Alpine Shire Council is calling on all users of its swimming pools and sports stadiums to provide feedback to inform the preparation of an Aquatics and Indoor Sports Feasibility Study.
The study is part of Council's commitment to ensuring aquatics and indoor sports facilities in Bright, Mount Beauty and Myrtleford are fit-for-purpose, safe and accessible to all members of the community, including people with disabilities.
The need for a dedicated aquatics analysis was highlighted in the Sport and Active Recreation Plan, adopted by Council in March 2022.
Extensive community interest in aquatics facilities in particular has underscored the importance of upgrading our ageing facilities to support our growing communities.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr John Forsyth, emphasised the significance of this initiative.
"Our community has clearly expressed a strong desire for improved aquatic and indoor sports facilities across the Shire," he said.
"With valuable input from our community, the outcomes from this study will be incorporated into the Sport and Active Recreation Master Plans wherever possible.
Identified upgrades to our swimming pools and stadiums will then be assessed and prioritised alongside other sport and active recreation facilities."
Cr Forsyth said that while the benefits of participating in aquatic activities are well-recognised, providing these facilities in areas with lower population density presents economic challenges.
"Our goal is to conduct thorough research to determine the types of aquatic opportunities our community desires, so we can develop the most effective and achievable plan for pool allocation across Alpine Shire," he said.
A survey is currently open on Engage Alpine, Council's online engagement platform, with printed copies also available from Council's Customer Service Centre in Bright, and libraries in Mount Beauty and Myrtleford.
Cr Forsyth said the feedback collected through this survey will be crucial in understanding the specific needs and preferences of the community.
"We encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas on how we can improve our aquatics and indoor sports facilities," he said.
"Your input will help shape the future of these vital recreational resources."
You can complete the survey online now at https://engage.alpineshire.vic.gov.au/aquatics-and-indoor-sport-feasibility-study
Submissions close on Sunday, 28 July 2024