I have lived in the Ridge for about 12 years with my wife Linda and family, most people know me as a local "firey"(NSWFB), or the local Army sergeant (1/19RNSWR).

The kids know me as "Mr Lifeguard" from last year at the theme park (talk about fun!).

Well the pool season is just around the corner again and those who thought last year was fun,will be pleasantly surprised to find this season looks set to be a "fantastic fun filled season".

I have the delightful position of informing the community that the committee has been very busy implementing renovations at the pool, that I believe will be very well received by the patrons and visitors.

These minor but significant and extensive improvements will benefit all users in many ways, we are very fortunate to have (as many long distance visitors called it last season) an "oasis in the desert".

I am sure the community will be even more proud of our pool when these improvements have been completed.

I must acknowledge all the good work rendered at the pool so far by all the workers, we will do our best to prevent any disruption to users at the start of the season however I am sure the community will be only to happy to bear any minimal disruption, as it will result in a better facility for all users concerned.

Mums and dads please teach or remind your children to be vigilant with the sun this season - remember - "slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat" and I believe "slide on sunglasses" has been added as well, however remember that sunglasses can incur safety risks when in recreational/ sports areas and therefore this pool promotes Occupational Health and Safety policies towards the wearing of sunglasses.

This pool is very pro-active in safety to reduce risk as much as possible to all users; I hope to use my experience in federal risk assessment and analysis training to show all users how to reduce risk as much as possible.