Aquatic upgrades proposed to meet contemporary health, wellness needs
Published on 16 August 2023
Council is proposing upgrades to the 17 year old Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre (the MAC) to meet modern day aspirations for 21st century aquatic facilities.
This would see a greater focus on delivering education, leisure, therapy and wellness services with the inclusion of things like: wellness and meeting rooms, a Roman spa, outdoor gym, and designated learn to swim pool while continuing to provide this key community service
The proposed upgrades, outlined in a draft MAC Master Plan, reflect a shift in expectations on the role of aquatic facilities in community health and well-being since the Centre was built in 2006.
Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter, said over time aquatic facilities have evolved from humble outdoor swimming pools to fully integrated community health and wellbeing spaces.
“Modern day aquatic facilities are seen as destination points for a range of physical and social activities, rather than just a place where people can take a dip.
“We are looking to expand our offering to keep pace and better contribute to the development of a healthy, strong, and growing community,” she said.
The draft Master Plan would ensure a contemporary aquatic facility better able to meet 21st century aspirations.
This aligns with the primary recommendation in the draft Maribyrnong Aquatic Strategy, now also available for feedback, cementing the MAC as the only proposed Council-owned aquatic facility to be funded in the municipality.
The recommendation recognises there are already a range of both private and public facilities across the City and in adjacent municipalities, beyond the MAC, already servicing a host of community needs from learn to swim to wellness.
This does not, however, exclude addition 'aquatic play' opportunities - i.e., outdoor wet playgrounds as part of Council’s future offering.
More information on the draft Aquatic Strategy and draft MAC Master Plan can be found at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/aquatic-strategy with feedback open until midnight 24 September 2023.
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