Splash Island Waterpark is getting ready to close its gates after another busy summer in Portage la Prairie.
The last day of operations is set for Monday, September 1, with public swim and private rentals continuing through the final weekend.
“Swimming lessons are done for the season, and so we're just kind of wrapping up with private rentals and public swim,” notes Angie Shindle, General Manager of the Portage Regional Recreation Authority.
Despite challenges with smoky skies and unpredictable weather, Shindle says the outdoor waterpark still drew more than 28,000 visitors this year.
“Our lifeguards did an exceptional job of keeping the pool safe and our participants safe and enjoying their time in the aquatic,” she remarks.
Evening rentals remain a popular part of Splash Island’s schedule, and demand continues to run high.
“Typically, our rental slots are filled up fairly quickly,” adds Shindle.
At the same time, the smoky summer did affect attendance on certain days.
“We definitely saw a drop in participants on those days where the smoke was a little bit thicker,” continues Shindle. “We just adapted and made sure that everyone was safe and was able to enjoy themselves if they were there.”
New upgrades this season
Visitors also noticed improvements around the facility this summer. A new first aid room was added, providing extra space and privacy.
“For years, it was just part of the lifeguard room. It allows a little bit more privacy. It has a full bed in there and everything else that's needed in case of an emergency,” remarks Shindle.
Upgrades were also made to the accessible washroom, including the addition of a lift bed.
Closing up and looking ahead
Once the final swimmers leave, staff will turn their attention to the big task of winterizing the facility.
“Part of the maintenance would be draining the pool, blowing out the lines to winterize them, as well as ensuring that all of the change rooms and guard room and everything is cleaned at the end of the season to begin preparing for the following season,” explains Shindle.
While some lifeguards head back to university or high school in the fall, most remain connected to the aquatic program year-round.
“Because we have all year-round aquatics, we're very fortunate to be able to keep most of the staff on,” adds Shindle.
This season also saw the introduction of a punch card system, offering ten swims for $60.
“We did see an uptick in selling those and lots of positive comments regarding offering that as an option,” continues Shindle.
As the season winds down, Shindle takes time to acknowledge the people who keep Splash Island running.
“We're very thankful for all the staff at Splash Island and their top-notch professionalism has definitely made Splash Island and our aquatics a success,” she remarks.
With strong attendance, new upgrades, and continued community support, the outdoor pool closes another summer season on a high note.
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