Ready to Make a Splash?
Published on 18 May 2020
While much of life has grinded to a halt in the wake of strict social distancing restrictions, the Rural City of Wangaratta is pleased to announce that work is soon to be completed on a series of major upgrades to the Wangaratta Indoor Sports and Aquatic Centre.
The transformation project worth $16.88 million will provide a range of new facilities including a new 50m heated outdoor pool with lux lighting, hydrotherapy pool, and splash play area all backed by a 60kw solar powered system and a 117-space carpark. Major upgrades have also been made to the remaining indoor heated pool and warm water program pool, with the reception, café and gym areas also being refurbished.
“Swimming is a popular activity in our community and we are excited to bring major benefits by offering high-class aquatic facilities right on our doorstep,” said Brendan McGrath, CEO of Rural City of Wangaratta.
“The social benefits will be enjoyed across our community, with more opportunities for our schools and swimming clubs to compete in the 50m pool and more options for our ageing population to do water-based fitness, rehabilitation and exercise programs in the hydrotherapy pool.”
Carried out by Browns Wangaratta, the project will also provide a major boost to the local economy, with the centre set to become one of the top regional aquatic facilities in Victoria.
“Our new outdoor heated pool is one of the only aquatic facilities in the state to fulfil international FINA Waterpolo requirements. These upgrades will provide a substantial boost to our local economy, with our facility able to attract big regional, state and possibly even national aquatic events. We’d like to see our facility to become maybe even the number one regional aquatic facility not only in the state, but also at a national level,” said Mr McGrath
The facility will be one of Wangaratta’s largest project investments in history, with funding received from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, the Victorian Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, The Wangaratta Swimming Club as well as the Rural City of Wangaratta.
The Rural City of Wangaratta is also pleased to announce the appointment of the new Wangaratta Aquatic Centre Precinct Manager, Chloe Davis.
“It’s so exciting to join the team and we’re working hard to get the facilities ready for the entire community to enjoy” says Chloe.
Chloe brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the management of sport and recreational facilities, having previously worked at Banyule City Council and YMCA Victoria.