I am delighted that an independent study commissioned by the City of Greater Geelong has embraced the Morrison Liberal Government’s commitment to a new outdoor 50 metre pool in Drysdale supported by $10 million from our government.
In contrast to the current Labor member for Corangamite who refused to commit any funds to construct a new Bellarine pool before the 2019 election, I was very proud to have secured such a significant commitment for Bellarine residents and the broader regional community.
The council study has confirmed the community‘s view, backed by our government, that a pool is desperately needed on the north Bellarine.
The proposed 50 metre outdoor pool, complete with a membrane roof, has previously been costed at approximately $7 million with $3 million allocated to change rooms, a kiosk and other facilities.
My proposal, which was not supported at the time by Ms Coker or Bellarine MP Lisa Neville, was that the state government should fund a stage 2 facility being an indoor program or hydrotherapy pool complete with gym and other allied health facilities.
The state government and Ms Neville need to get on board.
The benefits of a new aquatic facility to residents on the Bellarine Peninsula and the broader region are now beyond dispute.
Not only is this aquatic facility vital to teach children to swim, it’s also an essential asset for local schools and clubs as well as for community health and well-being.
I look forward to working with the City of Greater Geelong as it completes the work on identifying the best site in Drysdale.
Rather than mislead the community, I urge the current member for Corangamite to lobby her state Labor counterparts to fund stage 2 of this facility