![\"\"](\"https:\/\/static.timesnewsgroup.com.au\/prod\/uploads\/sites\/24\/2026\/03\/BESP2_09909.jpg\")
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“This will involve a significant operational transition, one that cannot succeed without detailed, cooperative planning between the Club, the City of Greater Bendigo, Belgravia Leisure and the Bendigo Hawks,” Mr Mcintosh said.<\/p>\n
He urged council to reconsider the proposed seasonal closure post haste.<\/p>\n
“We’re ready and willing to work constructively with (them), but the current process leaves too many unanswered questions and too much uncertainty,” he said.<\/p>\n
Explaining the decision, mayor Cr Thomas Prince said managing a public pool is a significant undertaking.<\/p>\n
“It’s challenging to operate aquatic facilities due to a range of factors, including significant safety requirements, risk management and increased capital and operating costs,” he said.<\/p>\n
“These factors are placing growing pressure on all aquatic services, particularly those managed by volunteers.<\/p>\n
“This is not just a Greater Bendigo problem, nationwide service providers are facing similar challenges with ageing infrastructure, increasing running costs and changing community needs for aquatic facilities.<\/p>\n
“Council acknowledges the popularity of Bendigo East Swimming Pool, particularly in the summer months, and is pleased to be able to support its ongoing operation in summer.”<\/p>\n
If the voluntary BESP Committee of Management decides to discontinue operating the facility, the City has pledged that it will appoint a “suitably skilled and qualified (alternative)” prior to the commencement of the 2026\/27 summer season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
CITY of Greater Bendigo councillors have voted five to three to close the Bendigo East Swimming Pool (BESP) during winter despite strong community support to allow year-round access. In the two-week lead up to the vote, more than 2200 locals signed a petition to keep BESP open for 12 months of the year, but their […]<\/p>\n