The North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (Stage One), with its newly constructed outdoor pool, has been officially opened, embodying our unwavering commitment to fostering a healthier, happier, and more vibrant community.
To commemorate this significant outcome, Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker and Mayor Trent Sullivan came together today to officially open the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (Stage One).
Work on the community facility (Stage One) began in May 2022 thanks to $10 million from the federal government and $5.5 million from the City of Greater Geelong.
The new (Stage One) North Bellarine Aquatic Centre features:
- A stunning eight-lane 50-metre outdoor pool
- All abilities change facilities
- Kiosk with outdoor seating
- Shaded tiered seating and landscaped lawn areas
- Parking for 60 cars and electric vehicle charging
- Reciprocal access for all Swim Sport & Leisure members
Councillor Elise Wilkinson, Councillor Jim Mason and Senator the Hon Sarah Henderson attended the opening to celebrate the stage one completion.
Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker said the completion of stage one was a great milestone and she now looks forward to stage two of this important project.
“Stage one is now complete, the outdoor pool is open, and we are now one step closer to building the $40 million stage two indoor aquatic centre.”
“The much-anticipated stage two project will include facilities for lap swimming, warm water exercise, learn to swim and hydrotherapy – I know our local community can’t wait for this indoor pool, Ms Coker said.
“I look forward to celebrating with them over the coming days as we mark the opening of stage one – an important milestone for this project.
“Our government is working closely with the City of Greater Geelong to make sure this project gets underway as soon as possible.
“This Sunday is open day – I encourage everyone to come along and make the most of the new outdoor pool.”
Mayor Trent Sullivan said he was thrilled to declare the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre officially open.
“This has been a priority project of the Bellarine councillors for many years, so it is very exciting to see swimmers taking to the water,” he said.
“Council is dedicated to delivering quality spaces and places where they are needed, and this facility fills a clear gap in our aquatics and leisure network.
“This outdoor eight-lane pool is just the start of what will be an indoor and outdoor health, fitness and recreation hub.
“We’re looking forward to work beginning in the near future on the $40 million indoor component of the facility.”
Bellarine Ward Councillor Jim Mason said the community benefited when the different levels of government worked together.
“A project of this size and ambition is best delivered with input and support from our federal and state partners,” Cr Mason said.
“We’d like to acknowledge the Federal Government for investing $10 million into this first stage, and to both the Federal and State governments for allocating $20 million to enable a range of indoor facilities to be added.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the second stage of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre take shape and providing high-quality facilities to the community for many years to come.”
Bellarine Peninsula residents are preparing to make a splash with the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre set to open to the public at 6am on Wednesday 1 November.
Just four days later, the community is invited to join in the fun of a free open day on Sunday 5 November, where everyone will have an opportunity to enjoy the state-of-the-art facility.
Stage Two concept designs for the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre approved by Council include:
- 8-lane 25 metre pool
- Warm water pool
- Café and social space
- Gymnasium and group exercise studio/s
- Changing places change room
- Various associated facilities
Costings for Stage Two have been calculated to be $40.3 million, which will be largely funded by $20 million each in funding commitments from the state and federal governments.
