A big win for the North Bellarine

AS THE Mayor of City of Greater Geelong, my time is often spent focusing on matters that affect the entire municipality.

This is true of all my Council colleagues, who have portfolios to chair and who vote on issues that extend beyond their ward.

As Mayor this is felt even more so.

However, as a proud resident and member of the Portarlington community, I am acutely aware of the issues faced by those who live within the Bellarine ward.

I campaigned on representing my ward and have done so every day that I have been in the job.

I will always fight for the interests of those who make up the Bellarine community.

That is why I felt it necessary to put forward an Urgent Business item at Tuesday’s council meeting.

The item related to the opening hours of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre, located in Drysdale.

Due to financial constraints the $15.5 million heated facility was intended to be seasonal and close between April and October.

But on Tuesday, Council resolved to extend the season at North Bellarine Aquatic Centre for the next two months.

It means the 50-metre outdoor pool is set to remain open on weekdays from 6.00 am – 10.00am and 3.00pm – 6.00pm, and on Saturdays between 8.00am and 13.00pm, from 1 April to 31 May.

An officer report will then be presented to Council by May identifying opportunities that enable NBAC to remain open year-round.

This is a big win for the North Bellarine and the decision was reached after listening carefully to feedback from residents about the upcoming closure.

I am grateful to my Council colleagues for agreeing that it was the right thing to do to provide additional funding to ensure the pool stays open during the cooler months.

I am so pleased that the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre will continue to be used by squad or recreational swimmers, as well as residents who just enjoy the warm water and socialising.

As many people would appreciate, swimming builds strength, increases mobility, assists rehabilitation and contributes to a healthy mindset, and as such the need to ensure residents had a place to go during winter was strong.

Council was a proud funding partner of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre, contributing $5.5 million to a centre that was designed to foster health, wellness, and inclusivity for all.

And I am both proud and excited that this facility will now remain open for the community for the next two months, promoting a wide range of health gains.

As recent infrastructure projects – including the $64 million Northern Aquatic and Community Hub in Norlane – attest, Council is dedicated to delivering quality spaces and places where they are needed, and the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre has filled a clear gap in our aquatics and leisure network.

For those yet to make a visit, I would encourage you to get along, particularly now that it will be open even longer.

Stage one features a stunning eight-lane 50-metre outdoor pool, all-abilities change facilities, a kiosk with outdoor seating, shaded tiered seating and landscaped lawn areas, parking for 60 cars and electric vehicle charging.

This is a great result for the whole Greater Geelong community, but particularly those in the Bellarine Ward.

Cr Trent Sullivan

Mayor, City of Greater Geelong