Orbost Pool to benefit from $150,000 upgrade

Local sporting participants are one step closer to better sporting facilities thanks to a $100,000 Coalition Government funding boost towards the upgrade of the Orbost Outdoor Pool.

In Orbost today, Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty was joined by Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull and East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Richard Ellis, to announce the funding through the 2014/2015 Community Facility Funding Program.

“Local sport and recreation facilities are vital to their communities, especially here in Orbost,” Mr Bull said.  

“This $100,000 funding boost will go a long way to helping the Orbost Outdoor Pool cater for the increasing demand for swimming in the area.

“The Coalition Government is proud to invest in initiatives that bring even greater benefits to the community, encouraging more people to get together, be physically active and lead healthier lives,” Mr Bull said.

In thanking the State Government for its contribution to the Shire project, Cr Dick Ellis said it has been a long-time desire by Orbost residents to heat their swimming pool.

“Council has been working with members of the Orbost Heat the Pool Committee for some time on exploring heating options for the outdoor pool.

“The pool attracts approximately 6,000 attendances per season with the pool being widely used by the local and remote communities, from school swimming, to lap swimmers, family groups and particularly children,” Cr Ellis concluded.

Mr Bull said the project includes the installation of solar heating and shade structures at the Orbost Outdoor Pool.  

“This project will provide comfortable pool temperatures, provide vital shade infrastructure to protect patrons from the harsh summer sun, and reduce the running costs of this vital community gathering place,” Mr Bull said.   

“On completion, the pool will be an attractive option for locals who might not enjoy swimming in open water including in local lakes, rivers and the ocean.  

“We want to make it easier for the community to stay physically active and enjoy their local recreation facilities,” Mr Bull said.  

Mr Bull thanked the East Gippsland Shire Council for providing over $50,000 towards the project.  

For more information about the Community Facility Funding Program visit www.sport.vic.gov.au