Jane Emerick
Surf Coast Shire councillors will push RACV to open a pool at Torquay Golf Club to the public.
But the club’s new owner has doused the councillors’ plans, saying “golfing” will be the only activity open to the public at the RACV’s proposed resort.
Twothirds of voting members at Torquay Golf Club have voted in favour of an RACV takeover of their course.
The motoring organisation’s $55 million proposal includes a new club house, resortstyle accommodation and the swimming pool.
Torquay councillor Ron Humphrey said the RACV plans still needed the shire’s approval.
“Getting on side with the Torquay Golf Club is one thing but there are still a few more hurdles for the RACV to cross,” Cr Humphrey said.
“Council is going to work with the RACV for the best outcome for the local community. I’ll be pushing strongly to have their amenities open to the public.”
Cr Keith Grossman vowed to back the pool push.
“Why shouldn’t (the RACV) do something for the community?,” Cr Grossman said.
He suggested RACV could build the pool near Torquay’s Spring Creek Reserve.
RACV executive general manager Bryan Hiscock said the pool would be part of the “clubhouseresort complex and not a public facility.”
Mr Hiscock also revealed RACV had approached Great Ocean Road Coast Committee about buying Torquay caravan park for the pool site.
Mr Hiscock said RACV would finalise plans for the development over the next 12 months.