Dubbo's Australia Day ambassador Samantha Williams opened proceedings with the raising of the flag, followed by local duo Lynda Beazley and Vicki Picton singing the national anthem.

A water sports enthusiast and advocate for people with disabilities, Ms Williams spoke of the personal injuries and people that changed her life.

She spoke in particular of her strong affinity with the country's indigenous people and the benefits she had found in gaining knowledge of their culture.

Her comments carried a degree of irony as Dubbo is home to thousands of Aboriginal people, the majority of whom were conspicuous by their absence.

Dubbo mayor Greg Matthews thanked Ms Williams for her thoughts and her willingness to participate in the day's proceedings.

While at the podium Cr Matthews announced awards for Citizen of the Year (Mrs Valerie Pocock), Sportsperson of the Year (Chris Pascoe) and Young Person of the Year (Todd Williams).

After the official ceremony was completed a mass exodus took place in the direction of the Dubbo olympic pool. The mad rush was in anticipation of being among the first into the new babies' pool, which was opened to the public free of charge.

Cr Matthews stood nervously before a crowd of about 100 children, who eagerly awaited the official cutting of the ribbon.

The deed done, Cr Matthews had to leap clear of the stampede of children as they rushed headlong into the water.

"It's taken us a bit longer than expected to get it finished," Cr Matthews said.

"But I don't think anyone cares today - this is a great response and we're really happy to see so many people enjoying it."

Cr Matthews added that after three years it was good to see one of council's projects come to fruition.

Also attending the opening, Cr Richard Mutton said it was an excellent facility for Dubbo and would be used almost immediately for learn-to-swim lessons.