Funding feud over aquatic centre

LIBERAL and Labor representatives have been at loggerheads over who should provide the remaining funds for the Surf Coast Aquatic Centre.

The federal Liberal Government and state Labor Government have pledged $20 million and $10 million to the centre, respectively.

However, the Surf Coast Shire council approved plans cost $39 million.

Liberal senator Sarah Henderson has launched a petition calling on the state Labor Government to cover the funding shortfalls for both the Surf Coast Aquatic Centre and North Bellarine Pool.

Senator Henderson said the onus was on Labor to ensure the Surf Coast Aquatic Centre goes ahead.

“In order for council to build this facility in Torquay, Labor needs to fix this $9 million funding shortfall. Council has applied for a grant from the state government for this additional funding and it is essential that it is delivered,” she said.

“After years of this project being stymied including by Corangamite MP Libby Coker when she was a Surf Coast councillor, I am delighted that under the leadership of the Morrison Government and with the support of council we are so close to making this happen.”

Labor member for Corangamite Libby Coker recently criticised the federal government for not committing the same amount to the North Bellarine Pool as the Surf Coast Aquatic Centre.

Ms Coker said she was determined to secure the remaining funds for both projects.

“I want to make sure the vision of the North Bellarine pool and the Surf Coast Aquatic Centre become a reality for both communities. I know how important it is for these projects to get off the ground,” Ms Coker said.

“I have had multiple discussions across all levels of government to try and ascertain how we can secure additional funding for both projects.”

Surf Coast Shire mayor Rose Hodge said council is also pursuing opportunities to secure the extra funds.

“Council has received advice from the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions that the funding application that was submitted for the Torquay Aquatic and Health Centre was unsuccessful,” Cr Hodge said.

“We understand the program, the Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program, was heavily oversubscribed by councils throughout the state.

“We’ll now look to other opportunities to secure the $9 million funding shortfall. We’re hopeful that additional infrastructure stimulus programs will be announced by state and federal governments in the coming months.”

Cr Hodge said the project would be able to proceed swiftly once the funds were available.

“If we’re successful in gaining this further support then we can move quickly to build this exciting new facility for the Surf Coast community.”