A popular Sunshine Coast swimming facility is about to get a significant upgrade.
More than $6 million will be splashed on a range of improvements to the Kawana Aquatic Centre at Bokarina.
Councillor Peter Cox said the much-needed upgrade would enhance the region’s capacity to accommodate aquatic sporting groups and attract patronage.
“The Kawana Aquatic Centre is an important swimming facility for our region,” he said via a Sunshine Coast Council media release.
“It already attracts more than 200,000 visitors per year with a vast number of residents taking advantage of the reputable swim school and squad training, as well as travelling sporting groups – and demand for our facility continues to grow.
“The centre is part of our thriving sporting heart – supporting the nearby Sunshine Coast Stadium and broader Kawana Sports Precinct.
“Together these facilities host many local, national and international sporting events, training camps and competitions each year.
“With more than 500,000 people expected to call the Sunshine Coast home by 2041, these sporting facilities are essential to the liveability of our region and will ensure our community has access to world-class sporting amenities close to home.”
Council has appointed local building firm Murphy Builders as the primary building contractor to deliver Stage One works.
Tourism, Events and Sport Portfolio Councillor Jason O’Pray said the first stage of the multiple-year upgrade would include a new 20m indoor pool, along with improved structures and operating equipment.
“The existing indoor pool has reached the end of its useable life and will be replaced with a modern and more accessible facility,” he said.
“We will take this opportunity to incorporate environmentally considerate operating systems including state-of-the-art controls and a roof-mounted, solar photovoltaic system for power generation.
“As part of future works, council will also deliver a new entry building, children’s water play areas, public amenities, a refurbished kiosk and improved car parking.
“The first of three construction stages is now underway with works taking place over several years to minimise the impact on patrons and the pool lessee, City Venue Management”.
The council-owned aquatic centre offers a range of facilities and programs for all ages and abilities.
It features a 50m outdoor pool, 25m pool with dive/water polo pool, and a dedicated learn-to-swim facility with all-abilities access hoist. There is also an array of children’s play pools.
It is is one of nine council-owned aquatic centres across the region.
The other aquatic centres are located at Beerwah, Caloundra, Buderim, Cotton Tree, Coolum, Palmwoods, Nambour and Eumundi.
All facilities are operated by council contract partners who provide the day-to-day site operation, programming, and access for the community.
For more information about Sunshine Coast Council aquatic centres and pools, click here.
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