The Surf Coast community can look forward to diving into a new and even better aquatic centre, with a funding boost for the Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today announced extra funding for Stage 2 of the project, to be delivered through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.
Torquay is a major hub for surfing and water sports and the new facility will deliver on the Labor Government's commitment to provide world class aquatic facilities for the growing communities in the area - including the Armstrong Creek community.
The additional funding will deliver a dedicated learn to swim pool, splash park, spa, sauna and steam room, plus additional change rooms.
The funding will complement Stage 1 of the project, which is set to deliver an indoor 25 metre pool for lap and squad swimming and a warm water indoor pool, aqua aerobics, hydrotherapy and general water play. The centre will also have a gym, spaces for exercise classes, allied health suites and cafe.
The Surf Coast will now have two projects delivered through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program - the Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre and the new hockey facility at Banyul-Warri Fields.
The Regional Sports Infrastructure Program is part of the Labor Government's record $45 billion investment since 2014 in projects and programs that matter to regional communities - including more than $2.3 billion for sport and active recreation infrastructure across Victoria.
Programs like the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program are supporting places like Torquay to be even better places to live, work and visit. The record investment is delivering what locals want and need, close to home, attracting more visitors and helping local businesses to grow.
Works on the Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre are expected to start later this year and will be completed in 2026.
For more information about the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, visit sport.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
"The new aquatic centre will add a whole new dimension to this popular surfing destination, giving locals and tourists the chance to get active in the heart of the Surf Coast."
As stated by Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
"This additional investment will help provide vital sporting infrastructure for the Surf Coast and Geelong region, ensuring locals have world class facilities in their own backyard."
As stated by Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Liz Pattison
"We acknowledge the support of the Victorian Government Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, investing in the health and wellbeing of our community. These exciting stage two additions will significantly increase the year-round appeal of our centre, and we particularly look forward to having dedicated Learn to Swim facilities improving water safety for generations to come."
