Sunshine Coast Council opens 20-metre learn-to-swim school at Kawana Aquatic Centre

A new purpose-built indoor heated pool has opened as part of a $14 million upgrade at one of the Sunshine Coast’s premier aquatic centres.

The new pool at the Kawana Aquatic Centre is part of Stage One works at the facility that includes the new 20-metre, five-lane indoor heated pool along with new structures, new plant and equipment. It includes environmentally considerate operating systems including state-of-the-art controls and a roof-mounted, solar system for power generation.

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.

Advising that the new learn-to-swim pool was purpose-built for teaching water safety programs and was one of the best in the region, Sunshine Coast Councillor, Tim Burns stated “the Kawana Aquatic Centre attracts more than 200,000 visitors each year and is a highly valued swimming facility for our region.

“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.”

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

CVM Managing Director Jay Clarke said the Centre’s swim school, run by Rackley Swimming, understood swimming was more than just a recreational activity, adding “swimming is a fundamental aspect of Australian culture and lifestyle.

“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.”

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

The 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.

Images: Rackley Swimming Instructor Roella Canton with two young swimmers at the new pool (top), the Centre’s new 20-metre, five-lane indoor heated pool (middle) and Paxton Ciseau with mum Melissa (below). Credit: Sunshine Coast Council.