Surf Coast Shire’s aquatic and health centre has become a reality after decades of planning, with construction now underway and a new name announced.
A sod-turning ceremony was held for the Torquay facility on Wednesday, December 4, to mark the first day of construction.
Surf Coast Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth said community members have been pushing for the centre since 1961, and councillors started discussing ideas for the health hub in 2006.
“It is very much a multi-generational build, so current and future generations are going to get such value out of this facility,” he said.
“This centre will be a hub for community activity. It will also bring joy to visitors holidaying in this region because the weather isn’t always conducive to beach-going.
“This is a massive milestone in the long lifetime of this project… and we know that when the weather outside is frightful, this pool will be so delightful.”
Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles announced at the ceremony that the new facility would be named Wurdi Baierr (big gathering place) Aquatic and Recreation Centre, featuring a logo based on a circular sand sculpture.
“Every word that we share in language brings the narrative of what the language word means and what it stands for,” Ms Eccles said.
“I have the pleasure as a Wadawurrung woman to continue to return language to our beautiful Wadawurrung country.
“If we think of Wurdi Baierr in the Surf Coast Shire, people are able to come together and gather in the place, and that will continue to grow with the aquatic centre.”
Contractor Kane Constructions will conduct site preparations until early 2025, with the centre’s main construction due to start in February, which is expected to be completed in late 2026.
Stage one construction works on the centre will include building the 25-metre indoor pool, warm water indoor pool, gym and program spaces, allied health suites, a café and supporting amenities.
Stage two works in planning will also include a dedicated indoor learn-to-swim pool, indoor splash park, more change rooms, and a spa, sauna and steam room.
