Construction of the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Torquay has reached another major milestone, with all three indoor pools now fully tiled: The 25-metre pool, learn-to-swim pool and warm water pool.
Significant progress continues across the site, with the façade and ceilings almost complete, painting underway in the gym and program rooms, and cabinetry installation and changeroom tiling underway.
Upcoming works include construction of the splash park, sauna and steam room as well as installation of concourse floor tiles in the pool hall.
The project is now more than 75 per cent complete and remains on track to open in early 2027.
More than 123,600 labour hours by 730 workers have contributed to the project so far, with 55 per cent of workers coming from the Surf Coast Shire, Greater Geelong and nearby areas in the region. Also, almost 75 per cent of total project spending to date has also been directed to businesses in this area.
Victorian Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney and Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker joined Surf Coast Shire Deputy Mayor Tony Phelps to inspect progress on site.
The centre is jointly funded by the Victorian Government, the Australian Government and Surf Coast Shire Council.
Being built alongside the existing Wurdi Baierr Stadium, 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
Wurdi Baierr (pronounced word-ee by-eer) means 'big gathering place' in Wadawurrung Language and the centre will soon be living up to its name, attracting locals and visitors wishing to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing.
Victorian Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney:
"This project is becoming something really special for families across Torquay, Armstrong Creek and the wider Surf Coast community. With all three pools now tiled, you can really see Wurdi Baierr starting to come to life as a place where people of all ages will come together to connect, stay active and spend time with family and friends."
"The Allan Labor Government is proud to support this incredible community facility. As more families continue moving into Armstrong Creek and the Surf Coast, projects like this are so important - creating the community spaces and local facilities growing areas need now and into the future."
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker: "For decades, Surf Coast locals have been calling for a purpose-built aquatic facility, and seeing all three pools now fully tiled is another clear sign this project is moving rapidly towards completion.
"We're now so close to delivering a world-class centre for the community."
"This will be a true community hub – a place where children learn to swim, older residents stay active, and families come together. It will support health, wellbeing and connection across the Surf Coast for generations to come."
Surf Coast Shire Council Deputy Mayor Cr Tony Phelps:
"Reaching the point where all pools are now fully tiled is a significant milestone for this project and a clear sign of just how much progress is being made behind the facade. When complete, this centre will be a major community asset for the wider community supporting swimming, fitness, rehabilitation and wellbeing for people of all ages and abilities."
"It's great to see strong local involvement in the project, with a high proportion of workers and spending supporting businesses right here in our region."
