Surf Coast Shire Council is calling for tenders on the design of the $39.25 million Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre.
Tenders opened on 25 September and are scheduled to close on 20 October, marking a significant stride forward for the landmark community project.
“We are so excited to be underway with this process,” Mayor Libby Stapleton said.
“Council aims to appoint a design team at its 24 November 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.”
Council has endorsed centre elements including:
- An indoor heated 50-metre 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 $20m from the Australian Government, a total of $13.5 million from the Victorian Government including a $3.5m grant from its Growing Suburbs Fund, and $5.75m from Council.
Council acknowledges the significant government contributions.
The new centre will be integrated with the recently completed $13.5 million Wurdi Baierr Stadium, adjoining Banyul Warri Fields in Torquay North and is Council’s biggest-ever project.
