"It’s wonderful to see Gum Bend Lake open for the ski season and our pools ready to welcome the community.”

Lachlan Shire residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to cooling down in hot weather, with both pools and beautiful lakes available.

Further north, Warrumbungle Shire has also confirmed pool opening dates.

Coolah, Coonabarabran and Dunedoo pools opened on 4 October, with Binnaway and Mendooran to follow on 18 October, and Baradine set for 25 October.

Baradine’s opening has been delayed due to the installation of new pool liners, with contractors aiming to finish by mid-October.

The Coonabarabran Pool has also opened on a limited basis.

Council said it will be “open to season ticket holders only on Monday 6 October due to staff shortages."

"This is a temporary measure to keep everyone safe.”

Warrumbungle Shire Council has been advertising for pool attendants since June, but shortages remain.

“Pools may only be open to Season Ticket holders on more occasions than in past seasons,” the council said on social media.

“If you’re physically fit, first-aid trained and have (or are willing to get) a Pool Lifeguard Certificate, we’d love to hear from you.”

The staffing challenge is not unique to the west.

It's important to combine fun with safety. The National Drowning Report 2025 found there were 357 drowning deaths over the past 12 months - 27 per cent higher than the 10-year average.

New analysis from Royal Life Saving Australia shows the aquatic workforce is still adjusting after the pandemic surge.

“With summer approaching and communities heading back to their local pools, it’s the perfect time to highlight what a rewarding and meaningful career the aquatic industry offers,” General Manager –

Capability & Industry at Royal Life Saving Australia, RJ Houston said.

Despite the continued call for lifeguards and swim teachers in the Western Plains, job ads have dropped more than 50 per cent since 2021’s post-COVID peak.

In spring 2021 there were 990 lifeguard and 805 swim teacher ads on Seek; in 2025 that figure had dropped to 400 and 360.

“Working as a lifeguard or swim teacher is often the first step in a varied and rewarding career,” National Manager – Training & Workforce Development, Shaun Jackson said.

“People enter for the flexibility or a summer job, but many stay because they find purpose, community and opportunity here.”

Meanwhile, in Nyngan, preparations are complete for the reopening of the Nyngan War Memorial Pool.

The pool opened on Saturday 4 October, with manager Scott Bartley reporting the water already warming up.

On Wednesday afternoon the main pool was 21 degrees, with solar heating helping push it higher for the opening weekend.

With hot weather forecast and summer just around the corner, councils across the region are urging residents to stay safe around water and enjoy the facilities responsibly.

Up-to-date pool information for your shire is available on council Facebook pages or by contacting local councils directly.