General News
25 March, 2026
Hopetoun pool challenge makes a splash
Hopetoun Swimming Pool’s ‘Get Fit in February’ challenge has wrapped up on a high note after drawing strong community support, plenty of enthusiasm and more than 11,000 laps in the pool.
Pool president Patti Thomas said the friendly competition created excitement around town and encouraged people to stay active throughout February.
“We started a friendly competition last month called ‘Get fit in February’,” she said.
Participants threw themselves into the challenge, with locals showing strong commitment across the month as they clocked up laps and raised funds for the pool.
“We are very happy with how the healthy competition went throughout the month,” Ms Thomas said.
“People were very committed to it, which is a positive sign.”
By the end of the month, swimmers had completed a total of 11,075 laps and raised about $550, which will go towards new pool equipment.
“It did create a bit of excitement in Hopetoun, among the community and at the pool,” Ms Thomas said.
“Overall, we completed 11,075 laps and raised around $550.”
Laura Phelan recorded the highest individual effort with 1204 laps, while Courtney, Ned and Marley Jones completed a combined 1712 laps.
Senior winner Jenny Edelston swam 262 laps and student winner Fletcher Puckle completed 514 laps.
All winners received a free membership to the pool for next season.
The fundraiser not only supported the pool financially, but also brought the community together through a shared focus on health, fitness and fun.