Pool party celebrates Aquatic Centre upgrade

THE HERVEY Bay Aquatic Centre has officially reopened its lagoon following a booked-out pool party that welcomed locals back to the upgraded facility.

Fraser Coast Deputy Mayor Sara Faraj said the strong community turnout showed how much the centre means to the region.

“Today was a fantastic celebration for families, clubs and casual swimmers,” Cr Faraj said. “The lagoon is open, the new play features are a hit, and the whole precinct is more comfortable and functional for everyone.

“These works deliver modern amenities, better shade and lighting, and more for kids to do. It is a real lift for liveability and for our local swim clubs.”

The redevelopment was delivered in two stages over 18 months at a cost of $9.6 million, supported by the Queensland Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program, which contributed $3.557 million.

Member for Hervey Bay David Lee said the funding ensures communities like Hervey Bay’s enjoy modern, attractive, and safe facilities for years to come.

“In the Sunshine State, we know how popular the local pool is, and this aquatic centre has features that will keep kids and families entertained throughout our hot summer months now and into the future,” he said.

“This is another way that the Crisafulli Government is ensuring our regional communities continue to be the liveable, enjoyable places that Queenslanders expect.”

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the project reinforced the importance of public spaces that encourage healthy, active lifestyles.

“Local governments provide a wide range of infrastructure like roads, sewerage treatment plants and water supply systems; but we also need to make sure that we are building public spaces that encourage a healthy and active lifestyle,” Cr Seymour said.

The upgrades are part of the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre’s masterplan and follow recent improvements to the indoor pool.

“Over the past few years we have built a range of recreational infrastructure such as pump tracks, skating parks, and playgrounds that are focused on keeping young people active, so they can be healthy in body and mind,” Cr Seymour said. “We want to ensure that people of all ages can live an active, happy and healthy lifestyle here in our community.”