New splash park design unveiled for Torquay centre

The shape of the splash park inside the coming Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre has been revealed, with the Victorian government releasing a render of it on Wednesday this week.

The indoor splash park in the facility in Torquay North will have two slides, water fountains and jets, and accessible play zones for children of all abilities.

Its park’s tile and equipment colours were chosen in consultation with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, and were inspired by the coastal features of Wadawurrung Country.

Colours represent the shades of the water and tones of the beaches, cliff faces and vegetation in a design that aims to make the park inviting and exciting for all.

The splash park is a key feature of the new centre, which also includes an indoor 25m pool, learn-to-swim and warm water pools, spa, sauna, steam room, gymnasium, change rooms and car parking.

Wurdi Baierr (pronounced word-ee by-eer) means “big gathering place” in Wadawurrung Language.

The centre is being funded by the federal government, the Victorian government and the Surf Coast Shire. Major construction began in March 2025 and it is scheduled to open in early 2027.

Stage 1 of the works has been costed at $46.3 million but a figure for the stage 2 works, fully funded by the Victorian government through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, has not been confirmed. Both stages are being built simultaneously.

Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney and shire mayor Libby Stapleton inspected progress at Wurdi Baierr earlier this month.

“The splash park is going to be a big drawcard for the centre. Parents of young children are particularly excited, knowing their kids will be able to enjoy water play no matter the weather outside,” Cr Stapleton said.

“Together with the three pools, gym, spa, sauna, steam room and other facilities, there will be something for everyone. Construction is powering ahead – and I can’t wait to see people streaming in around this time next year. “We’re extremely grateful for the funding we’ve received to make this all possible.”

The Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre is one of four Regional Sports Infrastructure Program projects in the Geelong region and one of 16 across Victoria.

The other local projects comprise the newly completed hockey pitch at Banyul-Warri Fields nearby in Torquay North, upgrades to hockey facilities at Stead Park in Corio, a new indoor sporting complex in Waurn Ponds and a new sports centre in Armstrong Creek.

“This is a fantastic milestone for Torquay and the wider Surf Coast – and for families right across our growing region. Wurdi Baierr will be one of the best aquatic and recreation centres in regional Victoria,” Tierney said.

“For families in Armstrong Creek, Mount Duneed and surrounding areas, this incredible facility will be just a short 15-minute drive – making it easier to stay active, spend time together and enjoy a great local space designed for everyone.”

For more information about the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, head to sport.vic.gov.au/rsip