Swimming Pools case study
The swimming pool and spa industry has not traditionally come to mind when talking about water conservation. However, with severe water restrictions in some areas the industry has had to adjust.
When Geelong went to stage 4 water restrictions in December 2006, pool owners were not permitted to fill a new pool with potable water and refilling could only be done by bucket. However, pool owners were confused and frustrated, as they didn’t know what was permitted. Can I fill up my new pool? Am I allowed to top my pool up? Do I have to use a bucket or a hose? Can I use mains water? Where else can I get water from? Some pool owners even considered draining their pool.
Such a scenario would cause many pool retailers to shut up shop, but Gillian Costa from Gordon Avenue Pools saw this as an opportunity. Hiring out the Sailor’s Rest Cafe, Gillian invited pool owners from the Geelong area as well as employees from the local water authority to participate in a seminar on facing Stage 4 water restrictions with a swimming pool. Around 90 people attended, which was a great response.
During the evening, Gillian suggested that pool owners adopt a set of rules designed to keep water in the pool:
- No bombing or getting out of the pool and jumping back in
- Drip dry on the top step so the water goes back into the pool
- Ask pool users to top it up with a bucket after use so they are conscious of the amount of water they’ve used
The team at Gordon Avenue Pools also arranged for an alternative supply of water for new pool owners to keep the industry in business during Stage 4 restrictions. This involved contracting water carters to bring water in from other areas. Gillian's ability to adjust her business to stage 4 has allowed Gordon Avenue Pools to survive even through periods of severe water restrictions. This initiative helped save a lot of pool water and kept the pool industry alive in Geelong.
