THE Gannawarra Shire Council is in the process of developing an extensive community engagement program which will allow residents to have their say in relation to the draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy.
The draft strategy aims to provide a road map for “the future aquatic and leisure facility development” in the Gannawarra Shire for the next 10 years.
While the document notes that maintaining the existing pools is a priority for Council in the “immediate to medium term”, it’s the future projections which have many Quambatook residents concerned.
“If the cost of these works cannot be afforded over the long term, Council may be forced to close one or more of the existing pools,” the draft strategy notes.
“If this is the case, Council should consider enhancing the quality, attractiveness and programming of the remaining venues.”
The Quambatook pool is a seasonal pool, situated on Crown Land and managed and maintained by the local community Committee of Management.
It features a 25m lap pool and a toddler’s pool with a kiosk, office, amenities and change room facilities, shade structures and picnic areas.
According to the draft strategy, The Quambatook Memorial Pool has an operational surplus of around $4000 a year.
However, in September last year councillors adopted the Strategic Directions Document, which notes council would work with the Department of Environment Land Water and Planning to consider the future of the Quambatook and Leitchville swimming pools, with many residents fearful this may lead to the closure of the pool.
The draft strategy notes that given the very low usage of the Quambatook pool, it’s recommend closing the outdoor pool to DELWP and the Committee
of Management and returning the site to an open space precinct.
“This strategy will redirect the Council support (funding and administration) of the outdoor pool to the proposed new integrated aquatic facility.”
Despite this, Gannawarra Shire Council Mayor, Charlie Gillingham has stressed the document is not set in stone.
“As part of the development of this important document, a significant, wide reaching engagement process will occur,” he said.
“This process will also allow councillors to develop a better understanding of any potential impacts on the community that the draft strategy will have now and into the future.”
Details of the consultation process will be released in the near future.
