Major change for popular Victorian swimming spot Bright River Pool after summer rescues

Lifesavers want a jumping board removed to reduce the disproportionate number of rescues and injuries at a popular Victorian swimming spot.

The River Pool at Bright is open for little more than one month each summer, yet a total of 50 people were rescued in that time last season.

Life Saving Victoria has called for the jumping board — a major attraction which draws people to the pool — to be removed for safety reasons.

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In a report to Alpine Shire Council, LSV said 46 per cent of the rescues were in the jumping board area.

“The removal of the jumping board will result in a meaningful reduction in the number of high-impact injuries and aquatic emergencies,” the report said.

The jumping board has been an attraction at the natural pool for at least 60 years.

The pool is open for only a short time each year during summer, typically from 1pm to 6pm daily between December 24 through to Australia Day.

Operator Belgravia Leisure said approximately 12,000 people entered the water during that period last season.

Over the same time, LSV reported “a total of 32 rescue incidents involving 50 individuals … with 46 per cent of these rescues conducted in the jumping platform area”.

Water depths vary across the pool, reaching up to 4m, with routine dredging under the jumping board to maintain a safe water depth of 3m.

LSV also recommended ceasing that dredging if the jumping board is removed.

The LSV report accepted the jumping board was a popular attraction and removing it would be “a significant change that may not be universally welcomed by the community”.

However, it said “the aim is to strike a balance between the recreational appeal of the Bright River Pool and ensuring an acceptable level of safety”.

At a council meeting on Monday, councillors considered the option for major changes at the pool if the jumping board is removed.

“Part of Council’s resolution … is to undertake a master plan project for Howitt and Centenary Parks that would reimagine the area as a contemporary, high-value precinct for the community and visitors alike,” Alpine Shire Council told 7NEWS.com.au.

A metal slide that was also once a draw card at the pool was removed in 2021, at LSV’s recommendation, leading to a massive reduction in incidents. LSV has advised the slide not be replaced.

However, it did recommend council upgrade and increase the number of safety signs, install life buoys and provide additional lifeguard training and equipment.