One of the Sunshine Coast’s busiest aquatic centres is making a splash with stage two of a multimillion-dollar major upgrade now complete.
Kawana Aquatic Centre now has new public amenities, offices, a cafe, an expanded picnic area and additional car parking to support the more than 200,000 visitors who frequent the centre annually.
The Sunshine Coast Council-owned aquatic centre has three heated swimming pools: a 50-metre outdoor pool, 25-metre pool that can cater for diving and water polo, and a new dedicated five-lane 20-metre enclosed learn-to-swim facility with hoist and aquatic wheelchair access.
The council’s $14 million investment was bolstered by a $938,000 supplement from the federal government.
The 20-metre, five-lane enclosed pool and new change rooms were delivered in the first stage of the facility upgrade in 2024. It includes a Changing Places facility to provide safe, hygienic and dignified changing options for people with high support needs and their carers.
The centre is operated by lessee City Venue Management (CVM).
CVM chief executive officer Jay Clarke said as one of the region’s most popular aquatic facilities, the centre played a vital role in promoting swim safety, health and wellbeing.
“We’re excited to see the recent upgrades complete and to welcome even more patrons back to Kawana Aquatic Centre – now an even better experience for the Sunshine Coast community,” Mr Clarke said.
“With brand new amenities and expanded spaces, we’re able to grow our learn-to-swim programs through Rackley Swimming, expand our squad and fitness offerings and continue providing a welcoming hub for both locals and visitors.
“It’s a fantastic outcome for the community and we’re proud to be part of it.”
The Kawana Aquatic Centre is part of the broader Kawana Sports Precinct, which includes Sunshine Coast Stadium and Lake Kawana, which regularly host local, national and international sporting events.
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Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain said it was wonderful to see the improvements.
“This investment means there are three heated swimming pools for lessons, fitness and leisure and new aquatic facilities for people of all ages and abilities on the Sunshine Coast,” she said.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 3 councillor Tim Burns said the completed works marked a significant milestone for the region.
“This upgrade is about more than just bricks and mortar, it’s about creating a space where people of all ages and abilities can come together to swim, train and connect,” Cr Burns said.
“The Kawana Aquatic Centre is a cornerstone of this regional sporting precinct and these improvements ensure it continues to meet the needs of our growing community.
“We’re proud to deliver a facility that supports healthy lifestyles, elite training and everyday fun.
“I’m excited to see our athletes, families and recreational swimmers embracing the upgraded facilities.”
Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli also heralded the project.
“This is an investment in our future, supporting local families and athletes and also strengthening our reputation as a premier destination for sport and recreation,” she said.
“Facilities like the Kawana Aquatic Centre are vital to our community’s wellbeing and economic vitality, attracting events, creating jobs and encouraging active lifestyles.
“Plus, the centre provides the perfect spaces for families to connect and to play.
“It’s a proud moment for the Sunshine Coast and a great example of how we’re planning for a healthy future.”
The Kawana Aquatic Centre is one of nine council-owned aquatic centres across the region. The others are at Beerwah, Caloundra, Buderim, Cotton Tree, Coolum, Palmwoods, Nambour and Eumundi.
To celebrate the completion, the community is invited to a community open day at the centre on Saturday, September 13, from 10am to 4pm. The event will feature live broadcasts, free entry, face painting, pool games, giveaways and activities for all ages.
