City of Hobart secures Federal Government funding for therapy pool at Doone Kennedy Aquatic Centre
The Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre is to add a warm water therapy pool to its features having secured Federal Government funding towards the $6.8 million project.
Following a previous funding commitment by the Tasmanian Government, the City of Hobart has been successful in being allocated a $3.4 million grant under Round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund program.
Welcoming the announcement by Federal Senator Eric Abetz, Hobart Lord Mayor, Anna Reynolds stated "this is a fantastic example of investment by all levels of government in the wellbeing and health of our community and we are grateful for the support of both the federal and state governments.
“This aquatic centre is an important recreational and health facility for not just Hobart, but for all of southern Tasmania.
“The new additions will bring significant social and economic benefits through improved health for our ageing population, and better access to hydrotherapy treatments and wellness programs.”
The project will see the construction of an 18m x 10m warm water pool, consultation rooms, accessible change rooms and a new entry that links with a new accessible carpark.
An accredited Changing Places room is also proposed, providing private, fully equipped amenities for people with high needs. It will be the second such facility in Hobart, following on from the installation of a Changing Places room at the Argyle Street carpark in 2019.
The new facilities will be housed in an extension to the rear of the existing building.
The City of Hobart has invested nearly $6 million in upgrades to the centre since the endorsement of the master plan in 2017. Major works to date include refurbishment of the leisure pool and kids’ splash play area, new tiles on the pool deck, stage 1 of the carpark upgrade, and plant room equipment upgrades.
Construction is expected to start in mid-2022.
Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre images courtesy of the City of Hobart.
Related Articles
Published since 1997 - Australasian Leisure Management Magazine is your go-to resource for sports, recreation, and tourism. Enjoy exclusive insights, expert analysis, and the latest trends.
Mailed to you six times a year, for an annual subscription from just $99.
Get business and operations news for $12 a month - plus headlines emailed twice a week. Covering aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism, and venues.