Libby Coker’s decision to back a winter shut down of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre shows she is out of her depth when it comes to fighting for local residents.
In calling for this state-of-the-art aquatic facility to close for five months – rather than council’s proposed seven month closure – the Corangamite Labor MP has failed to stand up for the Bellarine.
Corangamite residents deserve a local MP who is prepared to do more than tread water.
As a condition of its stage two indoor pool funding agreement with council, the Albanese Government must ensure the aquatic facility is open 12 months of the year.
Council’s proposed closure by stealth – from 1 April until 31 October – represents a betrayal of our community. Ms Coker’s call to close the pool from the end of April until the beginning of October is no better.
This wonderful 50-metre outdoor heated pool, funded by the former Coalition Government in partnership with council, must remain open all year round as council committed to do.
I am immensely proud to have worked so closely with local residents to help deliver the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre which forced state and federal Labor governments to adopt the Liberal’s plan to fund a stage two indoor pool.
With 24,000 visits since it opened last November, the aquatic centre has proved to be a dream come true and a wonderful asset for the health and wellbeing of our community.
Bellarine residents deserve the right to access this facility all year round.
Please sign the community petition at https://www.change.org/p/extend-the-operating-months-of-north-bellarine-aquatic-centre