A grant for the project was secured from the NSW Cancer Institute.

“The grant was developed following a SunSmart shade audit of Inverell Swimming Pool, which prioritised areas requiring additional shade and will provide additional shade to the marshalling area of the swimming pool,” Mr Alliston said.

“The shelter is estimated to benefit more than 3500 people and provide additional shade for events such as swimming carnivals and competitive swim meets, and was constructed by a local building firm.”

Mr Marshall agreed the structure was a very beneficial addition.

“In the past, the schools have relied on temporary shade covering, so this is a huge improvement and an excellent way to ensure students are kept out of the sun’s harmful rays while waiting for their events,” Mr Marshall said.

While Mr Marshall acknowledged the pool as an important and well-used community facility, he re-enforced the UV danger message.

“Up to 99 per cent of skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to the sun,” he said. 

“Many skin cancers are preventable and this is another positive step toward protecting pool users,” he said.

Mr Marshall said he was pleased to see the council being proactive in protecting pool users from UV exposure.