As a councillor, and now Mayor, I believe my biggest duty is to help improve the quality of life of all people in the community.<\/p>\n
It is about making sure that people have access to the places and spaces where they feel connected to their community, stay active, learn new skills and access important services.<\/p>\n
Being on Council provides us the ability to help existing residents \u2013 and future generations \u2013 the opportunity to live a happy and healthy life.<\/p>\n
Delivering the infrastructure where people need it the most is one of the reasons why all Bellarine Ward councillors have been advocating for a quality aquatic centre in the northern part of the peninsula, since we were first elected in 2017.<\/p>\n
We were able to start work on this after securing $10 million from the Federal Government.<\/p>\n
With a further $5.5m from the Council, we are well on the way to delivering stage one of the project in the Drysdale Sporting Precinct.<\/p>\n
Work is progressing well, with the shell of the 50-metre outdoor pool recently finished and ready to be filled with water for testing.<\/p>\n
All elements of the first stage \u2013 the year-round heated eight-lane pool, all-abilities change facilities, an entry pavilion, a kiosk, tiered covered seating, landscaping, tree plantings and car parking \u2013 are expected to be complete by the middle of 2023.<\/p>\n
This will provide more than 3500 students from neighbouring schools with convenient aquatic facilities, and cater for lap swimmers and aqua exercise users from the community.<\/p>\n
In the meantime, we’re moving forward on finalising the plans for stage two of the aquatic and leisure centre.<\/p>\n
The Victorian state election campaign provided us with surety about funding.<\/p>\n
Thanks to advocacy efforts, we secured commitments of $20m from both the Labor and Liberal parties.<\/p>\n
Along with the Federal Government’s commitment of a further $20m, we have a total of $40m to deliver the indoor section of project.<\/p>\n
Council determined its priorities for the indoor facilities in April 2021.<\/p>\n
These include a warm water pool, spa, sauna, steam room, aqua play, hydrotherapy and Learn to Swim programs.<\/p>\n
It will also consider opportunities for indoor lap swimming, in response to recent community feedback.<\/p>\n
The warm water exercise pool would set a regional standard for gentle exercise and rehabilitation, and a learn-to-swim pool would allow kids to get in the water close to home.<\/p>\n
To help us identify and finalise design options, Council is establishing a new Community Advisory Panel.<\/p>\n
The volunteer panel will include up to 12 members of the community, with a focus on attracting people who are connected to:<\/p>\n