Tenders open to design shire’s aquatic centre

TENDERS have opened to design the $39.25 million Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre, and the Surf Coast Shire is calling for applicants to put themselves forward.

The start of the tender process – which officially began on September 25 and is scheduled to close on October 20 – marks a significant stride forward for the community project, slated to be built on land in Torquay North.

“We are so excited to be under way with this process,” shire mayor Libby Stapleton said.

“Council aims to appoint a design team at its November 24 council meeting.

“With design expected to take about 12 months, we anticipate starting construction in April or May 2023 and all being well completing the build mid-2025.

“We look forward to the centre becoming a much-loved asset for our shire community for generations, supporting health and wellbeing for people of all ages and abilities as well as providing a meeting place for community and not-for- profit organisations.

“Our short-term objectives will include bringing together a project community reference group via expressions of interest, to provide input and feedback on design.”

The council has endorsed several elements of the centre, including:

• Indoor heated 50m pool
• Multi-purpose warm water pool
• Gym and group fitness rooms
• Allied health and office suites
• Meeting rooms for community organisations, and
• Program spaces for community multi-use.

Funding for the centre comprises $20 million from the federal government, $13.5 million from the state government including a $3.5 million grant from the Growing Suburbs Fund, and $5.75 million from the council.

The shire has recently executed a funding agreement with Sports and Recreation Victoria for $10 million of the state government’s contribution.

Acting general manager of culture and community Damien Waight said the shire had received an initial payment from the state government as a result.

“The remaining funding will be paid as per agreed project and funding milestones throughout the course of the project,” Mr Waight said.

“All funding agreements have been executed and this allows the project to proceed in full.

“It is common with funding agreements for an initial payment to be made up front, with the remainder of funds paid at agreed milestones throughout the project.”

The new centre will be integrated with the recently-completed $13.5 million Wurdi Baierr Stadium, next to Banyul Warri Fields in Torquay North, and will be the council’s biggest-ever project.