New pool makes a splash

Learning to swim will now be even easier in a new purpose-built indoor heated pool at one of the Sunshine Coast’s premier aquatic centres.

The new pool is part of Sunshine Coast Council’s $14 million plus major upgrade over multi-years of the Kawana Aquatic Centre.

Stage One of the aquatic centre upgrade is now complete and includes a new 20-metre, five-lane indoor heated pool along with new structures, new plant and equipment.

Kawana Aquatic Centre’s new 20-metre, five-lane indoor heated pool

Stage Two will deliver a new building, amenities, kiosk and additional car parking with works expected to begin mid-2024 and includes a $938,000 contribution from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace said it was fantastic to see the project coming together.

“With stage one now complete residents will be making the most of the state-of-the-art facilities at the Kawana Aquatic Centre,” Mr Wallace said.

“I’m proud to be able to provide vital funds through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, an initiative of the previous Federal Coalition Government.

“Who knows, with the Paris Olympics just around the corner thanks to this funding we could see future Australian Olympians and Paralympians begin to chase their dreams at the Kawana Aquatic Centre.”

Sunshine Coast Council Division 3 Councillor Tim Burns said the new learn-to-swim pool was purpose-built for teaching water safety programs and was one of the best in the region.

(Left to right) Rachel Turnbull with her son Jacob, Rackley Swimming Instructor Latoya Rodriguez, and Paxton Ciseau with mum Melissa

Part of Sunshine Coast’s thriving sporting heart

“The Kawana Aquatic Centre attracts more than 200,000 visitors each year and is a highly valued swimming facility for our region,” Cr Burns said.

“As part of our thriving sporting heart, this centre supports the Kawana Sports Precinct, which includes the nearby Sunshine Coast Stadium and Lake Kawana.

“These elite-standard facilities host many local, national and international sporting events, training camps and competitions each year.

“Many locals are taking advantage of the centre’s reputable swim school and squad training and this new learn-to-swim pool is a real gem for our community.”

Stage One works boast environmentally considerate operating systems including state-of-the-art controls and a roof-mounted, solar system for power generation.

Kawana Aquatic Centre is operated by lessee, City Venue Management (CVM), providing the day-to-day site operation, programming and access for the community.

Rackley Swimming Instructor Angus Hornery with Isaac Windsor.

Swimming all year round

CVM Managing Director Jay Clarke said the centre’s swim school, run by Rackley Swimming, understood swimming was more than just a recreational activity.

“Swimming is a fundamental aspect of Australian culture and lifestyle,” Mr Clarke said.

“From beach outings to creek adventures, the ability to swim with confidence opens doors to endless aquatic experiences.

“With our new state-of-the-art indoor facility, families can enjoy swimming all year round.”

Rackley Swimming Instructor Roella Canton with Jack McLenaghan (centre) and Ivy Eaton.

Background

Sunshine Coast Council appointed local building firm Murphy Builders as the primary building contractor to deliver Stage One works for the Kawana Aquatic Centre.

The hugely popular Council-owned aquatic centre has three heated swimming pools all built to cater for lessons, fitness or leisure. It offers a range of facilities and programs for all ages and abilities.

It features a 50-metre outdoor pool, 25-metre pool which can cater for diving and water polo, and a new dedicated five-lane 20-metre indoor heated learn-to-swim facility with all-abilities access ramp.

The Kawana Aquatic Centre is one of nine Council-owned aquatic centres across our 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, please visit Aquatic centres and pools (sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au)