Wodonga Waves uses latest in aquatic sport and environmentally friendly technology

Wodonga's recently opened $10.6 million Waves aquatic centre is being acclaimed not only as a "multi-generational" community facility but is also being recognised for its environmentally-friendly features.

Replacing the City of Wodonga's old Stanley Street pool, Mayor Mark Byatt welcomed the new facility, stating "Council management staff and the contractors have been absolutely outstanding in bringing the pool to the stage it's at in this time."

The facility consists of a 10-lane 50 metre heated pool, splash pad area with interactive play facilities, as well as a toddler pool. It will service the Wodonga community as well as hosting state swimming competitions.

Builder Zauner contracted Ceramic Solutions to supply and install over 700 metres2 of ceramic tiles within the pool, amenities, cafe and retail areas.

With multiple functions in the one facility, Ceramic Solutions ensured fit-for-purpose flooring was utilised throughout the facility, to provide a safe, easy to clean and accessible environment for visiting patrons.

As part of the installation for the 50 metre pool, commercial tilling specialists Ceramic Solutions also provided non-slip, anti-wobble starting blocks that, unlike traditional flat surface starting blocks, are easy-to-mount and give the competitive swimmer an extra boost.

The engineering of the starting blocks has been designed so that the swimmer can angle their back leg for a powerful, smooth entry into water. Using stainless steel fittings the starting blocks can easily be removed, allowing greater flexibility for the facility.

The Victorian Government has already acclaimed the Wodonga Waves' environmentally-friendly features, including its use of recycled, treated storm water and energy-efficient technology.

The installation of HT tiles, which is a patented manufacturing process that creates a photocatalytic reaction, also contributes to the preservation of a healthy environment.

With itsphotocatalytic reaction to light, HT tiles kill polluted air and release clean oxygen into our environment.

German manufacturer, AgrobBuchtal has proven that 1,000 metre² of HT tiles has the same filtered effect as 70 deciduous trees.

Ceramic Solutions Managing Director Oliver Huss explains "HT tiles are a proven technology that not only kill bacteria such as E.coli, but also eliminate unpleasant odours that occur in public amenities. HT tiles and grout also provide an easy-to-clean surface, as the titanium pigments prevent dirt and grime sticking to the surface."

Huss, who has provided tiling solutions for commercial aquatic centres across Australia, adds "when it comes to public facilities, cleaning and hygiene are of paramount importance. Using HT tiles and grout at Wodonga's new aquatic facility has eliminated the need for harsh chemicals to be used in the cleaning process, which helps reduce cleaning costs and the environmental impact of the facility."

The YMCA-managed facility held a free family fun day to mark its opening.

Click here to contact Ceramic Solutions via their listing in the Australasian Leisure Management Supplier Directory. 

Image shows the Waves 50 metre pool.

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