Ed,

I have been made aware that the hydro pool in South Grafton is to be closed soon. This facility was funded and built by monies raised from within the community as a whole for use by residents to assist with injury and illness recovery programs.

My understanding is that these unfortunate soles are to now attend a heated pool at the newly designed Grafton Baths.

Does this new heated pool (not a hydrotherapy pool) have the facilities required to assist with paraplegics and or quadriplegics, as well as other injuries and illnesses, (hoists for toiletry/showering etc.,) ramps for wheelchairs. The ability to maintain a temperature in the pool of over 34 degrees Celsius as required for hydro pools.

At South Grafton, the Hydro Pool is for use of individuals requiring therapy and for minors gaining water confidence. Will the new heated pool also give those patrons sole use, or will it be open slather for all and sundry?

Thus, taking away the privacy that patients quite often feel they need due to disfigurement, scarring and uncontrolled movements, hence creating emotional embarrassment to them.

But I think the bigger question is, why has the Clarence Valley Council let the South Grafton Heated Pool and Hydro Pool facilities fall into such disrepair. Why has continued maintenance not been carried out?

As a bystander, it appears as it’s a ‘them and us attitude’ that exudes from residents on the Grafton side of the river has against those in South Grafton.

Graeme Smith, South Grafton