Push for golf course to include aquatic centre

Hamish Heard
A proposed merger between Torquay Golf Club and RACV is set to deliver an aquatic centre to the town.
Member for South Barwon Michael Crutchfield said negotiations were underway for a “community facility” at the golf course.
An aquatic centre was one of the options under discussion, he said.
“I understand (Surf Coast Shire) is trying to negotiate with RACV for some community facilities to be possibly included in the redevelopment of the golf club,” Mr Crutchfield said.
“They’re investigating those sorts of things, so there may be a possibility that council may enter some sort of partnership with the RACV.”
Torquay Golf Club has announced plans a partnership with the motoring organisation.
The partnership would include construction of accommodation surrounding the fairways.
The club’s general manager, Bill Laird, confirmed RACV was investigating the potential for incorporating community facilities on the site.
But he would not say whether an aquatic centre was under discussion.
“We suggested it would be good if (RACV) put something toward the community but whatever shape or form that takes is up to them,” Mr Laird said.
Surf Coast Community Leisure Centre Action Group spokesman Peter Currie said Torquay and Jan Juc residents had waited too long for a 25-metre pool.
The group had tabled a petition with 2000 signatures at council along with plans for an aquatic centre and gymnasium costing at least $8 million.
“If it’s a genuine community facility they’re proposing we’d certainly welcome it,” Mr Currie said.
“But if it’s a private and exclusive club-type facility like we have on the north side of Torquay, then that’s no good to us.”
An RACV spokesperson said it was too early for public discussion about plans for community infrastructure at the site.
“RACV has recently commenced discussions with Torquay Golf Club but it is too early in this process to comment on what may or may not be included in those discussions,” the spokesperson said.
“That said, RACV prides itself on being an inclusive and community-minded organisation and, as such, the needs of the members and the community would certainly be considered as part of any plan.”
Surf Coast Shire council this week voted to apply to State Government for grants to develop an aquatic centre in Torquay.