Aquatic and leisure centre build passes halfway mark

A major milestone has been met on one of the Bellarine’s biggest capital projects.

Builders have passed the halfway mark on the first stage of the North Bellarine Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

Work on the new $15.5 million facility, which is located in the Drysdale Sports Precinct, began in May this year.

After excavating 2200 cubic metres of soil, a new 50-metre pool shell has been installed.

When I joined my fellow Bellarine Ward councillors, Mayor Trent Sullivan and Stephanie Asher, for a site visit in mid-December, the pool shell was full of water and being thoroughly tested.

Crews have also completed the entry pavilion and structural steel roof, along with changerooms walls.

The first stage of the development is coming together nicely, and I’m looking forward to seeing all of its features in place.

These include an eight-lane pool, all-abilities change facilities, an entry pavilion, a kiosk, tiered covered seating, and landscaped community lawn area with umbrellas.

The facility will be powered by a 16kW solar system, and be surrounded by a 60-space car park and more than 100 trees.

While we await the completion of the first stage, attention has turned to the complementary indoor facility on the site.

Council has secured an election commitment of $20 million from the Victorian Government, in addition to the Federal Government’s pledge of $20 million.

With that funding surety, we can now pursue the development of the indoor section of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre with confidence.

A new 12-member Community Advisory Panel will provide community perspectives and help identify several design options for the second stage.

Council’s priorities for the indoor facility include a warm water pool, spa, sauna, steam room, aqua play, hydrotherapy and Learn to Swim programs, while indoor lap swimming will also be considered.

Applications for the advisory panel closed on December 19, with committee members expected to be appointed in January.

I’m looking forward to the panel being put in place, and to seeing what advice they come back for this transformative project.

It’s been a pleasure to attend significant events at two of our biggest cultural institutions this month.

The Potato Shed unveiled its program for 2023, delivering its renowned mix of theatre, music, cabaret, and comedy.

A lot of popular favourites will return next year, including Morning Showtime Shows; Winter Solstice and 12 x 12 Plays and children’s entertainers Theatre 3triple2 4 Kids.

Council recognises that demand for space and activities in the 21-year-old facility and outstripping supply.

We’re investing $150,000 to develop a business case, that will outline the transformation of the Potato Shed into a venue that meets the needs of the community.

Through our advocacy efforts, we’ll be seeking up to $30 million from other levels of government to fund the redevelopment.

In central Geelong, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition has opened at the National Wool Museum, showcasing the best of the best in nature and wildlife photojournalism from around the globe.

The National Wool Museum is the exclusive Victorian home of the much-loved exhibition, elevating its status as a cultural tourism attractor.

The competition is a global phenomenon, receiving more than 50,000 entries from all over the world.

This year’s award-winning images will embark on an international tour that will allow them to be seen by well over a million people.

I urge everyone to check out the exhibition, and the wider display at the National Wool Museum, and to book in to see a performance at the Potato Shed in the New Year.

Cr Jim Mason