Coast aquatic centre set for a major upgrade

More than $6 million will be invested in a series of improvements to one of the Sunshine Coast’s most well-known aquatic centers.

The Sunshine Coast Council has appointed local contractor Murphy Builders as the principal contractor to supply the first stage works for the Kawana Aquatic Center in Bokarina.

Division 3 Councilor Peter Cox said the much-needed modernization would improve the coast’s capacity to accommodate watersports groups and attract patrons from across the region, the country and even the world.

“The Kawana Aquatic Center is an important swimming facility for our region,” said Cr Cox.

“It already attracts more than 200,000 visitors a year, with a large number of residents taking advantage of the prestigious swim school and team training, as well as traveling sports groups – and demand for our facility continues to grow.

“The center is part of our thriving sports heart – supporting nearby Sunshine Coast Stadium and the wider Kawana Sports Precinct.

“Together, these facilities host many local, national and international sporting events, training camps and competitions each year.

“With more than 500,000 people expected to call the Sunshine Coast home by 2041, these sports facilities are vital to the quality of life in our region and will ensure our community has access to world-class sports facilities close to home.”

Tourism, Events and Sports Councilor Jason O’Pray said the first phase of the multi-year upgrade would include a new 20-meter indoor pool and upgraded structures, facilities and operational equipment.

“The existing indoor pool has reached the end of its useful life and will be replaced with a modern and more accessible facility,” said Cr O’Pray.

“We will take this opportunity to integrate environmentally friendly operating systems including state-of-the-art controls and a roof-mounted photovoltaic system for power generation.

“As part of the future work, the council will also deliver a new entrance building, children’s water play areas, public facilities, a refurbished kiosk and improved parking.

“The first of three phases of construction is now underway, with work taking place over several years to minimize the impact on guests and the pool’s tenant, City Venue Management.”

Hugely popular, the community owned watersports center offers a range of facilities and programs for all ages and abilities.

It has a 50 meter outdoor pool, a 25 meter plunge pool/water polo pool and a dedicated swimming facility with lift access for all abilities. There are also a number of children’s play pools.

The Kawana Aquatic Center is one of nine community-owned aquatic centers in our area. The other water sports centers are located at Beerwah, Caloundra, Buderim, Cotton Tree, Coolum, Palmwoods, Nambour and Eumundi.

All facilities are operated by Council contractors who provide day-to-day site operations, programming and community access.

For more information about the Sunshine Coast Council’s Aquatic Centers and Pools, see Aquatic Centers and Pools (sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au).