To get ready for the opening of the new Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Torquay, Surf Coast Shire Council has approved entering into a contract with Belgravia Health and Leisure Group to manage the facility, subject to contract finalisation and execution.
They will manage the new centre, which includes the existing Wurdi Baierr Stadium, as well as the recently refurbished Winchelsea Swimming Pool.
"Belgravia has a lot of experience in managing aquatic and recreation facilities across Australia including indoor stadiums and seasonal outdoor pools," Cr Liz Pattison said.
"We're excited to work with them as they bring their ideas and specialist expertise to the management of our facilities, to help deliver an even better user experience for our community."
"From September, their staff will start shadowing our staff and planning for the opening of the Winchelsea Swimming Pool to support a smooth transition ahead of the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre opening in early 2027."
"Construction of the new centre is flying along with the three pools all now fully tiled and the splash park starting to take shape."
"I know lots of people are really excited for the opening and with this contract in place we'll be ready to hit the ground running when the doors open," Cr Pattison said.
The change will have minimal impact on user groups and community members, with all existing bookings to continue as normal. Surf Coast Shire Council will continue managing bookings until the handover has been completed.
Council will also continue to set all fees and charges for these facilities each year as part of the annual budget process. Café and merchandise prices will be managed by the service provider and should remain in line with regular market prices.
Council previously resolved on an external contractor model as it was shown to result in the best services for the community and the lowest cost to Council out of three operating models.
Many other councils across Victoria and Australia outsource the management of aquatic, sport and recreation centres to external operators to access specialist expertise while retaining ownership and strategic control.
The new Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre is jointly funded by the Victorian Government, the Australian Government and Surf Coast Shire Council.
The centre will include:
- 25-metre pool
- Warm water pool
- Learn to swim pool
- Splash park
- Spa, sauna and steam room
- Gym and program spaces
- Allied health suites
- Café and supporting amenities
