“Our aquatic centre could be used for social functions such as birthday parties, anniversaries, reunions and discos,” he said at council’s latest monthly meeting on February 28.
Cr Whitechurch’s suggestion was made following the centre taking another hit financially to the tune of some $200,000 after the devastating floods last November prevented entrance to the centre for an extended period.
Speaking to the Free Press last Wednesday, both Cr Rowena Black and Cr Whitechurch said they would like to see local clubs using the swimming pool facilities for functions and events and to see the swimming pool hours become flexible where possible.
At the February 28 council meeting, a Notice of Motion by Cr Black to adjust the centre’s opening hours from 9.00am to 7.00pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to accommodate members and regular lap swimmers in respect of at least this summer period, was passed unanimously.
“We are a bit rigid with times,” Cr Whitechurch said.
“Things like hot days or nights, or if Australia Day falls on a Friday, then we know the town is going to be a lot busier and we can be more reactive to what the community wants or what we perceive is going to be needed in the area.
“If we are going to make this an all-purpose facility then we need to put on events and we need to change. Change won’t happen if we don’t make it.
Mayor Pat Bourke praised the comments from both councillors. “Extending the hours for swimming can come at a cost but we’ve got to consider our user groups,” he said. “It makes sense to make the adjustment.
“Anything which can be done to increase aquatic centre activity - for both aquatic centre revenue and social interests of people – is good and I’d support such additions at the centre.”
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