THE consortium behind Bacchus Marsh’s proposed indoor aquatic
centre hopes a lively meeting that attracted about 100 residents will
spark a community fund-raising effort.
Last Thursday’s meeting followed a federal government announcement of $7 million towards the long-awaited complex.
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Consortium chairman David Stewart said attention would now turn to
raising the required $1 million community contribution. ‘‘We regret it
wasn’t $10 million, but it’s infinitely better than nothing,” Dr Stewart
said.
Ballarat MP Catherine King said the money had already been factored into the federal budget and was not an election promise.
“This project is a great example of a community working together,” she said.
“The local council, Bacchus Marsh Rotary, health agencies, police,
business people, schools, sporting groups, aged care and community
groups have combined to achieve this great community outcome.”
Last week’s meeting, where several residents’ questions were met
with applause, also highlighted the need to develop appropriate plans
for the complex, drawing inspiration from pools such as Moss Vale
Aquatic Centre in NSW.
Moorabool chief executive Rob Croxford said the council would
submit an application for a $3 million state government grant tomorrow.
“We’ve held off finishing plans until we are certain about funding,” he said.
Mr Croxford told residents that the council was in talks with Moss Vale Aquatic Centre to tour that facility.
He also addressed complaints that current plans featured an outdoor toddlers’ pool.
“We’ll definitely look into that. The toddlers’ pool is estimated
to cost $500,000 and we couldn’t afford [to move it inside] in the
original costing. However, we now intend to factor it in.”
The consortium has suggested that the council allocate 1 per cent of rates collected each year to the pool’s operating costs.
