City of Ballarat opens new 50 metre pool and major oval redevelopment

Last Saturday (2nd May) saw the City of Ballarat open two major leisure infrastructure projects.

The long awaited 50-metre swimming pool at the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre was launched with launched with local swimming club members diving in and competing in an inaugural scratch race.

Development of the $17 million pool has been dogged by controversy with the City of Ballarat having moved to close outdoor seasonal pools with low attendances while also raising swimming fees.

Ballarat Gold Vice President Anthony Hoffman told local newspaper The Courier that club members were looking forward to the improved training opportunities that the new pool offers.

Hoffman stated “ever since it was announced, our kids have been asking 'can we swim there yet? Is it open?' ... we're really excited as a swimming club."

Saturday 2nd May also saw the opening of a $1.65 million upgrade of the C.E. Brown Reserve prior to Lake Wendouree senior AFL and netball games.

The $1.65 million upgrade has included the following works:

Oval upgrade
The $1.2 million major oval redevelopment project at C.E. Brown Reserve included installation of sub-surface drainage, automatic irrigation system, reconstruction of the playing surface with a full sand profile, new turf, perimeter fencing and spoon drain. The existing turf cricket wicket bench was raised to match the level of the new playing surface. 

Netball Courts
Two new netball courts have been constructed at C.E. Brown Reserve for the Lake Wendouree Football Netball Club juniors and seniors. The courts were constructed in a new location to be closer to new infrastructure and facilities. The new courts have a concrete base and acrylic surface which makes them more durable and hard wearing.

Both projects were fully funded by the City of Ballarat.

A $290,000 football oval lighting upgrade is currently under construction as well as a $180,000 power upgrade to the Reserve.

30th June 2014 - BALLARAT AQUATIC CENTRE POOL FEES TO RISE AS COUNCIL BACKS NEW 50 METRE POOL