Bass Coast Shire Council's leisure facilities are now officially under new management, with Aligned Leisure commencing operations from 1 July 2025.
The Bass Coast Aquatic & Leisure Centre, Phillip Island Leisure Centre and the Cowes Outdoor Pool have all transitioned smoothly to the new operator, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for leisure, health and wellbeing in the region.
Bass Coast Shire Council CEO, Greg Box, said the transition has been a success thanks to the strong collaboration between Council, outgoing operator YMCA Victoria, and the incoming Aligned Leisure team.
"We've worked closely with both YMCA Victoria and Aligned Leisure to make sure the handover was as smooth as possible," Mr Box said. "Aligned Leisure have hit the ground running and are already engaging with staff, members and the community."
"It's important to us that our leisure facilities continue to be places where everyone feels welcome, supported and encouraged to live active, healthy lives."
Council extends its heartfelt thanks to YMCA Victoria for their many years of dedicated service to our community. The YMCA has played a vital role in shaping inclusive, welcoming and vibrant spaces across the region, and we are deeply appreciative of their legacy. Their long-standing commitment has created a strong foundation for the next chapter in local leisure services.
That chapter begins with Aligned Leisure-a specialist leisure facility operator backed by the Richmond Football Club. With a proven track record in community engagement and the management of 49 centres nationwide, Aligned Leisure brings a wealth of experience to continue supporting the health and wellbeing of our community.
As part of the transition, all member data-including existing memberships, bookings and payment arrangements-has been securely transferred, with minimal disruption to users.
The newly formed Bass Coast Leisure team includes many familiar faces - 95% of staff have chosen to continue on in their roles with the new provider. A key focus for Aligned Leisure has been to connect with current staff and retain valuable local knowledge.
Both the Bass Coast Aquatic & Leisure Centre and the Phillip Island Leisure Centre gyms have been fully fitted out with brand-new, state-of-the-art equipment, offering an enhanced experience for members.
"We're excited to be joining the Bass Coast community and building on the great work already happening across these centres," said Ben Tudhope, CEO of Aligned Leisure while on site on their first day of operation.
"Our focus is on delivering a welcoming and inclusive experience for all, supporting the local community, and creating even more opportunities for people to stay active and connected."
Aligned Leisure is currently expanding its local team. If you're interested in joining a dynamic, community-minded organisation, visit basscoastleisure.com.au or search 'Aligned Leisure' on seek.com.au for current opportunities.
Bass Coast Leisure brings together the region's health, fitness, sport and recreation offerings into one streamlined platform, making it easier than ever for the community to stay connected and active.
Stay up to date by following your local centre on social media or visit www.basscoastleisure.com.au for the latest news and contact information.
