Whitehorse residents will soon be making a splash at their new local pool thanks to a $2.5 million Brumby Labor Government grant to redevelop Aqualink Box Hill.
Sports Minister James Merlino visited the complex today to announce the Victorian Government would contribute to the major redevelopment.
“Victorians love their sport and local swimming pools play an integral role in ensuring our communities are strong, happy, healthy and active,” Mr Merlino said.
“Happier families lead to stronger communities and that’s why we’re investing in key community infrastructure like Aqualink at Box Hill to ensure local families have access to local facilities.
“Happier families lead to stronger communities and that’s why we’re investing in key community infrastructure like Aqualink at Box Hill.”
“This $2.5 million boost will help breathe new life into the complex and cater for the increasing demand for lap swimming, aerobics, gym programs, water aerobics, rehabilitation, and most importantly learn-to-swim programs.”
Mr Merlino said the proposed upgrade includes a new pool hall, warm water program pool, leisure pool, spa and sauna, toddlers pool, plant and equipment upgrade.
It also includes a gym extension including assessment and change rooms, office and reception, program and school change rooms, change village, car park extensions and landscaping.
Member for Forest Hill Kirstie Marshall said the upgrade would complement the existing 25-metre heated indoor pool, three-court stadium for basketball, netball, volleyball and badminton.
“We want all Victorians to benefit from an active lifestyle, that’s why we are working closely with Whitehorse City Council to develop quality, and accessible facilities,” Ms Marshall said.
“This is a significant $15 million project and the Victorian Government will provide $2.5 million for the redevelopment – the maximum available through the Better Pools Program.
“The Whitehorse community has worked long and hard to update the facility and I congratulate them on their commitment to such a vital local project.
Member for Burwood Bob Stensholt said the Victorian Government had invested more than $183 million through the Community Facilities Funding Program for more than 1,900 community facility projects since 2000.
“This project is a great example of what can be achieved when the Victorian Government, local council and communities work together,” Mr Stensholt said.
He said the improvements are just the first two of five stages to upgrade and expand the complex. Future stages include upgrades to the gymnastics, administration, and foyer area, as well as the establishment of a new Wellness Centre.