Draft Aquatic Strategy development continues

Published on 16 September 2021

Gannawarra Shire Council looks forward to developing an extensive community engagement program on the draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy 2021-2031 this year, with formal consultation expected to be undertaken throughout 2022.

The development of the strategy reached a key milestone at Council’s September 2021 Meeting, with Councillors recommending the following strategic direction be explored in the Draft Aquatic Strategy:

• The redevelopment of the Kerang Swimming Pool to include a new indoor integrated aquatic centre;
• Closure of the Cohuna Swimming Pool, with a new outdoor leisure lagoon and water play area, with learn to swim area, to be developed;
• Maintain the Koondrook Swimming Pool under current management arrangements;
• Work with Department of Environment Land Water and Planning to consider the future of the Leitchville and Quambatook swimming pools

“The outcome of the September 2021 Council Meeting is one of many steps that will lead to the development of the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy 2021-2031, which will be considered by Council at a later date. It is not a final decision that has been made,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

“As part of the development of this important document, a significant, wide reaching engagement process will occur. This process will enable residents and users of community pools across the Gannawarra to provide feedback and help shape the final version of the Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy 2021-2031.

“This process will also allow Councillors to develop a better understanding of any potential impacts on the community that the draft strategy will have now and into the future.”

Details regarding the community engagement process for the development of the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy 2021-2031 will be publicised once confirmed via Council’s printed publications, website, and social media accounts.

“Residents are also encouraged to note that this current process will not change the existing operations of Council-managed and community-managed pools within the Gannawarra for this summer, with Council continuing to assist all community pools, as it does every year, in preparing for the summer season,” Mayor Gillingham said.

For more information regarding Council and community-managed pools located within the Gannawarra, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/pools