Swimming lake overhaul

Millicent Swimming Lake set to close this summer

Wattle Range Council has decided to tender for a major reconstruction of the Millicent Swimming Lake. This decision was taken after consideration of a number of options to address significant leaks in the lake floor and is seen as the most beneficial decision for the community in the long term.

The decision, taken at this month’s council meeting, means the lake will not be opening next month as per normal and will highly likely result in the pool being closed this summer.

In recent times it was discovered that excessive amounts of water had been used to maintain the levels of Millicent Swimming Lake and on investigation it was determined that the 50-year-old lake floor had been compromised in multiple locations.

As the defects identified were significant and the water loss excessive, council allocated a significant amount of money in the current year’s budget to address the issue.

Consultancy advice has recommended that the most effective solution in correcting the defects would be to remove the existing bitumen seal and then reshape and concrete the entire floor. All work that will need to be done during dryer weather.

Other upgrades, including improved disability access will be considered within the works to enable all to enjoy the renewed facility. Prior to calling for tenders to undertake this work, council will need to obtain expert engineering design plans to ensure all structural requirements are met. This will include a full detailed design of the floor treatment as well as the underfloor requirements and associated chlorination and filtration infrastructure. More precise costs estimates can be established from these designs.

Although it is unfortunate that the 2023/24 swim season will be impacted at the Millicent Swimming Lake, this infrastructure upgrade will transform this important asset ensuring its availability for many decades to come.