Next stage of upgrades begin at Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre
An interactive splash pad, an aquatic activity tower in the lagoon pool and shade structures at each end of the 50-metre pool are among the upgrades occurring in the next stage of improvements to the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said work on the stage 1B upgrades has started and is expected to be completed by mid-2025.
“The Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre opened in 1988 and is a much-loved community facility, but it needs upgrading to ensure it meets modern standards,” he said.
“These upgrades are part of a long-term master plan aimed at improving the aquatic centre’s safety and reliability while catering for our community's needs and aspirations for the next 40 to 50 years
“By creating more engaging play spaces, better-shaded areas and safer facilities, we’re ensuring the aquatic centre remains a place where our community can stay active, connect and have fun.”
The $5.5 million stage 1B upgrades include:
• A new interactive splash pad;
• A new activity tower and wet play equipment in the lagoon pool;
• New shade structures and floodlights for the 50-metre pool;
• Landscaping works.
Cr Seymour said there will be some disruptions to pool services during the upcoming upgrades.
“An area around the 50m pool will be fenced off, with some lanes temporarily unavailable to swimmers,” he said.
“To accommodate the disconnection of the outdoor light towers, the pool’s opening hours will be adjusted during the construction period.
“The lagoon pool will remain closed for the duration of the renovations, and certain pathways will be restricted to ensure public safety.”
The latest works follow the recent completion of the stage 1A upgrades, which focused on improvements in the 25-metre pool area (including new toilets, disability access, and changing facilities), the plant room, and the service yard, said Cr Seymour.
“We are grateful to the Queensland Government for providing $3.5 million through the Local Government Grants and Subsidies program towards the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre upgrades,” he said.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said: “Our local communities deserve high quality services and amenities.
“I’m delighted we’ve been able to work with Fraser Coast Regional Council to provide these infrastructure upgrades for local residents.
“Facilities like aquatic centres not only promote active lifestyles, but also act as spaces where the community can come together.”
Cr Seymour said the Aquatic Centre team would work to minimise the impact on the public and keep the 50-metre pool open as much as possible during the next stage of work.
“The lagoon pool will remain closed until the completion of the stage 1B upgrades, and we thank the community for their continued patience while this work is carried out,” he said.
“Council is committed to effectively managing and maintaining our assets and planning for the future, and that’s what this project is all about.”
Part of the current concrete path from the main entry to the 25m pool and program (learn-to-swim) pool will be off-limits for the duration of the project.
People with mobility issues heading to the 25m and program pools will be asked to check in at the main entry and then proceed to the external gate on Boundary Road near the intersection with Raward Road.
A pick-up and set-down parking space has been added near this gate, while the car park near the main entrance will still be available.
The works at the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre are proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.