Karratha council backs the return of free swims and shots for kids over the 2027-29 long school holidays

The popular City of Karratha “free swims and shots” program will return for three more years. Councillors unanimously agreed to extend the program to 2029 at their ordinary meeting last Monday, meaning local kids will be able to swim and play basketball for free through the next three Januaries. The program has run annually each January since 2023, providing free access for those under 18 to the aquatic facilities at Karratha Leisureplex, Wickham Recreation Precinct, and Roebourne Aquatic Centre, and the indoor and outdoor basketball shoot-around at the Leisureplex. The scheme has been used by more than 30,000 people over the past four years, offering local children a chance to cool off as they enjoy the long school holidays, with participation steadily increasing each year. In total, over the four years it has run, the program has cost just over $127,000. In a boost for seniors, the council also passed a motion from Cr Sarah Roots allowing anyone with a valid Australian Government Seniors Card, Western Australian Seniors Card or Pensioner Concession Card free entry to the city’s aquatic facilities. Cr Roots told the meeting the idea was inspired by the youth program. City officers estimate the financial impact of offering free entry at between $47,900 and $95,900 annually. The council approved the motion unanimously, also requesting that the CEO report back on uptake of the scheme before March 30, 2027.