Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre's new pools have been filled and tested for leaks and structural integrity as construction of the centre continues ahead of schedule.
The testing included the 25 metre pool, warm water program pool and the in-built spa.
The exciting milestone follows construction of the centre's first floor, erection of steel framework for the pool halls and the start of installation of sections of roof.
Stages one and two construction of the centre are both scheduled for completion late in 2026.
Stage one will include:
- 25-metre indoor pool for lap / squad swimming
- Warm water indoor pool for exercise, hydrotherapy and leisure
- Gym and program spaces
- Allied health suites
- Café and supporting amenities
Stage two will include:
- A dedicated indoor learn to swim pool
- Indoor splash park
- Spa, sauna and steam rooms
- More change rooms
The centre is a partnership project, with stage one being funded by the Australian Government, the Victorian Government and Surf Coast Shire Council. Stage two is being fully funded by the Victorian Government.
Victorian Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney and Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker joined Mayor Mike Bodsworth to admire construction progress during a tour of the site this week.
Mayor Mike Bodsworth: "I'm so excited to see the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre shaping up and to get a feel for what a wonderful community asset it will be.
"We look forward to it becoming a much-loved destination bringing health and wellbeing benefits for people of all ages and abilities from across our shire."
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney: "It's fantastic to see the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre taking shape – a project shaped by the community's vision for a modern, accessible space that supports health and wellbeing. With the Victorian Government's strong support, this centre will soon give people of all ages a place to learn, exercise and connect.
"This milestone brings us another step closer to opening the doors of a world-class facility. Just 15 minutes from Armstrong Creek, families will be able to enjoy new pools, a splash park, spa, sauna and more. I'm proud to be part of a government investing in spaces that keep our communities active, connected and supported close to home."
Member for Corangamite Libby Coker: "This project is the result of years of passionate community advocacy, and it's wonderful to see the Wurdi Baierr Centre taking shape."
"This centre will deliver so many benefits for our Surf Coast community – from swimming and fitness to therapy and recreation – and I'm proud the Albanese Government is helping make it happen."
Contractor Kane Constructions is completing stages one and two construction and collectively workers have already spent more than 30,380 hours building the centre.
The project is strongly supporting the local economy, with more than 60 per cent of the workforce living in the G21 region including Surf Coast Shire, and 77 per cent of the project expenditure going towards the G21 region economy.
Construction of the main centre structure has included use of 782 cubic metres of concrete and 65 tonnes of structural steel. Construction of the pools required pouring of 672 cubic metres of concrete.
Find latest updates on the project via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/Aquatic
