First splash

BELLARINE North is one step closer to receiving a 50-metre pool after council endorsed concept plans during last week’s meeting.

As a part of the proposed budget released on April 26, council put forward significant funding with up to $5.15 million to accompany the $10 million commitment from the federal government.

The city’s contribution will include $1.5 million in the 2021-22 budget for the initial build and a further $2.75 projected in forward planning for 2022-23.

The endorsed concept plans set out a layout for the Drysdale Sporting Precinct, showing the location of the outdoor pool, changerooms and kiosk with the capacity to accommodate a future stage two.

Under federal funding provisions the city will deliver a 50-metre, eight lane outdoor pool complying with FINA and Swimming Australia standards, however opportunities to incorporate an enhanced aquatic venue have been earmarked for the second stage of construction.

During the meeting council resolved to identify potential funding avenues for an indoor aquatic facility that includes provision for a warm water pool, aqua play, hydrotherapy and other associated facilities.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the first stage of development will bring huge benefits to the Bellarine community.

“A 50-metre outdoor pool is ideal for the north Bellarine because it will allow for full scale swim training and Learn to Swim programs – both essential for increasing water safety and creating surf ready swimmers,” she said.

The push for the pool began in 2020 when an independent scoping study confirmed residents in Bellarine’s north had reduced access to aquatic facilities with some residents having to drive up to 35 minutes to access the nearest 50-metre pool.

Cr Asher said council are listening to the needs of the community which comes as frustrations were raised amongst locals over a lack of indoor and warm water facilities in the original plans.

“We are hearing what the community is saying about the need for further facilities and will now identify potential funding avenues to add other features such as a warm water pool and aqua play in the future,” she said.

Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said the estimated $15.5 million facility is just the first step forward.

“Everyone knows the Bellarine needs more aquatic facilities – there’s no debate about that,” he said.

“The opportunity to build a 50-metre outdoor pool is a fantastic first step, and we will now work with all levels of government to pursue the funding for the stage two facilities the community is asking for.”

Under current concept plans the pool has been designed to maximise the range of uses for people of all abilities, and will be able to host lap swimming, water exercise and learn to swim activities as well as some events and carnivals.

Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said the new 50-metre outdoor pool will further serve more than 3,500 students at schools within 200 metres of the precinct site.

“A new pool has been a longstanding wish for the north Bellarine community, and we are now incredibly close to seeing it become a reality,” he said.