Developed following feedback from residents and key stakeholders via surveys and on-site meetings held in late 2020, technical assessments of all council and community-managed facilities in the municipality and the development of a strategic directions options analysis report, the draft document proposes a change to the provision of aquatics and pools within the Gannawarra.
In a statement, Gannawarra Shire says this plan has more focus on “modern and contemporary use”.
“The development of the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy is a major step in the future of aquatics within the Gannawarra, and it is important that residents provide input as part of the process,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.
“Developed using extensive research and featuring evidence-based recommendations, the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy proposes a bold change to the provision of aquatics within the Gannawarra.
“This includes a focus more on modern and contemporary use rather than focusing on retaining a model of service that was established when the outdoor facilities were built over 50 years ago.”
Residents can have their say through various means, ranging from in-person meetings to surveys, as part of this community engagement process.
Councillors, council staff and the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy consultants are set to meet with swimming pool management committees and progress associations/development committees during the coming weeks, with follow-up meetings planned for June.
Discussions will also occur with Northern District Community Health and other health agencies, schools and advisory groups during May and June.
“These conversations will enable representatives from these important community groups and service bodies to learn more about the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy and provide feedback regarding how they see the future of aquatics in the Gannawarra,” Mr Gillingham said.
Residents will be able to meet with councillors, council staff and the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy consultants during community pop-up drop-in sessions planned to occur at the Cohuna, Kerang, Koondrook, Leitchville and Quambatook swimming pools in June.
“Like the sessions planned with swimming pool committees, progress associations, development committees and service groups, these pop-up sessions will enable residents to speak directly to consultants and councillors about the future direction of aquatics in the Gannawarra,” Mr Gillingham said.
“Details regarding how you can take part in these important sessions will be announced at a later date.”
Meanwhile, residents will be able to provide feedback regarding the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy via a survey that can be completed during June and July.
Details regarding how to complete this survey will be announced in the near future.
“All feedback received during the community engagement period will assist with the development of the final version of the Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy, which will be presented to council at a later date,” Mr Gillingham said.
For more information regarding the Draft Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy, visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/aquatic
