Eurobodalla Council announces new management for shire’s pools

The company known as Community Aquatics will splash into Eurobodalla on July 1 when it takes over the management of Eurobodalla’s pools.

After a tender process earlier this year in which four conforming tenders were received, Eurobodalla councillors voted to award the contract to Community Aquatics.

The company has about 18 years’ experience managing pools for local government and currently contracts to Auburn City Council, Nambucca Shire Council and Lake Macquarie City Council.

The council’s director of Community, Arts and Recreation, Kathy Arthur said Community Aquatics provided the best value for money for the community.

She said pool patrons could expect business as usual at the Batemans Bay Swim Centre, Moruya War Memorial Pool and Narooma Swim Centre, despite the management change.

“One of the deciding factors was that Community Aquatics was very happy to provide existing staff with continued employment,” Ms Arthur said.

“They will also continue the focus on aqua aerobics, learn-to-swim classes, school programs and squad training.

“Community Aquatics has indicated they want to invest in additional infrastructure at the pools, so we look forward to working with them to develop our pools into the future.”

Ms Arthur said the YMCA managed Eurobodalla pools for the past 11 years in partnership with the council and it had been an active part of the community.

“Council wishes to acknowledge the support of the YMCA and thank them for providing employment and aquatic programs for our community over this time,” she said.

“Council is currently working with both contractors to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of service.

“Narooma Pool will be closed on Friday, June 30 to enable Community Aquatics to establish its systems prior to July 1. We apologise for any inconvenience this might cause.”

For more information about the Narooma, Moruya and Batemans Bay swimming pools, visit www.esc.nsw.gov.au

YMCA NSW says it will work with the Eurobodalla Council and tender winner Community Aquatics to ensure a smooth transition of management and the needs of all members are supported.

YMCA NSW CEO Leisa Hart said it had been an honour for YMCA NSW to manage these three fantastic centres over the past 11 years. 

“YMCA NSW has loved being part of the Eurobodalla community for over a decade,” Ms Hart said.

“I am immensely proud of the efforts of our staff and thank them for the hard work and dedication they have shown – we’ve seen some wonderful successes including giving greater access to water safety programs via fee assistance and the YMCA SwimAbility program, and our ongoing efforts to promote healthy living.

“While we are sad to be leaving these three facilities, YMCA NSW maintains a strong commitment to providing services to Southern NSW and the ACT. We will continue to have a presence in these areas through our management of the Gungahlin Leisure Centre, Canberra Olympic Pool and Lakeside Leisure Centre on behalf of the ACT Government and through our Cooma Youth Hub, which provides important services and support to young people.

“On behalf of YMCA NSW, I would like to thank Eurobodalla Shire Council for the opportunity to work together in recent years take the opportunity to thank you, our members, and the local community for your support.”

All current facilities and services will continue in 2017/18, with the exception of YMCA-branded community programs.  Fees and charges will remain the same in 2017/18. Direct debit of charges for membership will run up until June 30.

For more information about prepaid memberships and visit passes, contact YMCA NSW on 4476 2398. All other enquiries should be directed to Eurobodalla Council on 4474 1000.