Premier Daniel Andrews today joined members of the local community to officially open the upgraded Ararat Outdoor Swimming Pool.
Ararat’s pool was padlocked shut four years ago and was on the brink of permanent closure before the Andrews Labor Government stepped in to help save it with a $350,000 contribution towards its upgrade.
The Labor Government’s contribution was matched by Ararat Rural City Council, with the Save Our Pool Committee working tirelessly with the council and other partners to bring the pool upgrade to fruition.
The Save Our Pool Committee made an in-kind contribution of $90,000, with volunteers dedicating hundreds of hours of work to the project.
Regional swimming pools bring the community together and teach children lifelong water safety and survival skills, and Ararat families deserve modern, safe facilities, close to home.
After a four-year community campaign, the pool will formally open its doors to the public later this year, ready for another summer.
The project includes a new multi-purpose kiosk with change rooms, showers and toilets to service the newly refurbished pool.
The Government’s $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure Fund is helping grassroots clubs all over Victoria update tired grounds and build the facilities they need.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“It’s great to be back in Ararat to celebrate the re-opening of the outdoor pool.”
“The community fought hard to save their pool and by working together, we’ve delivered a facility that everyone can be proud of.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford
“The community told us how important it was to save this facility and we have listened.”
“The Save The Pool committee should be congratulated for all their work in helping deliver this project. This upgrade will see modern and safe facilities for locals to swim, socialise and stay active.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020