More than 1000 extra people took refuge from the heat at Springwood Aquatic and Fitness Centre over these holidays than they did in 2007/08 —7000 visitors passed through its gates between December 26 and January 9 compared to 5400 the previous year.

Blackheath Pool has also been particularly busy compared to this time 12 months ago with the community really getting out and supporting their local pool, said a council spokesperson.

The figures were less dramatic at Katoomba but its pool still had an extra 400 people take a dip than the same period last year, with 4420 visits.

A fantastic increase has also been noticed in the Learn to Swim program with all pools being nearly fully booked during the last two weeks and spaces filling fast for lessons in the coming weeks. Learn to Swim Intensive lessons are being held at Glenbrook, Springwood, Lawson and Katoomba.