Or, at the very least, open it and they will come, argue Border swimmers, who lament the closure of the 50-metre Albury and Wodonga pools at the end of each summer season.

The more dedicated turn reluctantly to the rather cramped and over-heated environs of a couple of 25-metre indoor pools, jostling for lane space among footballers, water aerobics classes and learn-to-swim kiddies.

Still others take to the open water of Lake Hume warmed only by their wetsuits and a steely resolve to continue their training regime despite the big chill.

For the trio who recently returned from the National Masters Swimming Championships in Rockhampton with a swag of medals, the Border is conspicuous by its lack of winter swimming facilities.

Two of the three, Don Taylor and Leigh Rodgers, moved to Albury only recently and have seen and enjoyed the benefits of the facilities at other regional centres and major cities.

When Mr Taylor relocated here from Cairns at the end of last year he was “staggered” by the fact there was no 50-metre pool kept open year-round in Albury or Wodonga.

And he was amazed by the standard of the facilities at Rockhampton, a city smaller than its Border counterpart.

“At Rockhampton the council invested a significant amount in refurbishing its swim centre because it was keen to attract events like the Masters, which hosted some 500 swimmers all spending money in the city,” Mr Taylor said.

“I think they put in something like $17 million for a new 50-metre and 25-metre pool, diving pool, indoor learn-to-swim centre and water park.”

Long-time Tallangatta resident Heather Morgan, who picked up four gold and five silver medals at Rockhampton, said swimming facilities in Albury did not compare well.

She said it was “disappointing” at least one of the Border’s 50-metre pools was not kept open throughout the year.

“During the winter you really have to pick your time at the indoor pools because there are so many different user groups,” Mrs Morgan said.

“You’re lucky if the public has access to two lanes, so it can be very restrictive to your training.

“I understand to run a pool is an enormous cost but even if just one of the pools could stay open it would be a great start.”

All three agree the demand is there — and not just from elite swimmers.

“I believe if you have the infrastructure they will come,” she said.

“Swimming is a sport for all ages and abilities, so it’s a shame the facilities are not there for the community year-round.

More about the benefits of swimming in Pulse on Saturday.