Reflecting on this situation, “Jamberoo Pool entry fees create confusion” there’s an important question we, as residents, need to ask ourselves: do we truly understand the real costs of maintaining facilities like the Jamberoo Pool?

It’s easy to focus on the new entry fees and feel frustrated by the changes, but the bigger issue may be that we’re not fully aware of the financial burden on the council to keep these services running. Are we being naive to the true costs involved in providing a service that benefits some ratepayers, while others may not have similar facilities, like a library, in their area?

The fees may seem unfair at first glance, especially for families who rely on this affordable community resource. However, what we may not always consider is the maintenance and operational costs associated with keeping the pool open, especially if it remains under utilised for a large part of the year. As pointed out in the debate, funding for essential upkeep—like covering the pool to prevent it from becoming a “duck pond”—also requires revenue, and these fees are likely part of that balancing act.

It’s also worth considering whether enough transparency and consultation happened before these changes were introduced. If the community feels left out of the decision-making process, that can erode trust. However, as residents, it’s essential that we not only voice our concerns but also educate ourselves on the financial realities facing the council, ensuring that services are equitable for all ratepayers, not just for those fortunate enough to have facilities like the pool in their area.