The $3.2M transformation of Balaklava swimming pool into an aquatic venue for all to enjoy will begin in earnest following another funding win for Wakefield Regional Council.

After successfully securing a $1.6M contribution from the State Government, Council was informed on Friday that its application for another $1.586M under the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) had been successful.

“This is incredible news for the region: the BBRF is highly competitive and we are absolutely elated,” Mayor Rodney Reid said.

Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey visited the pool and discussed the plans with Mayor Reid and outlined the value in having projects ‘spade ready’.

“We understand an absolute need for projects to be spade ready to secure funds through the BBRF and I’m really proud of the work done to showcase the benefits this pool will bring to the region in terms of economic stimulus, jobs and social connectedness,” Mayor Reid said.

“Half of the funds secured from the State Government will need to be returned under the state grant funding terms. However, the Federal grant means Council will contribute only $800,000 to the $3.2M project.”

Mayor Reid said a splash pad and ‘something for all’ were among the plans to create Balaklava’s Pool for All. The project will completely replace the 25m pool – closed since May 2020 due to structural and compliance issues – and open up and grow the venue with new, exciting features for users of all ages and access needs.

“This will be a venue that supports the whole region and continues our efforts to deliver on the community’s vision of Wakefield as a great place to belong,” Mayor Reid said.

“Council’s strategic focus includes creating liveable communities with recreation and leisure offerings and cool, attractive spaces for everyone to enjoy. This project will inject new life into the pool and bring it up to modern standards, with inclusive and easy access for all, new filtration, plant and equipment, and refurbishment works like pool tiling.

“Plans involve adding an exciting splash pad for hours of poolside waterplay, which will open the gates to more families, and provide a great destination for children’s parties.

“Swimming lanes will be increased from six to eight, with diving blocks and a disability access ramp installed to service a wider scope of users. These improvements will also reach the appropriate racing standards to accommodate more than 1100 students who participate in swimming carnivals and lessons each year.”

Earlier in the year, Council was also announced as a recipient of a $410,000 grant from the Office of Recreation and Sport to match Council funding for the $820,000 upgrade of Owen Swimming Pool. Meanwhile, Council funded $500,000 upgrade works at the Hamley Bridge pool.