‘Cuts and grazes’ at new Mirboo North pool

PARENTS have expressed concerns about children cutting their feet at the newly opened Mirboo North pool, with YMCA staff and South Gippsland Shire Council (SGSC) striving to identify the cause.

“Both my kids badly cut their feet last week along with my nieces and nephews, and a huge amount of other kids were hobbling around too,” Lani Hyde posted on the Mirboo North Community Notice Board Facebook page on December 8.

Many others responded with similar stories of children with bleeding feet and scratched legs after visiting the recently redeveloped pool.

The following statement was issued the next day on Facebook by the Friends of the Mirboo North Swimming Pool, advising that the matter was being addressed.

“An issue has been identified with people cutting their feet while using the pool.

“It has been reported to SGSC and YMCA management.

“We have met with the shire on this complex issue.

“The shire has informed us they are working through an investigation with the YMCA.

“We are expecting an update within the next week and will advise on next steps.

“We understand this is a real concern for people and we are doing our best to get a resolution.

“The pool will remain open subject to weather policy.”

SGSC was quick to respond to a request on Monday, December 13, from the Sentinel-Times for an update of the situation, issuing the following statement on the efforts to resolve the matter.

“Since the opening of the Mirboo North pool, the YMCA staff have been dealing with a number of cuts and grazes, particularly to children’s feet and toes.

“Staff have carefully checked over the tiles, grouting, silicone and any pool fixtures to determine if there are any sharp edges that may require rectification. However, no areas of concern were identified.

“As required by the Australian Standards, the pool floor tiles are slip resistant.

“It appears that as children are jumping and playing in the water, over time, the tiles are being abrasive to wet skin, causing the grazes.

“Council will seek some further advice to understand if there is any further action that could be taken.”

The pool remains open during normal hours, subject to weather conditions.