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Mon 14 Sep 2026 EN
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Teenager recalls working pool kiosk in Sale during hot summer of 1982

A fourteen-year-old worker at the Sale Memorial Pool describes her first shift in Victoria's Gippsland region during the summer of 1982.

A job that changed me: Working the pool kiosk in the summer of ’82, I was excited when older boys came by – but I learned that respect is better than attention
File photo A job that changed me: Working the pool kiosk in the summer of ’82, I was excited when older boys came by – but I learned that respect is better than attention Photo: The Guardian

First day nerves and heat

The manager called the teenager home the night before to confirm the schedule. Temperatures were expected to reach 33C on that first shift. She arrived wearing a terry-towelling skirt and sandals despite feeling anxious about her appearance.

Co-worker contrast and queue

A colleague with straight blond hair and silver-threaded clothing worked the ticket window. Patrons formed a line as soon as the lifeguards opened the gate at nine. Children rushed through turnstiles to find space on the lawn outside.

Shift duties and atmosphere

The young employee sat on a stool to collect coins from visitors. Schoolmates who usually ignored her became jealous of this sought-after position. The job provided excitement before fast-food outlets and chain supermarkets became common.

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