Upgraded 50 metre pool and wellness hub among changes slated for Noosa Aquatic Centre

A draft Facility Upgrade Plan has been developed to modernise the Noosa Aquatic Centre at Girraween Court, Sunshine Beach with an array of improvements proposed for the 25-year-old swimming facility anticipated to commence within two years.

Among the changes proposed are an upgraded 50 metre pool; inclusive changerooms and amenities; water play elements; shade and BBQ areas; creche; retail space; new covered spectator grandstand and upgraded spectator shelters; new lifeguard office; and upgraded and additional solar panels.

To contribute to the community’s wellness, the facility also proposes to include a new Wellness Hub including allied health rooms; an exercise studio/gym; and a long-term multi-purpose warm water pool.

The draft plan also includes a new filtration system and dividing infrastructure to enable multi-use.

The draft Noosa Aquatic Centre upgrade plan was prepared taking account of the findings from a needs assessment and demand analysis, industry trends and additional input from key NAC user groups. The draft NAC Facility Upgrade Plan aims to guide a thoughtful and compliant transformation of the NAC over the next 20 years, ensuring the facility continues to serve the community's needs into the future.

Noosa Council sport and active lifestyles manager Brad Chalmers said the ageing venue needed to be enhanced to cater for swimmers for years to come.

Chalmers advised “we want to ensure the current facility continues to meet modern standards and the evolving needs of our community over the next two to three decades.

“Without proactive planning and investment, the facility will deteriorate, leading to higher repair and improvement costs and limiting our ability to provide the community with a fit-for-purpose and future-ready asset.”

Essential works are expected to start over the next two years and future upgrades will be staged progressively, guided by ongoing feasibility assessments, detailed planning and the availability of funding opportunities.

Chalmers said the proposal was subject to change noting “this upgrade plan serves as a strategic guide to inform future decision-making at the centre.

“At this stage, no commitments have been made regarding specific changes or major upgrades.

“(But) it’s important to plan so we are well-placed to access grant funding opportunities when they become available.”

Image. Noosa Aquatic Centre. Credit: Sunshine Coast Council