Glenelg Aquatic Services Strategy · 2013. 9. 16. · Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1...

Glenelg Aquatic Services Strategy Issues and Opportunities Report July 2013

Prepared by: SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd

Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1 August 2013 Page i

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 PROJECT AIMS ......................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 OBJECTIVES .............................................................................................................................. 1

1.3 PROJECT STUDY METHODOLOGY ........................................................................................... 1

2 PROJECT AREA ................................................................................................................................. 3

2.1 POPULATION ............................................................................................................................ 3

2.2 AGE STRUCTURE ....................................................................................................................... 4 2.2.1 Emerging groups ..................................................................................................................... 5

2.3 HEALTH AND WELLBEING PROFILE .......................................................................................... 5 2.3.1 Future Population .................................................................................................................... 6 2.3.2 Ageing Population.................................................................................................................. 6 2.3.3 Disadvantaged Populations and Places ........................................................................... 7 2.3.4 Cultural Diversity ...................................................................................................................... 7 2.3.5 Indigenous Population ........................................................................................................... 7 2.3.6 Summary of Key Issues and Implication for Aquatic Facilities ....................................... 7

3 TECHNICAL REVIEWS ....................................................................................................................... 9

3.1 BEST VALUE REVIEW OF AQUATIC BASED LEISURE FACILITIES MARCH 2004 ..................... 10

3.2 RLSSA AQUATIC FACILITY SAFETY ASSESSMENT AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENT PLANS MAY

2007 10

3.3 UNIVERSAL DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL) ........................................................................... 11

3.4 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL) ..................................... 12

3.5 RELEVANT REGULATORY STANDARDS .................................................................................. 13

4 SUMMARY OF MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION .......................................................... 14

4.1 PREVIOUS RESEARCH REVIEW ............................................................................................... 14

4.2 RESIDENT HOUSEHOLD SURVEY TRENDS ............................................................................... 15

4.3 COMMUNITY USER SURVEY ................................................................................................... 17 4.3.1 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre ............................................................................... 17 4.3.2 Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood ........................................................ 19

4.4 SCHOOL SURVEY .................................................................................................................... 20 4.4.1 Most Popular Swimming Pools ............................................................................................ 20 4.4.2 Features Would Like to See Developed ........................................................................... 21

4.5 COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUPS AND KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS ................................ 21 4.5.1 Facilities ................................................................................................................................... 21 4.5.2 Services and Programs ........................................................................................................ 22 4.5.3 Other ....................................................................................................................................... 22

4.6 COMBINED MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION FACILITY IMPROVEMENT

PRIORITIES ........................................................................................................................................ 22

4.7 BENCHMARKING OF FACILITIES IN SIMILAR SIZE MUNICIPALITIES ..................................... 23

4.8 LEISURE TRENDS ...................................................................................................................... 24 4.8.1 Specific Aquatic Facility Trends ......................................................................................... 25

5 OPERATIONAL AND STRATEGIC FACILITY OPTION REVIEWS ..................................................... 28

5.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 28

5.2 PORTLAND LEISURE AND AQUATIC CENTRE (PLACE) .......................................................... 28 5.2.1 Facilities Review .................................................................................................................... 28 4.2.1.1 Dry Areas: ............................................................................................................................ 29

Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1 August 2013 Page ii

4.2.1.2 Wet Areas: ........................................................................................................................... 29 5.2.2 Total Usage Review .............................................................................................................. 30 5.2.3 Usage Category Review ..................................................................................................... 30 5.2.4 Program and Service Delivery ............................................................................................ 31 4.2.7.1 Aquatic Programs .............................................................................................................. 32 4.2.7.2 Health and Fitness Programs ........................................................................................... 32 4.2.7.3 Children’s Programs: ......................................................................................................... 32 5.2.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance PLACE ................................................................... 33 5.2.6 Universal Design .................................................................................................................... 34 5.2.7 Environmental Performance ............................................................................................... 34

5.3 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS ................................................................................................ 34

5.4 STRATEGIC OPTIONS .............................................................................................................. 35

5.5 CASTERTON SWIMMING POOL ............................................................................................. 38 5.5.1 Facilities Review .................................................................................................................... 38 4.3.1.1 Dry Areas ............................................................................................................................. 38 4.3.1.2 Wet Areas ............................................................................................................................ 38 5.5.2 Usage Review ........................................................................................................................ 39 5.5.3 Program and Service Delivery ............................................................................................ 40 5.5.4 Programs ................................................................................................................................. 40 5.5.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance Casterton ............................................................. 41 5.5.6 Environmental Performance ............................................................................................... 42

5.6 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS ................................................................................................ 42

5.7 STRATEGIC OPTIONS .............................................................................................................. 43

5.8 HEYWOOD SWIMMING POOL ............................................................................................... 46 5.8.1 Facilities Review .................................................................................................................... 46 4.4.1.1 Dry Areas ............................................................................................................................. 46 4.4.1.2 Wet Areas ............................................................................................................................ 46 5.8.2 Usage Review ........................................................................................................................ 47 5.8.3 Program and Service Delivery ............................................................................................ 48 4.4.7.1 Programs ............................................................................................................................. 48 5.8.4 Universal Design .................................................................................................................... 50 5.8.5 Environmental Performance ............................................................................................... 50

5.9 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES ...................................................................................................... 50

5.10 STRATEGIC OPTIONS ............................................................................................................ 51

5.11 MERINO SWIMMING POOL ................................................................................................. 54 5.11.1 Facilities Review .................................................................................................................. 54 4.5.1.1 Dry Areas ............................................................................................................................. 54 4.5.1.2 Wet Areas ............................................................................................................................ 54 5.11.2 Usage Review ...................................................................................................................... 55 5.11.3 Program and Service Delivery .......................................................................................... 56 4.5.7.1 Programs ............................................................................................................................. 56 5.11.4 Technical Operations/Maintenance Merino ................................................................ 57 5.11.5 Environmental Performance ............................................................................................. 58 5.11.6 Summary of Key Issues and Options ............................................................................... 58

5.12 STRATEGIC OPTIONS ............................................................................................................ 58

6 CAPITAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES REVIEW ................................................................................ 60

6.1 REGIONAL GROWTH FUND .................................................................................................... 60

6.2 STATE GOVERNMENT FUNDING ............................................................................................ 61

6.3 COMMONWEALTH FUNDING ................................................................................................ 62 6.3.1 Health and Hospital Fund .................................................................................................... 62

Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1 August 2013 Page iii

6.4 T –QUAL GRANTS ................................................................................................................... 63

6.5 COMMERCIAL FUNDRAISING ............................................................................................... 63

APPENDIX A - SUMMARY OF PREVIOUS RESEARCH AND STRATEGIES ........................................ 64

APPENDIX B – SUMMARY HOUSEHOLD TELEPHONE SURVEY ........................................................ 68

RESPONDENT PROFILE ..................................................................................................................... 69 Current Use of Swimming Pools ....................................................................................................... 69 Pool User Profile Comparisons ......................................................................................................... 70 Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools ....................................................................................... 70 Most Popular Swimming Pools ......................................................................................................... 71 Rating of Council's Swimming Pools ............................................................................................... 72 Swimming Pool Usage Profiles ......................................................................................................... 73 Future Use of Swimming Pools ......................................................................................................... 74 Facilities and Features that Would Encourage Greater Future Use of Pools ......................... 74

APPENDIX C – SUMMARY OF SCHOOL SURVEY ........................................................................... 76 Use of Aquatic Centres..................................................................................................................... 77 Schools Aquatic Program Coordination ....................................................................................... 77 Frequency of Student Visitations in Learn to Swim Program ..................................................... 77 Most Popular Terms ............................................................................................................................ 77 Most Popular Swimming Pools ......................................................................................................... 77 Reasons for Choosing Most Used Swimming Pool ....................................................................... 78 Features Would Like to See Developed ........................................................................................ 78 School Based Aquatic Facilities ...................................................................................................... 78

APPENDIX D – SUMMARY OF USER SURVEY .................................................................................. 79 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre ............................................................................................ 80 Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood..................................................................... 83

APPENDIX E – TOWNSHIP FOCUS GROUPS .................................................................................... 87

APPENDIX F – KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS .............................................................................. 90

APPENDIX G – YMCA STAFF FOCUS GROUP ................................................................................. 93

APPENDIX H – INTERNAL GLENELG SHIRE COUNCIL STAFF SESSION ........................................... 96

APPENDIX I – LEISURE AND AQUATIC TRENDS THAT IMPACT ON LEISURE FACILITIES ................ 98 General Aquatic Facility Trends .................................................................................................... 100 Specific Aquatic Facility Trends .................................................................................................... 101 Potential Future Aquatic Facility Trends ...................................................................................... 104

APPENDIX J – ESD INITIATIVES ...................................................................................................... 106

APPENDIX K – BENCHMARKING OF LEISURE AND AQAUTIC FACILITIES IN SIMILAR

MUNICIPALITIES 110

D I R E C T O R Y O F T A B L E S

Table 1.1 Project Methodology ............................................................................................................ 2 Table 2.1 Age Structure – Five Year Age Groups ............................................................................... 4 Table 3.1 Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary ..................................................... 9 Table 3.2 Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary ................................................... 10 Table 3.2 RLSSA Safety Scores ............................................................................................................ 11 Table 4.1 Summary Facility Ratings ................................................................................................... 16 Table 4.2 Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities ............................................. 19 Table 5.1 Total Category PLACE Usage............................................................................................. 30 Table 5.2 Works Identified by Council for PLACE ............................................................................. 33 Table 5.3 PLACE Future Directions Options ....................................................................................... 36

Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1 August 2013 Page iv

Table 5.4 Casterton Outdoor Pool Usage ......................................................................................... 39 Table 5.5 Works Identified by Council for Casterton ....................................................................... 41 Table 5.6 Casterton Future Directions Options ................................................................................. 44 Table 5.7 Heywood Outdoor Pool Usage ......................................................................................... 47 Table 5.8 Works Identified by Council for Heywood ....................................................................... 49 Table 5.9 Heywood Future Directions Options ................................................................................. 52 Table 5.10 Merino Outdoor Pool Usage ............................................................................................ 55 Table 5.11 Works Identified by Council for Merino .......................................................................... 57 Table 5.12 Merino Future Directions Options .................................................................................... 59 Table 7.9 Resident Telephone Survey Respondent Sample ........................................................... 69 Table 7.10 Usage of Swimming Pool Variances Against Sample Average .................................. 70 Table 7.11 Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools ....................................................................... 71 Table 7.12 Most Popular and Used Swimming Pools/Leisure Centres ........................................... 72 Table 7.13 User Survey Respondent Sample .................................................................................... 80 Table 7.14 Centre Usage Times .......................................................................................................... 81 Table 7.15 Use of Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre ................................................................. 81 Table 7.16 User Survey Respondent Sample .................................................................................... 84 Table 7.17 Centre Usage Times .......................................................................................................... 84 Table 7.18 Use of Outdoor Swimming Pools ..................................................................................... 85 Table 7.19 Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities ........................................... 85 Table 7.20 Summary of Key Issues – Township Focus Groups ........................................................ 88 Table 7.21 Summary of Key Stakeholders Interviews ...................................................................... 91

Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1 August 2013 Page 1

1 I N T R O D U C T I O N

Glenelg Shire Council wished to develop an Aquatic Services (infrastructure and non-

infrastructure) Strategy to provide the strategic direction for the Glenelg Shire to plan,

develop and operate its aquatic facilities in the future. The Strategy will seek to maximise the

usage and the relevance of the aquatic facilities to the community both now and into the

future, having regard for Council’s capacity to deliver the recommendations of the Strategy.

The Strategy will inform Council on the planning, provision, development, maintenance and

management of aquatic services in the Shire and provide recommendations, strategic

directions and policy outcomes to address the immediate and longer term needs of the

community.

1.1 PROJECT AIMS

The project aims detailed by Council for the Strategy are:

The Glenelg Shire Aquatic Services Strategy will establish justifiable strategic directions

for the planning, provision, development, preservation and management of the

aquatic services in the Shire.

The Aquatic Services Strategy will provide recommendations, strategic directions and

policy outcomes that address immediate and longer term community needs (over the

next 10 years)

As aquatic service provision has changed significantly since the construction of the

Shire municipal swimming facilities, this strategy should consider and explore longer

term visionary outcomes for aquatic services provision within the Shire – 10 – 50 year

objectives/targets.

1.2 OBJECTIVES

In addition to the above project aims the following project objectives have been identified

for consideration as part of the development of the Strategy.

Where are we now?

Where do we want to be?

What are out options?

How will be get there?

How are we going?

1.3 PROJECT STUDY METHODOLOGY

SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd (here after referred to as SGL Group) was appointed

to complete the project in September 2012. The project methodology was developed under

five interrelated stages.


The associated tasks completed to undertake the study are summarised below:

Table 1.1

Project Methodology

Stage Task

Stage One – Background Analysis Project Clarification

Review Of Relevant Research

Operational Review

Review of Current Management Arrangements

Review of Technical Audits

Demographic Review – Glenelg Shire

Review of Competitor Facilities

Aquatic Industry Trends/Sector Analysis

Key Stakeholder Interviews

Stage Two – Gap Analysis Resident Survey

User Survey

Township Focus Groups

School Survey

Written Submissions

Issues and opportunities Report

Councillor Review Workshop

Community Review

Stage Three – Vision Development Development of future Aquatic Vision

Stage Four – Draft Strategy

Development

Development of Draft Aquatic Services Strategy

Stage Six – Monitor and Review Strategy Review

Stage Seven –Consultation Community and Council Consultation and Review

Process


2 P R O J E C T A R E A

The Glenelg Shire Council was established by an Order-in-Council under the Local

Government Act 1989, published in the Victorian Government Gazette S63 on 23 September

1994. Three councils were amalgamated, the City of Portland and the Shires of Glenelg and

Heywood, to form the new Glenelg Shire.

The Glenelg Shire Council is located in the south west corner of Victoria. The western

municipal border also forms the State border with South Australia. Glenelg Shire enjoys the

benefits offered by the abundant natural features including beaches, foreshore areas, rivers,

waterways, bush lands and rural areas. Glenelg Shire covers an area of 6,212 square

kilometres and has a population of 20,871.

Portland is the main population, commercial, service, industrial and residential centre.

Portland has developed around Portland Bay and Portland Harbour, one of the most

significant deep-water ports in Australia. The Shire also comprises a number of smaller towns

including:

Heywood

Casterton

Merino

Dartmoor

Narrawong

Digby

Tyrendarra

Sandford

Nelson

Figure: Shire of Glenelg

2.1 POPULATION

The current (2011) estimated population of the Shire is 19,578 people, which is expected to

grow to around 23,155 people by 2031, an increase of approximately 3,577 people Shire

wide.

Portland is the main population centre of the Shire, with an estimated current population of

10,124 people (i.e. Portland Central & South), which is expected to grow to 10,794 people by

2021, an increase of approximately 670 people over the next eleven years.


Population growth of this magnitude (i.e. less than 1,000 people over the next 11 years) is not

expected to significantly contribute to greater demand for indoor leisure and aquatic

participation opportunities, over and above that which already exists.

2.2 AGE STRUCTURE

The Age Structure of the population is important when considering leisure and aquatic

services. For example previous market research and benchmarking indicates people under

40 years of age use swimming pools twice as much as people aged 40 years and over.

Age profiles are also an indicator of an area’s residential role and function and how it is likely

to change in the future. The age structure of a population is usually indicative of an area’s

era of settlement and provides key insights into the level of demand for services and facilities

(as most services and facilities are age-specific).

The age profile from the last 2011 census compared to the 2006 census is listed in the

following table:

Table 2.1

Age Structure – Five Year Age Groups

Glenelg Shire 2011 2006 Change

Five year age groups

(years)

Number % Regional

VIC

Number % Regional

VIC

2006 to

2011

0 to 4 1,068 5.5 6.3 1,121 5.7 6.0 -53

5 to 9 1,159 5.9 6.2 1,391 7.0 6.8 -232

10 to 14 1,413 7.2 6.7 1,536 7.8 7.5 -123

15 to 19 1,344 6.9 6.8 1,313 6.6 7.0 +31

20 to 24 788 4.0 5.5 863 4.4 5.5 -75

25 to 29 878 4.5 5.2 869 4.4 4.9 +9

30 to 34 961 4.9 5.2 1,147 5.8 5.8 -186

35 to 39 1,215 6.2 6.1 1,303 6.6 6.6 -88

40 to 44 1,332 6.8 6.7 1,566 7.9 7.1 -234

45 to 49 1,540 7.9 7.0 1,541 7.8 7.4 -1

50 to 54 1,513 7.7 7.1 1,526 7.7 7.1 -13

55 to 59 1,537 7.9 6.9 1,379 7.0 6.7 +158

60 to 64 1,384 7.1 6.6 1,031 5.2 5.4 +353

65 to 69 1,037 5.3 5.2 920 4.7 4.6 +117

70 to 74 867 4.4 4.1 716 3.6 3.8 +151

75 to 79 626 3.2 3.2 676 3.4 3.4 -50

80 to 84 503 2.6 2.6 463 2.3 2.5 +40

85 and over 413 2.1 2.3 397 2.0 2.0 +16

Total 19,578 100.0 100.0 19,758 100.0 100.0 -180


A review of the five-year age groups of Glenelg Shire in 2011 compared to Regional VIC

shows that there were a lower proportion of people in the younger age groups (under 15)

and a similar proportion of people in the older age groups (65+).

Overall, 18.6% of the population was aged between 0 and 15, and 17.6% were aged 65 years

and over, compared with 19.2% and 17.6% respectively for Regional VIC.

The major differences between the age structure of Glenelg Shire and Regional VIC were:

• A larger percentage of persons aged 55 to 59 (7.9% compared to 6.9%)




2.2.1 Emerging groups

From 2006 to 2011, Glenelg Shire's population decreased by 180 people (0.9%). This represents

an average annual population change of -0.18% per year over the period.

The largest changes in age structure in this area between 2006 and 2011 were in the age

groups:

• 60 to 64 (+353 persons)

• 40 to 44 (-234 persons)

• 5 to 9 (-232 persons)

2.3 HEALTH AND WELLBEING PROFILE

The 2009 – 2013 Glenelg Shire Municipal Health Plan1 indicates that the Glenelg Shire has a

broad mix of issues which influence the health of the community. The Shire has a significant

range of natural assets, including national parks, world heritage listed areas and an

internationally recognised GeoPark. It also has a rich source of renewable energy including

wind, geothermal and tidal.

The Australian Unity Wellbeing Index rated Glenelg Shire as having an average wellbeing of

80.74 (compared with an Australian average of 75). Glenelg is reported as having one of the

highest rates of wellbeing in Australia. This is reflected in in high rates of community

connectedness, perceptions of safety and self attested health.

However Glenelg also has one of the highest rates of socio economic disadvantage in the

State, with a SEIFA index ranking of 14 in the State. It also has low rates of Internet access,

lower levels of higher education and high rates of disengaged school leavers.

The Community Wellbeing Reports prepared by Community Indicators Victoria contain a

select number of community wellbeing indicators which are used to highlight important

trends and issues in the community. These reports provide a snapshot of the wellbeing of

individual municipalities with comparisons to regional and statewide results. The following

provides a summary of the key trends for the Glenelg Shire. Some of the key issues are as

follows:

1 Glenelg Shire Municipal Public Health Plan 2009 - 2013

http://www.communityindicators.net.au/measuring_wellbeing


Indicator Measure Comment

Subjective Wellbeing 79.5% Higher than state

average 76.4%

Community connection 79.5% Higher than state

average 70.7%

Housing affordability 11% Lower than state

average 17.7%

Participation in exercise,

recreation and sport

70% Lower than state

average 85.1%

Registered mental

health clients per 1000

population

21.7% Higher than state

average 11.6%

Drug and alcohol

clients

11.2% Higher than state

average 5.5%

Employment rate 59.6% Higher than state

average 60.9%

Level of educational

qualifications

38,6% Lower than state

average 50.7%

Transport limitations 21.1% Higher than state

average 20.3%

A report titled the Health and Wellbeing Profile 2009 for the Southern Grampians and Glenelg

Shires was developed by Department of Human Services Barwon South Western Region

Regional Planning Unit. The report identified the following key demographic characteristics.

2.3.1 Future Population

On current projections the SGG population is expected to increase from around 37,000 to

39,000 people in 2021. Most of the population growth is likely to be concentrated in main

centres of Hamilton and Portland.

Growth is also predicted for Southern Grampians (2.2%) and Glenelg Shires (5.6%). The

population of some of the more traditional farming or production areas and smaller towns

outside the periphery of regional centres is predicted to decline or remain stable.

2.3.2 Ageing Population

People aged 70 years and older will represent an increasing proportion of the SGG

population rising from 13% in 2006 to around 17% in 2021.

While the population is predicted to increase by only 4% overall in the catchment, there is

expected to be considerable growth in the older age groups (55+ age groups) with a

decrease in the size of all other age groups.

Southern Grampians and Glenelg residents on average, have shorter lives and higher death

rates than the Victorian average:

• In Glenelg, Life expectancy was even lower 75.8 years for males and 81.3 years for

females, well below the Victorian average of 79.8 years for males and 84.3 years for

females; and


• The age standardised mortality rate for the period 2003-2005 in the Catchment was

7.1 per 1,000 population; (Southern Grampians 6.5 per 1000, Glenelg 7.3 per 1000),

higher than the Victorian average of 6.1 per 1,000 population.

2.3.3 Disadvantaged Populations and Places

The SGG Catchment has significant groups of disadvantaged people, including Aboriginal

people, people on low incomes, and rural people, who suffer poorer health than the rest of

the population.

Based on the Index of Relative Socio-economic Disadvantage (IRSED), the most

disadvantaged pockets for the Catchment were in Portland, Heywood and Merino (Glenelg

Shire) and in Hamilton and Glenthompson (Southern Grampians Shire).

Glenelg LGA represents the area of highest disadvantage in the BSW region and is also

among the highest disadvantaged areas in Victoria (Vic rank = 14 of 80 LGAs in Victoria).

The socio-economic status of the SGG community has important implications for the health

care system. People who experience socio-economic disadvantage also experience higher

levels of chronic disease.

2.3.4 Cultural Diversity

While most residents of the Catchment are Australian born and speak English at home, a

large number of overseas born groups are represented by a small number of people. The top

countries of origin for residents of Southern Grampians and Glenelg in 2006 were the United

Kingdom, New Zealand, Netherlands, Germany, South Africa and the Philippines.

2.3.5 Indigenous Population

According to the 2006 Census, there were 480 indigenous persons residing in the Catchment

representing 1.3% of the total Catchment population. More than three quarters (77%) were

located in Glenelg Shire with main communities at Heywood (Winda-Mara) and Portland

(Dhauwurd-Wurrung).

Consistent with Victorian trends, the Catchments Indigenous population is young with a

higher representation in the lower age groups. More than half (59%) were aged less than 25

years and a third (30%) were aged less than 15 years. By comparison, 32% of the non-

Indigenous population were aged less than 25 years and 12% less than 15 years. Conversely,

persons aged 65 years or over in the Catchment comprised 7% of the Indigenous population

and 17% of the non-Indigenous population.

2.3.6 Summary of Key Issues and Implication for Aquatic Facilities

The following provides a summary of the key issues and the implication for aquatic facilities

and services:

The SGG Catchment has a mix of regional, coastal, rural and remote communities

with a dispersed population. Population growth is predicted over the planning period

to 2021, but the proportion of older people in the community will increase more

rapidly. This will result in the need to provide aquatic facilities and services that meet

the needs of this age group including access to warm water pools for therapeutic


based activities and ensuring all facilities are fully accessible including the inclusion of

ramps and accessible change room areas

The Catchment has pockets with a high level of socio-economic disadvantage.

Council will need to be mindful of the fees and charges established for the use of the

Centres to ensure that all residents are able to access the facilities.

The Catchment has high rates of preventable diseases that are causing significant

morbidity and mortality for individuals and are creating an unsustainable cost burden

for the community. Developing a promoting a range of programs and services at the

aquatic centres that encourage and support more people to be more active more

often should be a key priority of the centres in collaboration with the other health

providers.


3 T E C H N I C A L R E V I E W S

Within the Shire of Glenelg there are the following four aquatic facilities:

Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre – PLACE

Heywood Outdoor Swimming Pool

Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool

Casterton Outdoor Swimming Pool

Over the past 15 years Council has undertaken a range of technical and facility reviews at

the aquatic facilities. The purpose of these reviews has been to identify recurrent and capital

maintenance of the facilities and the likely life span of the components. The following

provides a summary of the key reports:

SWIMMING CENTRE AUDITS 1998 BY DAVID POWICK AND ASSOCIATES: In 1998 David Powick

completed a facility audit on the three outdoor pool facilities detailing the facility

components and the backlog works list required including estimated costs as well as

maintenance items and replacement items. Estimates were provided for over a 10-year

period.

AQUATIC CENTRE AUDIT/STRATEGY REPORT OCT 2001 BY PAUL LACEY AND DAVID POWICK: in

2001 a further report was commissioned by Council which provided the Council a detailed

description and analysis of the aquatic infrastructure and an action plan to ensure that the

facilities remained at a minimum standard for the following 10 years of operation. A table

was presented of items and costs for each centre including backlog works (urgent),

maintenance, replacement, new plant and minor capital works. These items were identified

for buildings, plant, outdoor pools and surrounds and indoor pools and surrounds.

COUNCIL REVIEW: In June 2012 Council Officers presented a report to Council identifying the

necessary priority works required at the four pools.

The following table provides a summary of the cost of works identified in technical and

maintenance reports completed by Council over the past 15 years.

Table 3.1

Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary

Pool David Powick

1998

Paul Lacey and David Powick

2001

Council

PLACE N/A $647,850 $8,500

Casterton $127,770 $157,350 & $110,000 additional

facilities

$74,000

Merino $96,620 $148,500 & $110,000 additional

facilities

$5,500

Heywood $117,350 $115,900 & $110,000 additional

facilities

$71,500

Total $341,740 $1,399,600 $159,500

A detailed review of these reports and discussions with Council Officers has indicated that

limited funding has been provided to undertake the identified works and as a result very few

actions from the technical audits and maintenance reports were carried out or completed.

Some minor maintenance has been undertaken. The following table details the Council

funding proviced to the four pools over the past five years.


Table 3.2

Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary

Pool Year

2012/13 2011/12 2010/11 2009/10 2008/09

Pool 18001.36 78315.41 37771.82 26251.86 25866.18

Aquatic 6341.48 11661.93 21269.03 166058.93 2010.45

Total $24,342.84 $89,977.34 $59,040.85 $192,310.79 $27,876.63

3.1 BEST VALUE REVIEW OF AQUATIC BASED LEISURE FACILITIES MARCH 2004

In 2004 a survey-based review of the Aquatic Facilities was completed to determine if the

level of service was meeting the community expectations for each venue. The survey resulted

in a number of recommendations for Service Quality, Service Costs, Competitive Neutrality,

Accessibility, Website, Continuous Improvement and Community Consultation.

Surveys showed common themes across all facilities including positive responses to the

following areas:

Quality of staff

Location of facilities

Pool Safety

Fun and enjoyable facilities

Car parking

Common gaps in service provision and customer expectations identified across the facilities

included:

Cleanliness and hygiene

Quality of change room facilities

Perceived value for money

Operating hours (in particular outdoor pools)

Disability access

It should be noted that the issues identified in the 2004 Best Value Review are consistent with

the key consultation findings identified as part of this strategy.

3.2 RLSSA AQUATIC FACILITY SAFETY ASSESSMENT AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENT

PLANS MAY 2007

Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) undertook an assessment at all Aquatic Centres in the

Shire. The assessment was carried out and measured against the safety standards and

operational guidelines listed in the RLSSA Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation. In addition a

Safety improvement Plan was detailed for each venue, with additional recommendations for

safety improvements at each site.

The Assessment reviewed a number of areas of operation of the facilities including

administration, first aid, technical operations, facility design, spa pools, water slides, general

supervision and learn to swim. Each facility received a Safety Score which is indicative of the

safety level of the venue.


The purpose of the Safety Score is to provide a benchmark to the percentage of Life Saving

Victoria safety issues the venue has addressed. The Safety Score can be compared by the

centre year to year to show improvement and monitor the progress the Centre is making in

relation to the items assessed.

The following table shows the Safety Scores achieved at each centre:

Table 3.3

RLSSA Safety Scores

Centre Safety Score

PLACE 70.7

Casterton Outdoor Pool 64.8

Heywood Outdoor Pool 71.3

Merino Outdoor Pool 69.2

Based on the above scores there is a need for all centres to address the safety issues not

complied with as identified within the report

Feedback received from Council officers indicated that very few of the facility improvement

recommendations were implemented. It should also be noted that there was a change of

contract manager in 2008 and it is unclear if any of the management and operational

recommendations were implemented.

3.3 UNIVERSAL DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL)

The concept of Universal Design is to simplify life for everyone by making the built environment

more usable to as many users as possible at little to no additional costs. Equal access for all

users is a fundamental requirement of current building design to meet the expectations of the

community. Whilst building codes and design standards determine the minimum

requirements, facilities such as Aquatic, Health and Recreation Centres demand a higher

concept for ‘ease of access’. This extends from the car park, to footpaths, drop off points,

entry ramps, main entries, reception/cafe/retail counters, passageways and doorways, and

change rooms.

‘Access’ and ‘accessibility’ has largely been seen as a process of fulfilling a set of measurable

requirements (i.e. technical notes and specifications) as generally set out in legislative

requirements such as the BCA and relevant standards. This has resulted in ‘accessible’

features being incorporated into a building which is otherwise designed by traditional

methods. These features in themselves consequently become a source of stigma and

segregation, as they are associated with particular users.

Universal Design separates itself from ‘accessibility’ as it is based on social inclusion and not

the measurement of accessible design features. Universal Design is applied holistically to a

building without alternatives for differing groups.

By applying a philosophy of Universal Design, especially where new buildings are designed

and constructed, many ‘access’ problems can be addressed successfully.

A large range of stakeholders inclusive of representative agencies for people with disabilities,

building associations and consumer groups, are engaged in the development of ‘universal’

standards.


These standards provide a knowledge base and extensive principles, which may provide

guidance and inspiration for designers when generating Universal Design concepts. Relevant

guides and standards include:

Australian Standard AS1428 Parts 1-4, 2009

Disability (Access to Premises) Standards, 2010

Royal Lifesaving facility design guidelines

Sports and Recreation Victoria “Universal Design Factsheet”

Universal Design is an approach to achieve the goals of the design principles:

Body fit - accommodating a wide a range of body sizes and abilities;

Comfort - keeping demands within desirable limits of strength and stamina;

Awareness – insuring that critical information for use is easily perceived;

Understanding – making methods of operation and use intuitive, clear and

unambiguous;

Social integration – treating all groups with dignity and respect;

Personalization – incorporating opportunities for choice and the expression of

individual preferences; and

Cultural appropriateness – respecting and reinforcing positive cultural values.

Comment: It is recommended that Council integrate universal design aspects into any facility

development or re-development and that all proposed designs be independently audited by

Council prior to construction.

3.4 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL)

The Council Environmental Sustainable Policy indicates that Council is committed to

delivering environmentally sustainable outcomes for energy, materials and water, for the

community and the organisation. Council is committed to leading by example, in particular

through environmentally sustainable practices in the work place and activities.

Council facilities play a central role in delivering the necessary reductions while also

demonstrating and extending current industry best practice. Particular emphasis is often

placed on water reduction, water reuse and energy efficiency, however, there is a full suite of

Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) disciplines that can be embedded into any design.

Many Councils have developed ESD Design Guidelines for buildings and urban design, which

act as a design tool when developing or re-developing facilities. These guidelines often

articulate specific performance targets that are to be met through the project to achieve

community aspirations for a low impact, environmentally sustainable and health promoting

pool and leisure facility.

ESD Design Briefs often include a prioritised list of initiatives that are to be incorporated into

the design process and categorised as mandatory, expected and optional. The decision

making process for enhanced ESD initiatives is often decided through a value management

exercise that gives consideration to maximum ecological benefit, budgetary constraints,

functional requirements, social value and lifecycle costs.

Some examples of ESD initiatives that can be incorporated into the development of new

aquatic and leisure facilities or the re-development of existing facilities include:


Energy and CO2 Emissions

Water

User Health and Education

Environmental Management

Transport

Materials

Environmental Pollution

See Appendix J for a detailed list of initiatives.

Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facilities, it is recommended that

an ESD audit of the facility or future development options be completed and an action plan

determined for staged implementation based on agreed Council priorities.

3.5 RELEVANT REGULATORY STANDARDS

The following provides a summary of the key relevant policies and statutory /regulatory

standards and requirements that must be complied with in the management and operation

of leisure and aquatic centres. This list provides a guide only to the required documents:

Pool operators are advised to consult all appropriate acts, regulations, codes of practice,

standards and guidelines, as well as industry publications.

Relevant acts, regulations and codes of practice include the following:

Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 2001

Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations RLSSA

Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004

Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007

Dangerous Goods Act 1985

Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2000

Chemical Notifiers Self Assessment Tool

Australian Standards

Codes of practice

Compliance codes.


4 S U M M A R Y O F M A R K E T R E S E A R C H A N D

C O N S U L T A T I O N

An extensive market research and consultation process has been undertaken to assist with

determining the current and future community trends, needs and expectations for aquatic

facilities for the Glenelg Shire. The market research and consultation process included.

A review of previous research and strategies;

A 300 person resident household telephone survey;

An online survey open to all community members and users of the Glenelg pools;

An online survey to all schools in the Shire;

Key stakeholder interviews;

Township focus groups;

Benchmarking of other similar facilities in similar areas.

This section summarises the key findings from the Market Research and Consultation. The

detailed write up of the consultation is provided in Appendices A to H.

4.1 PREVIOUS RESEARCH REVIEW

As part of the review and market research process a range of Council and Community

documents and Plans were reviewed. The impact of relevant recommendations from these

documents have been summarised and are detailed in Appendix A. The documents

reviewed included:

Council Plan Embracing the Future 2013 – 2017

Advancing Country Towns Program - Economic Development Employment, Skills &

Training Aboriginal Outcomes

Municipal Health Plan

Recreation and Open Space

Early Years Plan

Recreation Facilities Policy

Indoor Recreation Facility Feasibility Study 2010

Portland Community Plan - 2008

Heywood and District Community Plan - 2008

Casterton and District Community Plan – 2008

The key documents that have an impact on the provision of leisure and aquatic facilities are:

The Council Plan – 2013 – 2017: that identifies Embracing community well-being and Building

Quality places as two of its four strategic objectives.

The Heywood and District Community Plan 2008; that identifies the opportunity to develop a

multi-purpose indoor centre which provides a range of different activities including

hydrotherapy (utilising geothermal energy), gymnasiums and a range of other activities.

The Casterton and District Community Plan 2008: that identifies the development of a

hydrotherapy facility as project that the community endeavoured to address.


Municipal health Plan: that identifies 5 key goals including:

Healthy, safe and inclusive communities

Dynamic, resilient local economies

Sustainable, built and natural environments

Culturally rich and vibrant communalities

Democratic and engaged communities

In particular the plan identifies specific actions directly related to the future direction of the

aquatic centres including:

Increased participation by young people in recreation and leisure activities – as part

of the youth strategy.

Active ageing strategies

Healthy eating and physical activity strategies

Renewable energy strategies

Events and celebrations

Improve accessibility for people with a disability

4.2 RESIDENT HOUSEHOLD SURVEY TRENDS

Glenelg Shire Council area residents' telephone survey conducted in early December 2012.

The survey involved 300 residents (aged 15 years and older) who were randomly selected to

provide information on:

1. Current use or non-use of swimming pools

2. Future use or non-use of swimming pools

3. Swimming Pool issues and needs

4. Respondent profile

The respondent's profile was developed to reflect the population spread of people in the

Glenelg Shire Council area. All respondents were surveyed by telephone. The survey

questions were based on a range of SGL aquatic surveys standard questions and principally

sought information on peoples' use of public swimming pools which included Council, school,

private and commercial centres but not home pools.

The following provides a summary of the key survey results. A more detailed analysis of the

results is provided in Appendix B.

Based on the resident telephone usage percentages (53%) and current population estimates

(20,700) there are approximately 11,000 people in Glenelg Shire Council area currently using

swimming pools.

The Portland Aquatic and Leisure Centre (73% used) and the Casterton and Merino Outdoor

Swimming Pools (both 8% used) are most used facilities covering 89% of all use of swimming

pools. They Heywood Outdoor Pool is currently the least used facility.

Survey respondents that indicated they did not use a swimming pool (47%) identified the

main reason being:

• Not interested 31%

• Too busy 27%

• No suitable facilities close by 13%

• Go to the beach 11%


The main constraints to use of swimming pools can be categorised under a number of

common themes, being:

Personal Issues.: Not interested 31%, Too busy 27%, Too old/health

issues 15%, don’t like swimming 9%, work commitments 4%,

Product Issues: No suitable facilities close by 13%,

Placement Issues: Have and use own pool 3%.

No respondents identified issues around promotion i.e. Lack of Information/Do not know what

is available; which is often identified as a constraint to participation.

Residents rating of current facilities/services were relatively high being

Table 4.1

Summary Facility Ratings

Rating Facility Name

Portland Casterton Merino Heywood

Excellent 18% 35% 38% 38%

Good 52% 53% 31% 13%

Adequate 20% 12% 23% 25%

Poor 8% 0% 8% 25%

Very Poor 3% 0% 0% 0%

Current aquatic facilities are very family orientated with 58% of users visiting with family and

21% with friends resulting in a significant user market representing 79%.

Main activities people do at the four swimming pools are:

• Recreation/Leisure/Fun 55%

• Lap Swim/Fitness 35%

• Take child to Pool 24%

• Use health and Fitness Facilities 21%

The survey results indicated there is potential growth in swimming pool usage with 14% more

users indicating they would like to make greater use of Aquatic Leisure Facilities in the future.

• Yes 67% (+ 14%)

• No 33% (- 20%)

This would take users to nearly14,000 residents based on current population, an increase of

3,000 plus residents (above the estimated number currently of 11,000 users)

Respondents who indicated they would like to make greater future use of swimming pools

were asked to nominate up to three features that would encourage them to make more use

of the swimming pool. There were 31 facilities/features nominated with the most popular

responses being:


Longer opening hours 13%

Warm water pool 13%

Gym/weights facilities 11%

Cleaner more hygienic facilities 7%

More variety of activities/programs 6%

Membership packages/discount 4%

More health and fitness classes 4%

Outdoor grassed area 3%

More recreation/leisure pools 2%

Access to spa/sauna 2%

Indoor learn to swim 2%

These results indicate support for access to warm water pool, indoor health and fitness

programs as well as recreation swimming, fun features and facilities for family/friends with a

high wish for leisure pools, play equipment and modern service areas.

4.3 COMMUNITY USER SURVEY

Users of the four swimming pools were invited to complete an online or a hard copy user

survey to identify current and future issues and needs. A total of 70 surveys were received for

the outdoor pools users and 146 from users of the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre. The

following provides a summary of the key issues identified:

4.3.1 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre

(i) Use of PLACE

The most popular timeslots identified for use of the Centre was the 5.00pm- 8.00pm (39%),

followed by 9.00 am to midday (21%), 2.00pm to 5.00pm (17%), and after 8.00pm (11%).

Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the Centre from home 72%, followed by

work (17%) and school (10%).

The majority of respondents travel by car either on their own (89%) or with others (11%)

Most respondents spend 1 to 1.5 hours (55%) at the Centre followed by 0.5 to 1 hours (23%)

at each visit to the Centre.

The results indicate the majority of respondents are regular users of the Centre with daily,

4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week accounting for 85.4% of usage.

The main activities undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as indicated

by survey respondents are listed as follows in order of frequency of response:

Use of gym and weights 29%

Group fitness and fitness classes 22%

Lap swim/fitness 19%

Spectator 18%

Recreation swimming and fun 16%


(ii) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Centre

Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the Centre. The top

six reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:

Close to home 16.1%

It has an indoor pool 16.1%

To attend a health and fitness program 12.7%

Range of gym equipment available 10.2%

Good facilities 8.5%

To attend learn to swim program 6.8%

The main reason the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre was the centre of choice was

because it is close to home (16%) followed by it has an indoor pool (16%) and to attend a

health and fitness program (12.7%).

(iii) Rating of the Facilities and Services/Programs

Survey respondents rated the current facilities services and programs at the Portland Leisure

and Aquatic Centre. The results indicate that approximately 29% of respondents considered

the facilities to be between excellent and good and 72% considered the facilities adequate,

poor or very poor.

The top issues people were unhappy with included:

Level of fees and charges 67%

Customer service/assistance 33%

Group fitness timetable 33%

Change rooms 23%

Indoor pool 20%

Centre too crowded 17%

Range of programs and services offered 17%

Leisure Pool 11%

Gym/Weight facilities 8.0%

Air quality in pool Hall 5.6%

(iv) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools

Just under 9 out of 10 (87%) respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use

of the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.

Respondents provided a large range of facility component priorities that would assist them in

greater use of pools. The top five features included:


Warm water pool for therapy 13.8%

Larger indoor learn to swim pool 10.9%

Membership packages/discount offers 10.3%

Longer opening hours 6.9%

Improved gym/weights facilities 5.7%


4.3.2 Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood

(i) Use of the Outdoor Swimming Pools

The most popular timeslots identified for use of the outdoor pools was the 2.00pm- 6.00pm

(45%), followed by 9.00 am to midday (22.7%)and midday to 2.00pm (13.6%).

Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the outdoor pools from home (72%),

followed by work (8%) and school (2.6%).


Most respondents spend more than 2 hours (46%) at the outdoor pools followed by 1 to 1.5

hours (23%)at each visit to the pools.

The majority of respondents are regular users of the outdoor pools during the summer seasons

with daily, 4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week and weekly accounting for 57% of usage.

(ii) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Outdoor Pools

Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the outdoor pools.

The reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:

Close to home 35%

To use outdoor pool 27%

To attend learn to swim program 12%

Close to work and school 8%

Good facilities 8%

To attend swimming club program 8%

Accessible facilities 4%

(iii) Rating of the Facilities and Services

Survey respondents rated the current facilities, services and programs at the outdoor

swimming pools.

Table 4.2

Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities

Rating Outdoor Pool

Casterton Heywood Merino

Excellent 26% 29 % 50%

Good 33% 35 % 10%

Adequate 33% 29% 30%

Poor 8% 6% 10%

Very poor 0% 0% 0%

The survey respondents who considered the facilities or services to be poor/very poor were

asked to indicate which services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in

order of frequency of response were:

Centre opening hours 45%


Range if programs and services offered 19%


(iv) Main Activities Undertaken at the outdoor pools

The top five main activities undertaken at the outdoor pools

Cool down from hot weather 29%

Recreation fun swimming 22%

Take child to the pool 19%

Competition activities 18%

Holiday programs 16%

(v) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools

Seven out of 10 (70%) of respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use of

the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.



Longer opening hours

Cleaner more hygienic facilities

Additional family change rooms

More variety of activities and programs

Improved social and food areas

Improved outdoor grass areas/shade

Warm water pool

Improved learn to swim programs

4.4 SCHOOL SURVEY

All primary and secondary school located within the Portland Shire area were sent an

electronic link to a school survey in February 2013

A poor response was received from schools with only 4 schools completing the surveys.

School representatives were asked a range of questions about their schools use of Aquatic

Centres and aquatic/health and fitness based programs and services.

Of the 4 schools that completed the survey, all schools indicated that they had participated

in a Learn to Swim or School Sports Program.

Terms one, three and four were the most popular terms and that schools are more likely to

plan aquatic based programs during the warmer months which allows Aquatic Centre

operators to plan for peak school usage during these periods.

4.4.1 Most Popular Swimming Pools

The schools were requested to nominate the main swimming pool(s) used for the aquatic

programs. The following indicates the most popular swimming pools used:

Portland Indoor Pool 1 school

Casterton Outdoor Pool 1 school

Hamilton Indoor Pool 1 school

Heywood Outdoor Pool 1 school


4.4.2 Features Would Like to See Developed

The main features that would encourage schools to make greater use of swimming pools in

the future were:

Indoor warm water pools

Separate school change rooms

Cheaper entry fees

More shaded water

Access at different times than allocated

Diving facilities

4.5 COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUPS AND KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS

A range of community focus groups and key stakeholder interviews were conducted to

identify current and future aquatic needs and expectations to assist with guiding the

recommended aquatic strategy for the Shire. The following provides a summary of the key

issues identified under key headings:

4.5.1 Facilities

The heating of the PLACE pools is inconsistent and is a major deterrent for a

number of people using the facilities. Often the water temperature is too cold.

The ambient air temperature is also too cool for some users.

The aquatic facilities across the Shire are not fully accessible for people with a

disability. This includes both the change room’s facilities and the swimming pools.

There is an opportunity to create a warm water pool at PLACE to support both the

learn to swim and rehabilitation/therapy markets.

There is a need to upgrade all four swimming pools to meet community

expectations and contemporary standards for the provisions of aquatic facilities.

Some of the key areas include;

(i) PLACE

Change room

Size of gym

Group fitness room

Improved reception and staff amenities

Improved indoor and outdoor leisure play area

Access to warm program pool

(ii) Casterton

The hospital considered the development of a hydrotherapy pool, however it

was not considered at this stage to be feasible. The opportunity to develop a

facility in partnership with Council should be investigated.

The swimming club and schools are proactive and would like to see greater

access to aquatic areas all year round.


(iii) Merino

Facilities at Merino are tired and need updating – don’t require new facilities

There is limited shade at the pool which is a concern in extreme hot weather.

(iv) Heywood

The Heywood Community and District Plan outlines the priority for an indoor

multi purpose facility including a hydrotherapy pool and gym.

Facility needs to be maintained to a higher standard

Any future development of the swimming pools must consider environmentally

sensitive design initiatives.

There may be an opportunity to consider geothermal heating opportunities in

a wellness area of the facility.

4.5.2 Services and Programs

The opening hours of both PLACE and the Outdoor Pools do not meet the needs of

the community particularly on days of extreme hot weather. There is a need to review

the hours of operation.

Other allied health services would like to make greater use of the facility for their

clients. The provision of health suites would be supported by the Portland and District

Health.

There is a need to deliver more activities to meet the needs of the family market,

particularly over the summer months when there are more domestic tourists in the

area. The pool could provide and alternate activity if the right attractors were

available.

There is a need to provide a greater range of programs and activities to meet the

needs of young people. This could include more adventure type equipment such as

new waterslides.

4.5.3 Other

Over the past 15 to 20 years limited Council funding has been provided to upgrade

the pool.

4.6 COMBINED MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION FACILITY IMPROVEMENT

PRIORITIES

The following table highlights the top six future facility improvements from the 4 key

consultation and market research processes.


Table 4.3

Most Popular Future Swimming Pool Improvements

Future Facility

Improvement

Priorities

Household Survey User Survey

School Survey Focus Groups Key Informants

1 • Longer opening

hours

Improved indoor

pool

Indoor warm

water pools

Gym needs

expansion

Improved quality

of the facilities

2 • Warm water pools Longer opening

hours

Separate school

change rooms

Warm water

/program pools

Access to warm

water pool.

3 • Access to more

gym/weights

facilities

Greater variety

of programs and

activities

Cheaper entry

fees

Improved leisure

features

Larger gym area

4 • Cleaner more

hygienic facilities

Cleaner more

hygienic facilities

More shaded

water

Improved change

rooms

More shade and

shelter outdoors

pools.

5 • More variety of

activities/programs

Access to indoor

pool for learn to

swim

Access at

different times

than allocated

More dry program

rooms

Better change

facilities at

outdoor pools

6 • Improved

membership

packages

More shade and

shelter at

outdoor pools.

Diving facilities Consistent water

temperature at

PLACE

Improved

accessibility for

people with

disabilities

4.7 BENCHMARKING OF FACILITIES IN SIMILAR SIZE MUNICIPALITIES

The provision of aquatic facilities within six Victorian Local Government Authorities was

benchmarked against Glenelg Shire Council with a similar population base of between

16,000 – 22,000 residents. The following municipalities were assessed:

Colac Otway Shire

Corangamite Shire

Golden Plains Shire

Horsham Rural City Council

Moyne Shire and

Southern Grampians Shire

Of the Councils assessed, the following could be found:

Three Councils provided an indoor aquatic and leisure centre (Colac Otway, Horsham

and Southern Grampians);

Three Councils provided outdoor swimming pools (Corangamite x 6, Moyne x 3 and

Southern Grampians x 6);

Two Councils had indoor community pools (Colac Otway in Apollo Bay and Moyne in

Port Fairy);

One Council had an indoor warm water pool in association with the local health

service (Corangamite in Cobden) and

One Council had no aquatic facilities at all (Golden Plains).

The following management arrangements are in place:

Of the 3 indoor aquatic and leisure facilities, 2 are managed in house (1 externally

contracts the gymnasium and dry component of the facility) and 1 is managed by an

external management provider;


Of the 3 Councils that provide outdoor facilities, 1 is managed by an external provider

and 2 are managed in house by Council;

Both indoor community pools are managed by community committees of

management; and

1 pool is managed by a District Health Service and contracted to an external

management provider.

The following recent aquatic facility developments have taken place:

An indoor warm water pool and 2 spa pools were developed in Cobden (2011) for

approximately $1million on Cobden and District Community Health land. This was

developed through significant community support and fundraising.

A 4 lane, 25m pool and dry facilities were developed in Port Fairy (2006) as a

community project with funds being raised by the community. This is managed by a

committee of management with financial assistance from Council. The capital cost of

the facility is thought to be in the area of $1.2 – $1.5million.

The Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre (2006) was constructed by Council at

a cost of $9.7million.

The following new aquatic facility developments have yet to take place:

Colac Otway Shire received $10million to upgrade the Blue Water Fitness Centre to

include a warm water exercise pool, leisure water area and other dry facility

components.

4.8 LEISURE TRENDS

The following summary of general leisure trends impacting on people and their demand for

recreation, sport and leisure activities and in particular aquatic facilities has been developed

using a range of aquatic facility feasibility documents.

General Leisure trends impacting on aquatic leisure facilities design, facility components and

user attraction include:

A gradual ageing of the population. As life expectancy increases, birth rates stay low and

the “baby boomers” of the 1950s and 1960s grow older. This is placing a new demand on

providing programmed hotter water areas as well as pools suitable for therapy and older

adult exercises. It also means it is essential to have a range of pools with different water

depths and temperatures.

Flexibility in the times when people recreate. As demands on people’s time increases

and work practices change people are seeking to take their recreation at different times,

over a broad spread of hours and at facilities that offer a lot of activities under the one

roof. Indoor pools and health and fitness facilities are particularly attractive and getting

easier to use as many are open 12 to 16 hours, 7 days a week

Increased variety in recreation and leisure options. People’s leisure and recreation

options are changing towards newer more varied activities offered over a greater range

of timeframes compared to previous decades where limited variety in activities and

scheduling occurred. This has supported the trend to more multi-use facilities to attract a

broader range of users as well as multiple water areas to meet different needs at the one

centre.


Constraints to recreation and leisure participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities close by,

family and work constraints, health problems and cost of service or use of facilities are the

main constraints to many people’s recreation and leisure participation. The development

of targeted markets of users, programs and services at aquatic and health and fitness

centres has assisted in reducing some of these participation constraints

Changing employment structures, trading and work hours. These trends often makes

participation in traditional sports difficult and therefore people are looking for facilities

that are open longer hours and have a lot of activity options at the one site. This makes

opportunities such as indoor pools attractive as their long opening hours and days open

means usage can be made in a wide range of social, training, competition, educational

settings.

Different people want different activities. The broadening different cultural, age, gender

of the population sees the need for facilities to offer potential users a much more varied

range of programs and services than previously offered. All year round indoor aquatic

facilities also provide the greatest diversity of activities throughout the different seasons

impacted by an areas local weather.

Provision of high standards and quality of facilities and services. People are looking for

high standard, high quality facilities and services to meet their recreation and leisure

needs. This has also seen the trend for indoor facilities becoming very popular as they

allow activity in safe and secure spaces in all weather and environmental conditions. This

leads to indicating that building low standard, low cost facilities will not attract the

maximum user market.

Desire for activities to be affordable. The development of multi-purpose aquatic leisure

centres has enabled the high operating cost activity of aquatics (in many cases) to be

cross subsidised by more profitable activity areas such as health and fitness, food and

beverage and entertainment areas. This has enabled many facilities to keep general

entry fees low to encourage use whilst seeking users who want special services to

contribute at a greater level to the cost of such activities.

Recognition of strong links between physical activity and health. Preventative health

care and active lifestyles are very important to many people’s aquatic and health and

fitness activities are becoming a large part of people’s activity choices.

Expectations of equity and access. Today’s society expects people with special needs to

be catered for in public aquatic and leisure facilities. This has seen improved design

features to increase accessibility to and within such facilities. Added to this is the growing

array of programs and activities offered to people of all different abilities, physical

condition and skill levels.

4.8.1 Specific Aquatic Facility Trends

Specific Aquatic Facility Trends that are impacting on people in the 21st Century include:

(i) Aquatic Facility Trends and Main User Markets

Traditionally many local authority aquatic leisure facilities were built for specialist or limited

market users (i.e. competitive swimmers or high level sport participants). Detailed planning

and comprehensive feasibility studies now are able to show more targeted user profiles.


Such studies usually identify the demographic profile of residents in the project area, their

current aquatic and leisure participation patterns and use of surrounding aquatic facilities

that provide a sound base for more user friendly facilities that cater for the following key

markets.

Recreation and Leisure Market - usually made up of families, people coming with

friends and groups for fun, relaxation, social activity and low level

competition/participation.

Competitive/Training/Fitness Market - usually made up of people predominantly

attending facilities alone for structured fitness or competition activities.

Education Market - usually made up of children and adults wishing to increase

water safety and survival skills. Includes Learn to swim classes, school and club use

and individuals improving their skills and techniques. They require hot water pools

and water depths with some straight edges and easy water access etc.

Health and Therapy Market - usually made up of children, adults and older adults

wanting to relax or exercise in hot water. This market also includes specialist health

condition groups such as arthritis, asthma suffers, etc. They require hot water pools

and associated health relaxation areas, i.e. Spa/saunas, etc.

Research indicates that the recreation and leisure market will be the largest as it contains

people of all ages, ability, types, interest and gender. The competitive/ training/fitness

market is a more specialist market as it usually contains younger, fitter and more active

people who have made time to train and compete.

Previous research conducted by SGL Leisure Planning Team indicates that in many cases 60%

to 70% of facility users come from the recreation/leisure sector with 20% to 30% coming from

the competitive/training/fitness markets. The health and therapy and education markets can

range from 10% to 20% of the market subject to the age and health profile of the community

in which the facility is located.

(ii) Health and Fitness Activity Areas

Industry trends indicate that users of aquatic facilities are also significant users of health and

fitness facilities. Location of each of these activity components at the one site improves

financial viability.

Health and fitness has the capacity to record high expense recovery returns, with many

centres returning 125% to 180% of expenditure. Locating these facilities at aquatic centres

increases the potential of cross-selling and spin-off use. It also improves the

membership/program user and casual user ratio.

There is also an increase in personal trainers both as private businesses and within community

aquatic centres. These programs provide one on one or small group intensive training

programs that are tailored to meet the individual needs of the participants.

(iii) Leisure Play Equipment

Changing static shallow water areas into water play and fun zones is one of the most popular

renovations. This can be done by adding simple play equipment, water sprays and

interactive equipment to existing pools. Added to this is the option to introduce inflatable

play equipment to allow the area to be changeable.


(iv) Major Attraction Leisure Features

Water slides and similar challenge and adventure type activities have remained popular as

long as the venue has a range of slides/rides to keep peoples interest. Single ride facilities

struggle to keep interest due to the lack of variety. Multi ride areas allow users to try different

length and configuration rides.

There are also a range of new water rides that have a slide component leading to another

ride experience such as dropping into a bowl and then water, or onto a ramp and then into

a splash pool.

A key design trend is to link all slides to a common entry platform to ensure one staff person

can supervise the area. A common splash down zone also allows one lifeguard to control a

range of ride water entry points.

(v) Rural Aquatic Facilities

Many regional Council’s are currently trying to determine the appropriate level of aquatic

service provision as a result of ageing infrastructure and escalating operating subsidies

required to support often multiple pools across the Council area. Many of the pools are

starting to reach the end of their useful life and in some cases have declining participation.

The cost to upgrade the facilities is often financially prohibitive resulting in limited funds being

available to improve the facilities to meet community need and expectations. In some cases

Councils have determined to rationalise some of the outdoor pools and provide one

centralised facility to current contemporary standards.


5 O P E R A T I O N A L A N D S T R A T E G I C F A C I L I T Y O P T I O N

R E V I E W S

5.1 INTRODUCTION

This section provides an operational review of each of the four Glenelg aquatic facilities and

identifies options for the future direction of each facility. The review of each facility identifies:

Facilities review

Usage review

Technical / Maintenance

Universal design

Environmental performance

Program and service delivery

Summary of key market research and consultation findings

Strategic options

5.2 PORTLAND LEISURE AND AQUATIC CENTRE (PLACE)

5.2.1 Facilities Review

Council’s first heated outdoor swimming pool complex consisting of a 50m main pool, 25m

learners pool and toddlers pool was constructed in 1976 on a portion of the Henty Park

Reserve in Portland.

The heated pool complex was converted to heating by geothermal energy in 1983, and a

spa pool was added to the outdoor facilities in 1984. The geothermal energy is currently not

in use.

During 1992/93 $1.2 million was spent on providing indoor heated pool facilities, a gymnasium

and multi-purpose area, culminating in the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre being

launched as “The PLACE” and opening to the public on 2 June 1993.

An extension to the Gymnasium at the PLACE was completed in 1996. The purpose of this

extension was to make room for the transfer of gymnasium facilities from Portland Aluminium

to the PLACE.

A Sauna was added to the complex in 1998 and in 2012 an outdoor spa was added to the

facility.

A significant upgrade to the water filtration plant at the PLACE was completed during 2007.

The filtration plant is now operated on modern vacuum media filtration to minimise water

wastage from backwashing and to extend filter wash cycles.


“The PLACE” provides wet and dry activity areas comprising:

4.2.1.1 Dry Areas:

Gymnasium;

Group Fitness/relaxation program room suitable for up to 50 participants as a multi-

purpose activity room;

Class 2 Child Care Centre for up to 21 children;

Kiosk catering for up to 20 people at any time;

Male and female change room facilities, supplemented by dedicated change rooms

for people with a disability.

4.2.1.2 Wet Areas:

25 metre rectangular indoor pool (6 lanes)

Indoor free form learners pool;

Indoor free form toddlers pool;

Sauna;

Outdoor spa bath accommodating up to 6 people;

Outdoor 50 metre heated pool (8 lanes);

Outdoor 25m learners pool;

Outdoor water slide feature;

Outdoor toddlers pool;

First Aid Room/Lifeguard Station.

The PLACE uses a gas chlorine water treatment system utilising Wallace & Tiernan chlorine

injectors with dosing for both chlorine and pH controlled by an electronic Ezitrol unit. All pools

run off a common filtration plant except the spa.

The entrance and indoor components have a feeling of being relevant at a local level with

modest facilities and almost domestic feel in some areas. The outdoor 50m pool, water slide

pool and expansive outdoor area seem grand in comparison to the indoor facilities. The

facility is showing signs of age and wear and tear.

Figure 1 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre


5.2.2 Total Usage Review

A review of usage of PLACE over the last four years 2008/2009 to 2011/12 has been

completed and is summarised in the graph below.

Figure 2: Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre

A review of usage over the past four years indicates

Usage of the Centre has continued to increase from a low of 78,145 visits in 2008/2009 to a

high of 130,806 visits in 2011/2012.

This continual growth represents an increase of 17,748 visits over the 3-year period (year 1

not included due to 9 months of data) This figure represents an increase in attendances of

15% over the past 3 years.

Based on a current catchment of approximately 10,000 people this represents a high

average visitation rate of approximately 13 visits per person per year.

5.2.3 Usage Category Review

A usage category breakdown is provided in the following table:

Table 5.1

Total Category PLACE Usage

Attendance 2008/2009*

2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012

Member Group Fitness 13027 16267 16172 16936

Member Health Club 12254 21357 24769 27070

Member Recreational Swimming 8112 13903 16920 19531

Casual Group Fitness 2459 2762 2633 2495

Casual Health Club 2320 2889 2393 2772

Casual Aqua Safe 5352 11192 11529 12402

Casual Recreational Swimming 18692 26458 23052 24179

Schools 10364 8441 10582 11541

Casual Personal Training 533 795 865 947

Creche 5032 8904 9771 12933

Total 78,145

9 mths operation

112,968 118,686 130,806

78,145

112,968 118,686

130,806

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012

Total Attendance


A review of usage by category over the past four years indicates:

Usage by category has experienced a steady increase in all areas.

2009/2010 saw slightly higher attendances in the categories of Member Group Fitness,

Casual Group Fitness, Casual Health Club and Casual Rec Swimming compared to other

years.

Total Creche attendances have increased over the three-year period from a low of 8,904

in 2009/2010 to a high of 12,933 in 2011/2012. This represents an increase in 4,029 people

(45%).

Total Member Recreation Swimming attendances have increased over the three year

period from a low of 13,903 in 2009/2010 to a high of 19,531 in 2011/2012. This represents

an increase in 5,628 people (40%).

Total School attendances have increased over the three year period from a low of 8,441

in 2009/2010 to a high of 11,541 in 2011/2012. This represents an increase in 3,100 people

(36%).

5.2.4 Program and Service Delivery

PLACE is currently operating within the following hours:

Monday to Friday 6.00 am to 8.00 pm

Saturday 8.00 am to 6.00 pm

Sundays and Public Holidays 10.00 am to 6.00 pm

Previously Portland’s outdoor pools had less operational hours causing some complaints; this

has since been adjusted to reflect the indoor facilities hours over the summer season.

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

2008/2009

2009/2010

2010/2011

2011/2012

Usage Category Breakdown


PLACE has access to the YMCA “stable” of programs. Due to the regional location and

potential staffing limitations the ability to provide the full range of programs may be difficult

without structured staff training, development and retention strategies in place.

4.2.7.1 Aquatic Programs

The following programs currently operate at PLACE:

Aquatic Education (YMCA Aqua Safe - Swimming lessons)

Aqua Aerobics

Birthday Parties

These programs reflect a basic level of service provision.

Opportunities exist to expand aquatic programs to include the following:

Swimming Squads

Additional Aqua Aerobics classes (currently 4 per week)

AAA (Disability) Programs

Theme/Fun Days

Inflatable sessions

4.2.7.2 Health and Fitness Programs

The following programs currently operate at PLACE:

Group Fitness (approx. 30 classes per week)

Pilates

Over 50’s, Pryme Movers

Zumba Tomics (kids Zumba)

Bounce Back with Bubs (Mums and bubs fitness group)

Personal Training

Teen Gym (13 to 16 years)

Climbing wall (portable)

These programs represent a fair level of service provision.

Opportunities exist to expand health and fitness opportunities to include the following YMCA

programs:

Eat Smart (nutrition program)

Challenge Fit Camp

Youth Gym (from 10 years)

AAA (Disability) Programs

Healthy Bodies Healthy Minds (Mental Illness)

Corporate Programs

4.2.7.3 Children’s Programs:


Crèche

OSHC (School Holiday Program)

Birthday Parties

These programs represent a good level of service provision.

Whilst opportunities exist to expand Childcare (day care) opportunities this should not be a

major focus at PLACE. Given likely limited resources, greater efficiencies can be maintained

by focusing on children’s programs to supplement and support the core aquatic and fitness

business elements, this can be achieved by the children’s programs currently in place.

Based on the information provided there are a number of additional program opportunities

available with a potential to provide a wider range of services and reach a broader cross

section of residents.

The YMCA has successfully developed various programs for specific population groups in

other regions, including programs to engage indigenous populations. The YMCA of Perth

introduced “Swim for Life” a successful indigenous youth training and recruitment program in

remote areas. Potential exists to develop similar programs to benefit the Glenelg Shire

community.

Comment: The YMCA currently provide a fair provision of programs at PLACE, there is room for

program growth in Aquatic and Health and Fitness areas. Online program information and

marketing is currently poor and could be significantly improved.

Comment: The current spread of hours is fair and comparable to similar facilities. Feedback

has been received expressing the desire for longer operating hours (in particular the outdoor

facilities), it is unlikely extended hours would result in sufficient attendances to make this

feasible.

Comment: Feedback has been received regarding pool crowding at peak times, potential to

extend the outdoor season to operate at peak times only may be considered to alleviate this.

5.2.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance PLACE

Council has identified a number of projects from previous reports and inspections as being

the most significant in the short term. The following table outlines works identified for the

PLACE by Council:

Table 5.2

Works Identified by Council for PLACE

Item Description Estimated Cost YR

A Provide three access handrails to the Toddler/Baby

pool.

$2,000 11/12 carry

forward to 12/13

B Improve warning signage around the perimeter of

the toddler/baby pool.

$2,500 12/13

C Improve perimeter seating around toddler pool. $3,000 Future

D Improve signage at the toddler pool to comply with

RLSSA operational guidelines.

$1,000 Future

The list of projects in Table 5.2 have been identified by Council as potential risks. Incidents

have been reported at Portland of people slipping whilst entering the toddler pool, and

chairs breaking when being sat on.


Council has identified that as a minimum, the above interim actions need to be undertaken

to “make safe the pool surrounds” with additional works to be undertaken at a future date to

improve the amenity of the pools. Actions such as repainting the pools are required to be

undertaken on a regular basis, and funds need to be allocated annually to ensure that the

pools are maintained to a minimum standard.

Comment: PLACE has difficulty maintaining pool water quality within Health Regulations

(including chemical levels and microbiological levels). The 2001 Powick Report

recommended additional water treatment plant ($275,000) which should most likely improve

performance in this area. Further investigation and assessment of plant, staff training and

procedures may be necessary to develop an action plan to address this.

5.2.6 Universal Design

The concept of Universal Design is to simplify life for everyone by making the built environment

more usable to as many users as possible at little to no additional costs. The following issues

were noted in regards to universal design principles at PLACE:

The 25 meter indoor pool has ramp access but the ramp is too steep. The gradient is 1:10.5

and should be no steeper than 1:14;

There is a raised pediment around all of the outdoor pools;

The outdoor spa has a raised timer surround with no disability access to it. The spa itself is

raised and even the most able bodied person could have trouble getting in and out of

the spa; and

There is a disabled toilet off the foyer area.

Water temperature is not consistent

Signage is poor

5.2.7 Environmental Performance

At the time of construction of the Portland Outdoor Pool and the later addition of the indoor

facilities, Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles were also not a high priority in

design and construction of the facility. No other ESD features were noted at the time of visual

inspection.

Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, an ESD audit of the

facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation. The

ongoing and increasing high cost associated with operating aquatic centres and the high

use of water, energy and chemicals indicates that this is a critical issues that needs to be

improved.

5.3 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS

The key findings in relation to the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre is summarised as

follows:

Usage of the Centre has continued to increase from a low of 78,145 visits in 2008/2009 to a

high of 130,806 visits in 2011/2012.

This continual growth represents an increase of 17,748 visits over the 3-year period (15%).

Usage by program category has experienced a steady increase across all program


areas. During peak usage times (early mornings and after school hours) the facility is at

capacity.

Council provides a financial subsidy to operate the facility. This subsidy has increased

over the last five years as part of contractual arrangements..

• Technical reviews completed in 2001 identified approximately $600,000 of works required

at the pool. Discussions with council officers indicated that since that time little works

have been completed.

• The community consultation process identified that residents believe the facility is in need

of refurbishment. The key areas of concern identified were:

• Water heating consistency

• Quality of the change rooms

• Accessibility

• Lack of “fun” leisure activities

72% of respondents to the telephone survey considered the facilities adequate, poor or

very poor. The top issues people unhappy with were:




Change rooms 23.4%

Indoor pool 20%


Range of programs and services offered 17%

Leisure Pool 11%



5.4 STRATEGIC OPTIONS

The consultation processes has identified the opportunity to upgrade PLACE to create a

sporting, leisure and aquatic precinct that caters for a range of diverse indoor and outdoor

activities and opportunities using both the adjacent sporting fields and the aquatic facilities.

Based on the community consultation and market research undertaken the following tables

provides future direction options for PLACE for consideration and the likely economic, social

and environmental impact.


Table 5.3

PLACE Future Directions Options

Option Description Indicative

Capital Cost

Capacity to

Attract

External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Status Quo –

with

improvements

to OH&S and

compliance

issues

Undertake an update of facility

technical audit to determine

current OH&S

Carry out the recommendations

of the audit.

No additional facilities proposed

or change to existing facilities.

$65K -$85K Potential to

attract some

funding from

DPCD -

The option will see the following:

OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit addressed.

Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may improve

operational efficiencies.

Additional funding required implementing the recommendations of the reports.

Potential reduced operating cost as a result of greater operating efficiencies

The project will not address the following:

Community expectations for the provision of new or upgraded facilities including warm

water program pool, expanded gymnasium and facilities for young people/families or older

adults.

No additional increase in usage or revenue as a result of no new or additional facilities or

services provided.

Refurbish

existing

facilities and

provide new

and or

additional

facilities.

Refurbished facilities include

following additions:

Upgraded interactive leisure

water – indoor and outdoor.

Replacement of outdoor water

slide.

Replace outdoor spa.

Expansion of gym and group

fitness room.

Construction of warm water

program pool.

Provision of accessible/family

change room and school

change rooms.

Redevelop staff

administration/reception/merch

andise areas.

$6M - $10M Potential to

attract some

funding from

DTPLI– Better

Pools Funding

and

Department of

Health

This option will see the following:

Facility upgraded to current standards in terms of O, H and S, DDA and Universal design.

Interactive leisure water will address identified needs of family/youth and social markets

Updated water slide will provide improved leisure opportunities for the young people/family

markets and provide major attractor for the facility.

Expansion of gym and group fitness rooms will reduce over crowding, increase access and

participation and provide higher yield service that will assist in improving the financial

viability of the centre.

Warm water program pool addresses the identified need for access to warm water for

rehabilitation, therapy and lower level learn to swim

Upgraded administration/reception and merchandise areas will improve operational

efficiencies and increase secondary spend opportunities.

Upgraded and new change facilities will improve customer comfort and amenity.



Capital Cost

Capacity to

Attract

External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Major

refurbishment

with Day Spa

Option

This options includes the features

detailed in option two with the

addition of a wellness centre

$7M - $11M Potential to

attract some

funding from

DPCD – Better

Pools Funding.

This project will address the items identified in options two with the addition of:

A wellness centre including a range of high quality allied health activities such as massage,

relaxation etc. These services provide a substantially higher yield per visit than community

aquatic and leisure facilities.

The centre would provide a point of difference for the region as a major attractor for the

local, interstate and international tourist markets.

The facility may be able to make use of geo thermal water opportunities within the area

(similar to recently opened Moree Artisan Pools, NSW.


5.5 CASTERTON SWIMMING POOL


The Casterton Memorial Swimming Pool, built in 1965, is located on Carmichael Drive,

Casterton.

The pool is seasonal facility that operates seven days a week from 10 am with weather

dependant closing times. The facility operates from 1 December to 31 March each year.

Casterton Swimming Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility comprising of the following areas:

4.3.1.1 Dry Areas

Male and female change rooms

Kiosk

First aid room

Office

Car parking

4.3.1.2 Wet Areas

50m solar heated outdoor pool

Toddlers pool

Figure 1 Casterton Swimming Pool


5.5.2 Usage Review

A review of usage of Casterton Outdoor Pool over the past five years 2008/2009 to 2012/2013

has been completed and is summarised on the following page.

Table 5.4

Casterton Outdoor Pool Usage

Attendance 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013

Adult 427 320 199 377 421

Child 1,534 1,265 556 864 689

Family 70 77 66 103 75

Schools 0 0 0 2,360 1,632

Membership 3,454 5,125 4607 5,477 5,430

Total 5,485 6,787 5,428 9,181 8,247

5,485

6,787

5,428

9,181

8,247

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

7,000

8,000

9,000

10,000

2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013

Total Attendance

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

Adult Child Family Schools Membership

2008/2009

2009/2010

2010/2011

2011/2012

2012/2013



A review of usage over the past five years indicates

Usage of the Centre has increased from 5,485 visits in 2008/2009 to 8,247 visits in 2012/2013.

This represents an increase of 2,762 visits over the 5-year period (50%).

It should be noted that industry trends indicate that weather conditions can have an

impact on attendances during a season of up to 30%.


The Casterton Swimming Pool currently operates within the following opening hours:

Open 10.00 am

Close based on Temperature at 1pm:

Below 20C - the pool closes at 6.30pm

Between 20C - 25C - the pool closes at 7.30pm

Between 25and 30C - the pool closes at 8:00pm

Above 30C - the pool closes at 9:00pm

Outdoor pool hours have been a source of many complains across all facilities. Previously the

facilities had opened at 10.00 am but changed to 10 am in December 2009 following

Councils analysis of the previous year’s attendance data.

Comment: Consideration should be given to simplifying the operating hours to achieve a

better public awareness.

Comment: Flexibility to close entirely on unseasonal cold days may also be considered as

significant attendances are unlikely and impact on resources may be lessened.

Comment: Based on community feedback Council may wish to revisit the potential for earlier

opening times, in particular the better patronised pools in Casterton and Merino. Operating

hours of similar facilities vary; however a 1.00 pm is one to three hours later than the majority.

5.5.4 Programs

There is little evidence of programming at the outdoor pools.

Due to weather factors and relatively small catchment populations it may be difficult to

sustain regular program opportunities. Some examples of potential programs which could be

developed without a major impact on resources include:

Vicswim learn to swim programs (or YMCA intensive programs)

Theme/Fun days

Inflatable sessions

Lap swimming sessions


Informal children activities (e.g. ball games, races)

Comment: Little evidence exists of outdoor pool programs, and common customer feedback

identifies the need for “more fun activities”. This could be addressed in part through some

simple, low cost programs.

5.5.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance Casterton

Casterton Outdoor Pool operates with concrete sand pressure filters and chlorine gas. Solar

heating was installed in 1986.

Comment: Consideration may be given to converting to Sodium Hypochlorite (liquid chlorine)

for safety reasons, however chlorine gas in still commonly used in remote facilities and

generally delivers good water quality results.

The Swimming Centre Audits 1998 By David Powick and Associates recommended the

following works for Casterton Outdoor Pool:

Various minor safety compliance items

Change room works

Chlorine Detection Unit installation

Backwash valve replacement

Circulation pump repairs

New chemical dosing pumps

Backwash holding tanks

Pool painting

Tile repairs

Dive board removal

Hand rail installation

Improved safety signage



Casterton Swimming Pool:

Table 5.5

Works Identified by Council for Casterton


A Re level existing concrete pool deck through

grinding concrete joints and other minor remedial

tasks.

$6,000 11/12

B Replace existing concrete pool surrounds. $40,000 Future

C Improve signage at the toddler pool to comply with

RLSSA operational guidelines

$500 12/13

D Repaint Pools (required every 5 years) $27,500 Future

The list of projects in Table 5.5 have been identified by Council as potential risks. An incident

has been reported at Casterton of a child slipping and sustaining an injury.


Comment: Evidence shows consistent water quality problems including low chemical levels

and poor water clarity. Further investigation and assessment of plant, staff training and

procedures may be necessary to develop an action plan to address this.


At the time of construction of the Casterton Outdoor Pool, Environmentally Sustainable Design

(ESD) principles were also not a high priority in design and construction of the facility.

However, solar heating of the outdoor pool has since been installed to increase water

temperatures. No other ESD features were noted at the time of visual inspection.


facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation.

5.6 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS

The key findings in relation to the Casterton Swimming Pool is summarised as follows:

The Casterton Outdoor Pool attracts the highest number of visits of the three

outdoor pools with approximately 8,200 visits during the 2012/2013-summer season.

The facility however is also in need of upgrade to meet the needs of the local

Casterton and surrounding areas residents.

Discussions with key stakeholders indicated that the facility is highly valued by

residents as a summer social/ leisure facility and by the local swimming club and

schools.

Discussions with the Swimming Club indicate they currently bus club members to

the Hamilton Indoor Swimming Pools, as they are unable to access the Casterton

Pool for pre season training, putting members of the club at a competitive

disadvantage.

The 50-metre outdoor pool at the Casterton facility however is advantageous to

the training programs of the club members.

A number of families are required to travel to Hamilton to access learn to swim

programs as the only classes available at Casterton are the intensive program

during January each year.

The local schools also use the pool for swimming sports, learn to swim programs

and squad swimming programs twice a week. The schools see the pool as vital to

their physical education curriculum.

Discussion with a representative from the Casterton Hospital indicated that the

Hospital had recently undertaken a study into the feasibility of constructing a

hydrotherapy pool onsite. The study found that the facility at this stage was not

feasible.

The respondents to the telephone survey rated the Casterton Pool facilities as

follows:

Excellent 35%

Good 53%


Adequate 12%

Poor 0%

Very poor 0%

Community representatives identified the need to upgrade the following key

issues:

Change rooms

Toddlers pools

Concourse

Improved shade around the pool



provides future direction options for Casterton for consideration and the likely economic,

social and environmental impact.


Table 5.6

Casterton Future Directions Options

Option Description Indicati

ve

Capital

Cost

Capacity to

Attract

External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Status Quo -

with

improvement

s to OH&S

and

compliance

issues.


technical audit to determine

current OH&S requirements.

Carry out the recommendations

of the audit.

No additional facilities proposed

or change to existing facilities.

$55K -

$75K

Potential to

attract some

funding from

DPCD -


OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit addressed.

Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may improve operational

efficiencies.




No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in

revenue is expected.

The community needs for access to an all year round facilities with the closest facilities being 50

minutes away.

Upgrade

facility to

improve

access,

amenity and

user comfort.

Refurbished facilities include

following additions:

Upgrade reception/entry area.

Upgrade the change rooms.

Improve shade and shelter.

Repaint the pool shell.

Provide wet deck around pool

Upgrade the pool concourse.

Upgrade the toddler’s pool to

provide interactive leisure water.

Provide new seating, tables and

drinking fountains.

Upgrade front “look” of building.

$200K -

$300K

Potential to

attract some

funding from

DPCD -

The option will address the following:

OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit.

Compliance with Universal Design principles, which will increase access and participation at the

Centre

Improve the user experience and may attract some additional visitation due to improved amenity

and comfort.


No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in

revenue is expected.

The community needs for access to an all year round facilities with the closest facilities being 50

minutes away.


Option Description Indicati

ve

Capital

Cost

Capacity to

Attract

External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Develop a

small indoor

program

pool

This option includes the features

detailed in option two with the

addition of an indoor warm water/

program pool.

$5M -

$6M

Potential to

attract some

external

funding from

DPCD – Better

Pools Funding

program,

Hospital Fund.

This option will address the items identified in options two with the addition of:

Community and local school access to an all year round indoor heated pool for, health and

wellness, rehabilitation; lower level learn to swim, and aquatic fitness programs.

Highly engaged community would support option.

Higher level of capital funding from Council, however, increased revenue is expected due to high

yield components.

Opportunity to seek external funding from local organisations (ie hospital) and state government.


5.8 HEYWOOD SWIMMING POOL


Built in 1964 he Heywood Outdoor Swimming Pool is located at the corner of Fitzroy Street and

Hunter Street Heywood.

The pool is seasonal facility that operates seven days a week from 1.00 pm with weather


Heywood Swimming Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility comprising of the following areas:

4.4.1.1 Dry Areas


Kiosk

First aid room

Office

Car parking

4.4.1.2 Wet Areas


Toddlers pool

Figure 3: Heywood Outdoor Pool


5.8.2 Usage Review

A review of usage of Heywood Pool over the last five years 2008/2009 to 2012/2013 has been

completed and is summarised below.

Table 5.7

Heywood Outdoor Pool Usage

Attendance 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013

Adult 210 284 66 170 151

Child 929 1012 450 858 1,058

Family 39 59 28 25 47

Schools 0 0 0 13 70

Membership 450 293 273 507 538

Total 1,628 1,648 817 1,573 1,864

1,628 1,648

817

1,573

1864

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

Total Heywood Pool Attendances 2008/2009 - 2012/2013

Attendances

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Adult Child Family Schools Membership

2008/2009

2009/2010

2010/2011

2011/2012

2012/2013



Usage of the Centre has continued to increase from a low of 817 visits in 2010/2011 to a

high of 1,864 visits in 2012/2013.

This continual growth represents an increase of 236 visits over the 5 year period (14.5%).

Heywood is the least utilised of all the aquatic facilities with attendance levels much lower

than expected for a facility of this type with a catchment population of over 1,800.

There is no longer an active swimming club at Heywood Swimming Pool.


The Heywood Swimming Pool currently operates within the following opening hours:

Open 1.00pm






Outdoor pool hours have been a source of many complaints across all facilities. Previously

the facilities had opened at 10.00 am but changed to 1.00pm in December 2009 following


Comment: Consideration may wish to be given to simplifying the operating hours to achieve

a better public awareness.




opening times. Operating hours of similar facilities vary; however a 1.00 pm is one to three

hours later than the majority.

4.4.7.1 Programs






Theme/Fun days

Inflatable sessions





identifies the need for “more fun activities”. This may be addressed in part through some

simple, low cost programs such as additional inflatables and programs during the holiday

period were structured activities such as pool volley ball could be

Heywood Outdoor Pool operates with concrete, sand, austral pressure filters installed in 1997

and chlorine gas. Solar heating is fitted.





following works for Heywood Outdoor Pool:

Various minor safety compliance items

Change room works

New dump shower

Pool painting

Tile repairs

Hand rail installation

Improved safety signage



Heywood Swimming Pool:

Table 5.8

Works Identified by Council for Heywood


A Repaint Pools (Required every 5 Years) $20,000 11/12

B Re level existing concrete pool deck through

grinding concrete joints

$4,000 11/12



$500 12/13

D Replace In ground infrastructure from pool

chlorination system to pool

$12,000 Future

E Replace existing concrete pool surrounds $35,000 Future

The list of projects in Table 5.8 have been identified by Council as potential risks.

Comment: Evidence shows a history of water quality problems including low chemical levels

and poor water clarity, often failing to meet Health Regulations. Further investigation and

assessment of plant, staff training and procedures may be necessary to develop an action

plan to address this.


5.8.4 Universal Design

At the time of construction of the Heywood Outdoor Pool, universal design principles were not

at the fore of design and construction resulting in limited universal design features being

incorporated into the facility.

Change rooms have not been provided with accessibility in mind and all pools have raised

pediments. Little work has been done on the facilities since they were built, therefore, the

retrospective inclusion of universal design features such as accessible amenities, ramp entry

into pools, improved signage, the construction of wet decks around pools, beach entries,

accessible BBQ and furniture etc. have not been provided.

Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, a universal design audit

of the facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged

implementation.


At the time of construction of the Heywood Outdoor Pool, Environmentally Sustainable Design






5.9 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES

The key findings in relation to the Heywood Swimming Pool is summarised as follows:

The review of the Heywood Outdoor Pool indicates that it is the least used of the three

outdoor facilities, with just under 1,900 visits in the 2012/2013 season.

The consultation process has identified that the facility is “tired” and in need of

significant works to encourage greater utilisation. The pool is primarily used as a place

to “cool off” during summer months with little use of the 50-metre pool for lap

swimming or training. The Swimming Club that was located at the facility disbanded

approximately two years ago due to lack of interest.

Families wishing to participate in learn to swim programs travel to Portland to access

the indoor heated pools.

The development of a multi purpose indoor facility including a warm water pool and

a gym was identified as a priority in the 2008 Heywood and District Community Plan.

Discussion with some of the key stakeholders from the township indicated that this was

still a priority.


The respondents to the telephone survey rated the Heywood Pool facilities as follows:

Excellent 38%

Good 13%

Adequate 25%

Poor 25%

Very poor 0%

Community representatives identified the following key issues:

Lack of transport to access the facilities at Portland

Toddlers pools needs upgrading

Concourse needs upgrading

Need for improved change rooms

Poor maintenance/cleaning

Operating hours do not meet community need

Need for greater community involvement

Improved leisure water



provides future direction options for Heywood swimming pool for consideration and the likely

economic, social and environmental impact.


Table 5.9

Heywood Future Directions Options


Capital Cost

Capacity to

Attract External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Status Quo -

with

improvements

to OH&S and

compliance

issues.


technical audit to determine current

OH&S requirements.

Carry out the recommendations of

the audit.

No additional facilities proposed or

change to existing facilities.

$25K - $35K Potential to attract

some funding from

DPCD -


OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit

addressed.

Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may

improve operational efficiencies.




No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant

increase in revenue is expected.

The community needs for access to an all year round multipurpose program

room.

Upgrade

facility to

improve

access,

amenity and

user comfort.

Refurbished facilities include following

additions Upgrade to the reception/entry

area.





Upgrade the toddler’s pool to

provide interactive leisure water.


drinking fountains.

$200K - $300K Potential to attract

some funding from

DPCD -


OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit.

Compliance with Universal Design principles, which will increase access and

participation at the Centre

Improve the user experience and may attract some additional visitation due to

improved amenity and comfort.




The community need for all year round community facilities and fun elements.



Capital Cost

Capacity to

Attract External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Develop an

outdoor

interactive

water play

area and an

indoor multi

purpose space

for community

programs.

This option includes a total refurbishment

of the facility to provide an outdoor aqua

play area and community multi purpose

space and includes:

Substantial interactive outdoor

aqua play/leisure water that links

to the success of the skate park.

Potential to retrofit existing to

construct a smaller outdoor pool.

Indoor multi purpose program

room.

Upgraded change and

amenities

Upgraded reception area.

$1.5M to $2M Potential to attract

some funding from

DPCD -


Community access to a smaller (20m) outdoor pool for fun and fitness operational

during the summer period only. Providing reduced operating costs.

Access to an interactive water play space during the summer months that can

be used as a dry play space during the winter months. This provides for increased

opportunities for participation by new markets such as families/children and

young people not currently well catered for.

Provides the township with a unique water playground and point of difference.

Provides access to indoor multipurpose space that can be used all year round for

fitness classes, community meetings, youth space and community activities.

This option would require a higher level of capital funding from Council,


5.11 MERINO SWIMMING POOL


The Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool built in 1961 is located on Mocamboro Road, Merino.

The pool is seasonal facility that operates seven days a week from 1.00pm with weather


Merino Swimming Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility comprising of the following areas:

4.5.1.1 Dry Areas


Kiosk

First aid room

Office

Car parking

4.5.1.2 Wet Areas


Toddlers pool

Figure 4: Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool


5.11.2 Usage Review

A review of usage of Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool over the last four years 2008/2009 to

2011/12 has been completed and is summarised below.

Table 5.10

Merino Outdoor Pool Usage

Attendance 2008/2009

2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013

Adult 103 107 27 66 556

Child 271 250 132 159 104

Family 33 17 11 14 76

Schools 0 0 0 445 0

Membership 2276 1975 1836 1471 2075

Total 2683 2349 2006 2155 2311


Usage of the Centre has decreased from 2,683 visits in 2008/2009 to 2,311 visits in

2012/2013.

2,683 2,349

2,006 2,155 2311

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

Attendances

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

2008/2009

2009/2010

2010/2011

2011/2012

2012/2013



This represents a decline of 372 visits over the 5 year period (14%).


The Merino Swimming Pool currently operates within the following opening hours:

Open 1.00pm






Outdoor pool hours have been a source of many complains across all facilities. Previously the

facilities had opened at 10.00 am but changed to 1.00pm in December 2009 following


Comment: Consideration may wish to be given to simplifying the operating hours to achieve

a better public awareness.




opening times, in particular the better patronised pools in Casterton and Merino. Operating

hours of similar facilities vary; however a 1.00 pm is one to three hours later than the majority.

4.5.7.1 Programs






Theme/Fun days

Inflatable sessions




identifies the need for “more fun activities”. This may be addressed in part through some

simple, low cost programs.


5.11.4 Technical Operations/Maintenance Merino

The Merino Outdoor Pool operates with the original open bed suction sand filters and chlorine

gas. No solar heating is fitted.




Comment: Consideration should be given to solar heating at Merino if adequate roof space

is available. The facility is already well supported by the local community however increase

water temperatures would see an increase in attendance and increase program

opportunities.


following works for Merino Outdoor Pool:

Various minor safety compliance items Change room works New dump shower Circulation pump repairs New filtration system pH dosing pump Compliant backwash discharge Pool painting Hand rail removal Improved safety signage



Merino Swimming Pool:

Table 5.11

Works Identified by Council for Merino


A Re level existing concrete pool deck through

grinding concrete joints

$2,000 11/12

B Improve maintenance access to pool chlorination

system through moving the recirculation pump

$3,000 11/12



$500 12/13

The list of projects in Table 5.11 have been identified by Council as potential risks.

Comment: Available evidence suggests Merino is the best performing of the outdoor pool in

terms of plant and water quality; however the 1998 audit indicated filtration was inadequate

for a facility of this size.



At the time of construction of the Merino Outdoor Pool, Environmentally Sustainable Design






5.11.6 Summary of Key Issues and Options

The Merino Pool is well used by the local farming community, schools and the swimming club.

The facility is located in an “idyllic” rural setting. The pool is viewed as the “poor cousin” to

the Casterton Pool and therefore often gets the old equipment i.e. pool blankets.

The pool is ageing and in need of upgrade to meet the needs and expectations of the

Merino and surrounding Districts residents.

The key issues identified through the consultation process include:

Quality of the change rooms

Ageing plant and equipment

Lack of maintenance

Lack of shade

The respondents to the telephone survey rated the Merino Pool facilities as follows:

Excellent 38%

Good 31%

Adequate 23%

Poor 8%

Very poor 0%



provides future direction options for Merino Swimming Pool for consideration and the likely

economic, social and environmental impact.


Table 5.12

Merino Future Directions Options


Capital Cost

Capacity to

Attract

External

Funding

Potential

Impacts

Status Quo -

with

improvements

to OH&S and

compliance

issues.


technical audit to determine current

OH&S requirements.

Carry out the recommendations of

the audit.

No additional facilities proposed or

change to existing facilities.

$25K -$35K Potential to

attract some

funding from

DPCD -


OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the

audit addressed.

Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may

improve operational efficiencies.






Upgrade

facility to

improve

access,

amenity and

user comfort.

Refurbished facilities include following

additions:

Upgrade to the reception/entry area.




Provide wet deck around pool


Upgrade the toddler’s pool to provide

interactive leisure water.


drinking fountains.

$200K - $300K Potential to

attract some

funding from

DPCD -


OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the

audit.

Compliance with Universal Design principles, which will increase access and

participation at the Centre

Improve the user experience and may attract some additional visitation due to

improved amenity and comfort.

Continued access to a swimming pool for the local community to “cool off”

during summer months, participate in the local swimming club and access learn

to swim programs.





6 C A P I T A L F U N D I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S R E V I E W

One of the key requirements Glenelg Aquatic Strategy was the consideration of Councils

financial capacity to fund the recommendations of the Strategy. A key aim of the Strategy is

to enable capital funding to be shared between Council funding and State and Federal

Government Grants.

This high capital cost of recommended facility improvements and developments will

therefore see the need for a number of funding support grants as Council does not have the

financial capacity to totally fund such major developments.

The Leisure and Aquatic Facility Development Industry has a history of only very limited

funding sources that may assist Council in financing the capital cost of new or re developed

Aquatic Facilities.

Traditionally, Aquatic Facility funding sources usually involve:

Council Funding

Other Government Grants

Commercial Investment

Commercial Fundraising

Community Fundraising and User Group/Contributions

Traditionally, a combination of Council funding with Government Grants and some limited

community fundraising has occurred for most aquatic facilities in Australia.

In larger areas with greater commercial opportunities we are now starting to see some

commercial investment in return for rights to manage/operate facilities ($1M to $2M

investment in return for longer-term management agreements).

In the last couple of years there also has been a number of Councils look at Commercial

fundraising. This appears to have been more successful in New Zealand than Australia.

The following information provides an overview of funding opportunities that may wish to be

pursued in greater detail once facility development options are identified.

6.1 REGIONAL GROWTH FUND

The Government’s new Regional Growth Fund (RGF) is designed to assist regional

communities and businesses adapt to current community changes.

The framework for the RGF is based on two long-term goals:

Developing a prosperous and thriving regional Victoria with more opportunities for

regional Victorians; and

Improving the quality of life for regional Victorians.

The RGF will support regional cities and country communities to create new prosperity, more

opportunities and a better quality of life.

http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-growth-fund/industries-and-jobs

http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-growth-fund/industries-and-jobs

http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-growth-fund/stronger-communities


The RGF will:

Provide better infrastructure, facilities and services;

Strengthen the economic, social and environmental base of communities;

Create new jobs and improve career opportunities;

Support the planning and development of projects; and

Leverage increased investment.

The RGF seeks to strengthen the capacity of regional and rural Victoria to develop within the

environment of growth and change. It aims to ensure a competitive environment in which

regional businesses can operate successfully, and to strengthen the resilience of regional

industry in the face of social and environmental change.

It incorporates a grass roots approach to identifying and developing community-led projects,

while ensuring that wherever country Victorians lives they have access to opportunities,

quality infrastructure and services.

The Regional Growth Fund has two main components:

Strategic Initiatives

Local Initiatives

6.2 STATE GOVERNMENT FUNDING

Over the past eight years State Government, through Sport and Recreation Victoria have

administered the Better Pool Funding Program.

It is anticipated that a funding allowance of approximately $3 million may be achieved from

State Government through the Better Pools funding program.

Funding applications are more likely to be successful if the project aligns with the key findings

and priority recommendations identified in State Sporting Government Planning Strategies.

The current priorities of the funding program are projects that:

Demonstrate how the project will increase or maintain participation.

Improves facilities to encourage greater female participation.

Encourages development of multi-use facilities.

Collaborates between local government authorities, schools and community

groups.

Demonstrates a partnership between local government and State Sporting

Associations or other relevant peak bodies.

Improved environmental sustainability.

Includes Universal Design principles

http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-growth-fund/strategic-initiatives

http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-growth-fund/local-initiatives


6.3 COMMONWEALTH FUNDING

Commonwealth Government funding has been restricted for sport and recreation

developments since the early 1990s when the Community Sports and Cultural Centres

Improvement Scheme was discontinued.

Although there has been no formal funding scheme, there have been a number of leisure

facility projects that were able to generate significant political pressure to receive funding

(election promises and stimulus packages).

In 2009/2010 the down turn in the economy provided a number of Local Government

Authorities with funding through the Federal Government stimulus package.

In March 2011 the Federal Government announced the Regional Development Australia

Fund (RDAF), which is a national program to support Australia’s regions and enhance

economic development and liveability of communities. The program is administered by the

Department of Regional Australia, Regional Development and the Department of Local

Government.

The program guidelines indicate that the aim of the funding program is to support localism,

and to leverage and better coordinate state, commonwealth, local government and private

(including not for profit) investments for the long-term benefit of communities.

Funding of between $500,000 and $25 million per project is available from this funding

program. The fifth round of the program has recently closed. Projects that addressed the

identified priorities of Regional Development Australia committees and have a strong regional

impact have been funded in the first 5 rounds.

The essential requirements for RDAF submissions include:

Submissions must;

Apply for funding between $500k and $25M

Include funding from other sources

Provide dollar for dollar contributions for projects over $5M

Have written endorsement from the RDA

Be “Investment ready”

Come from a local government authority or an incorporated not for profit entity

Submissions must show how they align with the Regional Plan and be endorsed in

writing by the RDA

There may be opportunities to seek funds under this scheme if the redevelopment includes an

integrated health, tourism and community precinct components.

6.3.1 Health and Hospital Fund

The benching of other similar area facility developments has identified potential funding

opportunity from the Health and Hospital Fund

Colac Ottway Shire Council received $2.83M for the construction of a warm water exercise

pool at the Blue Water Fitness Centre through the 2012/13 Health and Hospital Fund. This

initiative was Council driven with support from the Colac area health service.


6.4 T –QUAL GRANTS

T-QUAL Grants is a competitive merit-based grants program aimed at stimulating sustainable

economic growth in the Australian tourism industry.

By providing matched funding to large and small-scale tourism projects, the program aims to

increase Australia's supply of quality tourism products and experiences.

If the redevelopment of PLACE included a “wellness” centre making use of the available geo

thermal water there may be an opportunity to seek funds under this scheme.

By providing matched funding to large and small-scale tourism projects, the program aims to

increase Australia's supply of quality tourism products and experiences.

The program actively encourages private sector investment in the development of Australia's

tourism industry products, services and experiences. It is underpinned by the National Long-

Term Tourism Strategy and Tourism 2020. All projects funded under the program must align

with Tourism 2020 priorities.

T-QUAL Grants are administered by the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism and

are offered in two separate programs:

Strategic Tourism Investment Grants—funding for up to $1 million to support a small

number of larger scale projects to support Indigenous tourism, economic

development and tourism employment.

T-QUAL Grants—Tourism Quality Projects—funding of between $15,000 and $100,000

for smaller-scale projects to support collaborative tourism industry development

projects, particularly those which stimulate private sector investment.

6.5 COMMERCIAL FUNDRAISING

Traditionally, commercial fundraisers have been used on some recreation and sporting

projects to raise some funds. The results indicate they usually have some success but the

funds raised are regarded as low contribution levels compared to the high capital cost to

build such facilities. Such companies traditionally charge up to 30% of funds raised for their

services.

This funding option is not likely given the size of the population base.

http://www.ret.gov.au/tourism/business/tq/tgrants/stig/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.ret.gov.au/tourism/business/tq/tgrants/projects/Pages/TourismQualityProjects.aspx


APPENDIX A - SUMMARY OF PREVIOUS RESEARCH AND STRATEGIES


Summary of Previous Research and Strategies

Report Name Author and Date Key Points/Recommendations Relevant to the Current Project

Council Plan Embracing

the Future 2009 – 2013

Glenelg Shire Council has identified four strategic objectives to

drive the achievement of our Statement of Intent. These

strategic objectives are supported by a series of Council

commitments that underpin the strategic objectives.

Performance indicators have been developed for each of the

strategic objectives. Monitoring and reporting of these

performance indicators through the Glenelg Shire Annual Report

will assist Council and the community to measure progress

against these strategic objectives and associated commitments

of the 2009-2013 Council Plan.

The key strategic objectives:

Responsible and responsive governance and decision

making

Enhancing community well being

Strengthening a vibrant economy

Building quality places

Advancing Country Towns

Program

Heywood, Lake Condah &

Surrounding Towns

Economic Development

Employment, Skills &

Training

Aboriginal Outcomes

Damien Bell 2011 Advancing Country Towns focuses on improving cross-

government investment by working at a strategic level to

identify local needs to improve the quality of life. The plan

identified the following:

There are opportunities for tourism and other economic

development particularly in the timber industry with the Glenelg

Shire identifying a Portland to Heywood economic corridor.

There is also a significant Aboriginal cultural heritage site which

provides opportunities for tourism.

The determined priority areas for the Advancing Country Towns

project for Heywood, Lake Condah and surrounding towns are:

Economic development

Employment, skills and training with a focus indigenous

outcomes



Casterton and District

Community Plan 2008

By understanding the interwoven links that contribute to a well

functioning community ensures that the community can move

forward in developing its own future

Consequently the aims of the Casterton Community Plan

was:

To ensure that any development is balanced and

contributes to the unique culture of the Casterton

community.

That the economic, social, cultural and environmental

goals are all considered when developing Casterton as

a well functioning community.

To take advantage of any opportunities which exist

through the timber industry being centred (in part) in the

Casterton district.

A hydrotherapy facility was a project that the community

endeavoured to address. The hydrotherapy proposal would

provide long term benefit for people with special needs in this

area and is considered important adjunct for the infrastructure

for the Casterton community.

Heywood and District

Community Plan 2008

The Heywood community completed its first community plan in

2007 and commenced an extensive planning process to

develop a long term future for the Heywood community. This

plan was extended and reaffirmed at the review session held in

June 2008.

The development of a multi-purpose indoor centre which

provides a range of different activities including hydrotherapy

(utilising geothermal energy), gymnasiums and a range of other

activities was considered to be an important part of the health

and social development of Heywood. By developing an indoor

centre that involved the schools, the hospital and all sporting

clubs would encourage broad community use, and is a way in

which the community can ensure that such a project would

provide genuine benefit and attract investment.



Portland Community Plan

2008

The aim of the Portland Community Plan is for residents to feel

empowered to contribute to programs and projects that

provide social, economic, environmental and cultural

sustainability. The Vision for the Plan was

Strong communities

Social services, facilities and networks sufficient to sustain quality

of life, equity and wellbeing for all residents

Cultural diversity and expression

Developing and renewing cultural diversity and cultural

expression, to build shared values and enduring relationships.

A clean, green city

Managing land, ecosystems, energy, air and water in a way that

protects their use for future generations and encourages new

forms of eco living.

A diverse and vibrant economy

A resilient economic structure, ongoing business growth and

access to local employment for residents.

In relation to sport, recreation and leisure facilities the plan

identified:

Encourage all sporting clubs to participate in good sports

programs

Develop a multipurpose facility (including synthetic

surfaces for appropriate sports)

Develop capacity and structures to encourage

recreational fishing both for Portland and as a potential

visitor attraction for Portland

Continue to support the drag racing asset and motor

sport infrastructure at Portland

Continue to lobby for a facility and / or location for

motor sports in the Portland region

Continue to develop the plans for Yarraman Park

Undertake a balance of sport, leisure and arts in order to

provide broader accessibility for all residents of Portland

Encourage outdoor activities which include bush

walking, park trials and the like to encourage local

residents health and fitness and to attract visitor to the

area Ensure that basic infrastructure projects are

undertaken to support existing facilities, such as, sealing

the access road to the swimming pool facility


APPENDIX B – SUMMARY HOUSEHOLD TELEPHONE SURVEY


RESPONDENT PROFILE

The following table summarises the Resident Telephone Survey respondent sample:

Table 6.1

Resident Telephone Survey Respondent Sample

CATEGORY SUB-GROUP NUMBER %

Gender Male 145 48

Female 155 52

Age Range 15 - 19 years 38 13

20 - 29 years 16 5

30 – 39 years 35 12

40 - 49 years 62 21

50 - 59 years 60 21

60 ears plus 88 29

Township Bolwarra 8 3

Cape Bridgewater 3 1

Casterton 24 8

Dartmoor 7 2

Digby 5 2

Drumborg 3 1

Heathmere 5 2

Heywood 32 11

Merino 20 7

Narrawong 6 2

Nelson 4 1

Portland 168 56

Tyrendarra 1 0.25

Identified as Having

a Disability

Yes 31 10

No 269 90

Country of Birth Australia 281 94

England 6 2

New Zealand 4 1

Other 9 3

A review of the survey sample indicates all responses are within 2 to 5 per cent of existing the

Shire ages profile, area population and gender distribution indicating a reasonably balanced

and similar sample profile.

Current Use of Swimming Pools

Survey respondents were questioned on their use of public swimming pools in the past 12

months. Public swimming pools included Council, school and commercial centres, but not

home pools.


Glenelg residents make slightly below average use of swimming pools identified through the

survey responses. A total of fifty three per cent (53%) of people had used or visited a pool in

the past 12 months. A total forty seven per cent (47%) had not used or visited a pool in the

past 12 months.

Based on current population estimates (20,871 – ABS 2011) there are approximately 11,000

people in Glenelg Shire Council area currently using swimming pools/leisure centres.

Pool User Profile Comparisons

Usage of swimming pools does change by gender, age profile and area people live, as the

following results indicate:

Table 6.2

Usage of Swimming Pool Variances Against Sample Average

CATEGORY SUB-GROUP

% USED

POOLS

VARIANCE AGAINST

USED AVERAGE

(58%)

Gender Male 71 +18

Female 89 +36

Age Range 15-29 years 41 -12

30-49 years 70 +17

50-69 years 49 -4

70 years + 28 -25

The pool usage results indicate:

More females (89%) than males (71%) use pools. This trend is similar to other

aquatic participation surveys across rural Victoria.

People in their most active years (30 to 49 years old) make the highest use of pools:

Area Average 53%

15 to 29 years 70%

Young people aged 15 – 29 years use make lower than average (41%) use of pools

which is inconsistent with current aquatic usage trends.

Pool usage participation rates drop as people age

Area Average 53%

50 -69 years 49%

70 years plus 28%

Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools

Slightly less than five out of ten respondents (47%) had not used a swimming pool in the past

12 months. The main reasons respondents gave for non-use were:


Table 6.3

Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools

REASONS FOR NON-USE OF SWIMMING

POOLS

% OF

TOTAL RESPONSE

GENDER

Male

%

Female

%

Not interested 31 31 30

Too busy 27 27 23

No suitable facilities 11 11 12

Go to the beach 11 11 12

Don’t like swimming 9 9 9

Too old 8 8 9

Health problems 7 7 5

Work commitments 4 4 5

Have and use own pool 3 3 4

Cannot afford it 3 3 1

No indoor pool pools close by 2 2 3

The constraints that affect people’s use of pools do change depending upon their gender

and age. The main constraints to use of swimming pools can be categorised under a number

of common themes, being:

Personal Issues.: Not interested 31%, Too busy 27%, Too old/health

issues 15%, don’t like swimming 9%, work commitments 4%,

Product Issues : No suitable facilities close by 13%,

Placement Issues : Have and use own pool 3%.

No respondents identified issues around promotion i.e. Lack of Information/Do not know what

is available; which is often identified as a constraint to participation.

Most Popular Swimming Pools

The usage rates of people using swimming pools are spread around a number of different

facilities in the Shire and in neighbouring Shires. Respondents who had used a swimming pool

in the past 12 months listed 6 different facilities.

A summary of the most pools/leisure centres used, compared to the pool people nominated

as the one they use the most is as follows:


Table 6.4

Most Popular and Used Swimming Pools/Leisure Centres

SWIMMING POOL

SWIMMING POOLS/ LEISURE

CENTRES USED IN PAST 12

MONTHS (MULTIPLE

ANSWERS)

%

MOST USED SWIMMING

POOL/LEISURE CENTRES IN PAST

12 MONTHS(ONE CENTRE ONLY)

%

Portland Aquatic and Leisure

Centre

79 73

Casterton Outdoor Pool 11 8

Merino Outdoor Pool 8 8

Hamilton Indoor Pool 6 3

Heywood Outdoor Pool 5 3

Other 7 6

The pool usage data clearly indicates Council's pools receive high use, however, use is also

made of the Hamilton Indoor Pool located across the border in the Shire of Southern

Grampians.

Rating of Council's Swimming Pools

Survey respondents who had used swimming pools were asked to rate each of the four

Glenelg Shire Councils swimming pools under a five point rating system. The respondents

rated the facilities as follows:

(i) Portland Aquatic and Leisure Centre

Excellent 18%

Good 52%

Adequate 20%

Poor 8%

Very poor 3%

The key issues the respondents identified for improvement were:

Water temperature 30%

Indoor pool 25%

Leisure pool 25%

Change rooms 8%

Outdoor 50 metre pool 8%

Gym 8%

Feeling of safety 8%

Group fitness facilities 8%

(ii) Casterton Outdoor Pool

Excellent 35%

Good 53%

Adequate 12%

Poor 0%

Very poor 0%



Outdoor pool 30%

Change rooms 20%

(iii) Merino Outdoor Pool

Excellent 38%

Good 31%

Adequate 23%

Poor 8%

Very poor 0%


Outdoor pool 28%

Change rooms 21%

(iv) Heywood Outdoor Pool

Excellent 38%

Good 13%

Adequate 25%

Poor 25%

Very poor 0%


Outdoor pool 30%

Change rooms 20%

Feeling of security 50%

Swimming Pool Usage Profiles

The following sections provide data on the top five most used pools in relation to frequency of

use, reason for choosing pool and who usually go with:

1) Frequency of use of most used pool?

Daily 2%

4-6 times a week 9%

2-3 times/week 14%

Weekly 20%

Fortnightly 8%

Monthly 9%

Less than monthly 29%

Summer only 9%

2) Reasons choose most used pool?

Close to home 60%

Only pool aware of 23%

Good facilities 12%

To take part in a fitness activities 7%


Family/friends use 6%

Warm water 6%

Range of pools available 5%

Social reasons 5%

3) How do they travel to the most used pool?

Car 83%

Cycle 1%

Public transport 1%

Walk 15%

4) Main activities usually do at most used pool?

Recreation/swimming 55%

Lap swimming 35%

Take child to pool 24%

Use Gymnasium 21%

Fitness activities 13%

Other recreation activities 9%

To take part in aquatic program 6%

Family activities 4%


4) Who do you usually go to the pool with?

Family members 58%

On own 28%

Friends 21%

School group 3%

Club members 1%

Future Use of Swimming Pools

To assist in identifying the level of demand for future use of swimming pools, respondents were

asked if they would like to make greater use of pools in the future.

Sixty seven per cent (67%) of people indicated they would like to use pools in the future.

The highest future demand for use of pools will come:

From Females (65%) compared to males (44%).

People in their most active years aged 30 to 49 years (84%), followed by 15 to 29 years

(78%) 30 to 49 years and 50+ (64%).

Facilities and Features that Would Encourage Greater Future Use of Pools

Respondents who indicated they would like to make greater future use of swimming pools

were asked to nominate up to three features that would encourage them to make more use

of the swimming pool. There were 31 facilities/features nominated with the most popular

responses being:


Longer opening hours 13%

Warm water pool 13%

Gym/weights facilities 11%


More variety of activities/programs 6%

Membership packages/discount 4%

More health and fitness classes 4%

Outdoor grassed area 3%

More recreation/leisure pools 2%

Access to spa/sauna 2%

Indoor learn to swim 2%

These results indicate support for access to warm water pool and indoor health and fitness

programs as well as recreation swimming and fun features and facilities for family/friends with

a high wish for leisure pools, play equipment and modern service areas.


APPENDIX C – SUMMARY OF SCHOOL SURVEY


All primary and secondary school located within the Portland Shire area were sent an

electronic link to a school survey in February 2013

A total of 4 schools completed and returned the surveys.

Appendix Three of this report provides details of the individual school comments.

Use of Aquatic Centres

School representatives were asked a range of questions about their schools use of Aquatic

Centres and aquatic/health and fitness based programs and services.

The questions were aimed at identifying aquatic participation and facility usage trends and

key reasons why activities and facilities were selected.

Of the 4 schools that completed the survey, all schools indicated that they had participated

in a Learn to Swim or School Sports Program.

Schools Aquatic Program Coordination

Of the 4 schools who participated in Learn to Swim or School Sports Programs, 3 of the

programs were co-ordinated by pool staff and the fourth school coordinated their own

program.

Frequency of Student Visitations in Learn to Swim Program

Of the schools who participate in aquatic-based programs, the average number of student

visits is detailed below:

4 Visits 2 schools

More than 10 visits 2 schools

Most Popular Terms

To gain an understanding, of when schools use swimming pools, they were asked to nominate

which school term they typically use pools. The results are detailed below:

Term One 2 Schools

Term Two 1 Schools

Term Three 1 School

Term Four 2 Schools

The results indicate that terms one, three and four were the most popular terms and that

schools are more likely to plan aquatic based programs during the warmer months which

allows Aquatic Centre operators to plan for peak school usage during these periods.

Most Popular Swimming Pools

The schools were requested to nominate the main swimming pool(s) used for the aquatic

programs.

The following indicates the most popular swimming pools used:

Portland Indoor Pool 1 school


Casterton Outdoor Pool 1 school

Hamilton Indoor Pool 1 school

Heywood Outdoor Pool 1 school

Reasons for Choosing Most Used Swimming Pool

The main reasons schools gave for choosing their most used swimming pools were:

Affordable price 1 school

Heated swimming facilities; Indoor facilities;

Good facilities; 50 metre pool; Quality of programs 1 school

Close to school; 50 metre pool 1 school

Close to school; Range of pools;

Heated swimming facilities 1 school

Features Would Like to See Developed

The main features that would encourage schools to make greater use of swimming pools in

the future were:

Indoor warm water pools

Other (please specify below)

Access at different times than allocated; Diving facilities; More shaded water

areas

Separate school change room; Cheaper entry fees

Indoor warm water pools 1 school

Separate school change rooms 1 school

Cheaper entry fees 1 school

More shaded water 1 school

Access at different times than allocated 1 school

Diving facilities 1 school

School Based Aquatic Facilities

No Schools within the area surveyed had a school-based facilities


APPENDIX D – SUMMARY OF USER SURVEY


Users of all the four Council swimming pools were invited to complete a user survey either

online or as a hard copy survey. The surveys were completed during the months of February

and March 2013. A summary of the key finding is detailed as follows:

Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre

Respondent Profile

The following table summarises the user survey respondent sample for the Portland Leisure

and Aquatic Centre.

Table 6.5

User Survey Respondent Sample


Gender Male 17 25

Female 52 75

Age Range 15-19 years 2 3

20-29 years 12 18

30-39 years 22 31

40-49 years 19 27

50-59 years 8 12

60-69 years 5 8

70 years plus 1 1


Suburb Portland 57 81.4

Narrawong 3 4.3

Bolwarra 2 2.9

Cape Bridgewater 1 1.4

Casterton 1 1.4

Heathmere 1 1.4

Other 5 7.1

A review of the survey sample indicates that:

Fewer males (25%) responded to the survey than females (75%).

The highest percentage age profile that responded to the survey were aged 30- 39 years

31%, followed by 40 - 49 years 27% and 20-29 years 18%. These age groups represent

people in their most active years.

The predominant area were respondents lived was Portland 81%, followed by Narrawong

at 4.3%.

(ii) Times the Centre Was Most Used

The main times people used the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre are detailed in the

table below.


Table 6.6

Centre Usage Times

Time Slot Numbers %

Before 9.00am 15 10

9.00am-12 midday 30 21

Midday- 2.00pm 3 2

2.00pm- 5.00pm 25 17

5.00pm-8.00pm 57 39

After 8.00pm 16 11

TOTAL 146 100

The most popular timeslots identified for use of the Centre was the 5.00pm- 8.00pm (39%),

followed by 9.00 am to midday (21%), 2.00pm to 5.00pm (17%), and after 8.00pm (11%).

Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the Centre from home 72%, followed by

work (17%) and school (10%).


Most respondents spend 1 to 1.5 hours (55%) at the Centre followed by 0.5 to 1 hours (23%) .

at each visit to the Centre.

(iii) Visits to the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre

The following table summarises the frequency of use of the Portland Leisure and Aquatic

Centre.

Table 6.7

Use of Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre

Daily 2 to3 times 4 to 6 times Weekly Once a

Fortnight

Once a Month Less than once

a month

10% 34.8% 40.6% 7.2% 2.9% 0% 1.4%

The results indicate the majority of respondents are regular users of the Centre with daily, 4-6

times a week and 2-3 times a week accounting for 85.4% of usage.

(vi) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Centre

Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the Centre. The

reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:

Close to home 16.1%

It has an indoor pool 16.1%

To attend a health and fitness program 12.7%

Range of gym equipment available 10.2%

Good facilities 8.5%

To attend learn to swim program 6.8%

To attend a specific program 6.8%

To use outdoor pool 5.9%

Friends and family use it 4.2%

The main reason the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre was the centre of choice was


because it is close to home (16%) followed by it has an indoor pool (16%) and to attend a

health and fitness program (12.7%).

(v) Rating of the Facilities

Survey respondents rated the current services and programs at the Portland Leisure and

Aquatic Centre as:

Excellent 10%

Good 19%

Adequate 37%

Poor 29%

Very poor 6%

The results indicate that approximately 29% of respondents considered the facilities to be

between excellent and good and 72% considered the facilities adequate, poor or very poor.

The survey respondents who considered the facilities to be poor/very poor were asked to

indicate which facilities and/or services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons

listed in order of frequency of response were:

Change rooms 23.4%

Indoor pool 20%

Leisure Pool 11.2%



Outdoor Pool 5.6%

Kiosk and food facilities 4.7%

Group fitness rooms 3.7%

Water slides 2.0%

(vi) Rating of the Service and Programs

Survey respondents rated the current services at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as:

Excellent 12%

Good 35%

Adequate 35%

Poor 14.7%

Very Poor 2.9%

The results indicate that approximately 47% of respondents considered the services to be

between excellent and good while 52.6% considered the services adequate, poor or very

poor.

The survey respondents who considered the services to be poor/very poor were asked to

indicate which services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in order of

frequency of response were:







(vii) Main Activities Undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre

The main activities undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as indicated by

survey respondents are listed as follows in order of frequency of response:

Use of gym and weights 29%

Group fitness and fitness classes 22%

Lap swim/fitness 19%

Spectator 18%

Recreation swimming and fun 16%

Take child to pool 15%

Take part in an aquatic program 12%

Personal training 7%

(ix) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools

Just under 9 out of 10 (87%) of respondents indicated that they would like to make greater

use of the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.




Warm water pool for therapy 13.8%

Larger indoor learn to swim pool 10.9%

Membership packages/discount offers 10.3%

Longer opening hours 6.9%

Improved gym/weights facilities 5.7%

Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood

(i) Respondent Profile

The following table summarises the user survey respondent sample for the Portland Leisure

and Aquatic Centre.


Table 6.8

User Survey Respondent Sample


Gender Male 17 33

Female 52 67

Age Range 15-19 years 4 3.6

20-29 years 14 13

30-39 years 34 31

40-49 years 24 29

50-59 years 13 11.80

60-69 years 9 8.18

70 years plus 2 1.8

A review of the survey sample indicates that:

Fewer males (33%) responded to the survey than females (67%).

The highest percentage age profile that responded to the survey were aged 30- 39 years

31%, followed by 40 - 49 years 29% and 20-29 years 13%. These age groups represent

people in their most active years.

(ii) Times the Centre Was Most Used

The main times people used the outdoor pools are detailed in the table below.

Table 6.9

Centre Usage Times

Time Slot Numbers %

Before 9.00am 20 19

9.00am-12 midday 25 22.7

Midday- 2.00pm 15 13.6

2.00pm- 6.00pm 50 45

TOTAL 110 100

The most popular timeslots identified for use of the outdoor pools was the 2.00pm- 6.00pm

(45%), followed by 9.00 am to midday (22.7%)and midday to 2.00pm (13.6%).

Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the outdoor pools from home (72%),

followed by work (8%) and school (2.6%).


Most respondents spend more than 2 hours (46%) at the outdoor pools followed by 1 to 1.5

hours (23%)at each visit to the pools.


(iii) Visits to the Outdoor Swimming Pools

The following table summarises the frequency of use of the Outdoor Swimming Pools.

Table 6.10

Use of Outdoor Swimming Pools

Daily 2 to3 times 4 to 6 times Weekly Once a

Fortnight

Once a Month Less than once

a month

19% 7% 42% 15% 6% 0% 3%

The results indicate the majority of respondents are regular users of the outdoor pools during

the summer seasons with daily, 4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week and weekly

accounting for 57% of usage.

(vi) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Outdoor Pools

Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the outdoor pools.

The reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:

Accessible facilities 3.85%

Close to home 35%

To use outdoor pool 27%

To attend learn to swim program 12%

Close to work and school 8%

Good facilities 8%

To attend swimming club program 8%

(v) Rating of the Facilities and Services

Survey respondents rated the current facilities, services and programs at the outdoor

swimming pools.

Table 6.11

Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities

Rating Outdoor Pool

Casterton Heywood Merino

Excellent 26% 29 % 50%

Good 33% 35 % 10%

Adequate 33% 29% 30%

Poor 8% 6% 10%

Very poor 0% 0% 0%

The survey respondents who considered the facilities or services to be poor/very poor were

asked to indicate which services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in

order of frequency of response were:

Centre opening hours 45%



(vii) Main Activities Undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre


The main activities undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as indicated by

survey respondents are listed as follows in order of frequency of response:


Recreation fun swimming 22%

Take child to the pool 19%

Competition activities 18%

Holiday programs 16%

Lap swimming /fitness 15%

Aquaerobics 2%

(ix) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools

Seven out of 10 (70%) of respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use of

the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.



Longer opening hours

Cleaner more hygienic facilities

Additional family change rooms

More variety of activities and programs

Improved social and food areas

Improved outdoor grass areas/shade

Warm water pool

Improved learn to swim programs


APPENDIX E – TOWNSHIP FOCUS GROUPS


A range of focus group sessions (day and evening) were held Portland, Heywood and

Casterton township to identify local community issues and need.

The following table provides a summary of the key issues identified.

Table 6.12

Summary of Key Issues – Township Focus Groups

Stakeholder Group Issues Raised

Portland Focus

Water temperature at PLACE is an issue. Often cold.

Use of chlorine gas a concern in a residential area.

The infrastructure is old.

Casterton/Merino Focus

Group

Hospital undertook feasibility of developing a hydrotherapy pool – not

considered feasible at this stage.

Hospital interested in discussing possible options with council to develop a

warm water pool collaboratively.

Schools make high use of pool for school sports, learn to swim and squad

training.

Some parents going to Hamilton and Mt Gambia to access learn to swim

programs. Intensive program only program available.

Facility in need of upgrade – no money been spent on the facility for some

years.

Current facility not accessible for people with disabilities

Merino pool considered the “poor cousin”.

Swimming Club successful, but need to bus participants to Hamilton from

preseason training as pool opening too late.

There is no hot day policy to enable pool to remain open on days of extreme

heat. This doesn’t suit farmers who finish work at 5.30pm and pool is closed

by 6 pm.

Heywood Focus

Heywood Community Health

Advised that the Heywood Community Plan outlines a priority for the

development of a multipurpose indoor centre including a hydrotherapy pool

and gymnasium.

Provided consultation completed in March 2011 by the Bendigo Bank

regarding priorities. Pool heating and a general revamp of the pool including

the provision of a roof over the pool, the undertaking of general

maintenance and the provision of disability access were considered priorities

by the community.

Currently run a rehabilitation program on Monday and Wednesdays for

strength and balance. Indoor dry program run from the Heywood Rural

Health (old hospital) with a small gymnasium. Don’t use the pool for

programs.

Heywood residents do travel to Portland to use facilities however good

transport links are required. There is a V-line bus service as well as smaller bus

services run by the YMCA, Heywood Community Health and the Glenelg

Shire.

Casterton/Merino User

Group Session

• Casterton Swimming Club

• Merino Swimming Club

• YMCA staff members at both

Casterton and Merino.

Swim Clubs at both Casterton and Merino Swimming Pools.

Lack of maintenance funding spent on the facilities.

Don’t want longer operating hours.

Coleraine hospital rehabilitation pool is no longer operational.

No disability access into the pools.

Swimming clubs have raised money for solar hot water for the showers.

Clubs have purchased lane ropes and reels.

Commissioning takes place too late prior to season opening.

Solar blankets falling apart at both pools.

Offer 4 weeks of Learn to Swim through the schools.

Don’t want any great improvements just want the existing facilities

maintained.

Volunteerism not encouraged.



Open later if the weather is warm.

Heywood/Dartmoor User

Group Session

Lack of maintenance means people will use private pools.

Hours of operation are too short.

Contract management not good.

Poor water quality.

Poor security.

Poor cleaning and maintenance.

Younger ones go to Portland for swimming lessons as its too cold.

Solar heating not used enough.

There was a swimming club in the past but no longer.

There used to be lap swimming but no longer.

Needs greater community involvement i.e. a community committee of

management or advisory group.

Potential for increased programs such as boot camp.

More programs and equipment is needed such as inflatables.

Change facilities old and tired with no hot water.

Need leisure water.


APPENDIX F – KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS


Discussions were held with a range of key informants to discuss current and future aquatic

and leisure facilities needs and opportunities. The following provides a summary of their key

needs and issues related to current and future facilities.

Table 6.13

Summary of Key Stakeholders Interviews


Portland and District

Health

Bring up to 20 people per week to participate at PLACE.

Do water exercise class on Friday morning from 10.30 – 11.30am.

Would like a warm water exercise pool. Would like water temperature to

be at least 34 degrees with greater depth.

The water temperature is too cold for many of their participants.

Additional accessible change rooms required. Disability access is not

good. The change rooms is used for storage and the water wheelchair

often has a flat tyre.

Would run more classes if there was more pool space available.

YMCA run a rehabilitation program in the gym. Many participants

graduate from the Portland and District Health class to the YMCA

rehabilitation program.

Suggested an enclosed walkway to the outdoor pool.

Indoor pool very busy in the mornings especially when the outdoor pool is

closed.

Would support dry consulting suites at the pool.

Air temperatures too cold for people with disabilities.

Portland Swimming

Club

There are 48 schools in the primary schools zone.

5 – 6 competitions run over the summer season.

32 members in the Portland Swimming Club.

90% junior members.

Train 3 afternoons and 2 mornings per week.

Concerns about the poor quality of the pools and concerned that the

plant will break down during 4 day carnivals.

The pools are old and the pipework leaks.

Wannon Water and

Committee for

Portland

More fun is needed at the pools.

Consider geothermal heating opportunities.

Pools currently leak.

The bore will be replaced in Portland soon. Maybe an opportunity to

develop a spa resort facility.

Heywood is a better opportunity for warm water pool due to the distances

the heating has to travel.

Capitalise on the harbour and develop a wave pool on the foreshore.

United Way Suggested the development of a leisure precinct and share facilities.

More storage sheds are required.

Develop more of a youth hub and family area including community

gardens.

Interactive toddlers pool.

Support other allied health services on site.

Ensure pricing is accessible.

Portland Tourist

Association

Support the development of sea baths.

More swimming lessons through summer holidays.

Deliver more family activities.



Advancing Country

Towns

The Advancing Country Towns Advancing Country Towns will focus on

improving cross-government investment by working at a strategic and

local level to identify local needs to improve quality of life. The initiative

supports local communities to develop a range of solutions such as

improved access to early childhood services, educational attainment,

employment opportunities and economic participation

The Advancing Country Towns objectives are:

To improve investment and service coordination and

integration to more efficiently meet identified local priorities

To improve access to education, skills and training and

employment

To identify economic development opportunities

To increase the capacity of regional communities to

participate in decision-making and priority-setting activities.

The Project does not specifically address recreation and aquatic services and

facilities. The opportunity however to create a point of difference for

Heywood would assist with the economic impact on the township by bringing

more people to the area.

Phi Currie DPCD The aquatic facilities within the Glenelg Shire are aging and require

significant maintenance and upgrades.

The improvement of facilities in Heywood could improve economic and

job prospects for the indigenous community.

Warrnambool is current undertaking strategic work to improve water play

areas and capture dry program market locally.

Not sure what is happening in regards to aquatic developments in Mt

Gambier.

Hamilton haven’t capitalised on opportunities.

Warm water, water play and contemporary facilities should be a focus for

Glenelg.

Portland has characteristics for a tourism focus.

There may be potential for private, public partnerships.

Geothermal heating option should be explored.

Funding through RDAF not likely as its for regionally significant infrastructure.

Funding through RDA – Putting Locals First, may be possible for some

elements of projects.


APPENDIX G – YMCA STAFF FOCUS GROUP


A focus group was held with staff from the YMCA currently operating the facilities. The

following provides a summary of key issues identified:


Health and Fitness Separate spin room required.

Mind body room required.

Outdoor covered area for boot camp.

Separate room for rehabilitation sessions required.

793 aquatic and fitness members.

Only one room for group fitness classes, could do with another multi-purpose

room for spin, vacation care, parties etc.

Would like to run water aerobics in Heywood.

Would like a dry room at Heywood to run classes.

Run pilates in the crèche at Portland.

Birthday Parties Need undercover area outside for birthday parties.

Need more fun indoor and outdoor including an indoor slide.

Wave pool.

More colour.

Parties run in crèche.

2 – 3 parties per weekend. Could do more but no more room and have the

demand.

Do Zumba and rockwall.

Have 3 inflatables.

Need to encourage youth activities.

Outside of School Hours

Care

Run a holiday program 3 days per week for 3 weeks in the school holidays from

the Henry House building.

Run a holiday program 1 day per week for 3 weeks in the school holidays from

the outdoor pools.

Run a before school program one day per month.

Run an after school program 1 – 2 days per week.

Need a multi-purpose building at the pool as there is no-where to run the

program when it rains.

Need more fun.

Pool Operations The spa and courtyard need to be covered.

Equipment should be moved off pool deck and proper storage provided.

Outdoor pools need disability access.

Casterton pool could operate all year round with the right facilities.

Make all facilities family friendly.

Heywood could be youth focused with games room, hub, youth play space

and skate park incorporation.

Use of chlorine gas not ideal.

School Swimming Program Bus preps from Heywood to Portland.

14 schools use Portland.

Horsham use the pool for school competitions.

Run swim program with a fun day at the end of the program.

Run the interschool sports for Primary Schools.

High schools use Portland for carnivals.

Would like separate change facilities for schools.

Need bleachers on the side of the pool (tiered seating)

Additional storage required.

Early Education 19 place crèche.

Would like to separate under 3 and over 3 to different areas.

Need children’s toilets.

Need to improve the outdoor area.

Could double the size.

Need more storage space.

Learn to Swim Water temperature not consistent.

Approximately 290 – 300 in Learn to Swim.



$12 per class or $31.50 for a private lesson.

Limited spaces available.

Not enough teachers.

Need more crèche spots for teachers children.

Need a new wet deck at Portland.

Customer Service Need a new reception and membership enquiry area.

Improved cafe and merchandise.

Office on pool deck for enrolments.

Group fitness room leaks.

General Need a staff room.

Need a first aid room.


APPENDIX H – INTERNAL GLENELG SHIRE COUNCIL STAFF SESSION


An internal focus group was held with staff from a range of different Glenelg Shire Council

Departments. The following provides a summary of key issues identified:

Area/Department Issue Raised

Youth Services Opening hours are too short on weekends.

Gymnasium needs to be bigger.

Use Warne Ponds.

Program for teen gym then makes gym too small for others.

Not much fun for the youth.

Disability Services Long term physical disabilities need access to rehabilitation.

Need to heat all pools.

Provide accessible change facilities.

Need fold down seating in change facilities.

Improved signage.

Define entrances to the pools.

Staff need to be aware of people with disabilities in the pool and the gym.

Usage of shared space gets too busy.

Environmental

Services

Incorporate ESD principles in designs.

Consider opportunities to minimise greenhouse gases

Contact

Management

There is a need for significant improvements to the facilities

Length of season needs to be reviewed.

Poor communication between Council and YMCA


APPENDIX I – LEISURE AND AQUATIC TRENDS THAT IMPACT ON LEISURE FACILITIES


The following summary of general leisure trends impacting on people and their demand for

recreation, sport and leisure activities and in particular aquatic facilities has been developed

using a range of aquatic facility feasibility documents.

General Leisure trends impacting on aquatic leisure facilities design, facility components and

user attraction include:

A gradual ageing of the population. As life expectancy increases, birth rates stay low and

the “baby boomers” of the 1950s and 1960s grow older. This is placing a new demand on

providing programmed hotter water areas as well as pools suitable for therapy and older

adult exercises. It also means it is essential to have a range of pools with different water

depths and temperatures.

Flexibility in the times when people recreate. As demands on people’s time increases

and work practices change people are seeking to take their recreation at different times,

over a broad spread of hours and at facilities that offer a lot of activities under the one

roof. Indoor pools and health and fitness facilities are particularly attractive and getting

easier to use as many are open 12 to 16 hours, 7 days a week

Increased variety in recreation and leisure options. People’s leisure and recreation

options are changing towards newer more varied activities offered over a greater range

of timeframes compared to previous decades where limited variety in activities and

scheduling occurred. This has supported the trend to more multi-use facilities to attract a

broader range of users as well as multiple water areas to meet different needs at the one

centre.

Constraints to recreation and leisure participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities close by,

family and work constraints, health problems and cost of service or use of facilities are the

main constraints to many people’s recreation and leisure participation. The development

of targeted markets of users, programs and services at aquatic and health and fitness

centres has assisted in reducing some of these participation constraints

Changing employment structures, trading and work hours. These trends often makes

participation in traditional sports difficult and therefore people are looking for facilities

that are open longer hours and have a lot of activity options at the one site. This makes

opportunities such as indoor pools attractive as their long opening hours and days open

means usage can be made in a wide range of social, training, competition, educational

settings.

Different people want different activities. The broadening different cultural, age, gender

of the population sees the need for facilities to offer potential users a much more varied

range of programs and services than previously offered. All year round indoor aquatic

facilities also provide the greatest diversity of activities throughout the different seasons

impacted by an areas local weather.

Provision of high standards and quality of facilities and services. People are looking for

high standard, high quality facilities and services to meet their recreation and leisure

needs. This has also seen the trend for indoor facilities becoming very popular as they

allow activity in safe and secure spaces in all weather and environmental conditions. This

leads to indicating that building low standard, low cost facilities will not attract the

maximum user market.

Desire for activities to be affordable. The development of multi-purpose aquatic leisure

centres has enabled the high operating cost activity of aquatics (in many cases) to be


cross subsidised by more profitable activity areas such as health and fitness, food and

beverage and entertainment areas. This has enabled many facilities to keep general

entry fees low to encourage use whilst seeking users who want special services to

contribute at a greater level to the cost of such activities.

Recognition of strong links between physical activity and health. Preventative health

care and active lifestyles are very important to many people’s aquatic and health and

fitness activities are becoming a large part of people’s activity choices.

Expectations of equity and access. Today’s society expects people with special needs to

be catered for in public aquatic and leisure facilities. This has seen improved design

features to increase accessibility to and within such facilities. Added to this is the growing

array of programs and activities offered to people of all different abilities, physical

condition and skill levels.

General Aquatic Facility Trends

The main general aquatic facility trends that can impact on selection of high use activity

components are detailed in the graphic on the following page.

Successful Facilities Model

SUCCESSFUL FACILITIES

KEY COMPONENTS TO

MEET MAIN USER MARKETS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

• Gym and Exercise studios

• Massage/Beauty Treatments

• Warm water program pools

HOSPITALITY

• Training and program rooms

• Meeting/social facilities

• Café and merchandising

LEISURE & ADVENTURE

• Indoor water play complex

• Free form play pools

• Adventure rides and pools

FITNESS & EDUCATION

• Competition/training pools

• Learn to Swim pools

• Spa/saunas

• Club/association


Specific Aquatic Facility Trends

Specific Aquatic Facility Trends that are impacting on people in the 21st Century include:

(a) Aquatic Facility Trends and Main User Markets

Traditionally many local authority aquatic leisure facilities were built for specialist or limited

market users (i.e. competitive swimmers or high level sport participants). Detailed planning

and comprehensive feasibility studies now are able to show more targeted user profiles.

Such studies usually identify the demographic profile of residents in the project area, their

current aquatic and leisure participation patterns and use of surrounding aquatic facilities

that provide a sound base for more user friendly facilities.

The majority of aquatic facility market research indicates future complexes must equally cater

for four distinct aquatic user markets being:

Recreation and Leisure Market - usually made up of families, people coming with

friends and groups for fun, relaxation, social activity and low level

competition/participation.

Main Aquatic User Markets

MAXIMUM

AQUATIC FACILITY

USER ATTRACTION

SUBJECT TO

DEMOGRAPHIC

PROFILE

EDUCATION

• 10% to 15% of users

• Learn to swim, schools etc.

• Special needs users

•

THERAPY

• 10% to 15% of users

• Hydrotherapy

• Exercise classes in water

REC, LEISURE & ADVENTURE

• 60% - 70% of pool users

• Families, friends, social

groups

• Coming for fun and play

FITNESS & TRAINING

• 20% to 25% of pool users

• Competitive swimmers

• Club/association users


Competitive/Training/Fitness Market - usually made up of people predominantly

attending facilities alone for structured fitness or competition activities.

Education Market - usually made up of children and adults wishing to increase

water safety and survival skills. Includes Learn to swim classes, school and club use

and individuals improving their skills and techniques. They require hot water pools

and water depths with some straight edges and easy water access etc.

Health and Therapy Market - usually made up of children, adults and older adults

wanting to relax or exercise in hot water. This market also includes specialist health

condition groups such as arthritis, asthma suffers, etc. They require hot water pools

and associated health relaxation areas, i.e. Spa/saunas, etc.

Research indicates that the recreation and leisure market will be the largest as it contains

people of all ages, ability, types, interest and gender. The competitive/ training/fitness

market is a more specialist market as it usually contains younger, fitter and more active

people who have made time to train and compete.

Previous research conducted by SGL Leisure Planning Team indicates that in many cases 60%

to 70% of facility users come from the recreation/leisure sector with 20% to 30% coming from

the competitive/training/fitness markets. The health and therapy and education markets can

range from 10% to 20% of the market subject to the age and health profile of the community

in which the facility is located.

The most successful centres attract all user markets and should be set up to allow people to

participate in a range of activities at the one site. The further addition of health and fitness

facilities, spas and saunas and social areas have been very successful at many aquatic

facilities, as they add to the user experience and contribute to people being attracted to

attend these facilities more often.

(i) Aquatic Facilities Activity Areas

Industry trends indicate that the majority of current indoor standalone aquatic facilities

revenue does not meet annual operating costs. Average losses range from $200,000 to

$500,000 plus per annum. The limited numbers of Centres that are raising their operating costs

show minimal return on capital investment.

A review of the successful Centres' business indicates that these Centres record:

High visits per meter

High expense recovery ability including capital repayment

High operating profits per visit

Excellent program range returns and attendances

High secondary spend returns

Excellent range of attendance types (adult/child ratio)

Draws users from a large catchment area

High revenue returns from health and fitness


To ensure financial viability and attract potential interest from capital investors, any future

facility development must be designed with the above business aims in mind. This support

usually recommends activity area components that can:

Provide a mix of shallow leisure/recreation water with programmable water areas.

Provide high revenue generating complementary service areas such as spas, saunas,

and food and beverage services.

Are located in a high traffic/visitation area.

Are located as part of other leisure facility development.

Traditionally, commercial investment in aquatic facilities has been in specialist pools such as

learn-to-swim or as additions to health and fitness clubs. The high capital cost and limited

financial returns have contributed to this situation. Recent projects do see an increase in the

number of management groups prepared to invest capital funds in return for longer-term

agreements.

(ii) Health and Fitness Activity Areas

Industry trends indicate that users of aquatic facilities are also significant users of health and

fitness facilities. Location of each of these activity components at the one site improves

financial viability.

Health and fitness has the capacity to record high expense recovery returns, with many

centres returning 125% to 180% of expenditure. Traditionally these returns can also attract

commercial investors and operators to health and fitness facilities. Locating these facilities at

aquatic centres increases the potential of cross-selling and spin-off use. It also improves the

membership/program user and casual user ratio.

(iii) Ancillary Services and Activity Areas

In recent years, there has been a trend to develop a range of complementary businesses in

conjunction with aquatic leisure facilities. These include:

Wellness Centres/Day Spas: There is an emerging trend of adding in an area for

specialist wellness activities, services and merchandising. The key services found at

successful wellness centres include massage, beauty therapy treatments, gentle

exercise classes and relaxation and time out activities.

Inclusion of such facilities offers a broader range of activities to a larger age profile of

people. The massage and beauty therapy are high yield sales activities and also can

have high linked merchandising product sales.

It is essential in developing such areas that they are located with good views, away

from general public noise and viewing areas and have very good finishes and fittings.

There needs to be a close by lounge for relaxation after treatment or classes.

Sports Medicine: Development of consulting rooms, with patient access to health and

fitness and pools, have been excellent revenue generators.

Health and Therapeutic Services: Health consultancies, weight loss and therapeutic

services linking in worker and accident rehabilitation patients to use the range of

facilities with centre memberships paid by relevant authorities.

Health and Beauty Services: Leased areas to services such as beauticians, hair salons

and body toning.


Potential Future Aquatic Facility Trends

Aquatic Facility reviews completed in Australia, North America, Canada, the Middle East and

China during the past two years by SGL provides a guide to likely new aquatic facility

innovations and trends.

Key features that should be considered when redeveloping or retrofitting high use aquatic

facilities are:

(i) Leisure Play Equipment

Changing static shallow water areas into water play and fun zones is one of the most popular

renovations. This can be done by adding simple play equipment, water sprays and

interactive equipment to existing pools. Added to this is the option to introduce inflatable

play equipment to allow the area to be changeable.

Many such outdoor pools that have been retrofitted have been linked to high use indoor

pools.

(ii) Major Attraction Leisure Features

Water slides and similar challenge and adventure type activities have remained popular as

long as the venue has a range of slides/rides to keep peoples interest. Single ride facilities

struggle to keep interest due to the lack of variety. Multi ride areas allow users to try different

length and configuration rides.

There are also a range of new water rides that have a slide component leading to another

ride experience such as dropping into a bowl and then water, or onto a ramp and then into

a splash pool.

A key design trend is to link all slides to a common entry platform to ensure one staff person

can supervise the area. A common splash down zone also allows one lifeguard to control a

range of ride water entry points.

(iii) Special Effects

A range of North American Indoor leisure parks have added computerised light shows and

sound systems to allow night time areas to be changed. The use of lights and sound provided

users with new indoor facility experiences at night-time.

Some centres have gone further by adding projection walls to incorporate movies and short

video clips with their new light and sound effects.

(iv) Leisure Furniture

Many centres aimed to keep parents and children at centres longer (to encourage greater

secondary spending on food/beverage/merchandising) by providing quality furniture. The

use of pool side lounges, tables, chairs, umbrellas, has allowed families to stay close to the

water areas in relative comfort.


(v) Food/Beverage/Merchandising

This area has seen some major changes through development of pool side and dry area multi

serving zones. Linked to these are high quality wet and dry lounge zones where people are

encouraged to sit down and relax.

A number of innovative centres provide extensive lounge areas as well as pool side furniture.

These centres use mobile food and beverage carts to sell items directly to centre users (i.e.

they take the product to the customer). A number of other centres visited have used

merchandising innovations, such as all existing customers having to go through the sales area.

Other innovations included:

Multi-media video screens through the centre reminding customers about

programs, special promotions, and food/beverage and merchandising specials.

Providing customers with discount vouchers (at entry to centre) to spend in food/

beverage and merchandising outlets or on their next visit.

Offering combination sales specials to attract a higher spend per person.


APPENDIX J – ESD INITIATIVES


ESD Initiative Description

Energy and CO2 Emissions

Active Systems

Solar Pool Heating Standard poly propylene heating mats

Solar Pool Heating Evacuated tube collectors or concentrating solar

collectors

Heat Exchanger for Pool Hall

Ventilation

Air-Air heat exchanger reduce heating/cooing

requirements for incoming outside air (make-up air).

Pool Hall Ventilation

controlled by Humidity

Sensors

Efficient approach to control dew, especially over

night when pool not in operation'

Solar Photo Voltaics Solar PV installation on roof and/or shading structure

Solar PV carpark lighting Carpark lights with solar panels.

Wind Turbines Small 1kW to 3kW installation to showcase renewables

Passive Systems

Pool Shell Insulation Insulation to reduce heat losses to soil

Pool Blanket Reduce heat and evaporation losses over night

Water/water heat

exchanger

Water going to sewer/recycling exchanges heat with

incoming make-up water.

Natural Ventilation Building to be naturally ventilated.

Daylighting Façade and roof light design for appropriate daylight

design.

Re-commissioning, building

tuning

Re-commissioning and building tuning after 12 months

of operation

Green Roof Provides thermal protection to building.

Geothermal Air Tempering Incoming outdoor air to be pre-tempered.

External Reflection Pond Reflects daylight into building.

Heat Reflective External

Surface Finish for Roof &

Walls

Reduces heat load on building. Might only be required

for part of the building.

Water

Water Saving Initiatives - Pool

Blanket

Depends on pool hall ventilation strategy

Pool Water Treatment Advanced treatment systems to reduce requirements

for chemical treatment and energy

Backwash Water Treated and for toilet flushing

Greywater Treated and stored for landscape irrigation

Rainwater Capture from roof & shading structures, treated and

stored for use as pool top-up

Water Efficiency Water efficient showerheads and mechanical timers,

efficient taps, toilets and urinals.



Water Meters Separate check meters for pool, showers, toilets,

cleaning, water harvest, tanks, etc.

Electronic shower timers Electronic shower timers display shower time and/or

water usage. Reset when cubicle door is opened or

locked.

Stormwater Collected from reserve. Stored in bio swale, wetlands

etc. Treatment and use on demand.

Leak detection Water meter monitoring through BMS to include leak

detection

Wetlands Wetlands in strategic locations can provide cool

breezes through evaporation. Assists with natural

ventilation strategy.

User Health & Education

Ventilation Strategy to

remove Chlorine from air.

Ensures fresh air over pool surface.

Hydration Station Provide hydration stations (drink fountains) at strategic

locations, including information about dehydration.

Learning Resources Signage, leaflets, digital displays in entry area.

Informative seminars for stakeholders and pool users.

Environmental Displays Digital 'live' displays of energy and water used, air

quality, ESD initiatives, comparison to standard pool

installations.

Bio-Filtration Wall Active filtration on indoor air through plant wall. Air is

drawing through wall by fan.

Display of ESD technologies ESD initiatives openly displayed (not hidden within

building structure)

Monitoring of existing pool Extra water and electricity meters to be installed in

existing pool facilities

Display of air quality CO2 / CO, VOC's, O2 sensors, displayed on

environmental displays.



Plan (EMP)

Comprehensive EMP or is to be ISO14001 accredited

Waste Management Plan Must include waste targets, roles & responsibilities,

waste reporting etc.

Building Users Guide (BUG) BUG helps understanding how the building works,

provides do's and don'ts, describes building systems

and ESD initiatives

Building User Education BUG workshop to form part of staff induction process.



Ongoing monitoring and

reporting

Monthly analysis of water & energy. Quarterly analysis

of waste management, operational performance of

equipment and building and reporting.

Transport

Bicycles Facilities Provide secure bicycle parking facilities incl.

compressed air and drink fountain.

Discounts for public transport

users / bicycle users

Entry ticket discounts or other incentives to promote

use of public transport and bicycle riding.

Small car parking spaces Promote/rewards use of small cars

Future proofing carpark Provide infrastructure for future installation of electric

car charging stations

Display of train departure

times

Electronic display showing departure time, minutes to

departure, delay/cancellation details.

Materials

Timber Construction Timber structural frame work using engineered

(laminated) timber sections.

Choice of Building Materials ESD review of all materials proposed.

Alternative Materials Durra wall, rammed earth, mod-wood, recycled

materials, etc.

Environmental Pollutants

Pool Chemicals Develop Environmental Management Plan for Pool

Chemicals

Waste Management Plan Develop Operational Waste Management Plan

E-water cleaning E-water system splits water into alkaline and acidic

solutions for chemical free cleaning and disinfection


APPENDIX K – BENCHMARKING OF LEISURE AND AQAUTIC FACILITIES IN SIMILAR

MUNICIPALITIES


Council and

Facility

Issues Raised

Colac Otway

Shire (population

22,100) -

Blue Water Fitness

Centre

Apollo Bay

Community Pool

Colac Otway operates two aquatic facilities including the Blue Water

Fitness Centre and the Apollo Bay Community Pool.

The Blue Water Fitness Centre comprises of the following components:

o 6 lane 25m indoor pool

o Spa and steam room

o Gymnasium

o 2 basketball/netball courts

o 2 squash courts

o Program rooms

o Group fitness

o Creche

The Apollo Bay Community Pool comprises of the following components:

o 6 lane 25m pool

o Beach entry

o Water play area

o Single court indoor multipurpose stadium

The Colac Otway Shire secured $10million to redevelop the Blue Water

Fitness Centre.

The redevelopment will consist of the addition of water play features to

the existing 25m indoor aquatic facilities. This will include a zero depth

splash pad and 4 or 5 water features.

A 14m x 9m warm water pool will be developed which will be divided into

two parts via an accessible ramp entry. One side of the warm water pool

will be used for Learn To Swim activities with a depth between 600mm –

900mm. The other side will be used for warm water activities such as

rehabilitation and warm water exercise with a depth of 1300mm –

1600mm.

The project also includes the development of an additional sports court

and increasing the size of the gymnasium and other dry facilities.

Funding was received from a number of sources including Federal, State,

Local and Community funding. $2.8m was sought through the Health and

Hospitals Fund for the Warm Water Exercise Pool and funds were obtained

through the CFFP – Better Pools Program for the development of the splash

pad and water features.

A small warm water pool serviced clients and the general community to

some degree at the Colanda Disability Centre, however, this was

demolished in 2012.

DHS funded a feasibility study in 2005. Colac Area Health were supportive

of the development of a Warm Water Pool however, were not interested

in direct management or development responsibilities.

Corangamite

Shire Council

(population

17,500) -

Rodney Grove

Aquatic Centre

6 outdoor pools

The Corangamite Shire Council operates 6 outdoor pools in the towns of:

o Camperdown

o Cobden

o Lismore

o Skipton

o Terang

o Timboon

Council also supports the operations of the Rodney Grove Aquatic Centre

operated by the Cobden and District Health Services.

The Rodney Grove Aquatic Centre was opened in March 2011 and

consists of a 12m x 8m warm water exercise pool and 2 separate spa pools


Council and

Facility

Issues Raised

(with the ability to swim against the current).

There is no ramp entry into the warm water pool or spa pools however, the

warm water pool has step entry and a hoist.

The facility is run by the Cobden District Health Service and managed by

the YMCA on their behalf.

The facility operates on a programmed hours of operation model. During

school terms, the centre is open on average 45 hours per week – 26.5

hours for specific programs and 18.5 for public swimming. During school

holidays the centre is open on average 22.5 hours per week mostly for

public swimming and the occasional private booking.

The spa pools can be booked by patrons wishing to swim against the

current. The spa pools are used approximately 75% of the time for general

spa use and 25% for swimming for fitness.

The facility cost approximately $1million to build and was funded via a

number of partners including $500,000 from Council, $500,000 from

community fundraising (approximately half from deceased estates and

half from fundraising), $50,000 from the Department of Health and $38,500

from BHP. Council subsidises the operations of the centre by $20,000 per

year for 5 years and a local charity shop contributes funds to assist in the

ongoing operating costs.

Casual fees are charged for entry - $4.60 for adults, $3.50 children and

$3.80 for concession. Memberships are being considered to incorporate

use of the pool and other district health programs and services.

Programs conducted at the facility and co-ordinated by the YMCA,

Cobden Health and other providers include:

o Infant Learn to Swim

o Kinder Swim

o Water Aerobics

o Gentle Water Fitness

o Aquasafe Program

o Arthritis Exercise Program

o Physio Programs

The pool depth is 1.2m to 1.6m and platforms are used for swim lessons.

The water temperature is on average 33 degrees to 34 degrees and caters

for the rehabilitation, learn to swim and elderly programs market.

Horsham Rural

City Council

(population

20,400)

Horsham Aquatic

Centre

Horsham Rural Council has one aquatic facility servicing the community.

The Horsham Aquatic Centre comprises of the following components:

o 25m indoor pool

o Leisure water

o 50m outdoor pool

o Creche

o Cafe

The Horsham Aquatic Centre is managed on behalf of the Council by the

YMCA.

The Horsham Rural City Council has no immediate plans for further aquatic

facility developments.

There are no warm water exercise pools located within Health Services

within the municipality.

Golden Plains

Shire (population

19,000)

The Golden Plains Shire does not operate any aquatic facilities due to the

fact that they are 20 minutes from Geelong and 20 minutes from Ballarat.


Council and

Facility

Issues Raised

Moyne Shire

Council

(population

16,900)

Moyne Shire Council operates three outdoor pools at Mortlake, Macarthur

and Hawkesdale.

Council supported the development of community driven project to

develop an indoor pool in Port Fairy.

In March 1991 a collection of community minded Port Fairy residents

banded together to discuss the feasibility of constructing an aquatics

centre in Port Fairy. After strong community consensus, discussion

snowballed into a vision for the development of an indoor, four-lane, 25

metre swimming pool to be based in Port Fairy’s Southcombe Park. In July

2001, following 10 years of lobbying, Council approval for the construction

of an aquatics centre.

In June 2007 the community vision was ultimately realized when the

community owned and operated aquatics centre, Belfast Aquatics,

opened its doors to the public. With facilities and services catering for a

range of ages and abilities, and an emphasis on improving the fitness and

lifestyle of Port Fairy residents and visitors, Belfast Aquatics provide Learn to

Swim programs, Water Aerobics, Aquafit, Deep Water Running, Spin Cycle,

Body Fit, Strength training and Group Sessions.

The facility consists of the following components and programs:

o 25m four-lane lap pool

o 30-degree heated pool

o Beach entry

o Toddler area 0-1.2m

o Spa jets - Hydro therapy

o Gym and cycle studio

o Classes water and gym

o Learn to swim

o Memberships

o Swimwear and accessories

o Inflatable fun days

o Birthday parties

Council subsidises the operations of the facility by $150,000 per annum.

The total capital cost of the construction was funded via a number of

sources including State Government, Local Government, Moyne Festival,

Philanthropic Trusts and community fundraising.

Given that the facility was constructed 6 years ago as cost effectively as

possible, the facility is now requiring additional funds for facility upgrades

and maintenance.

The facility is now requiring additional funding to retrofit environmentally

sustainable components to the facility and undertake major maintenance.

Southern

Grampians Shire

(population

17,400)

Hamilton Indoor

Leisure and

Aquatic Centre

6 outdoor pools

Southern Grampians Shire manages the Hamilton Indoor Leisure and

Aquatic Centre which consists of the following components:

o 8 lane 25m pool

o Leisure and program pool with beach entry

o Gymnasium and program area

o Multipurpose room for group fitness and meetings

o 4 squash courts

o 8 bay table tennis area

o 4 squash courts

o 4 court stadium

o Crèche.


Council and

Facility

Issues Raised

Outdoor pools are located in the following townships:

o Hamilton (50m)

o Balmoral (26m)

o Coleraine (50m)

o Dunkeld (26m)

o Glenthompson (25m)

o Penshurst (25m)

Vitality Health operates the gymnasium and group fitness facilities at the

Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre on a licence agreement.

Vitality Health are charged a licence fee and receive a percentage of

membership sales.

Glenelg Aquatic Services Strategy · 2013. 9. 16. · Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1...

Documents

Transcript of Glenelg Aquatic Services Strategy · 2013. 9. 16. · Revised Report 290713.docx VIC 53.2012) - 1...