COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE – OVER $5 MILLION

SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL Mirboo North Pool

The Mirboo North Pool redevelopment successfully secured the future of a community asset that has been used and loved by local residents since 1904 – and it is expected that the new facility will be able to meet the needs of the community for another 50 years and beyond.

The redevelopment was a community-led initiative with significant fundraising initiated by the local community itself. A million-dollar contribution from the community meant they were invested in the project emotionally and financially. This helped in securing ongoing support for the project which has gone on to attract new users to the space through considered, inclusive design.

This inclusive design was an important part of the process. The design process considered the needs of a variety of users such as people with a disability, families with small children, and the elderly.

The refurbishment has since helped to attract new users to the pool through the introduction of accessible ramps and changerooms, a splash area for younger children, and heating (which has also helped in extending the annual pool season).

Sustainability was a key consideration through the redevelopment, from design to delivery and ongoing operation. Recognising that the pool was unlikely to generate a profit but was nonetheless an important community facility, the council was keen to ensure that operation of the facility was as cost-effective and financially sustainable as possible. For example, solar systems were installed to offset energy costs while an air-to-water heat pump was set up to provide cost-efficient water heating.

Although attendance and income levels are likely to rise, the overall benefit of the facility cannot be calculated by fiscal measures alone. The redevelopment of the pool has helped to revitalise a community asset so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.