General News
25 July, 2024
Hopetoun pool set for major revamp
The Hopetoun community will be able to enjoy making a splash this summer following a revamp of the local swimming pool’s facilities.
Last week, Yarriambiack Shire Council announced their successful application for funding to carry out a number of much-needed repairs to the ageing and leaking pool which has served the community over the hot summers for over 80 years.
Council has received $1,010,000 in funding through the state government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, and will use the grant for projects which focus on patron safety, inclusivity for all abilities and ages, and reducing water loss.
Committee of Management secretary/treasurer Lisa Magee said the funding was certainly welcome.
“The pool leaks badly,” Ms Magee said.
“Water costs us about $10,000 for the six months over summer because it leaks so massively.
“Every year we wonder if we are going to get the pool full because there are serious cracks.”
Ms Magee described the pool as an integral part of the community, saying although a lot of visitors stay at the lake, lots of them opt to visit the pool as the lake is used by skiers and boaters.
“The pool is 80 years old and it still is in good condition, but there are certainly issues that need addressing and we will be able to do that with this funding,” Ms Magee said.
“We also run swimming lessons over the December and January holidays, so the pool is certainly popular.”
Along with the installation of a new deck beside both the main pool and the toddler pool, other works funded by the grant will include rebuilding the balance tank and the main pool shell, construction of an all-abilities ramp into the main pool, construction of all-abilities amenities and upgrades to the existing change rooms, and the installation of a new pool slide.
The total cost of the project is expected to add up to $1,358,676, including construction project management and contingencies, and contributions have been made to the state funding by council ($187,101), the Hopetoun Swimming Pool Committee of Management ($30,000) and from community donations ($46,000).
A further $2000 in donations was also received following the application for the state grant.
“We have been campaigning for many years now,” Ms Magee said.
“There are always many worthy projects, and Council can’t support everyone, but in this instance we have, thankfully, been successful.”
Murtoa’s community is also celebrating the news that their Recreation Reserve has received $918,998 in funding to construct a multipurpose netball and tennis courts, along with fencing, lighting and player shelters for both sides.
The project’s total funding has been contributed to by council ($100,000) and the community, with $30,000 from the Murtoa Recreation Reserve Committee, and $100,000 from the Football Netball Club.
Yarriambiack Shire Council chief executive Tammy Smith praised the Hopetoun and Murtoa communities and said the funding for the projects would not have been possible without co-contributions.