Mayor ecstatic about Budget funding for Aquatic Centre


Mayor Cr Barry Lyons is ecstatic following news the City of Greater Bendigo will receive one of its biggest ever government grants to fund the new Greater Bendigo Indoor Aquatic Leisure and Wellbeing Centre.

“The $15M announced today in the State Budgets exceeds our wildest dreams and means we can get on with delivering this much-needed facility for our community,” Cr Lyons said.

“Without funding support from the State Government the likelihood of this project being completed anytime in the foreseeable future was extremely remote indeed.

“The beauty of this announcement is that the money is locked in; it’s in the Budget and not just an election promise.”

Cr Lyons thanked the Premier Dr Denis Napthine and Sport and Recreation Minister Damian Drum for their support for the project, which Council had identified as its top priority for funding. 

He said significant progress had already been made in preparation for the commencement of works with final schematic plans released and a planning permit lodged.

In addition, the City has undertaken a Municipal Aquatic Strategy, business case, detailed site and traffic analysis, an archaeological dig of the site and obtained endorsement from the Victorian Office of the Government Architect.

The centre will feature an eight-lane 50m swimming pool, hydrotherapy warm water pool and spa, children’s splash play and learn to swim pool, gymnasium, Wellness Centre, change rooms and short-stay childcare facilities.

“The new centre will be a 21st Century facility in design and concept and will be an important recreation and economic asset for Greater Bendigo,” Cr Lyons said.

“Business studies suggest there will be more than 430,000 visits to the centre in its early years of operation.

“Delivering this project for our community is part of Council’s quest to become the most liveable regional city in Australia.”

For more information visit City of Greater Bendigo