Public places connecting the Bellarine

Council prides itself on providing the places and spaces that brings the community together.

These are where residents can keep active and healthy, pursue their interests, connect and socialise with others, and access important services.

In a sprawling municipality, it is important to provide residents with equitable access to these facilities, regardless of where they live.

On the North Bellarine, we’ve sought to address gaps in key infrastructure and services.

The two most significant investments are both opening this year.

The $9.15 million Boronggook Drysdale Library has been operating since May, while the $15.5 million North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (stage one) is opening its doors in about a month’s time.

The aquatic centre has long been a priority for Bellarine councillors.

By locating it in the Drysdale Sporting Precinct, it ensures that residents of the north will no longer have to travel up to half an hour to access a 50-metre pool.

The pool will open to the public on November 1, before we invite everyone to attend a free community open day on Sunday, November 5.

This will be a great chance to check out the first stage of the premier venue, which includes an:

• Outdoor eight-lane, 50-metre pool
• All-abilities change facilities
• Kiosk with outdoor seating; and
• Shaded tiered seating and landscaped lawns.

Stage one is being jointly delivered by the Australian Government ($10 million) and the Council ($5.5 million).

The North Bellarine Aquatic Centre has been designed for whole of community use, including swimming carnivals, learn to swim lessons and other aquatic programs.

I invite all residents to come down and celebrate this fantastic addition to our growing network of aquatic facilities.

As part of the longer-term vision, there are significant additions still to come.

Thanks to the support of the Victorian Government ($20 million) and the Federal Government ($20 million), stage two of the development promises a fantastic array of indoor spaces.

These include an:

• Eight-lane 25-metre pool
• Warm water pool
• Café and social space
• Gymnasium and group exercise studio/s; and
• Changing places changeroom

Designs for stage two were heavily influenced by a cross-section of the local community.

The designs were developed in partnership with a 12-member Community Advisory Panel, which had a balanced mix of interests, gender, and diverse backgrounds.

I can’t wait to see people hit the water come November, and for the full scope of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre to take shape in the coming months.

It is a very exciting period in this beautiful part of the region, and I’m very pleased Council has teamed with other levels of government to provide the facilities that residents deserve.

Mayor Trent Sullivan

Bellarine Ward,

City of Greater Geelong