A healthy community is a strong community

COUNCIL is always aiming to improve residents’ mental and physical health, and that is why we invest in the facilities and services that contribute to that.

The host of initiatives we’ve delivered or progressed on the Bellarine this year speak to that ethos.

Starting in Drysdale, Council has partnered with other levels of government to deliver two major projects that add to the livability of the area.

The opening of the first stage of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre is a highlight, as it is a project that I and other ward councillors had pursued for several years.

While the outdoor swimming pool is operational, I’m looking forward to seeing the $40 million indoor component of the facility develop in 2024.

The Borongook Drysdale Library is providing a larger, more diverse, and modern service to the region, and has proven very popular in its first eight months of operation.

Complementing the library is an upgraded Town Square, which has created a green and an inviting place to relax and socialise in the heart of Drysdale.

Down on the Clifton Springs coast, we’ve provided better linkages and created a more attractive place to walk and ride the bike, along the Beacon Point Reserve shared trail.

And just last week, we officially opened the Council and State Government-funded St Leonards Skate Park redevelopment.

Alongside a new skate area, there are multiple recreation options on the multi-sport court to keep people active.

Work is also under way on a number of key projects.Construction has begun on Ocean Grove’s Principal Pedestrian Network – which will improve the footpaths around the town – while preliminary designs of a new bike riding track at Kingston Park have been completed.

In Leopold, a new tennis pavilion (co-funded by the State Government) will take shape at the Recreation Reserve next year.We’re also closing in on completing a high-speed internet upgrade to community, education, and research facilities on the Bellarine.

Focus has now turned to the closing stages of the 35 kilometres of fibre optic cable that is being laid from Central Geelong, through to Drysdale and onto Queenscliff.

The project will connect City facilities such as the Boronggook Drysdale Library, The Potato Shed and Drysdale Sports Precinct, and also service the Eduroam network, which is used by Deakin University staff and students.

But it’s not only about providing the services and facilities that our community needs.We also need to protect and enhance what makes the region such a great place to live and visit.

To that point, Council was pleased to see permanent settlement boundaries were supported by the Victorian government’s final Statement of Planning Policy for the Bellarine.

This will ensure the region’s environmental features and character are retained, and that greenfield growth is directed to other parts of Geelong.

Before I sign off, I’d like to wish all the Bellarine Times readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.I hope it is a safe, peaceful and enjoyable period for you all.

Cr Trent Sullivan

Bellarine Ward, City of Greater Geelong