Funding secured for stage two of North Bellarine Aquatic Centre

IN FANTASTIC news for the growing community around Drysdale, construction of stage two of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre is scheduled to begin later this year.

Thanks to $40 million from the Australian and Victorian governments, the second phase of the project will add two new indoor pools, along with a gym, two group fitness rooms and a café.

Stage one of the aquatic centre has already been a major success, with the outdoor 50-metre pool proving so popular that Council extended its opening hours into the winter months last year.

The next phase will build on this momentum and enable people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the health benefits of swimming all year round.

Stage two includes a 25-metre indoor pool and a warm water exercise pool to complement the existing outdoor pool and provide access to first-class fitness, rehabilitation and learn-to-swim services.

Notably, both pools will include accessible entry points, making them user-friendly for seniors, people with disabilities and those recovering from injury.

The state and federal governments have each committed $20 million to the project, with the City of Greater Geelong putting forward up to $300,000.

The funding comes after extensive community advocacy and hard work by all three levels of government to make this vision a reality.

The next step in the process is the development of detailed designs, with construction scheduled for completion in late 2027.

Have your say – Proposed sale of land in Ocean Grove

Meanwhile, Bellarine Peninsula residents have an important opportunity to shape another key project in the region.

The City of Greater Geelong is currently seeking community feedback on the proposed sale of two blocks of council-owned land in Ocean Grove.

The City is considering selling:

* A reserve, measuring approximately 380 square metres at 94 The Parade, Ocean Grove, which would first be rezoned from public park and recreation zone (PPRZ) to commercial 1 zone (C1Z), and

* Land being used as a carpark, measuring approximately 1,623 square metres at 89-91 The Terrace, Ocean Grove, which is zoned C1Z. If sold, the land will be incorporated into the development of the adjoining land.

The proceeds from the land sales would be reinvested into improving public spaces throughout Ocean Grove.

Provisions of the sale will also ensure no net loss to the current number of car parking spaces in any redevelopment.

Community input is essential to ensure the best outcome. Whether you support the sale or have concerns, now is the time to give your feedback.

The Have Your Say process is essential to ensure we hear all the community’s views.

Head to the City’s website and give your feedback before 5pm on Monday, March 31 at yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/proposed-land-sale-ocean-grove

Cr Elise Wikinson

Connewarre Ward,

City of Greater Geelong