Senator welcomes pool progress

BELLARINE residents will be encouraged to provide feedback next month on the concept designs for stage two of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre, which will include an indoor, warm water pool and an aqua play area.

The project’s second stage consultation will be ready to start, as tenders close on October 15 for the construction phase of stage one, which will include a heated, 50-metre outdoor pool and other facilities.

Stage one of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre is being funded by a $10 million commitment by the Federal Government and a $5.45 million investment by the City of Greater Geelong.

The city will continue to seek funding for the second stage of the project from all levels of government to secure the indoor, warm water pool and children’s play area for the community.

The two-stage project responds to an independent scoping study commissioned by the city last year which confirmed residents in north Bellarine towns such as Drysdale, Curlewis, Portarlington, St Leonards and Indented Head had less access to aquatic facilities than those elsewhere in Greater Geelong, with some facing drives of up to 35 minutes to the nearest 50-metre outdoor pool.

Senator Sarah Henderson said she was delighted that the City of Greater Geelong had released the tender to construct stage one of the aquatic facility to be built at Drysdale.

“This stage one outdoor heated 50-metre pool facility is a very positive beginning,” Senator Henderson said, explaining she had spent two years consulting with the community when she was Member for Corangamite before the federal government’s funding commitment.

“That council is now working on concept designs for a stage two indoor pool facility is also incredibly exciting.

“This marks a very significant milestone in delivering an outdoor 50-metre heated pool, complete with change rooms, kiosk, entry pavilion, covered tiered seating and community lawn, in partnership with the Morrison Government.

She said the project would “deliver a wonderful asset for Bellarine residents, including some 3,500 students who attend local schools.

“This will not only be so positive for community health and wellbeing but will save lives,” Ms Henderson said.

“I am pleased that council is progressing community consultation and concept designs for a stage two indoor pool facility, recognising the importance of investment from all levels of government.”