Yarra Ranges Council will enter into a new aquatics and leisure partnership from 1 July 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter for community aquatic and leisure services across the municipality.
At its meeting on Tuesday, Council resolved to award the Facility Management and Leisure Services contract to Aligned Leisure, an Australian community leisure and recreation management organisation, following a competitive tender process.
The contract includes the operation of Council's aquatic and leisure facilities, including Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Yarra Centre, Jack Hort Memorial Community Pool, Belgrave Outdoor Pool, Lilydale Outdoor Pool and Healesville Outdoor Pool.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, thanked Belgravia Leisure for its ten years of partnership.
"I sincerely thank the team at Belgravia Leisure for operating our aquatics and leisure facilities with professionalism, care and commitment over the past decade," Cr Higgins said.
"Many of the wonderful staff at these facilities have supported our communities for years, building long-standing and trusted relationships with members and visitors."
Cr Higgins said the decision to appoint a new provider was based on a rigorous procurement process and was not a reflection of Belgravia Leisure's performance.
"We assessed multiple high-quality submissions through a thorough and transparent process and selected the partner that best aligned with Council's future objectives, the needs of our community, and long-term health and wellbeing outcomes," he said.
"I would like to thank Belgravia Leisure for all they've done for our community, and formally welcome Aligned Leisure as our new partner in Yarra Ranges."
Council will work closely with the incoming provider over the coming months to ensure a planned and well-supported transition, with continuity of service as a key priority.
"We understand that change can create uncertainty, particularly for staff and regular facility users," Cr Higgins said.
"Council and Aligned Leisure are committed to ensuring the transition period is clear, respectful and as smooth as possible, ensuring we continue to deliver quality services for our community throughout."
Aligned Leisure will be engaging with existing staff to outline opportunities to continue working at these facilities, recognising the skills, experience and local knowledge they bring.
Cr Higgins said Council was looking forward to the next phase of aquatic and leisure services in Yarra Ranges.
"Our communities really value their local aquatic and leisure facilities, and we are excited to begin a new chapter that places greater emphasis on participation, wellbeing, preventative health and community connection," he said.
"Council remains committed to supporting staff and the community throughout this transition, and we will continue to provide updates as key milestones are reached."
