Greater Taree City Council appoints YMCA to manage aquatic and fitness facilities

Greater Taree City Council and the local community are set to benefit from a new partnership with leading leisure management provider, the YMCA, which has been appointed to oversee the management of Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre and the Wingham Memorial Swimming Pool.

Following a competitive tender process, the Y began operating both facilities for at least five yearsfrom 1st February.

As a not-for-profit and leading provider of aquatic and leisure management in NSW, the Y will assist Council and benefit locals by improving the quality and delivery of programming and services available, and their affordability, to ensure both facilities become social and family hubs of the community.

YMCA NSW Group Manager Casey Dunning said he was excited to partner with Greater Taree City Council and strengthen the local community through the provision of a range of programs and services aimed at all ages and abilities, including family groups.

Dunning stated "as an organisation focused on family and providing opportunities for families to spend quality time together, we will be introducing Family Memberships across both centres which will include program areas such as Learn-to-Swim, and make it really affordable for families to participate in a range of healthy activities.

"As experts in aquatic and leisure management we are excited by the prospect of injecting new life into Taree's premier recreation facilities."

Greater Taree Mayor Paul Hogan said the Y was selected as its partner of choice due to the quality and innovative nature of its program delivery and community impact, stating "by drawing on the experience and expertise of the YMCA, our community will benefit from the improved delivery of programs and services at both facilities while the operational cost savings for Council will also ultimately benefit our local community.

"As well as offering fresh opportunities in terms of programming at both the Taree and Wingham facilities, the YMCA has a strong focus on community engagement and ownership of the pools by the local community, which will bring a renewed sense of energy into the centres."

As a result of the new management and for the first time in three years, the Y has employed a squad coach at the Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre, which will see many young people in the local community benefit from professional swimming training.

Since 4th February, Jeremy Wardrop has been in the role, bringing a wealth of experience and success in swimming coaching and mentoring to the community of Taree.

Dunning said appointing a squad coach was very important given the community need and the Y's focus on developing young people, adding "we're excited to have Jeremy on board who will no doubt be producing some of the best swimming talent Taree has ever seen."

Dunning added the Y has also completed a refurbishment and equipment upgrade at Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre following a $150,000 investment. The aim is to inject new energy into the centre, enhance the member experience and level of comfort, and encourage more people and families to use the facilities.

Image: Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre

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