Council signs external operator for new aquatic hub

BELGRAVIA Health and Leisure Group will operate the new Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre when it opens next year, after the Surf Coast Shire endorsed the appointment of an external manager.

The council has approved entering into a contract with the company, subject to final contract negotiations, to manage the new Torquay facility, including the existing Wurdi Baierr Stadium, as well as the recently refurbished Winchelsea Swimming Pool.

Councillor Liz Pattison said the operator’s experience managing aquatic and recreation facilities across Australia made it well placed to oversee both sites.

“Belgravia has a lot of experience in managing aquatic and recreation facilities across Australia including indoor stadiums and seasonal outdoor pools,” she said.

“We’re excited to work with them as they bring their ideas and specialist expertise to the management of our facilities, to help deliver an even better user experience for our community.”

Cr Pattison said Belgravia staff would begin working alongside council employees from September as preparations ramped up for the reopening of the Winchelsea pool and the opening of the new aquatic centre in early 2027.

“Construction of the new centre is flying along with the three pools all now fully tiled and the splash park starting to take shape,” she said.

“I know lots of people are really excited for the opening and with this contract in place we’ll be ready to hit the ground running when the doors open.”

The appointment is not expected to affect existing user groups, with bookings to continue as normal while the shire manages the transition.

The shire will also continue to set annual fees and charges, while the operator will oversee cafe and merchandise pricing.

The council previously determined outsourcing management of the facilities would provide the best level of service for the community while delivering the lowest operating cost compared with other management models.

The new Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre is jointly funded by the Victorian and Australian governments and the shire.

Due to open in early 2027, the centre will feature a 25m pool, warm water and learn-to-swim pools, a splash park, spa, sauna, steam room, gym, allied health suites, cafe and program spaces.