Aquatic centre makes a big step

A DEEPLY rewarding part of being a councillor is seeing hard work – by the community and Council – turn into real progress.

After years of local input, advocacy and persistence, I’m pleased to say the detailed design plans for Stage Two of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre in Drysdale are now ready and available to view.

This is a big step. The comprehensive plans have been approved by the Project Control Group, made up of City staff, Victorian Government representatives and community members.

That means we’re one step closer to delivering the indoor aquatic and fitness facility so many in our community have been waiting for.

Right now, we’re evaluating submissions from contractors, and a recommendation on a head contractor will go to Council in the near future. If things go to plan, we expect the $40.3 million centre will open in late 2027.

Stage Two builds on the popularity of the existing 50-metre outdoor pool with the addition of a 25-metre indoor pool and a warm water exercise pool inside a brand-new pool hall.

The plans also include a gym, two group fitness rooms, and a café, all under one roof.

It’s been designed with accessibility front and centre. Both pools will have ramps, so people with limited mobility, older residents and parents with young children can get in and out safely and easily.

There’s also a strong health story behind this project. According to the 2024 Geelong Preventative Health Survey, only 65 per cent of adults in our region are meeting recommended activity levels.

One in five are classified as sedentary. That’s a clear call to action and this centre is part of the solution.

Warm water exercise is especially helpful for people living with arthritis, managing chronic pain, or recovering from injury.

It’s low impact, it has many health benefits, and until now, many north Bellarine residents haven’t had easy access to it.

Add a gym and fitness rooms into the mix, and we’re removing even more barriers.

People won’t need to travel far to stay active and well. That’s a big deal for a growing area like ours, where public transport can be a challenge.

Most importantly, this is a facility shaped by local voices. The people of north Bellarine showed up, at forums, feedback sessions and through strong community advocacy. The resultreflects that input.

The outdoor pool has already shown us how much this region values local aquatic spaces. Now, we’re building on that success to create something the community can use all year round.

Late 2027 might feel like a while away, but this project will serve us for generations. It’s about creating a healthier, more connected future.

Well done to everyone who has helped get us to this stage and thank you to the Community Advisory Panel for helping set the direction early on.

To see the plans and for more information about the project, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/nbacproject

Cr Trent Sullivan

Leopold Ward,

City of Greater Geelong