Byron Council has started work on the installation of heating at the Petria Thomas pool in Mullumbimby.

Contractors installing the heating equipment moved on-site last week.

“This really is great news for our swimming community in the Byron Shire with the pool to remain open during the cooler months of the year,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.

“I, along with many others, have been lobbying for this for years, and to see it finally underway is a significant investment in the health and well-being of our residents,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

The installation of heating is expected to take up to six months, and there will be very minimal disruption to pool users during this time.

People will see the new equipment going in near the existing plant shed, with the water heaters being built one metre above the ground to provide a level of resilience to flooding.

“It’s not often I look forward to the end of summer, but 2026 will be different because I can’t wait to dive into the Mullum pool next winter,” Mayor Ndiaye said.