Work commences on new aquatic, arts and recreation facility in Batemans Bay

Work has commenced on the new aquatic, arts and recreation precinct for Mackay Park in Batemans Bay - situated on the New South Wales south coast - which will include a 25-metre indoor pool, a cultural centre and auditorium with 350-seat capacity.

Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the new facility would appeal to a wide variety of users and added “the new indoor pool will be a freeform leisure pool that will be great for aqua-aerobic participants and other groups who need to train all year round.

“Importantly this facility will also cater for those in our region with disabilities and offer warm water therapy options for those rehabilitating from injury or who are post-operative.

“It will also have features for our little ones, with a learn-to-swim area and a water play splash pad with waterslides. There will also be a gymnasium and a group fitness area.

“The cultural possibilities the new facility will present are also dramatically improved with the coming gallery and exhibition space, dance studio, music room, wet and dry workshop spaces and other multi-purpose spaces that will generate great creativity and entertainment.”

Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Liz Innes said it was exciting now that the first sod was turned and noted “not only will we soon have a wonderful new facility open all year, but its construction will provide a big boost to our local economy at a time when we need it most.

“Following the impacts of the bushfires, projects like this give us hope – they show us we have confidence to invest in our future and the future of our children.”

The Federal Government is committing $25 million to the project under the $272.2 million Regional Growth Fund. This initiative funds transformational projects across sectors such as transport and communications, tourism, manufacturing and primary industries.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack noted the significance of “quality sports and cultural facilities” for regional towns in boosting sporting clubs and attracting major events.

NSW Government is committing a further $26 million and the Eurobodalla Shire Council $18 million to fund the project.

The regional aquatic, arts and leisure precinct is scheduled for completion by February 2022.

Image top courtesy of Zoggs and image above: Designs for the new Batemans Bay Indoor Aquatic Centre