Centre makes a splash

Member for Corangamite Libby Coker, Surf Coast Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth and Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney celebrate the latest Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre milestone. (Supplied)

Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre’s new pools are ready to make a splash as construction continues ahead of schedule.

The 25-metre pool, warm water program pool and in-built spa were filled and tested for leaks and structural integrity, with construction of the centre scheduled to be completed late next year.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth said he was glad to see the centre progress faster than initially expected and that the project resulted from years of passionate community advocacy.

“I’m so excited to see the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre shaping up and to get a feel for what a wonderful community asset it will be,” he said.

“We look forward to it becoming a much-loved destination bringing health and wellbeing benefits for people of all ages and abilities from across our shire.”

Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said the centre would give people of all ages a place to learn, exercise and connect thanks to the state government’s support.

“I’m proud to be part of a government investing in spaces that keep our communities active, connected and supported close to home,” she said.

“This milestone brings us another step closer to opening the doors of a world-class facility 15 minutes from Armstrong Creek, and families will be able to enjoy new pools, a splash park, spa, sauna and more.

“It’s fantastic to see the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre taking shape, which is a project shaped by the community’s vision for a modern, accessible space that supports health and wellbeing.”

The centre is a partnership project with stage one funded by the federal and state governments, along with Surf Coast Shire Council, while the state government will fully fund stage two.