Building works are now 50 per cent complete on the first stage of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre in Drysdale.
Work on the stage one project began in May and more than 2,200 cubic metres of soil have been excavated to create the new pool shell.
The pool shell is being cured and strengthened over 28 days before hydrostatic testing can start. The process involves filling the pool shell with water and testing for any leaks.
Crews have also completed the entry pavilion and structural steel roof, along with the changerooms walls.
The facility has been designed for whole of community use, including swimming carnivals, learn to swim and various aquatic programs.
The facility will include an eight-lane pool, all abilities change facilities, an entry pavilion, a kiosk, tiered covered seating, and landscaped community lawn area with umbrellas.
Sustainability is a key priority, and the facility will be powered using a 16kw solar system. The City team will also plant more than 100 trees, and deliver carparking for 60 cars plus two electric vehicle charging stations.
The concept plans for the outdoor pool that were endorsed by Council in April 2021 allow for the project to be delivered in stages, including a complementary indoor facility.
The City of Greater Geelong has an election commitment of $20 million from the Victorian Government in addition to the Federal Government’s commitment of $20 million towards stage two of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre.
Greater Geelong residents are invited to apply for a position on the new Community Advisory Panel that will help identify several design options for the second stage of the aquatic centre.
Residents are encouraged to consider joining the 12-member panel, which will help provide a community perspective on the design options for the second stage of the aquatic centre.Applications for the volunteer panel close at 9am on Monday 19 December 2022.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
We’re proud to reach this important milestone on our long-term plan to provide better aquatic facilities for residents on The Bellarine. The contractor is employing 60 people over the life of the project with many staff, subcontractors and suppliers living in Greater Geelong. We’re proud that tradies are on site building better facilities for our community and supporting local businesses.
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker
It is pleasing to see that the construction of the outdoor pool is well underway. What is just as pleasing is, now that the Federal and State Government have committed $40 Million in funding, we can deliver an indoor aquatic facility that addresses the community need for rehabilitation, warm water exercise, learn to swim and indoor lap swimming. It is an exciting time.
Bellarine Ward Councillor, Stephanie Asher
This is such an exciting project for the local community and for the schools that sit alongside the pool site. It’s all about delivering what was missing on The Bellarine and building what we’ve promised. Locals are thrilled that they will no longer have to travel 30 minutes for a 50-metre pool.
Bellarine Ward Councillor, Jim Mason
A big thanks to everyone who has supported our push for more aquatic facilities on The Bellarine. I expect there will be plenty of community members ready to jump in when the pool opens.
