ANNUAL REPORT 2007-2008 CITY OF GREATER GEELONG

Future Directions
Main construction works are soon to commence on the
$30 million Leisurelink Aquatic Centre. This is the
biggest sports and leisure project ever undertaken by
Council and the end result will be a spectacular gym
and aquatic centre that caters to all ages and abilities.
A 50-metre indoor pool (legacy from the 2007 FINA
World Swimming Championships), spacious gym and
aerobics complex and theme park style waterslides are
among the key features of the new Leisurelink. It will
cater for the growing communities in the South Barwon
area and allow for expansion of the Leisurelink
membership base and learn to swim programs. This is
an exciting joint project between the City of Greater
Geelong and the State Government. The new Leisurelink
is expected to open in summer 2009-2010.
The home of the Geelong Football Club, Skilled Stadium
will receive a $30 million upgrade commencing at the
end of the 2008 AFL season. Council will contribute
$2 million to the project that will see the redevelopment
of the Ross Drew Stand and the Past Players Stand.
The project will create an additional 3,000 seats,
increasing capacity of Skilled Stadium to 30,000.
There will be state-of-the-art training, gymnasium and
rehabilitation facilities, more spectator facilities for people
with a disability, expanded corporate entertainment
facilities, improved administration premises and new
turf maintenance facilities.
Challenges
One of the legacies of amalgamation in the mid nineties
was a large network of community and recreation
facilities, many of which were due for upgrading. In a
municipality of our size, upgrading our numerous
recreation reserves and facilities is a never-ending task,
but we have made great strides in recent years. With new
facilities such as the Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre
and Leisurelink Aquatic Centre under construction, it is
also important we continue to upgrade our existing sport,
recreation and aquatic facilities, as these are important
community assets.
Periods of drought and water restrictions will continue to
pose challenges for Council when it comes to preserving
sporting grounds, reserves, parks and gardens.
Maintaining service levels and minimising the impact on
various leisure facilities will be a priority for Council in
continuing to improve quality of life by providing
opportunities for physical activity, relaxation and social
interaction.
Did you know...
Council’s Leisure centres have
over 9,400 members.
Geelong Sports Legends Plaza, Kardinia Park
96