The Schrinner Council’s massively popular $2 Summer Dips Initiative has saved residents almost $2 million so far during summer.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said a record number of residents had visited their local pool since December 1 to take advantage of one of his Council’s key cost-of-living measures.
“Rising living costs are the number one issue right now and that’s why our Council team has stepped up to do what we can to help Brisbane residents,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Our $2 Summer Dips Initiative is a simple and effective way Council is helping reduce residents’ costs and provide affordable fun for people of all ages.
“As a father of four, I know how keeping young kids active and entertained can be challenging and costly, particularly during summer holidays.
“The response to our $2 Summer Dips Initiative has been simply incredible and I am so pleased so many people have been able to make the most of it.”
The latest figures show pool patronage jumped from 141,780 in December 2022 to 289,077 in December 2023, a 104 per cent increase.
During the first three weeks of January, pool patronage from 146,385 in 2023 to 191,100 in 2024, a 31 per cent increase despite a significant number of wet weather days.
The $2 Summer Dips Initiative was a key part of Council’s $80 million cost-of-living package delivered last year.
Other initiatives include:
- Maintaining the cheapest rates in south east Queensland, along with on-time payment discounts and generous rebates for pensioners
- Slashing the annual green waste recycling bin fee from $93 to $45, less than $1 a week.
- Continuing to provide free off-peak travel for seniors
- Eliminating and radically reducing permit fees for hundreds of events and festivals to encourage free and affordable fun
- New 24/7 library lockers to make it easier to borrow books and other items for free
Under the $2 Summer Dips Initiative, an adult pool entry fee at Council’s 22 pools has been reduced from up to $6.40 to $2.
The cost of taking a family of four has decreased from up to $20.15 to $8.
A family who goes to their local pool six times throughout summer will save $72.90.
Anyone accompanying a person with a disability who requires attendant care support will continue to get free entry.
Cr Schrinner urged residents to continue to take advantage of $2 Summer Dips throughout the remainder of summer.
“Brisbane has experienced some really wild weather this summer and I am sure more than a few family pool trips were cancelled as a result,” he said.
“However, our $2 Summer Dips continue until the end of February so there’s plenty of time for people to take advantage of this initiative.
“Whether you’re teaching the kids to swim, looking for a relaxing day out or an avid lap swimmer – we’re seeing people of all ages diving in.
“I encourage residents to make the most of the program, which runs until the end of summer.
“It’s all about making Brisbane even better.”
For more information or to find your closest Council pool, visit the Brisbane City Council website.
