The event attracted about 120 people yesterday morning. Council chief executive John Cooney, business development manager Jonathon Gadd, and Central Lakes Trust representative Peter Mead all took the plunge, as well as Swim Centre project manager Paul Hucklebridge and his building buddies.
For those not racing in the new pool, breakfast was served from 7.30am, during and after official speeches from Cromwell Community Board chairman Neil Gillespie, Mr Cooney, and Mr Mead, who unveiled a plaque while declaring the complex open.
Cr Gillespie said the centre upgrade had been planned from December 2000, after the smaller complex proved inadequate.
With a six-lane, 2m deep lap pool, therapeutic pool, spa pool, and children's paddling pool, the new two-room open-plan complex is designed to cater for a variety of needs.
The facility was funded by various community trust and organisation grants as well as money from the council and community board.
To celebrate its opening, the public can swim free of charge tomorrow from 9am to 6pm.
