Construction of Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre underway

Published on 05 December 2024

Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre sod turning ceremony..jpg

Construction of Surf Coast Shire’s new aquatic and health centre is formally underway following a sod-turning ceremony which included the launch of a new name and logo.

Long-time community advocates joined state and federal parliamentarians for the celebration and heard Wadawurrung Woman Corrina Eccles announce Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre as the name.

The new aquatic and health building will adjoin and share its entry point with the existing Wurdi Baierr Stadium.

Wurdi Baierr is Wadawurrung Language for ‘big gathering place’. Corrina also unveiled the centre’s new logo, based on a circular sand sculpture.

Contractor Kane Constructions has started preliminary site preparations which will continue until early 2025. Main construction is due to start in February and is scheduled for completion in late 2026.

“Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre will bring generational health, wellbeing and water safety benefits, as well as lots of fun times, for people of all ages and abilities in our community and we are thrilled to have construction underway,” Surf Coast Shire Mayor Mike Bodsworth said.

“We thank community members who have maintained and advocated for this vision across a long period, and our Australian and Victorian Government funding partners for helping enable the vision to become a reality.

“And we thank Wadawurrung Traditional Owners for their support and cultural guidance.”

Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker and Victorian Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney, representing Minister for Community Sport The Hon Ros Spence MP, spoke along with Cr Bodsworth during the celebration ceremony.

Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre stage one construction works will include:

  • 25-metre indoor pool for lap/squad swimming
  • Warm water indoor pool for exercise, hydrotherapy and leisure
  • Gym and programs spaces
  • Allied health suites
  • Café and supporting amenities

Stage two works in planning include:

  • A dedicated indoor learn to swim pool
  • Indoor splash park
  • Spa, sauna and steam room
  • More change rooms

The cost for stage one works is $46.34m, with Surf Coast Shire Council grateful to receive $20m from the Australian Government and $16.68m from the Victorian Government. Stage two works will be fully funded by the Victorian Government.

During preliminary works people are still able to access the Wurdi Baierr Stadium, Banyul Warri Fields outdoor sport and recreation facilities and Grant Pavilion.

Sealed and gravel car parks on Wadawurrung Way remain open, with modified traffic arrangements, but College Lane will remain closed until further notice.

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