MANLY’S iconic bayside pool has emerged as one of Brisbane’s busiest this summer, pulling in 31,883 visits as the Schrinner Council’s $2 Summer Dips program delivered record-breaking patronage across the city.
The strong turnout at Manly formed part of a bumper season for Brisbane pools, which recorded more than 758,000 visits over summer – the highest since the initiative began – with families collectively saving about $2.8 million in entry fees.
The $2 entry program, introduced in the 2023/24 budget by Brisbane City Council, reduces admission prices across 22 Council pools, aiming to make swimming more accessible during the hotter months.
While inner-city venues dominated the top rankings, Manly’s figures highlight the continued popularity of Bayside facilities, particularly during extended heat periods and holiday peaks.
Across the network, Newmarket Olympic Swimming Pool led the charge with more than 92,000 visits, narrowly ahead of Sandgate, which attracted more than 91,000 swimmers.
Other high-performing sites included Musgrave Park, Yeronga and Dunlop Park pools.
Wynnum-Manly Ward Councillor Alex Givney said the local response had been overwhelming.
“There’s nothing better than a day at Manly Pool, and our $2 Dips program made it more affordable for families to cool off and spend quality time together over summer,” she said.
“It’s been fantastic to see tens of thousands of people get behind the initiative here on the Bayside, contributing to record participation across Brisbane.
“Manly Pool is a much-loved destination for Bayside families, and the strong turnout shows just how important it is to the local community.”
Lord Mayor Schrinner said the program was delivering real cost-of-living relief while boosting community participation.
“Initiatives like $2 Summer Dips help shape Brisbane’s reputation as the world’s most family- friendly city,” he said.
“Locals are saving millions of dollars every summer, demonstrating how this initiative is making a huge difference to household budgets and our incredible lifestyle.”
Since its launch, the initiative has recorded more than 2.2 million visits across three summers, with total savings exceeding $7.8 million.
The program means a typical family of four can save around $15 per visit – a factor credited with driving repeat attendance and higher overall participation.
With strong numbers again this summer, including at Manly, the $2 dips initiative appears set to remain a key plank in Council efforts to keep Brisbane residents active, connected and cool.
