The starter's gun has been fired on the redevelopment of Walgett Memorial Swimming Pool after the NSW Government announced it would provide $250,000 towards planning and design work for a new facility.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper announced the funding when he met with Walgett Shire Council General Manager Megan Dixon, Mayor Councillor Jasen Ramien and local pool users today.
The funding will be used to conduct a needs analysis, site assessment, options development, feasibility, business and funding plan as well as detailed design and planning approvals.
Walgett Memorial Swimming Pool, which was built in the 1960's, is reaching the end of its life cycle and has been identified by Council as in need of redevelopment.
At the completion of these works, Walgett Shire Council will be in the position to seek additional funding for the redevelopment of the pool under its Outback Aquatic Revamp project.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
"Swimming pools in regional NSW are like an oasis that bring communities together.
"Walgett Memorial Pool is a great example of this and the groups that use the pool for fun, fitness and water safety, including Walgett Swimming Club, Walgett Learn to Swim and Walgett Water Safety can testify to the sense of community it creates.
"The NSW Government is excited to contribute to the Walgett Olympic Pool Outback Aquatic Revamp project and look forward to the future plans for the facility."
Member for Barwon, Roy Butler said:
"The announcement of the $250,000 for Walgett Memorial Swimming Pool is an acknowledgement by the NSW government of the importance of pools in regional communities."
"More than just infrastructure, pools provide an environment that helps to build cohesive and social networks. They also offer the added benefits of fitness, safety, and relief from very high summer temperatures. The community of Walgett and I welcome this news."
Walgett Shire Council's Mayor Jasen Ramien said:
"A massive thank you to the NSW Government and Minister Kamper for recognising the importance of the Walgett Pool to our community.
"With summer temperatures reaching up to the high 40s, the pool is essential for keeping everyone cool and safe.
"We are excited to begin the first steps in ensuring that Walgett residents and visitors have a space that not only offers relief from the heat, but promotes fitness, water safety and a sense of community."
President of the Walgett Amateur Swim Club, Kate Murray said:
"This news is welcomed by the Walgett Area Swimming Club and the entire community of Walgett.
"The Walgett Swimming Pool brings together our whole community over an entire 6 months of the year. It is the beating heart over the warmer months, providing a welcome space for fun, laughter and connection.
"Importantly, it also provides the opportunity for the ongoing training of survival and swimming techniques for the children of our region, which is so essential in the country we live in."
