Shirley Stevens fears for future of Northam pool

A new heated pool has been approved by the Northam Shire that will be located at the Northam Recreation Centre, leaving the future of the current pool uncertain. 

Shirley fears the land on Mitchell Avenue will be sold. 

“I have heard they are going to sell it or build houses on it – build a park,” she said.

“Why should Council make a profit on this land, that was originally donated to us?”

Shirley said the land was donated by Mr Frank Kings.

“He donated eight acres for a swimming pool,” she said. 

Shirley has collected many items of old memorabilia of swimming in the wheatbelt, from the 1960’s till now and does not want to see it lost. 

Shirley said when the club moves to the recreation centre, there will be no room to keep the old items, including trophies and medals. 

“Where are we going to put all this stuff,” she said.

Her collection of newspaper clippings and old photos are predominantly Northam based, but she also has many items from the wider region.

“I have things from Gingin through to Merredin, and from Goomalling to Wundowie,” she said. 

”I have that much memorabilia you wouldn’t believe it!”

Shirley got involved with the Northam Swimming Club when her daughter turned nine in 1968.

“She wanted to join the swimming club – and once your children do that you are sucked in,” said Shirley.

“From then onwards I have been here – I haven’t once been out of the committee in all these years.”

Over the years, Shirley has coached and held the role of secretary.

Her son went on to be the president of the club and now holds the role of the coach and her daughter in law is now the president. 

She currently runs Bingo on Saturday nights from 7.30pm at the club, to raise money for the club. 

The Northam Shire was asked for comment but did not get back before the time the Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate went to print yesterday afternoon.