Glenelg Aquatic Services Strategy Issues and Opportunities Report
July 2013
Prepared by: SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 PROJECT AIMS ...... 1 1.2 OBJECTIVES ...... 1 1.3 PROJECT STUDY METHODOLOGY ...... 1 2 PROJECT AREA ...... 3 2.1 POPULATION ...... 3 2.2 AGE STRUCTURE ...... 4 2.2.1 Emerging groups ...... 5 2.3 HEALTH AND WELLBEING PROFILE ...... 5 2.3.1 Future Population ...... 6 2.3.2 Ageing Population...... 6 2.3.3 Disadvantaged Populations and Places ...... 7 2.3.4 Cultural Diversity ...... 7 2.3.5 Indigenous Population ...... 7 2.3.6 Summary of Key Issues and Implication for Aquatic Facilities ...... 7 3 TECHNICAL REVIEWS ...... 9 3.1 BEST VALUE REVIEW OF AQUATIC BASED LEISURE FACILITIES MARCH 2004 ...... 10 3.2 RLSSA AQUATIC FACILITY SAFETY ASSESSMENT AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENT PLANS MAY 2007 10 3.3 UNIVERSAL DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL) ...... 11 3.4 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL) ...... 12 3.5 RELEVANT REGULATORY STANDARDS ...... 13 4 SUMMARY OF MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION ...... 14 4.1 PREVIOUS RESEARCH REVIEW ...... 14 4.2 RESIDENT HOUSEHOLD SURVEY TRENDS ...... 15 4.3 COMMUNITY USER SURVEY ...... 17 4.3.1 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre ...... 17 4.3.2 Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood ...... 19 4.4 SCHOOL SURVEY ...... 20 4.4.1 Most Popular Swimming Pools ...... 20 4.4.2 Features Would Like to See Developed ...... 21 4.5 COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUPS AND KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS ...... 21 4.5.1 Facilities ...... 21 4.5.2 Services and Programs ...... 22 4.5.3 Other ...... 22 4.6 COMBINED MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION FACILITY IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIES ...... 22 4.7 BENCHMARKING OF FACILITIES IN SIMILAR SIZE MUNICIPALITIES ...... 23 4.8 LEISURE TRENDS ...... 24 4.8.1 Specific Aquatic Facility Trends ...... 25 5 OPERATIONAL AND STRATEGIC FACILITY OPTION REVIEWS ...... 28 5.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 28 5.2 PORTLAND LEISURE AND AQUATIC CENTRE (PLACE) ...... 28 5.2.1 Facilities Review ...... 28 4.2.1.1 Dry Areas: ...... 29
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4.2.1.2 Wet Areas: ...... 29 5.2.2 Total Usage Review ...... 30 5.2.3 Usage Category Review ...... 30 5.2.4 Program and Service Delivery ...... 31 4.2.7.1 Aquatic Programs ...... 32 4.2.7.2 Health and Fitness Programs ...... 32 4.2.7.3 Children’s Programs: ...... 32 5.2.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance PLACE ...... 33 5.2.6 Universal Design ...... 34 5.2.7 Environmental Performance ...... 34 5.3 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS ...... 34 5.4 STRATEGIC OPTIONS ...... 35 5.5 CASTERTON SWIMMING POOL ...... 38 5.5.1 Facilities Review ...... 38 4.3.1.1 Dry Areas ...... 38 4.3.1.2 Wet Areas ...... 38 5.5.2 Usage Review ...... 39 5.5.3 Program and Service Delivery ...... 40 5.5.4 Programs ...... 40 5.5.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance Casterton ...... 41 5.5.6 Environmental Performance ...... 42 5.6 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS ...... 42 5.7 STRATEGIC OPTIONS ...... 43 5.8 HEYWOOD SWIMMING POOL ...... 46 5.8.1 Facilities Review ...... 46 4.4.1.1 Dry Areas ...... 46 4.4.1.2 Wet Areas ...... 46 5.8.2 Usage Review ...... 47 5.8.3 Program and Service Delivery ...... 48 4.4.7.1 Programs ...... 48 5.8.4 Universal Design ...... 50 5.8.5 Environmental Performance ...... 50 5.9 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES ...... 50 5.10 STRATEGIC OPTIONS ...... 51 5.11 MERINO SWIMMING POOL ...... 54 5.11.1 Facilities Review ...... 54 4.5.1.1 Dry Areas ...... 54 4.5.1.2 Wet Areas ...... 54 5.11.2 Usage Review ...... 55 5.11.3 Program and Service Delivery ...... 56 4.5.7.1 Programs ...... 56 5.11.4 Technical Operations/Maintenance Merino ...... 57 5.11.5 Environmental Performance ...... 58 5.11.6 Summary of Key Issues and Options ...... 58 5.12 STRATEGIC OPTIONS ...... 58 6 CAPITAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES REVIEW ...... 60 6.1 REGIONAL GROWTH FUND ...... 60 6.2 STATE GOVERNMENT FUNDING ...... 61 6.3 COMMONWEALTH FUNDING ...... 62 6.3.1 Health and Hospital Fund ...... 62
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6.4 T –QUAL GRANTS ...... 63 6.5 COMMERCIAL FUNDRAISING ...... 63 APPENDIX A - SUMMARY OF PREVIOUS RESEARCH AND STRATEGIES ...... 64 APPENDIX B – SUMMARY HOUSEHOLD TELEPHONE SURVEY ...... 68 RESPONDENT PROFILE ...... 69 Current Use of Swimming Pools ...... 69 Pool User Profile Comparisons ...... 70 Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools ...... 70 Most Popular Swimming Pools ...... 71 Rating of Council's Swimming Pools ...... 72 Swimming Pool Usage Profiles ...... 73 Future Use of Swimming Pools ...... 74 Facilities and Features that Would Encourage Greater Future Use of Pools ...... 74 APPENDIX C – SUMMARY OF SCHOOL SURVEY ...... 76 Use of Aquatic Centres...... 77 Schools Aquatic Program Coordination ...... 77 Frequency of Student Visitations in Learn to Swim Program ...... 77 Most Popular Terms ...... 77 Most Popular Swimming Pools ...... 77 Reasons for Choosing Most Used Swimming Pool ...... 78 Features Would Like to See Developed ...... 78 School Based Aquatic Facilities ...... 78 APPENDIX D – SUMMARY OF USER SURVEY ...... 79 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre ...... 80 Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood...... 83 APPENDIX E – TOWNSHIP FOCUS GROUPS ...... 87 APPENDIX F – KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS ...... 90 APPENDIX G – YMCA STAFF FOCUS GROUP ...... 93 APPENDIX H – INTERNAL GLENELG SHIRE COUNCIL STAFF SESSION ...... 96 APPENDIX I – LEISURE AND AQUATIC TRENDS THAT IMPACT ON LEISURE FACILITIES ...... 98 General Aquatic Facility Trends ...... 100 Specific Aquatic Facility Trends ...... 101 Potential Future Aquatic Facility Trends ...... 104 APPENDIX J – ESD INITIATIVES ...... 106 APPENDIX K – BENCHMARKING OF LEISURE AND AQAUTIC FACILITIES IN SIMILAR MUNICIPALITIES 110
DIRECTORY OF TABLES
Table 1.1 Project Methodology ...... 2 Table 2.1 Age Structure – Five Year Age Groups ...... 4 Table 3.1 Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary ...... 9 Table 3.2 Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary ...... 10 Table 3.2 RLSSA Safety Scores ...... 11 Table 4.1 Summary Facility Ratings ...... 16 Table 4.2 Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities ...... 19 Table 5.1 Total Category PLACE Usage...... 30 Table 5.2 Works Identified by Council for PLACE ...... 33 Table 5.3 PLACE Future Directions Options ...... 36
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Table 5.4 Casterton Outdoor Pool Usage ...... 39 Table 5.5 Works Identified by Council for Casterton ...... 41 Table 5.6 Casterton Future Directions Options ...... 44 Table 5.7 Heywood Outdoor Pool Usage ...... 47 Table 5.8 Works Identified by Council for Heywood ...... 49 Table 5.9 Heywood Future Directions Options ...... 52 Table 5.10 Merino Outdoor Pool Usage ...... 55 Table 5.11 Works Identified by Council for Merino ...... 57 Table 5.12 Merino Future Directions Options ...... 59 Table 7.9 Resident Telephone Survey Respondent Sample ...... 69 Table 7.10 Usage of Swimming Pool Variances Against Sample Average ...... 70 Table 7.11 Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools ...... 71 Table 7.12 Most Popular and Used Swimming Pools/Leisure Centres ...... 72 Table 7.13 User Survey Respondent Sample ...... 80 Table 7.14 Centre Usage Times ...... 81 Table 7.15 Use of Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre ...... 81 Table 7.16 User Survey Respondent Sample ...... 84 Table 7.17 Centre Usage Times ...... 84 Table 7.18 Use of Outdoor Swimming Pools ...... 85 Table 7.19 Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities ...... 85 Table 7.20 Summary of Key Issues – Township Focus Groups ...... 88 Table 7.21 Summary of Key Stakeholders Interviews ...... 91
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1 INTRODUCTION
Glenelg Shire Council wished to develop an Aquatic Services (infrastructure and non- infrastructure) Strategy to provide the strategic direction for the Glenelg Shire to plan, develop and operate its aquatic facilities in the future. The Strategy will seek to maximise the usage and the relevance of the aquatic facilities to the community both now and into the future, having regard for Council’s capacity to deliver the recommendations of the Strategy.
The Strategy will inform Council on the planning, provision, development, maintenance and management of aquatic services in the Shire and provide recommendations, strategic directions and policy outcomes to address the immediate and longer term needs of the community.
1.1 PROJECT AIMS
The project aims detailed by Council for the Strategy are:
The Glenelg Shire Aquatic Services Strategy will establish justifiable strategic directions for the planning, provision, development, preservation and management of the aquatic services in the Shire.
The Aquatic Services Strategy will provide recommendations, strategic directions and policy outcomes that address immediate and longer term community needs (over the next 10 years)
As aquatic service provision has changed significantly since the construction of the Shire municipal swimming facilities, this strategy should consider and explore longer term visionary outcomes for aquatic services provision within the Shire – 10 – 50 year objectives/targets.
1.2 OBJECTIVES
In addition to the above project aims the following project objectives have been identified for consideration as part of the development of the Strategy.
Where are we now? Where do we want to be? What are out options? How will be get there? How are we going?
1.3 PROJECT STUDY METHODOLOGY
SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd (here after referred to as SGL Group) was appointed to complete the project in September 2012. The project methodology was developed under five interrelated stages.
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The associated tasks completed to undertake the study are summarised below:
Table 1.1 Project Methodology Stage Task
Stage One – Background Analysis Project Clarification Review Of Relevant Research Operational Review Review of Current Management Arrangements Review of Technical Audits Demographic Review – Glenelg Shire Review of Competitor Facilities Aquatic Industry Trends/Sector Analysis Key Stakeholder Interviews Stage Two – Gap Analysis Resident Survey User Survey Township Focus Groups School Survey Written Submissions Issues and opportunities Report Councillor Review Workshop Community Review Stage Three – Vision Development Development of future Aquatic Vision Stage Four – Draft Strategy Development of Draft Aquatic Services Strategy Development Stage Six – Monitor and Review Strategy Review Stage Seven –Consultation Community and Council Consultation and Review Process
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2 PROJECT AREA
The Glenelg Shire Council was established by an Order-in-Council under the Local Government Act 1989, published in the Victorian Government Gazette S63 on 23 September 1994. Three councils were amalgamated, the City of Portland and the Shires of Glenelg and Heywood, to form the new Glenelg Shire.
The Glenelg Shire Council is located in the south west corner of Victoria. The western municipal border also forms the State border with South Australia. Glenelg Shire enjoys the benefits offered by the abundant natural features including beaches, foreshore areas, rivers, waterways, bush lands and rural areas. Glenelg Shire covers an area of 6,212 square kilometres and has a population of 20,871.
Portland is the main population, commercial, service, industrial and residential centre. Portland has developed around Portland Bay and Portland Harbour, one of the most significant deep-water ports in Australia. The Shire also comprises a number of smaller towns including:
Heywood Casterton Merino Dartmoor Narrawong Digby Tyrendarra Sandford Nelson
Figure: Shire of Glenelg
2.1 POPULATION
The current (2011) estimated population of the Shire is 19,578 people, which is expected to grow to around 23,155 people by 2031, an increase of approximately 3,577 people Shire wide.
Portland is the main population centre of the Shire, with an estimated current population of 10,124 people (i.e. Portland Central & South), which is expected to grow to 10,794 people by 2021, an increase of approximately 670 people over the next eleven years.
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Population growth of this magnitude (i.e. less than 1,000 people over the next 11 years) is not expected to significantly contribute to greater demand for indoor leisure and aquatic participation opportunities, over and above that which already exists.
2.2 AGE STRUCTURE
The Age Structure of the population is important when considering leisure and aquatic services. For example previous market research and benchmarking indicates people under 40 years of age use swimming pools twice as much as people aged 40 years and over.
Age profiles are also an indicator of an area’s residential role and function and how it is likely to change in the future. The age structure of a population is usually indicative of an area’s era of settlement and provides key insights into the level of demand for services and facilities (as most services and facilities are age-specific).
The age profile from the last 2011 census compared to the 2006 census is listed in the following table: Table 2.1 Age Structure – Five Year Age Groups Glenelg Shire 2011 2006 Change Five year age groups Number % Regional Number % Regional 2006 to (years) VIC VIC 2011 0 to 4 1,068 5.5 6.3 1,121 5.7 6.0 -53 5 to 9 1,159 5.9 6.2 1,391 7.0 6.8 -232 10 to 14 1,413 7.2 6.7 1,536 7.8 7.5 -123 15 to 19 1,344 6.9 6.8 1,313 6.6 7.0 +31 20 to 24 788 4.0 5.5 863 4.4 5.5 -75 25 to 29 878 4.5 5.2 869 4.4 4.9 +9 30 to 34 961 4.9 5.2 1,147 5.8 5.8 -186 35 to 39 1,215 6.2 6.1 1,303 6.6 6.6 -88 40 to 44 1,332 6.8 6.7 1,566 7.9 7.1 -234 45 to 49 1,540 7.9 7.0 1,541 7.8 7.4 -1 50 to 54 1,513 7.7 7.1 1,526 7.7 7.1 -13 55 to 59 1,537 7.9 6.9 1,379 7.0 6.7 +158 60 to 64 1,384 7.1 6.6 1,031 5.2 5.4 +353 65 to 69 1,037 5.3 5.2 920 4.7 4.6 +117 70 to 74 867 4.4 4.1 716 3.6 3.8 +151 75 to 79 626 3.2 3.2 676 3.4 3.4 -50 80 to 84 503 2.6 2.6 463 2.3 2.5 +40 85 and over 413 2.1 2.3 397 2.0 2.0 +16 Total 19,578 100.0 100.0 19,758 100.0 100.0 -180
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A review of the five-year age groups of Glenelg Shire in 2011 compared to Regional VIC shows that there were a lower proportion of people in the younger age groups (under 15) and a similar proportion of people in the older age groups (65+).
Overall, 18.6% of the population was aged between 0 and 15, and 17.6% were aged 65 years and over, compared with 19.2% and 17.6% respectively for Regional VIC.
The major differences between the age structure of Glenelg Shire and Regional VIC were:
• A larger percentage of persons aged 55 to 59 (7.9% compared to 6.9%) • A larger percentage of persons aged 45 to 49 (7.9% compared to 7.0%) • A larger percentage of persons aged 50 to 54 (7.7% compared to 7.1%) • A larger percentage of persons aged 10 to 14 (7.2% compared to 6.7%)
2.2.1 Emerging groups
From 2006 to 2011, Glenelg Shire's population decreased by 180 people (0.9%). This represents an average annual population change of -0.18% per year over the period.
The largest changes in age structure in this area between 2006 and 2011 were in the age groups:
• 60 to 64 (+353 persons) • 40 to 44 (-234 persons) • 5 to 9 (-232 persons)
2.3 HEALTH AND WELLBEING PROFILE
The 2009 – 2013 Glenelg Shire Municipal Health Plan1 indicates that the Glenelg Shire has a broad mix of issues which influence the health of the community. The Shire has a significant range of natural assets, including national parks, world heritage listed areas and an internationally recognised GeoPark. It also has a rich source of renewable energy including wind, geothermal and tidal.
The Australian Unity Wellbeing Index rated Glenelg Shire as having an average wellbeing of 80.74 (compared with an Australian average of 75). Glenelg is reported as having one of the highest rates of wellbeing in Australia. This is reflected in in high rates of community connectedness, perceptions of safety and self attested health.
However Glenelg also has one of the highest rates of socio economic disadvantage in the State, with a SEIFA index ranking of 14 in the State. It also has low rates of Internet access, lower levels of higher education and high rates of disengaged school leavers.
The Community Wellbeing Reports prepared by Community Indicators Victoria contain a select number of community wellbeing indicators which are used to highlight important trends and issues in the community. These reports provide a snapshot of the wellbeing of individual municipalities with comparisons to regional and statewide results. The following provides a summary of the key trends for the Glenelg Shire. Some of the key issues are as follows:
1 Glenelg Shire Municipal Public Health Plan 2009 - 2013
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Indicator Measure Comment Subjective Wellbeing 79.5% Higher than state average 76.4% Community connection 79.5% Higher than state average 70.7% Housing affordability 11% Lower than state average 17.7% Participation in exercise, 70% Lower than state recreation and sport average 85.1% Registered mental 21.7% Higher than state health clients per 1000 average 11.6% population Drug and alcohol 11.2% Higher than state clients average 5.5% Employment rate 59.6% Higher than state average 60.9% Level of educational 38,6% Lower than state qualifications average 50.7% Transport limitations 21.1% Higher than state average 20.3%
A report titled the Health and Wellbeing Profile 2009 for the Southern Grampians and Glenelg Shires was developed by Department of Human Services Barwon South Western Region Regional Planning Unit. The report identified the following key demographic characteristics.
2.3.1 Future Population
On current projections the SGG population is expected to increase from around 37,000 to 39,000 people in 2021. Most of the population growth is likely to be concentrated in main centres of Hamilton and Portland.
Growth is also predicted for Southern Grampians (2.2%) and Glenelg Shires (5.6%). The population of some of the more traditional farming or production areas and smaller towns outside the periphery of regional centres is predicted to decline or remain stable.
2.3.2 Ageing Population
People aged 70 years and older will represent an increasing proportion of the SGG population rising from 13% in 2006 to around 17% in 2021.
While the population is predicted to increase by only 4% overall in the catchment, there is expected to be considerable growth in the older age groups (55+ age groups) with a decrease in the size of all other age groups.
Southern Grampians and Glenelg residents on average, have shorter lives and higher death rates than the Victorian average:
• In Glenelg, Life expectancy was even lower 75.8 years for males and 81.3 years for females, well below the Victorian average of 79.8 years for males and 84.3 years for females; and
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• The age standardised mortality rate for the period 2003-2005 in the Catchment was 7.1 per 1,000 population; (Southern Grampians 6.5 per 1000, Glenelg 7.3 per 1000), higher than the Victorian average of 6.1 per 1,000 population.
2.3.3 Disadvantaged Populations and Places
The SGG Catchment has significant groups of disadvantaged people, including Aboriginal people, people on low incomes, and rural people, who suffer poorer health than the rest of the population.
Based on the Index of Relative Socio-economic Disadvantage (IRSED), the most disadvantaged pockets for the Catchment were in Portland, Heywood and Merino (Glenelg Shire) and in Hamilton and Glenthompson (Southern Grampians Shire).
Glenelg LGA represents the area of highest disadvantage in the BSW region and is also among the highest disadvantaged areas in Victoria (Vic rank = 14 of 80 LGAs in Victoria). The socio-economic status of the SGG community has important implications for the health care system. People who experience socio-economic disadvantage also experience higher levels of chronic disease.
2.3.4 Cultural Diversity
While most residents of the Catchment are Australian born and speak English at home, a large number of overseas born groups are represented by a small number of people. The top countries of origin for residents of Southern Grampians and Glenelg in 2006 were the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Netherlands, Germany, South Africa and the Philippines.
2.3.5 Indigenous Population
According to the 2006 Census, there were 480 indigenous persons residing in the Catchment representing 1.3% of the total Catchment population. More than three quarters (77%) were located in Glenelg Shire with main communities at Heywood (Winda-Mara) and Portland (Dhauwurd-Wurrung).
Consistent with Victorian trends, the Catchments Indigenous population is young with a higher representation in the lower age groups. More than half (59%) were aged less than 25 years and a third (30%) were aged less than 15 years. By comparison, 32% of the non- Indigenous population were aged less than 25 years and 12% less than 15 years. Conversely, persons aged 65 years or over in the Catchment comprised 7% of the Indigenous population and 17% of the non-Indigenous population.
2.3.6 Summary of Key Issues and Implication for Aquatic Facilities
The following provides a summary of the key issues and the implication for aquatic facilities and services:
The SGG Catchment has a mix of regional, coastal, rural and remote communities with a dispersed population. Population growth is predicted over the planning period to 2021, but the proportion of older people in the community will increase more rapidly. This will result in the need to provide aquatic facilities and services that meet the needs of this age group including access to warm water pools for therapeutic
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based activities and ensuring all facilities are fully accessible including the inclusion of ramps and accessible change room areas
The Catchment has pockets with a high level of socio-economic disadvantage. Council will need to be mindful of the fees and charges established for the use of the Centres to ensure that all residents are able to access the facilities.
The Catchment has high rates of preventable diseases that are causing significant morbidity and mortality for individuals and are creating an unsustainable cost burden for the community. Developing a promoting a range of programs and services at the aquatic centres that encourage and support more people to be more active more often should be a key priority of the centres in collaboration with the other health providers.
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3 TECHNICAL REVIEW S
Within the Shire of Glenelg there are the following four aquatic facilities:
Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre – PLACE Heywood Outdoor Swimming Pool Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool Casterton Outdoor Swimming Pool
Over the past 15 years Council has undertaken a range of technical and facility reviews at the aquatic facilities. The purpose of these reviews has been to identify recurrent and capital maintenance of the facilities and the likely life span of the components. The following provides a summary of the key reports:
SWIMMING CENTRE AUDITS 1998 BY DAVID POWICK AND ASSOCIATES: In 1998 David Powick completed a facility audit on the three outdoor pool facilities detailing the facility components and the backlog works list required including estimated costs as well as maintenance items and replacement items. Estimates were provided for over a 10-year period.
AQUATIC CENTRE AUDIT/STRATEGY REPORT OCT 2001 BY PAUL LACEY AND DAVID POWICK: in 2001 a further report was commissioned by Council which provided the Council a detailed description and analysis of the aquatic infrastructure and an action plan to ensure that the facilities remained at a minimum standard for the following 10 years of operation. A table was presented of items and costs for each centre including backlog works (urgent), maintenance, replacement, new plant and minor capital works. These items were identified for buildings, plant, outdoor pools and surrounds and indoor pools and surrounds.
COUNCIL REVIEW: In June 2012 Council Officers presented a report to Council identifying the necessary priority works required at the four pools.
The following table provides a summary of the cost of works identified in technical and maintenance reports completed by Council over the past 15 years.
Table 3.1 Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary Pool David Powick Paul Lacey and David Powick Council 1998 2001
PLACE N/A $647,850 $8,500 Casterton $127,770 $157,350 & $110,000 additional $74,000 facilities Merino $96,620 $148,500 & $110,000 additional $5,500 facilities Heywood $117,350 $115,900 & $110,000 additional $71,500 facilities Total $341,740 $1,399,600 $159,500
A detailed review of these reports and discussions with Council Officers has indicated that limited funding has been provided to undertake the identified works and as a result very few actions from the technical audits and maintenance reports were carried out or completed. Some minor maintenance has been undertaken. The following table details the Council funding proviced to the four pools over the past five years.
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Table 3.2 Technical Audits and Maintenance Report Summary Pool Year 2012/13 2011/12 2010/11 2009/10 2008/09 Pool 18001.36 78315.41 37771.82 26251.86 25866.18 Aquatic 6341.48 11661.93 21269.03 166058.93 2010.45 Total $24,342.84 $89,977.34 $59,040.85 $192,310.79 $27,876.63
3.1 BEST VALUE REVIEW OF AQUATIC BASED LEISURE FACILITIES MARCH 2004
In 2004 a survey-based review of the Aquatic Facilities was completed to determine if the level of service was meeting the community expectations for each venue. The survey resulted in a number of recommendations for Service Quality, Service Costs, Competitive Neutrality, Accessibility, Website, Continuous Improvement and Community Consultation.
Surveys showed common themes across all facilities including positive responses to the following areas:
Quality of staff Location of facilities Pool Safety Fun and enjoyable facilities Car parking
Common gaps in service provision and customer expectations identified across the facilities included:
Cleanliness and hygiene Quality of change room facilities Perceived value for money Operating hours (in particular outdoor pools) Disability access
It should be noted that the issues identified in the 2004 Best Value Review are consistent with the key consultation findings identified as part of this strategy.
3.2 RLSSA AQUATIC FACILITY SAFETY ASSESSMENT AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENT PLANS MAY 2007
Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) undertook an assessment at all Aquatic Centres in the Shire. The assessment was carried out and measured against the safety standards and operational guidelines listed in the RLSSA Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation. In addition a Safety improvement Plan was detailed for each venue, with additional recommendations for safety improvements at each site.
The Assessment reviewed a number of areas of operation of the facilities including administration, first aid, technical operations, facility design, spa pools, water slides, general supervision and learn to swim. Each facility received a Safety Score which is indicative of the safety level of the venue.
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The purpose of the Safety Score is to provide a benchmark to the percentage of Life Saving Victoria safety issues the venue has addressed. The Safety Score can be compared by the centre year to year to show improvement and monitor the progress the Centre is making in relation to the items assessed.
The following table shows the Safety Scores achieved at each centre:
Table 3.3 RLSSA Safety Scores Centre Safety Score
PLACE 70.7 Casterton Outdoor Pool 64.8 Heywood Outdoor Pool 71.3 Merino Outdoor Pool 69.2
Based on the above scores there is a need for all centres to address the safety issues not complied with as identified within the report
Feedback received from Council officers indicated that very few of the facility improvement recommendations were implemented. It should also be noted that there was a change of contract manager in 2008 and it is unclear if any of the management and operational recommendations were implemented.
3.3 UNIVERSAL DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL)
The concept of Universal Design is to simplify life for everyone by making the built environment more usable to as many users as possible at little to no additional costs. Equal access for all users is a fundamental requirement of current building design to meet the expectations of the community. Whilst building codes and design standards determine the minimum requirements, facilities such as Aquatic, Health and Recreation Centres demand a higher concept for ‘ease of access’. This extends from the car park, to footpaths, drop off points, entry ramps, main entries, reception/cafe/retail counters, passageways and doorways, and change rooms.
‘Access’ and ‘accessibility’ has largely been seen as a process of fulfilling a set of measurable requirements (i.e. technical notes and specifications) as generally set out in legislative requirements such as the BCA and relevant standards. This has resulted in ‘accessible’ features being incorporated into a building which is otherwise designed by traditional methods. These features in themselves consequently become a source of stigma and segregation, as they are associated with particular users.
Universal Design separates itself from ‘accessibility’ as it is based on social inclusion and not the measurement of accessible design features. Universal Design is applied holistically to a building without alternatives for differing groups.
By applying a philosophy of Universal Design, especially where new buildings are designed and constructed, many ‘access’ problems can be addressed successfully.
A large range of stakeholders inclusive of representative agencies for people with disabilities, building associations and consumer groups, are engaged in the development of ‘universal’ standards.
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These standards provide a knowledge base and extensive principles, which may provide guidance and inspiration for designers when generating Universal Design concepts. Relevant guides and standards include:
Australian Standard AS1428 Parts 1-4, 2009 Disability (Access to Premises) Standards, 2010 Royal Lifesaving facility design guidelines Sports and Recreation Victoria “Universal Design Factsheet”
Universal Design is an approach to achieve the goals of the design principles:
Body fit - accommodating a wide a range of body sizes and abilities; Comfort - keeping demands within desirable limits of strength and stamina; Awareness – insuring that critical information for use is easily perceived; Understanding – making methods of operation and use intuitive, clear and unambiguous; Social integration – treating all groups with dignity and respect; Personalization – incorporating opportunities for choice and the expression of individual preferences; and Cultural appropriateness – respecting and reinforcing positive cultural values.
Comment: It is recommended that Council integrate universal design aspects into any facility development or re-development and that all proposed designs be independently audited by Council prior to construction.
3.4 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE DESIGN (APPLICABLE TO ALL)
The Council Environmental Sustainable Policy indicates that Council is committed to delivering environmentally sustainable outcomes for energy, materials and water, for the community and the organisation. Council is committed to leading by example, in particular through environmentally sustainable practices in the work place and activities.
Council facilities play a central role in delivering the necessary reductions while also demonstrating and extending current industry best practice. Particular emphasis is often placed on water reduction, water reuse and energy efficiency, however, there is a full suite of Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) disciplines that can be embedded into any design.
Many Councils have developed ESD Design Guidelines for buildings and urban design, which act as a design tool when developing or re-developing facilities. These guidelines often articulate specific performance targets that are to be met through the project to achieve community aspirations for a low impact, environmentally sustainable and health promoting pool and leisure facility.
ESD Design Briefs often include a prioritised list of initiatives that are to be incorporated into the design process and categorised as mandatory, expected and optional. The decision making process for enhanced ESD initiatives is often decided through a value management exercise that gives consideration to maximum ecological benefit, budgetary constraints, functional requirements, social value and lifecycle costs.
Some examples of ESD initiatives that can be incorporated into the development of new aquatic and leisure facilities or the re-development of existing facilities include:
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Energy and CO2 Emissions Water User Health and Education Environmental Management Transport Materials Environmental Pollution
See Appendix J for a detailed list of initiatives.
Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facilities, it is recommended that an ESD audit of the facility or future development options be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation based on agreed Council priorities.
3.5 RELEVANT REGULATORY STANDARDS
The following provides a summary of the key relevant policies and statutory /regulatory standards and requirements that must be complied with in the management and operation of leisure and aquatic centres. This list provides a guide only to the required documents:
Pool operators are advised to consult all appropriate acts, regulations, codes of practice, standards and guidelines, as well as industry publications.
Relevant acts, regulations and codes of practice include the following:
Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 2001 Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations RLSSA Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007 Dangerous Goods Act 1985 Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2000 Chemical Notifiers Self Assessment Tool Australian Standards Codes of practice Compliance codes.
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4 SUMMARY OF MARKET RESEAR C H A N D CONSULTATION
An extensive market research and consultation process has been undertaken to assist with determining the current and future community trends, needs and expectations for aquatic facilities for the Glenelg Shire. The market research and consultation process included.
A review of previous research and strategies; A 300 person resident household telephone survey; An online survey open to all community members and users of the Glenelg pools; An online survey to all schools in the Shire; Key stakeholder interviews; Township focus groups; Benchmarking of other similar facilities in similar areas.
This section summarises the key findings from the Market Research and Consultation. The detailed write up of the consultation is provided in Appendices A to H.
4.1 PREVIOUS RESEARCH REVIEW
As part of the review and market research process a range of Council and Community documents and Plans were reviewed. The impact of relevant recommendations from these documents have been summarised and are detailed in Appendix A. The documents reviewed included:
Council Plan Embracing the Future 2013 – 2017 Advancing Country Towns Program - Economic Development Employment, Skills & Training Aboriginal Outcomes Municipal Health Plan Recreation and Open Space Early Years Plan Recreation Facilities Policy Indoor Recreation Facility Feasibility Study 2010 Portland Community Plan - 2008 Heywood and District Community Plan - 2008 Casterton and District Community Plan – 2008
The key documents that have an impact on the provision of leisure and aquatic facilities are:
The Council Plan – 2013 – 2017: that identifies Embracing community well-being and Building Quality places as two of its four strategic objectives.
The Heywood and District Community Plan 2008; that identifies the opportunity to develop a multi-purpose indoor centre which provides a range of different activities including hydrotherapy (utilising geothermal energy), gymnasiums and a range of other activities.
The Casterton and District Community Plan 2008: that identifies the development of a hydrotherapy facility as project that the community endeavoured to address.
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Municipal health Plan: that identifies 5 key goals including:
Healthy, safe and inclusive communities Dynamic, resilient local economies Sustainable, built and natural environments Culturally rich and vibrant communalities Democratic and engaged communities
In particular the plan identifies specific actions directly related to the future direction of the aquatic centres including:
Increased participation by young people in recreation and leisure activities – as part of the youth strategy. Active ageing strategies Healthy eating and physical activity strategies Renewable energy strategies Events and celebrations Improve accessibility for people with a disability
4.2 RESIDENT HOUSEHOLD SURVEY TRENDS
Glenelg Shire Council area residents' telephone survey conducted in early December 2012. The survey involved 300 residents (aged 15 years and older) who were randomly selected to provide information on:
1. Current use or non-use of swimming pools 2. Future use or non-use of swimming pools 3. Swimming Pool issues and needs 4. Respondent profile
The respondent's profile was developed to reflect the population spread of people in the Glenelg Shire Council area. All respondents were surveyed by telephone. The survey questions were based on a range of SGL aquatic surveys standard questions and principally sought information on peoples' use of public swimming pools which included Council, school, private and commercial centres but not home pools.
The following provides a summary of the key survey results. A more detailed analysis of the results is provided in Appendix B.
Based on the resident telephone usage percentages (53%) and current population estimates (20,700) there are approximately 11,000 people in Glenelg Shire Council area currently using swimming pools.
The Portland Aquatic and Leisure Centre (73% used) and the Casterton and Merino Outdoor Swimming Pools (both 8% used) are most used facilities covering 89% of all use of swimming pools. They Heywood Outdoor Pool is currently the least used facility.
Survey respondents that indicated they did not use a swimming pool (47%) identified the main reason being:
• Not interested 31% • Too busy 27% • No suitable facilities close by 13% • Go to the beach 11%
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The main constraints to use of swimming pools can be categorised under a number of common themes, being:
Personal Issues.: Not interested 31%, Too busy 27%, Too old/health issues 15%, don’t like swimming 9%, work commitments 4%,
Product Issues: No suitable facilities close by 13%,
Placement Issues: Have and use own pool 3%.
No respondents identified issues around promotion i.e. Lack of Information/Do not know what is available; which is often identified as a constraint to participation.
Residents rating of current facilities/services were relatively high being Table 4.1 Summary Facility Ratings Rating Facility Name Portland Casterton Merino Heywood Excellent 18% 35% 38% 38% Good 52% 53% 31% 13% Adequate 20% 12% 23% 25% Poor 8% 0% 8% 25% Very Poor 3% 0% 0% 0%
Current aquatic facilities are very family orientated with 58% of users visiting with family and 21% with friends resulting in a significant user market representing 79%.
Main activities people do at the four swimming pools are:
• Recreation/Leisure/Fun 55% • Lap Swim/Fitness 35% • Take child to Pool 24% • Use health and Fitness Facilities 21%
The survey results indicated there is potential growth in swimming pool usage with 14% more users indicating they would like to make greater use of Aquatic Leisure Facilities in the future.
• Yes 67% (+ 14%) • No 33% (- 20%)
This would take users to nearly14,000 residents based on current population, an increase of 3,000 plus residents (above the estimated number currently of 11,000 users)
Respondents who indicated they would like to make greater future use of swimming pools were asked to nominate up to three features that would encourage them to make more use of the swimming pool. There were 31 facilities/features nominated with the most popular responses being:
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Longer opening hours 13% Warm water pool 13% Gym/weights facilities 11% Cleaner more hygienic facilities 7% More variety of activities/programs 6% Membership packages/discount 4% More health and fitness classes 4% Outdoor grassed area 3% More recreation/leisure pools 2% Access to spa/sauna 2% Indoor learn to swim 2%
These results indicate support for access to warm water pool, indoor health and fitness programs as well as recreation swimming, fun features and facilities for family/friends with a high wish for leisure pools, play equipment and modern service areas.
4.3 COMMUNITY USER SURVEY
Users of the four swimming pools were invited to complete an online or a hard copy user survey to identify current and future issues and needs. A total of 70 surveys were received for the outdoor pools users and 146 from users of the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre. The following provides a summary of the key issues identified:
4.3.1 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
(i) Use of PLACE
The most popular timeslots identified for use of the Centre was the 5.00pm- 8.00pm (39%), followed by 9.00 am to midday (21%), 2.00pm to 5.00pm (17%), and after 8.00pm (11%).
Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the Centre from home 72%, followed by work (17%) and school (10%).
The majority of respondents travel by car either on their own (89%) or with others (11%)
Most respondents spend 1 to 1.5 hours (55%) at the Centre followed by 0.5 to 1 hours (23%) at each visit to the Centre.
The results indicate the majority of respondents are regular users of the Centre with daily, 4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week accounting for 85.4% of usage.
The main activities undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as indicated by survey respondents are listed as follows in order of frequency of response:
Use of gym and weights 29% Group fitness and fitness classes 22% Lap swim/fitness 19% Spectator 18% Recreation swimming and fun 16%
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(ii) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Centre
Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the Centre. The top six reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:
Close to home 16.1% It has an indoor pool 16.1% To attend a health and fitness program 12.7% Range of gym equipment available 10.2% Good facilities 8.5% To attend learn to swim program 6.8%
The main reason the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre was the centre of choice was because it is close to home (16%) followed by it has an indoor pool (16%) and to attend a health and fitness program (12.7%).
(iii) Rating of the Facilities and Services/Programs
Survey respondents rated the current facilities services and programs at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre. The results indicate that approximately 29% of respondents considered the facilities to be between excellent and good and 72% considered the facilities adequate, poor or very poor.
The top issues people were unhappy with included:
Level of fees and charges 67% Customer service/assistance 33% Group fitness timetable 33% Change rooms 23% Indoor pool 20% Centre too crowded 17% Range of programs and services offered 17% Leisure Pool 11% Gym/Weight facilities 8.0% Air quality in pool Hall 5.6%
(iv) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools
Just under 9 out of 10 (87%) respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use of the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.
Respondents provided a large range of facility component priorities that would assist them in greater use of pools. The top five features included:
Cleaner more hygienic facilities 19% Warm water pool for therapy 13.8% Larger indoor learn to swim pool 10.9% Membership packages/discount offers 10.3% Longer opening hours 6.9% Improved gym/weights facilities 5.7%
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4.3.2 Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood
(i) Use of the Outdoor Swimming Pools
The most popular timeslots identified for use of the outdoor pools was the 2.00pm- 6.00pm (45%), followed by 9.00 am to midday (22.7%)and midday to 2.00pm (13.6%).
Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the outdoor pools from home (72%), followed by work (8%) and school (2.6%).
The majority of respondents travel by car either on their own (57%) or with others (39%)
Most respondents spend more than 2 hours (46%) at the outdoor pools followed by 1 to 1.5 hours (23%)at each visit to the pools.
The majority of respondents are regular users of the outdoor pools during the summer seasons with daily, 4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week and weekly accounting for 57% of usage.
(ii) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Outdoor Pools
Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the outdoor pools. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:
Close to home 35% To use outdoor pool 27% To attend learn to swim program 12% Close to work and school 8% Good facilities 8% To attend swimming club program 8% Accessible facilities 4%
(iii) Rating of the Facilities and Services
Survey respondents rated the current facilities, services and programs at the outdoor swimming pools. Table 4.2 Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities Rating Outdoor Pool Casterton Heywood Merino Excellent 26% 29 % 50% Good 33% 35 % 10% Adequate 33% 29% 30% Poor 8% 6% 10% Very poor 0% 0% 0%
The survey respondents who considered the facilities or services to be poor/very poor were asked to indicate which services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response were:
Centre opening hours 45% Level of fees and charges 22% Range if programs and services offered 19%
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(iv) Main Activities Undertaken at the outdoor pools
The top five main activities undertaken at the outdoor pools
Cool down from hot weather 29% Recreation fun swimming 22% Take child to the pool 19% Competition activities 18% Holiday programs 16%
(v) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools
Seven out of 10 (70%) of respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use of the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.
Respondents provided a large range of facility component priorities that would assist them in greater use of pools. The top five features included:
Longer opening hours Cleaner more hygienic facilities Additional family change rooms More variety of activities and programs Improved social and food areas Improved outdoor grass areas/shade Warm water pool Improved learn to swim programs
4.4 SCHOOL SURVEY
All primary and secondary school located within the Portland Shire area were sent an electronic link to a school survey in February 2013
A poor response was received from schools with only 4 schools completing the surveys.
School representatives were asked a range of questions about their schools use of Aquatic Centres and aquatic/health and fitness based programs and services.
Of the 4 schools that completed the survey, all schools indicated that they had participated in a Learn to Swim or School Sports Program.
Terms one, three and four were the most popular terms and that schools are more likely to plan aquatic based programs during the warmer months which allows Aquatic Centre operators to plan for peak school usage during these periods.
4.4.1 Most Popular Swimming Pools
The schools were requested to nominate the main swimming pool(s) used for the aquatic programs.
The following indicates the most popular swimming pools used:
Portland Indoor Pool 1 school Casterton Outdoor Pool 1 school Hamilton Indoor Pool 1 school Heywood Outdoor Pool 1 school
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4.4.2 Features Would Like to See Developed
The main features that would encourage schools to make greater use of swimming pools in the future were: Indoor warm water pools Separate school change rooms Cheaper entry fees More shaded water Access at different times than allocated Diving facilities
4.5 COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUPS AND KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS
A range of community focus groups and key stakeholder interviews were conducted to identify current and future aquatic needs and expectations to assist with guiding the recommended aquatic strategy for the Shire. The following provides a summary of the key issues identified under key headings:
4.5.1 Facilities
The heating of the PLACE pools is inconsistent and is a major deterrent for a number of people using the facilities. Often the water temperature is too cold. The ambient air temperature is also too cool for some users.
The aquatic facilities across the Shire are not fully accessible for people with a disability. This includes both the change room’s facilities and the swimming pools.
There is an opportunity to create a warm water pool at PLACE to support both the learn to swim and rehabilitation/therapy markets.
There is a need to upgrade all four swimming pools to meet community expectations and contemporary standards for the provisions of aquatic facilities. Some of the key areas include;
(i) PLACE
Change room Size of gym Group fitness room Improved reception and staff amenities Improved indoor and outdoor leisure play area Access to warm program pool
(ii) Casterton
The hospital considered the development of a hydrotherapy pool, however it was not considered at this stage to be feasible. The opportunity to develop a facility in partnership with Council should be investigated. The swimming club and schools are proactive and would like to see greater access to aquatic areas all year round.
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(iii) Merino
Facilities at Merino are tired and need updating – don’t require new facilities There is limited shade at the pool which is a concern in extreme hot weather.
(iv) Heywood
The Heywood Community and District Plan outlines the priority for an indoor multi purpose facility including a hydrotherapy pool and gym. Facility needs to be maintained to a higher standard Any future development of the swimming pools must consider environmentally sensitive design initiatives. There may be an opportunity to consider geothermal heating opportunities in a wellness area of the facility.
4.5.2 Services and Programs
The opening hours of both PLACE and the Outdoor Pools do not meet the needs of the community particularly on days of extreme hot weather. There is a need to review the hours of operation.
Other allied health services would like to make greater use of the facility for their clients. The provision of health suites would be supported by the Portland and District Health.
There is a need to deliver more activities to meet the needs of the family market, particularly over the summer months when there are more domestic tourists in the area. The pool could provide and alternate activity if the right attractors were available.
There is a need to provide a greater range of programs and activities to meet the needs of young people. This could include more adventure type equipment such as new waterslides.
4.5.3 Other
Over the past 15 to 20 years limited Council funding has been provided to upgrade the pool.
4.6 COMBINED MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION FACILITY IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIES
The following table highlights the top six future facility improvements from the 4 key consultation and market research processes.
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Table 4.3 Most Popular Future Swimming Pool Improvements Future Facility Household Survey User Survey School Survey Focus Groups Key Informants Improvement Priorities 1 • Longer opening Improved indoor Indoor warm Gym needs Improved quality hours pool water pools expansion of the facilities 2 • Warm water pools Longer opening Separate school Warm water Access to warm hours change rooms /program pools water pool. 3 • Access to more Greater variety Cheaper entry Improved leisure Larger gym area gym/weights of programs and fees features facilities activities 4 • Cleaner more Cleaner more More shaded Improved change More shade and hygienic facilities hygienic facilities water rooms shelter outdoors pools. 5 • More variety of Access to indoor Access at More dry program Better change activities/programs pool for learn to different times rooms facilities at swim than allocated outdoor pools 6 • Improved More shade and Diving facilities Consistent water Improved membership shelter at temperature at accessibility for packages outdoor pools. PLACE people with disabilities
4.7 BENCHMARKING OF FACILITIES IN SIMILAR SIZE MUNICIPALITIES
The provision of aquatic facilities within six Victorian Local Government Authorities was benchmarked against Glenelg Shire Council with a similar population base of between 16,000 – 22,000 residents. The following municipalities were assessed:
Colac Otway Shire Corangamite Shire Golden Plains Shire Horsham Rural City Council Moyne Shire and Southern Grampians Shire
Of the Councils assessed, the following could be found:
Three Councils provided an indoor aquatic and leisure centre (Colac Otway, Horsham and Southern Grampians); Three Councils provided outdoor swimming pools (Corangamite x 6, Moyne x 3 and Southern Grampians x 6); Two Councils had indoor community pools (Colac Otway in Apollo Bay and Moyne in Port Fairy); One Council had an indoor warm water pool in association with the local health service (Corangamite in Cobden) and One Council had no aquatic facilities at all (Golden Plains).
The following management arrangements are in place:
Of the 3 indoor aquatic and leisure facilities, 2 are managed in house (1 externally contracts the gymnasium and dry component of the facility) and 1 is managed by an external management provider;
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Of the 3 Councils that provide outdoor facilities, 1 is managed by an external provider and 2 are managed in house by Council; Both indoor community pools are managed by community committees of management; and 1 pool is managed by a District Health Service and contracted to an external management provider.
The following recent aquatic facility developments have taken place:
An indoor warm water pool and 2 spa pools were developed in Cobden (2011) for approximately $1million on Cobden and District Community Health land. This was developed through significant community support and fundraising. A 4 lane, 25m pool and dry facilities were developed in Port Fairy (2006) as a community project with funds being raised by the community. This is managed by a committee of management with financial assistance from Council. The capital cost of the facility is thought to be in the area of $1.2 – $1.5million. The Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre (2006) was constructed by Council at a cost of $9.7million.
The following new aquatic facility developments have yet to take place:
Colac Otway Shire received $10million to upgrade the Blue Water Fitness Centre to include a warm water exercise pool, leisure water area and other dry facility components.
4.8 LEISURE TRENDS
The following summary of general leisure trends impacting on people and their demand for recreation, sport and leisure activities and in particular aquatic facilities has been developed using a range of aquatic facility feasibility documents.
General Leisure trends impacting on aquatic leisure facilities design, facility components and user attraction include:
A gradual ageing of the population. As life expectancy increases, birth rates stay low and the “baby boomers” of the 1950s and 1960s grow older. This is placing a new demand on providing programmed hotter water areas as well as pools suitable for therapy and older adult exercises. It also means it is essential to have a range of pools with different water depths and temperatures.
Flexibility in the times when people recreate. As demands on people’s time increases and work practices change people are seeking to take their recreation at different times, over a broad spread of hours and at facilities that offer a lot of activities under the one roof. Indoor pools and health and fitness facilities are particularly attractive and getting easier to use as many are open 12 to 16 hours, 7 days a week
Increased variety in recreation and leisure options. People’s leisure and recreation options are changing towards newer more varied activities offered over a greater range of timeframes compared to previous decades where limited variety in activities and scheduling occurred. This has supported the trend to more multi-use facilities to attract a broader range of users as well as multiple water areas to meet different needs at the one centre.
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Constraints to recreation and leisure participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities close by, family and work constraints, health problems and cost of service or use of facilities are the main constraints to many people’s recreation and leisure participation. The development of targeted markets of users, programs and services at aquatic and health and fitness centres has assisted in reducing some of these participation constraints
Changing employment structures, trading and work hours. These trends often makes participation in traditional sports difficult and therefore people are looking for facilities that are open longer hours and have a lot of activity options at the one site. This makes opportunities such as indoor pools attractive as their long opening hours and days open means usage can be made in a wide range of social, training, competition, educational settings.
Different people want different activities. The broadening different cultural, age, gender of the population sees the need for facilities to offer potential users a much more varied range of programs and services than previously offered. All year round indoor aquatic facilities also provide the greatest diversity of activities throughout the different seasons impacted by an areas local weather.
Provision of high standards and quality of facilities and services. People are looking for high standard, high quality facilities and services to meet their recreation and leisure needs. This has also seen the trend for indoor facilities becoming very popular as they allow activity in safe and secure spaces in all weather and environmental conditions. This leads to indicating that building low standard, low cost facilities will not attract the maximum user market.
Desire for activities to be affordable. The development of multi-purpose aquatic leisure centres has enabled the high operating cost activity of aquatics (in many cases) to be cross subsidised by more profitable activity areas such as health and fitness, food and beverage and entertainment areas. This has enabled many facilities to keep general entry fees low to encourage use whilst seeking users who want special services to contribute at a greater level to the cost of such activities.
Recognition of strong links between physical activity and health. Preventative health care and active lifestyles are very important to many people’s aquatic and health and fitness activities are becoming a large part of people’s activity choices.
Expectations of equity and access. Today’s society expects people with special needs to be catered for in public aquatic and leisure facilities. This has seen improved design features to increase accessibility to and within such facilities. Added to this is the growing array of programs and activities offered to people of all different abilities, physical condition and skill levels.
4.8.1 Specific Aquatic Facility Trends
Specific Aquatic Facility Trends that are impacting on people in the 21st Century include:
(i) Aquatic Facility Trends and Main User Markets
Traditionally many local authority aquatic leisure facilities were built for specialist or limited market users (i.e. competitive swimmers or high level sport participants). Detailed planning and comprehensive feasibility studies now are able to show more targeted user profiles.
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Such studies usually identify the demographic profile of residents in the project area, their current aquatic and leisure participation patterns and use of surrounding aquatic facilities that provide a sound base for more user friendly facilities that cater for the following key markets.
Recreation and Leisure Market - usually made up of families, people coming with friends and groups for fun, relaxation, social activity and low level competition/participation.
Competitive/Training/Fitness Market - usually made up of people predominantly attending facilities alone for structured fitness or competition activities.
Education Market - usually made up of children and adults wishing to increase water safety and survival skills. Includes Learn to swim classes, school and club use and individuals improving their skills and techniques. They require hot water pools and water depths with some straight edges and easy water access etc.
Health and Therapy Market - usually made up of children, adults and older adults wanting to relax or exercise in hot water. This market also includes specialist health condition groups such as arthritis, asthma suffers, etc. They require hot water pools and associated health relaxation areas, i.e. Spa/saunas, etc.
Research indicates that the recreation and leisure market will be the largest as it contains people of all ages, ability, types, interest and gender. The competitive/ training/fitness market is a more specialist market as it usually contains younger, fitter and more active people who have made time to train and compete.
Previous research conducted by SGL Leisure Planning Team indicates that in many cases 60% to 70% of facility users come from the recreation/leisure sector with 20% to 30% coming from the competitive/training/fitness markets. The health and therapy and education markets can range from 10% to 20% of the market subject to the age and health profile of the community in which the facility is located.
(ii) Health and Fitness Activity Areas
Industry trends indicate that users of aquatic facilities are also significant users of health and fitness facilities. Location of each of these activity components at the one site improves financial viability.
Health and fitness has the capacity to record high expense recovery returns, with many centres returning 125% to 180% of expenditure. Locating these facilities at aquatic centres increases the potential of cross-selling and spin-off use. It also improves the membership/program user and casual user ratio.
There is also an increase in personal trainers both as private businesses and within community aquatic centres. These programs provide one on one or small group intensive training programs that are tailored to meet the individual needs of the participants.
(iii) Leisure Play Equipment
Changing static shallow water areas into water play and fun zones is one of the most popular renovations. This can be done by adding simple play equipment, water sprays and interactive equipment to existing pools. Added to this is the option to introduce inflatable play equipment to allow the area to be changeable.
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(iv) Major Attraction Leisure Features
Water slides and similar challenge and adventure type activities have remained popular as long as the venue has a range of slides/rides to keep peoples interest. Single ride facilities struggle to keep interest due to the lack of variety. Multi ride areas allow users to try different length and configuration rides.
There are also a range of new water rides that have a slide component leading to another ride experience such as dropping into a bowl and then water, or onto a ramp and then into a splash pool.
A key design trend is to link all slides to a common entry platform to ensure one staff person can supervise the area. A common splash down zone also allows one lifeguard to control a range of ride water entry points.
(v) Rural Aquatic Facilities
Many regional Council’s are currently trying to determine the appropriate level of aquatic service provision as a result of ageing infrastructure and escalating operating subsidies required to support often multiple pools across the Council area. Many of the pools are starting to reach the end of their useful life and in some cases have declining participation. The cost to upgrade the facilities is often financially prohibitive resulting in limited funds being available to improve the facilities to meet community need and expectations. In some cases Councils have determined to rationalise some of the outdoor pools and provide one centralised facility to current contemporary standards.
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5 OPERATIONAL AND STRA TEGIC FACILITY OPTIO N REVIEW S
5.1 INTRODUCTION
This section provides an operational review of each of the four Glenelg aquatic facilities and identifies options for the future direction of each facility. The review of each facility identifies:
Facilities review Usage review Technical / Maintenance Universal design Environmental performance Program and service delivery Summary of key market research and consultation findings Strategic options
5.2 PORTLAND LEISURE AND AQUATIC CENTRE (PLACE)
5.2.1 Facilities Review
Council’s first heated outdoor swimming pool complex consisting of a 50m main pool, 25m learners pool and toddlers pool was constructed in 1976 on a portion of the Henty Park Reserve in Portland.
The heated pool complex was converted to heating by geothermal energy in 1983, and a spa pool was added to the outdoor facilities in 1984. The geothermal energy is currently not in use.
During 1992/93 $1.2 million was spent on providing indoor heated pool facilities, a gymnasium and multi-purpose area, culminating in the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre being launched as “The PLACE” and opening to the public on 2 June 1993.
An extension to the Gymnasium at the PLACE was completed in 1996. The purpose of this extension was to make room for the transfer of gymnasium facilities from Portland Aluminium to the PLACE.
A Sauna was added to the complex in 1998 and in 2012 an outdoor spa was added to the facility.
A significant upgrade to the water filtration plant at the PLACE was completed during 2007. The filtration plant is now operated on modern vacuum media filtration to minimise water wastage from backwashing and to extend filter wash cycles.
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“The PLACE” provides wet and dry activity areas comprising:
4.2.1.1 Dry Areas:
Gymnasium; Group Fitness/relaxation program room suitable for up to 50 participants as a multi- purpose activity room; Class 2 Child Care Centre for up to 21 children; Kiosk catering for up to 20 people at any time; Male and female change room facilities, supplemented by dedicated change rooms for people with a disability.
4.2.1.2 Wet Areas: 25 metre rectangular indoor pool (6 lanes) Indoor free form learners pool; Indoor free form toddlers pool; Sauna; Outdoor spa bath accommodating up to 6 people; Outdoor 50 metre heated pool (8 lanes); Outdoor 25m learners pool; Outdoor water slide feature; Outdoor toddlers pool; First Aid Room/Lifeguard Station.
The PLACE uses a gas chlorine water treatment system utilising Wallace & Tiernan chlorine injectors with dosing for both chlorine and pH controlled by an electronic Ezitrol unit. All pools run off a common filtration plant except the spa.
The entrance and indoor components have a feeling of being relevant at a local level with modest facilities and almost domestic feel in some areas. The outdoor 50m pool, water slide pool and expansive outdoor area seem grand in comparison to the indoor facilities. The facility is showing signs of age and wear and tear.
Figure 1 Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
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5.2.2 Total Usage Review
A review of usage of PLACE over the last four years 2008/2009 to 2011/12 has been completed and is summarised in the graph below.
140,000 130,806 118,686 120,000 112,968
100,000 78,145 80,000
60,000
40,000
20,000
0 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012
Total Attendance
Figure 2: Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre A review of usage over the past four years indicates
Usage of the Centre has continued to increase from a low of 78,145 visits in 2008/2009 to a high of 130,806 visits in 2011/2012. This continual growth represents an increase of 17,748 visits over the 3-year period (year 1 not included due to 9 months of data) This figure represents an increase in attendances of 15% over the past 3 years. Based on a current catchment of approximately 10,000 people this represents a high average visitation rate of approximately 13 visits per person per year.
5.2.3 Usage Category Review
A usage category breakdown is provided in the following table: Table 5.1 Total Category PLACE Usage Attendance 2008/2009* 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012
Member Group Fitness 13027 16267 16172 16936 Member Health Club 12254 21357 24769 27070 Member Recreational Swimming 8112 13903 16920 19531 Casual Group Fitness 2459 2762 2633 2495 Casual Health Club 2320 2889 2393 2772 Casual Aqua Safe 5352 11192 11529 12402 Casual Recreational Swimming 18692 26458 23052 24179 Schools 10364 8441 10582 11541 Casual Personal Training 533 795 865 947 Creche 5032 8904 9771 12933 Total 78,145 112,968 118,686 130,806 9 mths operation
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Usage Category Breakdown 30000
25000
20000
15000 2008/2009 2009/2010 10000 2010/2011 5000 2011/2012
0
A review of usage by category over the past four years indicates:
Usage by category has experienced a steady increase in all areas.
2009/2010 saw slightly higher attendances in the categories of Member Group Fitness, Casual Group Fitness, Casual Health Club and Casual Rec Swimming compared to other years.
Total Creche attendances have increased over the three-year period from a low of 8,904 in 2009/2010 to a high of 12,933 in 2011/2012. This represents an increase in 4,029 people (45%).
Total Member Recreation Swimming attendances have increased over the three year period from a low of 13,903 in 2009/2010 to a high of 19,531 in 2011/2012. This represents an increase in 5,628 people (40%).
Total School attendances have increased over the three year period from a low of 8,441 in 2009/2010 to a high of 11,541 in 2011/2012. This represents an increase in 3,100 people (36%).
5.2.4 Program and Service Delivery
PLACE is currently operating within the following hours:
Monday to Friday 6.00 am to 8.00 pm Saturday 8.00 am to 6.00 pm Sundays and Public Holidays 10.00 am to 6.00 pm
Previously Portland’s outdoor pools had less operational hours causing some complaints; this has since been adjusted to reflect the indoor facilities hours over the summer season.
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PLACE has access to the YMCA “stable” of programs. Due to the regional location and potential staffing limitations the ability to provide the full range of programs may be difficult without structured staff training, development and retention strategies in place.
4.2.7.1 Aquatic Programs
The following programs currently operate at PLACE:
Aquatic Education (YMCA Aqua Safe - Swimming lessons) Aqua Aerobics Birthday Parties
These programs reflect a basic level of service provision.
Opportunities exist to expand aquatic programs to include the following:
Swimming Squads Additional Aqua Aerobics classes (currently 4 per week) AAA (Disability) Programs Theme/Fun Days Inflatable sessions
4.2.7.2 Health and Fitness Programs
The following programs currently operate at PLACE:
Group Fitness (approx. 30 classes per week) Pilates Over 50’s, Pryme Movers Zumba Tomics (kids Zumba) Bounce Back with Bubs (Mums and bubs fitness group) Personal Training Teen Gym (13 to 16 years) Climbing wall (portable)
These programs represent a fair level of service provision.
Opportunities exist to expand health and fitness opportunities to include the following YMCA programs:
Eat Smart (nutrition program) Challenge Fit Camp Youth Gym (from 10 years) AAA (Disability) Programs Healthy Bodies Healthy Minds (Mental Illness) Corporate Programs
4.2.7.3 Children’s Programs:
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Crèche OSHC (School Holiday Program) Birthday Parties
These programs represent a good level of service provision.
Whilst opportunities exist to expand Childcare (day care) opportunities this should not be a major focus at PLACE. Given likely limited resources, greater efficiencies can be maintained by focusing on children’s programs to supplement and support the core aquatic and fitness business elements, this can be achieved by the children’s programs currently in place.
Based on the information provided there are a number of additional program opportunities available with a potential to provide a wider range of services and reach a broader cross section of residents.
The YMCA has successfully developed various programs for specific population groups in other regions, including programs to engage indigenous populations. The YMCA of Perth introduced “Swim for Life” a successful indigenous youth training and recruitment program in remote areas. Potential exists to develop similar programs to benefit the Glenelg Shire community.
Comment: The YMCA currently provide a fair provision of programs at PLACE, there is room for program growth in Aquatic and Health and Fitness areas. Online program information and marketing is currently poor and could be significantly improved.
Comment: The current spread of hours is fair and comparable to similar facilities. Feedback has been received expressing the desire for longer operating hours (in particular the outdoor facilities), it is unlikely extended hours would result in sufficient attendances to make this feasible.
Comment: Feedback has been received regarding pool crowding at peak times, potential to extend the outdoor season to operate at peak times only may be considered to alleviate this.
5.2.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance PLACE
Council has identified a number of projects from previous reports and inspections as being the most significant in the short term. The following table outlines works identified for the PLACE by Council: Table 5.2 Works Identified by Council for PLACE Item Description Estimated Cost YR A Provide three access handrails to the Toddler/Baby $2,000 11/12 carry pool. forward to 12/13 B Improve warning signage around the perimeter of $2,500 12/13 the toddler/baby pool. C Improve perimeter seating around toddler pool. $3,000 Future D Improve signage at the toddler pool to comply with $1,000 Future RLSSA operational guidelines.
The list of projects in Table 5.2 have been identified by Council as potential risks. Incidents have been reported at Portland of people slipping whilst entering the toddler pool, and chairs breaking when being sat on.
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Council has identified that as a minimum, the above interim actions need to be undertaken to “make safe the pool surrounds” with additional works to be undertaken at a future date to improve the amenity of the pools. Actions such as repainting the pools are required to be undertaken on a regular basis, and funds need to be allocated annually to ensure that the pools are maintained to a minimum standard.
Comment: PLACE has difficulty maintaining pool water quality within Health Regulations (including chemical levels and microbiological levels). The 2001 Powick Report recommended additional water treatment plant ($275,000) which should most likely improve performance in this area. Further investigation and assessment of plant, staff training and procedures may be necessary to develop an action plan to address this.
5.2.6 Universal Design
The concept of Universal Design is to simplify life for everyone by making the built environment more usable to as many users as possible at little to no additional costs. The following issues were noted in regards to universal design principles at PLACE:
The 25 meter indoor pool has ramp access but the ramp is too steep. The gradient is 1:10.5 and should be no steeper than 1:14; There is a raised pediment around all of the outdoor pools; The outdoor spa has a raised timer surround with no disability access to it. The spa itself is raised and even the most able bodied person could have trouble getting in and out of the spa; and There is a disabled toilet off the foyer area. Water temperature is not consistent Signage is poor
5.2.7 Environmental Performance
At the time of construction of the Portland Outdoor Pool and the later addition of the indoor facilities, Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles were also not a high priority in design and construction of the facility. No other ESD features were noted at the time of visual inspection.
Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, an ESD audit of the facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation. The ongoing and increasing high cost associated with operating aquatic centres and the high use of water, energy and chemicals indicates that this is a critical issues that needs to be improved.
5.3 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS
The key findings in relation to the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre is summarised as follows:
Usage of the Centre has continued to increase from a low of 78,145 visits in 2008/2009 to a high of 130,806 visits in 2011/2012.
This continual growth represents an increase of 17,748 visits over the 3-year period (15%). Usage by program category has experienced a steady increase across all program
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areas. During peak usage times (early mornings and after school hours) the facility is at capacity.
Council provides a financial subsidy to operate the facility. This subsidy has increased over the last five years as part of contractual arrangements..
• Technical reviews completed in 2001 identified approximately $600,000 of works required at the pool. Discussions with council officers indicated that since that time little works have been completed.
• The community consultation process identified that residents believe the facility is in need of refurbishment. The key areas of concern identified were:
• Water heating consistency • Quality of the change rooms • Accessibility • Lack of “fun” leisure activities
72% of respondents to the telephone survey considered the facilities adequate, poor or very poor. The top issues people unhappy with were:
Level of fees and charges 67% Customer service/assistance 33% Group fitness timetable 33% Change rooms 23.4% Indoor pool 20% Centre too crowded 17% Range of programs and services offered 17% Leisure Pool 11% Gym/Weight facilities 8.4% Air quality in pool Hall 5.6%
5.4 STRATEGIC OPTIONS
The consultation processes has identified the opportunity to upgrade PLACE to create a sporting, leisure and aquatic precinct that caters for a range of diverse indoor and outdoor activities and opportunities using both the adjacent sporting fields and the aquatic facilities. Based on the community consultation and market research undertaken the following tables provides future direction options for PLACE for consideration and the likely economic, social and environmental impact.
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Table 5.3 PLACE Future Directions Options
Option Description Indicative Capacity to Potential Capital Cost Attract Impacts External Funding Status Quo – Undertake an update of facility $65K -$85K Potential to The option will see the following: with technical audit to determine attract some improvements current OH&S funding from OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit addressed. to OH&S and Carry out the recommendations DPCD - Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may improve compliance of the audit. operational efficiencies. issues No additional facilities proposed Additional funding required implementing the recommendations of the reports. or change to existing facilities. Potential reduced operating cost as a result of greater operating efficiencies
The project will not address the following:
Community expectations for the provision of new or upgraded facilities including warm water program pool, expanded gymnasium and facilities for young people/families or older adults. No additional increase in usage or revenue as a result of no new or additional facilities or services provided. Refurbish Refurbished facilities include $6M - $10M Potential to This option will see the following: existing following additions: attract some facilities and Upgraded interactive leisure funding from Facility upgraded to current standards in terms of O, H and S, DDA and Universal design. provide new water – indoor and outdoor. DTPLI– Better Interactive leisure water will address identified needs of family/youth and social markets and or Replacement of outdoor water Pools Funding Updated water slide will provide improved leisure opportunities for the young people/family additional slide. and markets and provide major attractor for the facility. facilities. Replace outdoor spa. Department of Expansion of gym and group fitness rooms will reduce over crowding, increase access and Expansion of gym and group Health participation and provide higher yield service that will assist in improving the financial fitness room. viability of the centre. Construction of warm water Warm water program pool addresses the identified need for access to warm water for program pool. rehabilitation, therapy and lower level learn to swim Provision of accessible/family Upgraded administration/reception and merchandise areas will improve operational change room and school efficiencies and increase secondary spend opportunities. change rooms. Upgraded and new change facilities will improve customer comfort and amenity. Redevelop staff administration/reception/merch andise areas.
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Option Description Indicative Capacity to Potential Capital Cost Attract Impacts External Funding Major This options includes the features $7M - $11M Potential to This project will address the items identified in options two with the addition of: refurbishment detailed in option two with the attract some with Day Spa addition of a wellness centre funding from A wellness centre including a range of high quality allied health activities such as massage, Option DPCD – Better relaxation etc. These services provide a substantially higher yield per visit than community Pools Funding. aquatic and leisure facilities. The centre would provide a point of difference for the region as a major attractor for the local, interstate and international tourist markets. The facility may be able to make use of geo thermal water opportunities within the area (similar to recently opened Moree Artisan Pools, NSW.
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5.5 CASTERTON SWIMMING POOL
5.5.1 Facilities Review
The Casterton Memorial Swimming Pool, built in 1965, is located on Carmichael Drive, Casterton.
The pool is seasonal facility that operates seven days a week from 10 am with weather dependant closing times. The facility operates from 1 December to 31 March each year.
Casterton Swimming Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility comprising of the following areas:
4.3.1.1 Dry Areas
Male and female change rooms Kiosk First aid room Office Car parking
4.3.1.2 Wet Areas
50m solar heated outdoor pool Toddlers pool
Figure 1 Casterton Swimming Pool
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5.5.2 Usage Review
A review of usage of Casterton Outdoor Pool over the past five years 2008/2009 to 2012/2013 has been completed and is summarised on the following page.
10,000 9,181 9,000 8,247 8,000 6,787 7,000 6,000 5,485 5,428 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013
Total Attendance
Table 5.4 Casterton Outdoor Pool Usage Attendance 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 Adult 427 320 199 377 421 Child 1,534 1,265 556 864 689 Family 70 77 66 103 75 Schools 0 0 0 2,360 1,632 Membership 3,454 5,125 4607 5,477 5,430 Total 5,485 6,787 5,428 9,181 8,247
Usage Category Breakdown 6000
5000
4000 2008/2009 3000 2009/2010 2000 2010/2011
1000 2011/2012
0 2012/2013 Adult Child Family Schools Membership
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A review of usage over the past five years indicates
Usage of the Centre has increased from 5,485 visits in 2008/2009 to 8,247 visits in 2012/2013.
This represents an increase of 2,762 visits over the 5-year period (50%).
It should be noted that industry trends indicate that weather conditions can have an impact on attendances during a season of up to 30%.
5.5.3 Program and Service Delivery
The Casterton Swimming Pool currently operates within the following opening hours:
Open 10.00 am
Close based on Temperature at 1pm:
Below 20C - the pool closes at 6.30pm Between 20C - 25C - the pool closes at 7.30pm Between 25and 30C - the pool closes at 8:00pm Above 30C - the pool closes at 9:00pm
Outdoor pool hours have been a source of many complains across all facilities. Previously the facilities had opened at 10.00 am but changed to 10 am in December 2009 following Councils analysis of the previous year’s attendance data.
Comment: Consideration should be given to simplifying the operating hours to achieve a better public awareness.
Comment: Flexibility to close entirely on unseasonal cold days may also be considered as significant attendances are unlikely and impact on resources may be lessened.
Comment: Based on community feedback Council may wish to revisit the potential for earlier opening times, in particular the better patronised pools in Casterton and Merino. Operating hours of similar facilities vary; however a 1.00 pm is one to three hours later than the majority.
5.5.4 Programs
There is little evidence of programming at the outdoor pools.
Due to weather factors and relatively small catchment populations it may be difficult to sustain regular program opportunities. Some examples of potential programs which could be developed without a major impact on resources include:
Vicswim learn to swim programs (or YMCA intensive programs) Theme/Fun days Inflatable sessions Lap swimming sessions
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Informal children activities (e.g. ball games, races)
Comment: Little evidence exists of outdoor pool programs, and common customer feedback identifies the need for “more fun activities”. This could be addressed in part through some simple, low cost programs.
5.5.5 Technical Operations/Maintenance Casterton
Casterton Outdoor Pool operates with concrete sand pressure filters and chlorine gas. Solar heating was installed in 1986.
Comment: Consideration may be given to converting to Sodium Hypochlorite (liquid chlorine) for safety reasons, however chlorine gas in still commonly used in remote facilities and generally delivers good water quality results.
The Swimming Centre Audits 1998 By David Powick and Associates recommended the following works for Casterton Outdoor Pool:
Various minor safety compliance items Change room works Chlorine Detection Unit installation Backwash valve replacement Circulation pump repairs New chemical dosing pumps Backwash holding tanks Pool painting Tile repairs Dive board removal Hand rail installation Improved safety signage
Council has identified a number of projects from previous reports and inspections as being the most significant in the short term. The following table outlines works identified for the Casterton Swimming Pool: Table 5.5 Works Identified by Council for Casterton Item Description Estimated Cost YR A Re level existing concrete pool deck through $6,000 11/12 grinding concrete joints and other minor remedial tasks. B Replace existing concrete pool surrounds. $40,000 Future C Improve signage at the toddler pool to comply with $500 12/13 RLSSA operational guidelines D Repaint Pools (required every 5 years) $27,500 Future
The list of projects in Table 5.5 have been identified by Council as potential risks. An incident has been reported at Casterton of a child slipping and sustaining an injury.
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Comment: Evidence shows consistent water quality problems including low chemical levels and poor water clarity. Further investigation and assessment of plant, staff training and procedures may be necessary to develop an action plan to address this.
5.5.6 Environmental Performance
At the time of construction of the Casterton Outdoor Pool, Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles were also not a high priority in design and construction of the facility. However, solar heating of the outdoor pool has since been installed to increase water temperatures. No other ESD features were noted at the time of visual inspection.
Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, an ESD audit of the facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation.
5.6 SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS
The key findings in relation to the Casterton Swimming Pool is summarised as follows:
The Casterton Outdoor Pool attracts the highest number of visits of the three outdoor pools with approximately 8,200 visits during the 2012/2013-summer season. The facility however is also in need of upgrade to meet the needs of the local Casterton and surrounding areas residents.
Discussions with key stakeholders indicated that the facility is highly valued by residents as a summer social/ leisure facility and by the local swimming club and schools.
Discussions with the Swimming Club indicate they currently bus club members to the Hamilton Indoor Swimming Pools, as they are unable to access the Casterton Pool for pre season training, putting members of the club at a competitive disadvantage.
The 50-metre outdoor pool at the Casterton facility however is advantageous to the training programs of the club members.
A number of families are required to travel to Hamilton to access learn to swim programs as the only classes available at Casterton are the intensive program during January each year.
The local schools also use the pool for swimming sports, learn to swim programs and squad swimming programs twice a week. The schools see the pool as vital to their physical education curriculum.
Discussion with a representative from the Casterton Hospital indicated that the Hospital had recently undertaken a study into the feasibility of constructing a hydrotherapy pool onsite. The study found that the facility at this stage was not feasible.
The respondents to the telephone survey rated the Casterton Pool facilities as follows:
Excellent 35% Good 53%
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Adequate 12% Poor 0% Very poor 0%
Community representatives identified the need to upgrade the following key issues: Change rooms Toddlers pools Concourse Improved shade around the pool
5.7 STRATEGIC OPTIONS
Based on the community consultation and market research undertaken the following tables provides future direction options for Casterton for consideration and the likely economic, social and environmental impact.
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Table 5.6 Casterton Future Directions Options Option Description Indicati Capacity to Potential ve Attract Impacts Capital External Cost Funding Status Quo - Undertake an update of facility $55K - Potential to The option will see the following: with technical audit to determine $75K attract some improvement current OH&S requirements. funding from OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit addressed. s to OH&S Carry out the recommendations DPCD - Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may improve operational and of the audit. efficiencies. compliance No additional facilities proposed Additional funding required implementing the recommendations of the reports. issues. or change to existing facilities. Potential reduced operating cost as a result of greater operating efficiencies
The project will not address the following:
No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in revenue is expected. The community needs for access to an all year round facilities with the closest facilities being 50 minutes away. Upgrade Refurbished facilities include $200K - Potential to The option will address the following: facility to following additions: $300K attract some improve Upgrade reception/entry area. funding from OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit. access, Upgrade the change rooms. DPCD - Compliance with Universal Design principles, which will increase access and participation at the amenity and Improve shade and shelter. Centre user comfort. Repaint the pool shell. Improve the user experience and may attract some additional visitation due to improved amenity Provide wet deck around pool and comfort. Upgrade the pool concourse. Upgrade the toddler’s pool to The project will not address the following:
provide interactive leisure water. No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in Provide new seating, tables and revenue is expected. drinking fountains. The community needs for access to an all year round facilities with the closest facilities being 50 Upgrade front “look” of building. minutes away.
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Option Description Indicati Capacity to Potential ve Attract Impacts Capital External Cost Funding Develop a This option includes the features $5M - Potential to This option will address the items identified in options two with the addition of: small indoor detailed in option two with the $6M attract some Community and local school access to an all year round indoor heated pool for, health and program addition of an indoor warm water/ external wellness, rehabilitation; lower level learn to swim, and aquatic fitness programs. pool program pool. funding from Highly engaged community would support option. DPCD – Better Higher level of capital funding from Council, however, increased revenue is expected due to high Pools Funding yield components. program, Opportunity to seek external funding from local organisations (ie hospital) and state government. Hospital Fund.
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5.8 HEYWOOD SWIMMING POOL
5.8.1 Facilities Review
Built in 1964 he Heywood Outdoor Swimming Pool is located at the corner of Fitzroy Street and Hunter Street Heywood.
The pool is seasonal facility that operates seven days a week from 1.00 pm with weather dependant closing times. The facility operates from 1 December to 31 March each year.
Heywood Swimming Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility comprising of the following areas:
4.4.1.1 Dry Areas
Male and female change rooms Kiosk First aid room Office Car parking
4.4.1.2 Wet Areas
50m solar heated outdoor pool Toddlers pool
Figure 3: Heywood Outdoor Pool
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5.8.2 Usage Review
A review of usage of Heywood Pool over the last five years 2008/2009 to 2012/2013 has been completed and is summarised below.
Total Heywood Pool Attendances 2008/2009 - 2012/2013 2,000 1864 1,628 1,648 1,573 1,500
1,000 817 Attendances
500
0 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13
Table 5.7 Heywood Outdoor Pool Usage Attendance 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 Adult 210 284 66 170 151 Child 929 1012 450 858 1,058 Family 39 59 28 25 47 Schools 0 0 0 13 70 Membership 450 293 273 507 538 Total 1,628 1,648 817 1,573 1,864
1200
1000
800 2008/2009 2009/2010 600 2010/2011 2011/2012 400 2012/2013
200
0 Adult Child Family Schools Membership
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A review of usage over the past five years indicates
Usage of the Centre has continued to increase from a low of 817 visits in 2010/2011 to a high of 1,864 visits in 2012/2013.
This continual growth represents an increase of 236 visits over the 5 year period (14.5%).
Heywood is the least utilised of all the aquatic facilities with attendance levels much lower than expected for a facility of this type with a catchment population of over 1,800.
There is no longer an active swimming club at Heywood Swimming Pool.
5.8.3 Program and Service Delivery
The Heywood Swimming Pool currently operates within the following opening hours:
Open 1.00pm
Close based on Temperature at 1pm:
Below 20C - the pool closes at 6.30pm Between 20C - 25C - the pool closes at 7.30pm Between 25and 30C - the pool closes at 8:00pm Above 30C - the pool closes at 9:00pm
Outdoor pool hours have been a source of many complaints across all facilities. Previously the facilities had opened at 10.00 am but changed to 1.00pm in December 2009 following Councils analysis of the previous year’s attendance data.
Comment: Consideration may wish to be given to simplifying the operating hours to achieve a better public awareness.
Comment: Flexibility to close entirely on unseasonal cold days may also be considered as significant attendances are unlikely and impact on resources may be lessened.
Comment: Based on community feedback Council may wish to revisit the potential for earlier opening times. Operating hours of similar facilities vary; however a 1.00 pm is one to three hours later than the majority.
4.4.7.1 Programs
There is little evidence of programming at the outdoor pools.
Due to weather factors and relatively small catchment populations it may be difficult to sustain regular program opportunities. Some examples of potential programs which could be developed without a major impact on resources include:
Vicswim learn to swim programs (or YMCA intensive programs) Theme/Fun days Inflatable sessions
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Lap swimming sessions Informal children activities (e.g. ball games, races)
Comment: Little evidence exists of outdoor pool programs, and common customer feedback identifies the need for “more fun activities”. This may be addressed in part through some simple, low cost programs such as additional inflatables and programs during the holiday period were structured activities such as pool volley ball could be Heywood Outdoor Pool operates with concrete, sand, austral pressure filters installed in 1997 and chlorine gas. Solar heating is fitted.
Comment: Consideration may be given to converting to Sodium Hypochlorite (liquid chlorine) for safety reasons, however chlorine gas in still commonly used in remote facilities and generally delivers good water quality results.
The Swimming Centre Audits 1998 By David Powick and Associates recommended the following works for Heywood Outdoor Pool:
Various minor safety compliance items Change room works New dump shower Pool painting Tile repairs Hand rail installation Improved safety signage
Council has identified a number of projects from previous reports and inspections as being the most significant in the short term. The following table outlines works identified for the Heywood Swimming Pool: Table 5.8 Works Identified by Council for Heywood Item Description Estimated Cost YR A Repaint Pools (Required every 5 Years) $20,000 11/12 B Re level existing concrete pool deck through $4,000 11/12 grinding concrete joints C Improve signage at the toddler pool to comply with $500 12/13 RLSSA operational guidelines D Replace In ground infrastructure from pool $12,000 Future chlorination system to pool E Replace existing concrete pool surrounds $35,000 Future
The list of projects in Table 5.8 have been identified by Council as potential risks.
Comment: Evidence shows a history of water quality problems including low chemical levels and poor water clarity, often failing to meet Health Regulations. Further investigation and assessment of plant, staff training and procedures may be necessary to develop an action plan to address this.
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5.8.4 Universal Design
At the time of construction of the Heywood Outdoor Pool, universal design principles were not at the fore of design and construction resulting in limited universal design features being incorporated into the facility.
Change rooms have not been provided with accessibility in mind and all pools have raised pediments. Little work has been done on the facilities since they were built, therefore, the retrospective inclusion of universal design features such as accessible amenities, ramp entry into pools, improved signage, the construction of wet decks around pools, beach entries, accessible BBQ and furniture etc. have not been provided.
Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, a universal design audit of the facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation.
5.8.5 Environmental Performance
At the time of construction of the Heywood Outdoor Pool, Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles were also not a high priority in design and construction of the facility. However, solar heating of the outdoor pool has since been installed to increase water temperatures. No other ESD features were noted at the time of visual inspection.
Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, an ESD audit of the facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation.
5.9 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES
The key findings in relation to the Heywood Swimming Pool is summarised as follows:
The review of the Heywood Outdoor Pool indicates that it is the least used of the three outdoor facilities, with just under 1,900 visits in the 2012/2013 season.
The consultation process has identified that the facility is “tired” and in need of significant works to encourage greater utilisation. The pool is primarily used as a place to “cool off” during summer months with little use of the 50-metre pool for lap swimming or training. The Swimming Club that was located at the facility disbanded approximately two years ago due to lack of interest.
Families wishing to participate in learn to swim programs travel to Portland to access the indoor heated pools.
The development of a multi purpose indoor facility including a warm water pool and a gym was identified as a priority in the 2008 Heywood and District Community Plan. Discussion with some of the key stakeholders from the township indicated that this was still a priority.
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The respondents to the telephone survey rated the Heywood Pool facilities as follows:
Excellent 38% Good 13% Adequate 25% Poor 25% Very poor 0%
Community representatives identified the following key issues:
Lack of transport to access the facilities at Portland Toddlers pools needs upgrading Concourse needs upgrading Need for improved change rooms Poor maintenance/cleaning Operating hours do not meet community need Need for greater community involvement Improved leisure water
5.10 STRATEGIC OPTIONS
Based on the community consultation and market research undertaken the following tables provides future direction options for Heywood swimming pool for consideration and the likely economic, social and environmental impact.
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Table 5.9 Heywood Future Directions Options Option Description Indicative Capacity to Potential Capital Cost Attract External Impacts Funding Status Quo - Undertake an update of facility $25K - $35K Potential to attract The option will see the following: with technical audit to determine current some funding from improvements OH&S requirements. DPCD - OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit to OH&S and Carry out the recommendations of addressed. compliance the audit. Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may issues. No additional facilities proposed or improve operational efficiencies. change to existing facilities. Additional funding required implementing the recommendations of the reports. Potential reduced operating cost as a result of greater operating efficiencies
The project will not address the following:
No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in revenue is expected. The community needs for access to an all year round multipurpose program room. Upgrade Refurbished facilities include following $200K - $300K Potential to attract The option will address the following: facility to additions Upgrade to the reception/entry some funding from improve area. DPCD - OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the audit. access, Upgrade the change rooms. Compliance with Universal Design principles, which will increase access and amenity and Improve shade and shelter. participation at the Centre user comfort. Repaint the pool shell. Improve the user experience and may attract some additional visitation due to Upgrade the pool concourse. improved amenity and comfort. Upgrade the toddler’s pool to provide interactive leisure water. The project will not address the following: Provide new seating, tables and drinking fountains. No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in revenue is expected. The community need for all year round community facilities and fun elements.
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Option Description Indicative Capacity to Potential Capital Cost Attract External Impacts Funding Develop an This option includes a total refurbishment $1.5M to $2M Potential to attract The option will address the following: outdoor of the facility to provide an outdoor aqua some funding from interactive play area and community multi purpose DPCD - Community access to a smaller (20m) outdoor pool for fun and fitness operational water play space and includes: during the summer period only. Providing reduced operating costs. area and an Access to an interactive water play space during the summer months that can indoor multi Substantial interactive outdoor be used as a dry play space during the winter months. This provides for increased purpose space aqua play/leisure water that links opportunities for participation by new markets such as families/children and for community to the success of the skate park. young people not currently well catered for. programs. Potential to retrofit existing to Provides the township with a unique water playground and point of difference. construct a smaller outdoor pool. Provides access to indoor multipurpose space that can be used all year round for Indoor multi purpose program fitness classes, community meetings, youth space and community activities. room. This option would require a higher level of capital funding from Council, Upgraded change and amenities Upgraded reception area.
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5.11 MERINO SWIMMING POOL
5.11.1 Facilities Review
The Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool built in 1961 is located on Mocamboro Road, Merino.
The pool is seasonal facility that operates seven days a week from 1.00pm with weather dependant closing times. The facility operates from 1 December to 31 March each year.
Merino Swimming Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility comprising of the following areas:
4.5.1.1 Dry Areas
Male and female change rooms Kiosk First aid room Office Car parking
4.5.1.2 Wet Areas
25m solar heated outdoor pool Toddlers pool
Figure 4: Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool
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5.11.2 Usage Review
A review of usage of Merino Outdoor Swimming Pool over the last four years 2008/2009 to 2011/12 has been completed and is summarised below.
3,000 2,683 2,349 2311 2,500 2,006 2,155 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13
Attendances
Table 5.10 Merino Outdoor Pool Usage Attendance 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013
Adult 103 107 27 66 556 Child 271 250 132 159 104 Family 33 17 11 14 76 Schools 0 0 0 445 0 Membership 2276 1975 1836 1471 2075 Total 2683 2349 2006 2155 2311
Usage Category Breakdown 2500
2000 2008/2009 1500 2009/2010 1000 2010/2011 500 2011/2012
0 2012/2013
A review of usage over the past five years indicates
Usage of the Centre has decreased from 2,683 visits in 2008/2009 to 2,311 visits in 2012/2013.
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This represents a decline of 372 visits over the 5 year period (14%).
5.11.3 Program and Service Delivery
The Merino Swimming Pool currently operates within the following opening hours:
Open 1.00pm
Close based on Temperature at 1pm:
Below 20C - the pool closes at 6.30pm Between 20C - 25C - the pool closes at 7.30pm Between 25and 30C - the pool closes at 8:00pm Above 30C - the pool closes at 9:00pm
Outdoor pool hours have been a source of many complains across all facilities. Previously the facilities had opened at 10.00 am but changed to 1.00pm in December 2009 following Councils analysis of the previous year’s attendance data.
Comment: Consideration may wish to be given to simplifying the operating hours to achieve a better public awareness.
Comment: Flexibility to close entirely on unseasonal cold days may also be considered as significant attendances are unlikely and impact on resources may be lessened.
Comment: Based on community feedback Council may wish to revisit the potential for earlier opening times, in particular the better patronised pools in Casterton and Merino. Operating hours of similar facilities vary; however a 1.00 pm is one to three hours later than the majority.
4.5.7.1 Programs
There is little evidence of programming at the outdoor pools.
Due to weather factors and relatively small catchment populations it may be difficult to sustain regular program opportunities. Some examples of potential programs which could be developed without a major impact on resources include:
Vicswim learn to swim programs (or YMCA intensive programs) Theme/Fun days Inflatable sessions Lap swimming sessions Informal children activities (e.g. ball games, races)
Comment: Little evidence exists of outdoor pool programs, and common customer feedback identifies the need for “more fun activities”. This may be addressed in part through some simple, low cost programs.
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5.11.4 Technical Operations/Maintenance Merino
The Merino Outdoor Pool operates with the original open bed suction sand filters and chlorine gas. No solar heating is fitted.
Comment: Consideration may be given to converting to Sodium Hypochlorite (liquid chlorine) for safety reasons, however chlorine gas in still commonly used in remote facilities and generally delivers good water quality results.
Comment: Consideration should be given to solar heating at Merino if adequate roof space is available. The facility is already well supported by the local community however increase water temperatures would see an increase in attendance and increase program opportunities.
The Swimming Centre Audits 1998 By David Powick and Associates recommended the following works for Merino Outdoor Pool:
Various minor safety compliance items Change room works New dump shower Circulation pump repairs New filtration system pH dosing pump Compliant backwash discharge Pool painting Hand rail removal Improved safety signage
Council has identified a number of projects from previous reports and inspections as being the most significant in the short term. The following table outlines works identified for the Merino Swimming Pool: Table 5.11 Works Identified by Council for Merino Item Description Estimated Cost YR A Re level existing concrete pool deck through $2,000 11/12 grinding concrete joints B Improve maintenance access to pool chlorination $3,000 11/12 system through moving the recirculation pump C Improve signage at the toddler pool to comply with $500 12/13 RLSSA operational guidelines
The list of projects in Table 5.11 have been identified by Council as potential risks.
Comment: Available evidence suggests Merino is the best performing of the outdoor pool in terms of plant and water quality; however the 1998 audit indicated filtration was inadequate for a facility of this size.
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5.11.5 Environmental Performance
At the time of construction of the Merino Outdoor Pool, Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles were also not a high priority in design and construction of the facility. However, solar heating of the outdoor pool has since been installed to increase water temperatures. No other ESD features were noted at the time of visual inspection.
Comment: Pending the future development direction of the facility, an ESD audit of the facility should be completed and an action plan determined for staged implementation.
5.11.6 Summary of Key Issues and Options
The Merino Pool is well used by the local farming community, schools and the swimming club. The facility is located in an “idyllic” rural setting. The pool is viewed as the “poor cousin” to the Casterton Pool and therefore often gets the old equipment i.e. pool blankets.
The pool is ageing and in need of upgrade to meet the needs and expectations of the Merino and surrounding Districts residents.
The key issues identified through the consultation process include:
Quality of the change rooms Ageing plant and equipment Lack of maintenance Lack of shade
The respondents to the telephone survey rated the Merino Pool facilities as follows:
Excellent 38% Good 31% Adequate 23% Poor 8% Very poor 0%
5.12 STRATEGIC OPTIONS
Based on the community consultation and market research undertaken the following tables provides future direction options for Merino Swimming Pool for consideration and the likely economic, social and environmental impact.
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Table 5.12 Merino Future Directions Options Option Description Indicative Capacity to Potential Capital Cost Attract Impacts External Funding Status Quo - Undertake an update of facility $25K -$35K Potential to The option will see the following: with technical audit to determine current attract some improvements OH&S requirements. funding from OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the to OH&S and Carry out the recommendations of DPCD - audit addressed. compliance the audit. Compliance with Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, which may issues. No additional facilities proposed or improve operational efficiencies. change to existing facilities. Additional funding required implementing the recommendations of the reports. Potential reduced operating cost as a result of greater operating efficiencies
The project will not address the following:
No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in revenue is expected. Upgrade Refurbished facilities include following $200K - $300K Potential to The option will address the following: facility to additions: attract some improve Upgrade to the reception/entry area. funding from OH&S and risk issues associated with plant and buildings as identified in the access, Upgrade the change rooms. DPCD - audit. amenity and Improve shade and shelter. Compliance with Universal Design principles, which will increase access and user comfort. Repaint the pool shell. participation at the Centre Provide wet deck around pool Improve the user experience and may attract some additional visitation due to Upgrade the pool concourse. improved amenity and comfort. Upgrade the toddler’s pool to provide Continued access to a swimming pool for the local community to “cool off” interactive leisure water. during summer months, participate in the local swimming club and access learn Provide new seating, tables and to swim programs. drinking fountains. The project will not address the following:
No new facility or program opportunities will be provided therefore no significant increase in revenue is expected.
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6 CAPITAL FUNDING OPPO RTUNITIES REVIEW
One of the key requirements Glenelg Aquatic Strategy was the consideration of Councils financial capacity to fund the recommendations of the Strategy. A key aim of the Strategy is to enable capital funding to be shared between Council funding and State and Federal Government Grants.
This high capital cost of recommended facility improvements and developments will therefore see the need for a number of funding support grants as Council does not have the financial capacity to totally fund such major developments.
The Leisure and Aquatic Facility Development Industry has a history of only very limited funding sources that may assist Council in financing the capital cost of new or re developed Aquatic Facilities.
Traditionally, Aquatic Facility funding sources usually involve:
Council Funding Other Government Grants Commercial Investment Commercial Fundraising Community Fundraising and User Group/Contributions
Traditionally, a combination of Council funding with Government Grants and some limited community fundraising has occurred for most aquatic facilities in Australia.
In larger areas with greater commercial opportunities we are now starting to see some commercial investment in return for rights to manage/operate facilities ($1M to $2M investment in return for longer-term management agreements).
In the last couple of years there also has been a number of Councils look at Commercial fundraising. This appears to have been more successful in New Zealand than Australia.
The following information provides an overview of funding opportunities that may wish to be pursued in greater detail once facility development options are identified.
6.1 REGIONAL GROWTH FUND
The Government’s new Regional Growth Fund (RGF) is designed to assist regional communities and businesses adapt to current community changes.
The framework for the RGF is based on two long-term goals:
Developing a prosperous and thriving regional Victoria with more opportunities for regional Victorians; and
Improving the quality of life for regional Victorians.
The RGF will support regional cities and country communities to create new prosperity, more opportunities and a better quality of life.
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The RGF will:
Provide better infrastructure, facilities and services; Strengthen the economic, social and environmental base of communities; Create new jobs and improve career opportunities; Support the planning and development of projects; and Leverage increased investment.
The RGF seeks to strengthen the capacity of regional and rural Victoria to develop within the environment of growth and change. It aims to ensure a competitive environment in which regional businesses can operate successfully, and to strengthen the resilience of regional industry in the face of social and environmental change.
It incorporates a grass roots approach to identifying and developing community-led projects, while ensuring that wherever country Victorians lives they have access to opportunities, quality infrastructure and services.
The Regional Growth Fund has two main components:
Strategic Initiatives Local Initiatives
6.2 STATE GOVERNMENT FUNDING
Over the past eight years State Government, through Sport and Recreation Victoria have administered the Better Pool Funding Program.
It is anticipated that a funding allowance of approximately $3 million may be achieved from State Government through the Better Pools funding program.
Funding applications are more likely to be successful if the project aligns with the key findings and priority recommendations identified in State Sporting Government Planning Strategies.
The current priorities of the funding program are projects that:
Demonstrate how the project will increase or maintain participation.
Improves facilities to encourage greater female participation.
Encourages development of multi-use facilities.
Collaborates between local government authorities, schools and community groups.
Demonstrates a partnership between local government and State Sporting Associations or other relevant peak bodies.
Improved environmental sustainability.
Includes Universal Design principles
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6.3 COMMONWEALTH FUNDING
Commonwealth Government funding has been restricted for sport and recreation developments since the early 1990s when the Community Sports and Cultural Centres Improvement Scheme was discontinued.
Although there has been no formal funding scheme, there have been a number of leisure facility projects that were able to generate significant political pressure to receive funding (election promises and stimulus packages).
In 2009/2010 the down turn in the economy provided a number of Local Government Authorities with funding through the Federal Government stimulus package.
In March 2011 the Federal Government announced the Regional Development Australia Fund (RDAF), which is a national program to support Australia’s regions and enhance economic development and liveability of communities. The program is administered by the Department of Regional Australia, Regional Development and the Department of Local Government.
The program guidelines indicate that the aim of the funding program is to support localism, and to leverage and better coordinate state, commonwealth, local government and private (including not for profit) investments for the long-term benefit of communities.
Funding of between $500,000 and $25 million per project is available from this funding program. The fifth round of the program has recently closed. Projects that addressed the identified priorities of Regional Development Australia committees and have a strong regional impact have been funded in the first 5 rounds.
The essential requirements for RDAF submissions include:
Submissions must; Apply for funding between $500k and $25M Include funding from other sources Provide dollar for dollar contributions for projects over $5M Have written endorsement from the RDA Be “Investment ready” Come from a local government authority or an incorporated not for profit entity Submissions must show how they align with the Regional Plan and be endorsed in writing by the RDA
There may be opportunities to seek funds under this scheme if the redevelopment includes an integrated health, tourism and community precinct components.
6.3.1 Health and Hospital Fund
The benching of other similar area facility developments has identified potential funding opportunity from the Health and Hospital Fund
Colac Ottway Shire Council received $2.83M for the construction of a warm water exercise pool at the Blue Water Fitness Centre through the 2012/13 Health and Hospital Fund. This initiative was Council driven with support from the Colac area health service.
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6.4 T –QUAL GRANTS
T-QUAL Grants is a competitive merit-based grants program aimed at stimulating sustainable economic growth in the Australian tourism industry.
By providing matched funding to large and small-scale tourism projects, the program aims to increase Australia's supply of quality tourism products and experiences.
If the redevelopment of PLACE included a “wellness” centre making use of the available geo thermal water there may be an opportunity to seek funds under this scheme.
By providing matched funding to large and small-scale tourism projects, the program aims to increase Australia's supply of quality tourism products and experiences.
The program actively encourages private sector investment in the development of Australia's tourism industry products, services and experiences. It is underpinned by the National Long- Term Tourism Strategy and Tourism 2020. All projects funded under the program must align with Tourism 2020 priorities.
T-QUAL Grants are administered by the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism and are offered in two separate programs:
Strategic Tourism Investment Grants—funding for up to $1 million to support a small number of larger scale projects to support Indigenous tourism, economic development and tourism employment.
T-QUAL Grants—Tourism Quality Projects—funding of between $15,000 and $100,000 for smaller-scale projects to support collaborative tourism industry development projects, particularly those which stimulate private sector investment.
6.5 COMMERCIAL FUNDRAISING
Traditionally, commercial fundraisers have been used on some recreation and sporting projects to raise some funds. The results indicate they usually have some success but the funds raised are regarded as low contribution levels compared to the high capital cost to build such facilities. Such companies traditionally charge up to 30% of funds raised for their services.
This funding option is not likely given the size of the population base.
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APPENDIX A - SUMMARY OF PREVIOUS RESEARCH AND STRATEGIES
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Summary of Previous Research and Strategies Report Name Author and Date Key Points/Recommendations Relevant to the Current Project
Council Plan Embracing Glenelg Shire Council has identified four strategic objectives to the Future 2009 – 2013 drive the achievement of our Statement of Intent. These strategic objectives are supported by a series of Council commitments that underpin the strategic objectives. Performance indicators have been developed for each of the strategic objectives. Monitoring and reporting of these performance indicators through the Glenelg Shire Annual Report will assist Council and the community to measure progress against these strategic objectives and associated commitments of the 2009-2013 Council Plan.
The key strategic objectives:
Responsible and responsive governance and decision making Enhancing community well being Strengthening a vibrant economy Building quality places Advancing Country Towns Damien Bell 2011 Advancing Country Towns focuses on improving cross- Program government investment by working at a strategic level to Heywood, Lake Condah & identify local needs to improve the quality of life. The plan Surrounding Towns identified the following: Economic Development Employment, Skills & There are opportunities for tourism and other economic Training development particularly in the timber industry with the Glenelg Aboriginal Outcomes Shire identifying a Portland to Heywood economic corridor.
There is also a significant Aboriginal cultural heritage site which provides opportunities for tourism. The determined priority areas for the Advancing Country Towns project for Heywood, Lake Condah and surrounding towns are:
Economic development Employment, skills and training with a focus indigenous outcomes
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Report Name Author and Date Key Points/Recommendations Relevant to the Current Project
Casterton and District By understanding the interwoven links that contribute to a well Community Plan 2008 functioning community ensures that the community can move forward in developing its own future
Consequently the aims of the Casterton Community Plan was: To ensure that any development is balanced and contributes to the unique culture of the Casterton community. That the economic, social, cultural and environmental goals are all considered when developing Casterton as a well functioning community. To take advantage of any opportunities which exist through the timber industry being centred (in part) in the Casterton district. A hydrotherapy facility was a project that the community endeavoured to address. The hydrotherapy proposal would provide long term benefit for people with special needs in this area and is considered important adjunct for the infrastructure for the Casterton community. Heywood and District The Heywood community completed its first community plan in Community Plan 2008 2007 and commenced an extensive planning process to develop a long term future for the Heywood community. This plan was extended and reaffirmed at the review session held in June 2008.
The development of a multi-purpose indoor centre which provides a range of different activities including hydrotherapy (utilising geothermal energy), gymnasiums and a range of other activities was considered to be an important part of the health and social development of Heywood. By developing an indoor centre that involved the schools, the hospital and all sporting clubs would encourage broad community use, and is a way in which the community can ensure that such a project would provide genuine benefit and attract investment.
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Report Name Author and Date Key Points/Recommendations Relevant to the Current Project
Portland Community Plan The aim of the Portland Community Plan is for residents to feel 2008 empowered to contribute to programs and projects that provide social, economic, environmental and cultural sustainability. The Vision for the Plan was
Strong communities Social services, facilities and networks sufficient to sustain quality of life, equity and wellbeing for all residents
Cultural diversity and expression Developing and renewing cultural diversity and cultural expression, to build shared values and enduring relationships.
A clean, green city Managing land, ecosystems, energy, air and water in a way that protects their use for future generations and encourages new forms of eco living.
A diverse and vibrant economy A resilient economic structure, ongoing business growth and access to local employment for residents.
In relation to sport, recreation and leisure facilities the plan identified:
Encourage all sporting clubs to participate in good sports programs Develop a multipurpose facility (including synthetic surfaces for appropriate sports) Develop capacity and structures to encourage recreational fishing both for Portland and as a potential visitor attraction for Portland Continue to support the drag racing asset and motor sport infrastructure at Portland Continue to lobby for a facility and / or location for motor sports in the Portland region Continue to develop the plans for Yarraman Park Undertake a balance of sport, leisure and arts in order to provide broader accessibility for all residents of Portland Encourage outdoor activities which include bush walking, park trials and the like to encourage local residents health and fitness and to attract visitor to the area Ensure that basic infrastructure projects are undertaken to support existing facilities, such as, sealing the access road to the swimming pool facility
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APPENDIX B – SUMMARY HOUSEHOLD TELEPHONE SURVEY
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RESPONDENT PROFILE
The following table summarises the Resident Telephone Survey respondent sample:
Table 6.1 Resident Telephone Survey Respondent Sample CATEGORY SUB-GROUP NUMBER % Gender Male 145 48 Female 155 52 Age Range 15 - 19 years 38 13 20 - 29 years 16 5 30 – 39 years 35 12 40 - 49 years 62 21 50 - 59 years 60 21 60 ears plus 88 29 Township Bolwarra 8 3 Cape Bridgewater 3 1 Casterton 24 8 Dartmoor 7 2 Digby 5 2 Drumborg 3 1 Heathmere 5 2 Heywood 32 11 Merino 20 7 Narrawong 6 2 Nelson 4 1 Portland 168 56 Tyrendarra 1 0.25 Identified as Having Yes 31 10 a Disability No 269 90 Country of Birth Australia 281 94 England 6 2 New Zealand 4 1 Other 9 3
A review of the survey sample indicates all responses are within 2 to 5 per cent of existing the Shire ages profile, area population and gender distribution indicating a reasonably balanced and similar sample profile.
Current Use of Swimming Pools
Survey respondents were questioned on their use of public swimming pools in the past 12 months. Public swimming pools included Council, school and commercial centres, but not home pools.
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Glenelg residents make slightly below average use of swimming pools identified through the survey responses. A total of fifty three per cent (53%) of people had used or visited a pool in the past 12 months. A total forty seven per cent (47%) had not used or visited a pool in the past 12 months.
Based on current population estimates (20,871 – ABS 2011) there are approximately 11,000 people in Glenelg Shire Council area currently using swimming pools/leisure centres.
Pool User Profile Comparisons
Usage of swimming pools does change by gender, age profile and area people live, as the following results indicate: Table 6.2 Usage of Swimming Pool Variances Against Sample Average % USED VARIANCE AGAINST CATEGORY SUB-GROUP POOLS USED AVERAGE (58%) Gender Male 71 +18 Female 89 +36 Age Range 15-29 years 41 -12 30-49 years 70 +17 50-69 years 49 -4 70 years + 28 -25
The pool usage results indicate:
More females (89%) than males (71%) use pools. This trend is similar to other aquatic participation surveys across rural Victoria.
People in their most active years (30 to 49 years old) make the highest use of pools: Area Average 53% 15 to 29 years 70%
Young people aged 15 – 29 years use make lower than average (41%) use of pools which is inconsistent with current aquatic usage trends.
Pool usage participation rates drop as people age Area Average 53% 50 -69 years 49% 70 years plus 28%
Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools
Slightly less than five out of ten respondents (47%) had not used a swimming pool in the past 12 months. The main reasons respondents gave for non-use were:
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Table 6.3 Reasons for Non-Use of Swimming Pools GENDER REASONS FOR NON-USE OF SWIMMING % OF Male Female POOLS TOTAL RESPONSE % % Not interested 31 31 30 Too busy 27 27 23 No suitable facilities 11 11 12 Go to the beach 11 11 12 Don’t like swimming 9 9 9 Too old 8 8 9 Health problems 7 7 5 Work commitments 4 4 5 Have and use own pool 3 3 4 Cannot afford it 3 3 1 No indoor pool pools close by 2 2 3
The constraints that affect people’s use of pools do change depending upon their gender and age. The main constraints to use of swimming pools can be categorised under a number of common themes, being:
Personal Issues.: Not interested 31%, Too busy 27%, Too old/health issues 15%, don’t like swimming 9%, work commitments 4%,
Product Issues : No suitable facilities close by 13%,
Placement Issues : Have and use own pool 3%.
No respondents identified issues around promotion i.e. Lack of Information/Do not know what is available; which is often identified as a constraint to participation.
Most Popular Swimming Pools
The usage rates of people using swimming pools are spread around a number of different facilities in the Shire and in neighbouring Shires. Respondents who had used a swimming pool in the past 12 months listed 6 different facilities.
A summary of the most pools/leisure centres used, compared to the pool people nominated as the one they use the most is as follows:
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Table 6.4 Most Popular and Used Swimming Pools/Leisure Centres
SWIMMING POOLS/ LEISURE MOST USED SWIMMING CENTRES USED IN PAST 12 POOL/LEISURE CENTRES IN PAST SWIMMING POOL MONTHS (MULTIPLE 12 MONTHS(ONE CENTRE ONLY) ANSWERS) % % Portland Aquatic and Leisure 79 73 Centre Casterton Outdoor Pool 11 8 Merino Outdoor Pool 8 8 Hamilton Indoor Pool 6 3 Heywood Outdoor Pool 5 3 Other 7 6
The pool usage data clearly indicates Council's pools receive high use, however, use is also made of the Hamilton Indoor Pool located across the border in the Shire of Southern Grampians.
Rating of Council's Swimming Pools
Survey respondents who had used swimming pools were asked to rate each of the four Glenelg Shire Councils swimming pools under a five point rating system. The respondents rated the facilities as follows:
(i) Portland Aquatic and Leisure Centre
Excellent 18% Good 52% Adequate 20% Poor 8% Very poor 3%
The key issues the respondents identified for improvement were:
Water temperature 30% Indoor pool 25% Leisure pool 25% Change rooms 8% Outdoor 50 metre pool 8% Gym 8% Feeling of safety 8% Group fitness facilities 8%
(ii) Casterton Outdoor Pool
Excellent 35% Good 53% Adequate 12% Poor 0% Very poor 0%
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The key issues the respondents identified for improvement were:
Outdoor pool 30% Change rooms 20%
(iii) Merino Outdoor Pool
Excellent 38% Good 31% Adequate 23% Poor 8% Very poor 0%
The key issues the respondents identified for improvement were:
Outdoor pool 28% Change rooms 21%
(iv) Heywood Outdoor Pool
Excellent 38% Good 13% Adequate 25% Poor 25% Very poor 0%
The key issues the respondents identified for improvement were:
Outdoor pool 30% Change rooms 20% Feeling of security 50%
Swimming Pool Usage Profiles
The following sections provide data on the top five most used pools in relation to frequency of use, reason for choosing pool and who usually go with:
1) Frequency of use of most used pool?
Daily 2% 4-6 times a week 9% 2-3 times/week 14% Weekly 20% Fortnightly 8% Monthly 9% Less than monthly 29% Summer only 9%
2) Reasons choose most used pool?
Close to home 60% Only pool aware of 23% Good facilities 12% To take part in a fitness activities 7%
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Family/friends use 6% Warm water 6% Range of pools available 5% Social reasons 5%
3) How do they travel to the most used pool?
Car 83% Cycle 1% Public transport 1% Walk 15%
4) Main activities usually do at most used pool?
Recreation/swimming 55% Lap swimming 35% Take child to pool 24% Use Gymnasium 21% Fitness activities 13% Other recreation activities 9% To take part in aquatic program 6% Family activities 4% Cool down from hot weather 5%
4) Who do you usually go to the pool with?
Family members 58% On own 28% Friends 21% School group 3% Club members 1%
Future Use of Swimming Pools
To assist in identifying the level of demand for future use of swimming pools, respondents were asked if they would like to make greater use of pools in the future.
Sixty seven per cent (67%) of people indicated they would like to use pools in the future.
The highest future demand for use of pools will come:
From Females (65%) compared to males (44%).
People in their most active years aged 30 to 49 years (84%), followed by 15 to 29 years (78%) 30 to 49 years and 50+ (64%).
Facilities and Features that Would Encourage Greater Future Use of Pools
Respondents who indicated they would like to make greater future use of swimming pools were asked to nominate up to three features that would encourage them to make more use of the swimming pool. There were 31 facilities/features nominated with the most popular responses being:
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Longer opening hours 13% Warm water pool 13% Gym/weights facilities 11% Cleaner more hygienic facilities 7% More variety of activities/programs 6% Membership packages/discount 4% More health and fitness classes 4% Outdoor grassed area 3% More recreation/leisure pools 2% Access to spa/sauna 2% Indoor learn to swim 2%
These results indicate support for access to warm water pool and indoor health and fitness programs as well as recreation swimming and fun features and facilities for family/friends with a high wish for leisure pools, play equipment and modern service areas.
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APPENDIX C – SUMMARY OF SCHOOL SURVEY
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All primary and secondary school located within the Portland Shire area were sent an electronic link to a school survey in February 2013
A total of 4 schools completed and returned the surveys.
Appendix Three of this report provides details of the individual school comments.
Use of Aquatic Centres
School representatives were asked a range of questions about their schools use of Aquatic Centres and aquatic/health and fitness based programs and services.
The questions were aimed at identifying aquatic participation and facility usage trends and key reasons why activities and facilities were selected.
Of the 4 schools that completed the survey, all schools indicated that they had participated in a Learn to Swim or School Sports Program.
Schools Aquatic Program Coordination
Of the 4 schools who participated in Learn to Swim or School Sports Programs, 3 of the programs were co-ordinated by pool staff and the fourth school coordinated their own program.
Frequency of Student Visitations in Learn to Swim Program
Of the schools who participate in aquatic-based programs, the average number of student visits is detailed below:
4 Visits 2 schools More than 10 visits 2 schools
Most Popular Terms
To gain an understanding, of when schools use swimming pools, they were asked to nominate which school term they typically use pools. The results are detailed below:
Term One 2 Schools Term Two 1 Schools Term Three 1 School Term Four 2 Schools
The results indicate that terms one, three and four were the most popular terms and that schools are more likely to plan aquatic based programs during the warmer months which allows Aquatic Centre operators to plan for peak school usage during these periods.
Most Popular Swimming Pools
The schools were requested to nominate the main swimming pool(s) used for the aquatic programs.
The following indicates the most popular swimming pools used:
Portland Indoor Pool 1 school
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Casterton Outdoor Pool 1 school Hamilton Indoor Pool 1 school Heywood Outdoor Pool 1 school
Reasons for Choosing Most Used Swimming Pool
The main reasons schools gave for choosing their most used swimming pools were:
Affordable price 1 school Heated swimming facilities; Indoor facilities; Good facilities; 50 metre pool; Quality of programs 1 school Close to school; 50 metre pool 1 school Close to school; Range of pools; Heated swimming facilities 1 school
Features Would Like to See Developed
The main features that would encourage schools to make greater use of swimming pools in the future were:
Indoor warm water pools Other (please specify below) Access at different times than allocated; Diving facilities; More shaded water areas Separate school change room; Cheaper entry fees
Indoor warm water pools 1 school Separate school change rooms 1 school Cheaper entry fees 1 school More shaded water 1 school Access at different times than allocated 1 school Diving facilities 1 school
School Based Aquatic Facilities
No Schools within the area surveyed had a school-based facilities
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APPENDIX D – SUMMARY OF USER SURVEY
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Users of all the four Council swimming pools were invited to complete a user survey either online or as a hard copy survey. The surveys were completed during the months of February and March 2013. A summary of the key finding is detailed as follows:
Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
Respondent Profile
The following table summarises the user survey respondent sample for the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre.
Table 6.5 User Survey Respondent Sample
CATEGORY SUB-GROUP NUMBER % Gender Male 17 25 Female 52 75 Age Range 15-19 years 2 3 20-29 years 12 18 30-39 years 22 31 40-49 years 19 27 50-59 years 8 12 60-69 years 5 8 70 years plus 1 1 CATEGORY SUB-GROUP NUMBER % Suburb Portland 57 81.4 Narrawong 3 4.3 Bolwarra 2 2.9 Cape Bridgewater 1 1.4 Casterton 1 1.4 Heathmere 1 1.4 Other 5 7.1
A review of the survey sample indicates that:
Fewer males (25%) responded to the survey than females (75%).
The highest percentage age profile that responded to the survey were aged 30- 39 years 31%, followed by 40 - 49 years 27% and 20-29 years 18%. These age groups represent people in their most active years.
The predominant area were respondents lived was Portland 81%, followed by Narrawong at 4.3%.
(ii) Times the Centre Was Most Used
The main times people used the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre are detailed in the table below.
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Table 6.6 Centre Usage Times % Time Slot Numbers
Before 9.00am 15 10 9.00am-12 midday 30 21 Midday- 2.00pm 3 2 2.00pm- 5.00pm 25 17 5.00pm-8.00pm 57 39 After 8.00pm 16 11 TOTAL 146 100
The most popular timeslots identified for use of the Centre was the 5.00pm- 8.00pm (39%), followed by 9.00 am to midday (21%), 2.00pm to 5.00pm (17%), and after 8.00pm (11%).
Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the Centre from home 72%, followed by work (17%) and school (10%).
The majority of respondents travel by car either on their own (89%) or with others (11%)
Most respondents spend 1 to 1.5 hours (55%) at the Centre followed by 0.5 to 1 hours (23%) . at each visit to the Centre.
(iii) Visits to the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
The following table summarises the frequency of use of the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre. Table 6.7 Use of Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
Once a Once a Month Less than once Daily 2 to3 times 4 to 6 times Weekly Fortnight a month 10% 34.8% 40.6% 7.2% 2.9% 0% 1.4%
The results indicate the majority of respondents are regular users of the Centre with daily, 4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week accounting for 85.4% of usage.
(vi) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Centre
Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the Centre. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:
Close to home 16.1% It has an indoor pool 16.1% To attend a health and fitness program 12.7% Range of gym equipment available 10.2% Good facilities 8.5% To attend learn to swim program 6.8% To attend a specific program 6.8% To use outdoor pool 5.9% Friends and family use it 4.2%
The main reason the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre was the centre of choice was
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(v) Rating of the Facilities
Survey respondents rated the current services and programs at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as:
Excellent 10% Good 19% Adequate 37% Poor 29% Very poor 6%
The results indicate that approximately 29% of respondents considered the facilities to be between excellent and good and 72% considered the facilities adequate, poor or very poor.
The survey respondents who considered the facilities to be poor/very poor were asked to indicate which facilities and/or services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response were:
Change rooms 23.4% Indoor pool 20% Leisure Pool 11.2% Gym/Weight facilities 8.4% Air quality in pool Hall 5.6% Outdoor Pool 5.6% Kiosk and food facilities 4.7% Group fitness rooms 3.7% Water slides 2.0%
(vi) Rating of the Service and Programs
Survey respondents rated the current services at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as:
Excellent 12% Good 35% Adequate 35% Poor 14.7% Very Poor 2.9%
The results indicate that approximately 47% of respondents considered the services to be between excellent and good while 52.6% considered the services adequate, poor or very poor.
The survey respondents who considered the services to be poor/very poor were asked to indicate which services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response were:
Level of fees and charges 67% Customer service/assistance 33% Group fitness timetable 33% Centre too crowded 17% Range if programs and services offered 17%
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(vii) Main Activities Undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
The main activities undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as indicated by survey respondents are listed as follows in order of frequency of response:
Use of gym and weights 29% Group fitness and fitness classes 22% Lap swim/fitness 19% Spectator 18% Recreation swimming and fun 16% Take child to pool 15% Take part in an aquatic program 12% Personal training 7%
(ix) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools
Just under 9 out of 10 (87%) of respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use of the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.
Respondents provided a large range of facility component priorities that would assist them in greater use of pools. The top five features included:
Cleaner more hygienic facilities 19% Warm water pool for therapy 13.8% Larger indoor learn to swim pool 10.9% Membership packages/discount offers 10.3% Longer opening hours 6.9% Improved gym/weights facilities 5.7%
Outdoor Pools – Casterton, Merino and Heywood
(i) Respondent Profile
The following table summarises the user survey respondent sample for the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre.
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Table 6.8 User Survey Respondent Sample
CATEGORY SUB-GROUP NUMBER % Gender Male 17 33 Female 52 67 Age Range 15-19 years 4 3.6 20-29 years 14 13 30-39 years 34 31 40-49 years 24 29 50-59 years 13 11.80 60-69 years 9 8.18 70 years plus 2 1.8
A review of the survey sample indicates that:
Fewer males (33%) responded to the survey than females (67%).
The highest percentage age profile that responded to the survey were aged 30- 39 years 31%, followed by 40 - 49 years 29% and 20-29 years 13%. These age groups represent people in their most active years.
(ii) Times the Centre Was Most Used
The main times people used the outdoor pools are detailed in the table below. Table 6.9 Centre Usage Times % Time Slot Numbers
Before 9.00am 20 19 9.00am-12 midday 25 22.7 Midday- 2.00pm 15 13.6 2.00pm- 6.00pm 50 45 TOTAL 110 100
The most popular timeslots identified for use of the outdoor pools was the 2.00pm- 6.00pm (45%), followed by 9.00 am to midday (22.7%)and midday to 2.00pm (13.6%).
Most survey respondents indicated they travel to the outdoor pools from home (72%), followed by work (8%) and school (2.6%).
The majority of respondents travel by car either on their own (57%) or with others (39%)
Most respondents spend more than 2 hours (46%) at the outdoor pools followed by 1 to 1.5 hours (23%)at each visit to the pools.
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(iii) Visits to the Outdoor Swimming Pools
The following table summarises the frequency of use of the Outdoor Swimming Pools. Table 6.10 Use of Outdoor Swimming Pools
Once a Once a Month Less than once Daily 2 to3 times 4 to 6 times Weekly Fortnight a month 19% 7% 42% 15% 6% 0% 3%
The results indicate the majority of respondents are regular users of the outdoor pools during the summer seasons with daily, 4-6 times a week and 2-3 times a week and weekly accounting for 57% of usage.
(vi) Reasons for Choosing to Use the Outdoor Pools
Respondents provided a large range of reasons why they chose to use the outdoor pools. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response, were:
Accessible facilities 3.85% Close to home 35% To use outdoor pool 27% To attend learn to swim program 12% Close to work and school 8% Good facilities 8% To attend swimming club program 8%
(v) Rating of the Facilities and Services
Survey respondents rated the current facilities, services and programs at the outdoor swimming pools. Table 6.11 Rating of Outdoor Swimming Pool Services and Facilities
Rating Outdoor Pool Casterton Heywood Merino Excellent 26% 29 % 50%
Good 33% 35 % 10%
Adequate 33% 29% 30%
Poor 8% 6% 10%
Very poor 0% 0% 0%
The survey respondents who considered the facilities or services to be poor/very poor were asked to indicate which services in particular they were unhappy with. The reasons listed in order of frequency of response were:
Centre opening hours 45% Level of fees and charges 22% Range if programs and services offered 19%
(vii) Main Activities Undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre
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The main activities undertaken at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre as indicated by survey respondents are listed as follows in order of frequency of response:
Cool down from hot weather 29% Recreation fun swimming 22% Take child to the pool 19% Competition activities 18% Holiday programs 16% Lap swimming /fitness 15% Aquaerobics 2%
(ix) Future Facility Features that Would Encourage Greater Use of Public Swimming Pools
Seven out of 10 (70%) of respondents indicated that they would like to make greater use of the swimming pools and leisure centres in the future.
Respondents provided a large range of facility component priorities that would assist them in greater use of pools. The top five features included:
Longer opening hours Cleaner more hygienic facilities Additional family change rooms More variety of activities and programs Improved social and food areas Improved outdoor grass areas/shade Warm water pool Improved learn to swim programs
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APPENDIX E – TOWNSHIP FOCUS GROUPS
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A range of focus group sessions (day and evening) were held Portland, Heywood and Casterton township to identify local community issues and need.
The following table provides a summary of the key issues identified. Table 6.12 Summary of Key Issues – Township Focus Groups Stakeholder Group Issues Raised
Portland Focus Water temperature at PLACE is an issue. Often cold. Use of chlorine gas a concern in a residential area. The infrastructure is old. Casterton/Merino Focus Hospital undertook feasibility of developing a hydrotherapy pool – not Group considered feasible at this stage. Hospital interested in discussing possible options with council to develop a warm water pool collaboratively. Schools make high use of pool for school sports, learn to swim and squad training. Some parents going to Hamilton and Mt Gambia to access learn to swim programs. Intensive program only program available. Facility in need of upgrade – no money been spent on the facility for some years. Current facility not accessible for people with disabilities Merino pool considered the “poor cousin”. Swimming Club successful, but need to bus participants to Hamilton from preseason training as pool opening too late. There is no hot day policy to enable pool to remain open on days of extreme heat. This doesn’t suit farmers who finish work at 5.30pm and pool is closed by 6 pm. Heywood Focus Advised that the Heywood Community Plan outlines a priority for the development of a multipurpose indoor centre including a hydrotherapy pool Heywood Community Health and gymnasium. Provided consultation completed in March 2011 by the Bendigo Bank regarding priorities. Pool heating and a general revamp of the pool including the provision of a roof over the pool, the undertaking of general maintenance and the provision of disability access were considered priorities by the community. Currently run a rehabilitation program on Monday and Wednesdays for strength and balance. Indoor dry program run from the Heywood Rural Health (old hospital) with a small gymnasium. Don’t use the pool for programs. Heywood residents do travel to Portland to use facilities however good transport links are required. There is a V-line bus service as well as smaller bus services run by the YMCA, Heywood Community Health and the Glenelg Shire. Casterton/Merino User Swim Clubs at both Casterton and Merino Swimming Pools. Group Session Lack of maintenance funding spent on the facilities. Don’t want longer operating hours. • Casterton Swimming Club Coleraine hospital rehabilitation pool is no longer operational. No disability access into the pools. • Merino Swimming Club Swimming clubs have raised money for solar hot water for the showers. Clubs have purchased lane ropes and reels. • YMCA staff members at both Commissioning takes place too late prior to season opening. Solar blankets falling apart at both pools. Casterton and Merino. Offer 4 weeks of Learn to Swim through the schools.
Don’t want any great improvements just want the existing facilities maintained. Volunteerism not encouraged.
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Stakeholder Group Issues Raised
Open later if the weather is warm. Heywood/Dartmoor User Lack of maintenance means people will use private pools. Group Session Hours of operation are too short. Contract management not good. Poor water quality. Poor security. Poor cleaning and maintenance. Younger ones go to Portland for swimming lessons as its too cold. Solar heating not used enough. There was a swimming club in the past but no longer. There used to be lap swimming but no longer. Needs greater community involvement i.e. a community committee of management or advisory group. Potential for increased programs such as boot camp. More programs and equipment is needed such as inflatables. Change facilities old and tired with no hot water. Need leisure water.
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APPENDIX F – KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS
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Discussions were held with a range of key informants to discuss current and future aquatic and leisure facilities needs and opportunities. The following provides a summary of their key needs and issues related to current and future facilities. Table 6.13 Summary of Key Stakeholders Interviews Stakeholder Group Issues Raised
Portland and District Bring up to 20 people per week to participate at PLACE. Health Do water exercise class on Friday morning from 10.30 – 11.30am. Would like a warm water exercise pool. Would like water temperature to be at least 34 degrees with greater depth. The water temperature is too cold for many of their participants. Additional accessible change rooms required. Disability access is not good. The change rooms is used for storage and the water wheelchair often has a flat tyre. Would run more classes if there was more pool space available. YMCA run a rehabilitation program in the gym. Many participants graduate from the Portland and District Health class to the YMCA rehabilitation program. Suggested an enclosed walkway to the outdoor pool. Indoor pool very busy in the mornings especially when the outdoor pool is closed. Would support dry consulting suites at the pool. Air temperatures too cold for people with disabilities. Portland Swimming There are 48 schools in the primary schools zone. Club 5 – 6 competitions run over the summer season. 32 members in the Portland Swimming Club. 90% junior members. Train 3 afternoons and 2 mornings per week. Concerns about the poor quality of the pools and concerned that the plant will break down during 4 day carnivals. The pools are old and the pipework leaks. Wannon Water and More fun is needed at the pools. Committee for Consider geothermal heating opportunities. Portland Pools currently leak. The bore will be replaced in Portland soon. Maybe an opportunity to develop a spa resort facility. Heywood is a better opportunity for warm water pool due to the distances the heating has to travel. Capitalise on the harbour and develop a wave pool on the foreshore. United Way Suggested the development of a leisure precinct and share facilities. More storage sheds are required. Develop more of a youth hub and family area including community gardens. Interactive toddlers pool. Support other allied health services on site. Ensure pricing is accessible. Portland Tourist Support the development of sea baths. Association More swimming lessons through summer holidays. Deliver more family activities.
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Stakeholder Group Issues Raised
Advancing Country The Advancing Country Towns Advancing Country Towns will focus on Towns improving cross-government investment by working at a strategic and local level to identify local needs to improve quality of life. The initiative supports local communities to develop a range of solutions such as improved access to early childhood services, educational attainment, employment opportunities and economic participation
The Advancing Country Towns objectives are: To improve investment and service coordination and integration to more efficiently meet identified local priorities To improve access to education, skills and training and employment To identify economic development opportunities To increase the capacity of regional communities to participate in decision-making and priority-setting activities.
The Project does not specifically address recreation and aquatic services and facilities. The opportunity however to create a point of difference for Heywood would assist with the economic impact on the township by bringing more people to the area. Phi Currie DPCD The aquatic facilities within the Glenelg Shire are aging and require significant maintenance and upgrades. The improvement of facilities in Heywood could improve economic and job prospects for the indigenous community. Warrnambool is current undertaking strategic work to improve water play areas and capture dry program market locally. Not sure what is happening in regards to aquatic developments in Mt Gambier. Hamilton haven’t capitalised on opportunities. Warm water, water play and contemporary facilities should be a focus for Glenelg. Portland has characteristics for a tourism focus. There may be potential for private, public partnerships. Geothermal heating option should be explored. Funding through RDAF not likely as its for regionally significant infrastructure. Funding through RDA – Putting Locals First, may be possible for some elements of projects.
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APPENDIX G – YMCA STAFF FOCUS GROUP
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A focus group was held with staff from the YMCA currently operating the facilities. The following provides a summary of key issues identified:
Stakeholder Group Issues Raised
Health and Fitness Separate spin room required. Mind body room required. Outdoor covered area for boot camp. Separate room for rehabilitation sessions required. 793 aquatic and fitness members. Only one room for group fitness classes, could do with another multi-purpose room for spin, vacation care, parties etc. Would like to run water aerobics in Heywood. Would like a dry room at Heywood to run classes. Run pilates in the crèche at Portland. Birthday Parties Need undercover area outside for birthday parties. Need more fun indoor and outdoor including an indoor slide. Wave pool. More colour. Parties run in crèche. 2 – 3 parties per weekend. Could do more but no more room and have the demand. Do Zumba and rockwall. Have 3 inflatables. Need to encourage youth activities. Outside of School Hours Run a holiday program 3 days per week for 3 weeks in the school holidays from Care the Henry House building. Run a holiday program 1 day per week for 3 weeks in the school holidays from the outdoor pools. Run a before school program one day per month. Run an after school program 1 – 2 days per week. Need a multi-purpose building at the pool as there is no-where to run the program when it rains. Need more fun. Pool Operations The spa and courtyard need to be covered. Equipment should be moved off pool deck and proper storage provided. Outdoor pools need disability access. Casterton pool could operate all year round with the right facilities. Make all facilities family friendly. Heywood could be youth focused with games room, hub, youth play space and skate park incorporation. Use of chlorine gas not ideal. School Swimming Program Bus preps from Heywood to Portland. 14 schools use Portland. Horsham use the pool for school competitions. Run swim program with a fun day at the end of the program. Run the interschool sports for Primary Schools. High schools use Portland for carnivals. Would like separate change facilities for schools. Need bleachers on the side of the pool (tiered seating) Additional storage required. Early Education 19 place crèche. Would like to separate under 3 and over 3 to different areas. Need children’s toilets. Need to improve the outdoor area. Could double the size. Need more storage space. Learn to Swim Water temperature not consistent. Approximately 290 – 300 in Learn to Swim.
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Stakeholder Group Issues Raised
$12 per class or $31.50 for a private lesson. Limited spaces available. Not enough teachers. Need more crèche spots for teachers children. Need a new wet deck at Portland. Customer Service Need a new reception and membership enquiry area. Improved cafe and merchandise. Office on pool deck for enrolments. Group fitness room leaks. General Need a staff room. Need a first aid room.
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APPENDIX H – INTERNAL GLENELG SHIRE COUNCIL STAFF SESSION
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An internal focus group was held with staff from a range of different Glenelg Shire Council Departments. The following provides a summary of key issues identified:
Area/Department Issue Raised Youth Services Opening hours are too short on weekends. Gymnasium needs to be bigger. Use Warne Ponds. Program for teen gym then makes gym too small for others. Not much fun for the youth. Disability Services Long term physical disabilities need access to rehabilitation. Need to heat all pools. Provide accessible change facilities. Need fold down seating in change facilities. Improved signage. Define entrances to the pools. Staff need to be aware of people with disabilities in the pool and the gym. Usage of shared space gets too busy. Environmental Incorporate ESD principles in designs. Services Consider opportunities to minimise greenhouse gases Contact There is a need for significant improvements to the facilities Management Length of season needs to be reviewed. Poor communication between Council and YMCA
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APPENDIX I – LEISURE AND AQUATIC TRENDS THAT IMPACT ON LEISURE FACILITIES
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The following summary of general leisure trends impacting on people and their demand for recreation, sport and leisure activities and in particular aquatic facilities has been developed using a range of aquatic facility feasibility documents.
General Leisure trends impacting on aquatic leisure facilities design, facility components and user attraction include:
A gradual ageing of the population. As life expectancy increases, birth rates stay low and the “baby boomers” of the 1950s and 1960s grow older. This is placing a new demand on providing programmed hotter water areas as well as pools suitable for therapy and older adult exercises. It also means it is essential to have a range of pools with different water depths and temperatures.
Flexibility in the times when people recreate. As demands on people’s time increases and work practices change people are seeking to take their recreation at different times, over a broad spread of hours and at facilities that offer a lot of activities under the one roof. Indoor pools and health and fitness facilities are particularly attractive and getting easier to use as many are open 12 to 16 hours, 7 days a week
Increased variety in recreation and leisure options. People’s leisure and recreation options are changing towards newer more varied activities offered over a greater range of timeframes compared to previous decades where limited variety in activities and scheduling occurred. This has supported the trend to more multi-use facilities to attract a broader range of users as well as multiple water areas to meet different needs at the one centre.
Constraints to recreation and leisure participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities close by, family and work constraints, health problems and cost of service or use of facilities are the main constraints to many people’s recreation and leisure participation. The development of targeted markets of users, programs and services at aquatic and health and fitness centres has assisted in reducing some of these participation constraints
Changing employment structures, trading and work hours. These trends often makes participation in traditional sports difficult and therefore people are looking for facilities that are open longer hours and have a lot of activity options at the one site. This makes opportunities such as indoor pools attractive as their long opening hours and days open means usage can be made in a wide range of social, training, competition, educational settings.
Different people want different activities. The broadening different cultural, age, gender of the population sees the need for facilities to offer potential users a much more varied range of programs and services than previously offered. All year round indoor aquatic facilities also provide the greatest diversity of activities throughout the different seasons impacted by an areas local weather.
Provision of high standards and quality of facilities and services. People are looking for high standard, high quality facilities and services to meet their recreation and leisure needs. This has also seen the trend for indoor facilities becoming very popular as they allow activity in safe and secure spaces in all weather and environmental conditions. This leads to indicating that building low standard, low cost facilities will not attract the maximum user market. Desire for activities to be affordable. The development of multi-purpose aquatic leisure centres has enabled the high operating cost activity of aquatics (in many cases) to be
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cross subsidised by more profitable activity areas such as health and fitness, food and beverage and entertainment areas. This has enabled many facilities to keep general entry fees low to encourage use whilst seeking users who want special services to contribute at a greater level to the cost of such activities.
Recognition of strong links between physical activity and health. Preventative health care and active lifestyles are very important to many people’s aquatic and health and fitness activities are becoming a large part of people’s activity choices.
Expectations of equity and access. Today’s society expects people with special needs to be catered for in public aquatic and leisure facilities. This has seen improved design features to increase accessibility to and within such facilities. Added to this is the growing array of programs and activities offered to people of all different abilities, physical condition and skill levels.
General Aquatic Facility Trends
The main general aquatic facility trends that can impact on selection of high use activity components are detailed in the graphic on the following page.
Successful Facilities Model
LEISURE & ADVENTURE FITNESS & EDUCATION • Indoor water play complex • Competition/training pools • Free form play pools • Learn to Swim pools • Adventure rides and pools • Spa/saunas • Club/association
SUCCESSFUL FACILITIES KEY COMPONENTS TO MEET MAIN USER MARKETS
HEALTH & WELLNESS HOSPITALITY • Gym and Exercise studios • Training and program rooms • Massage/Beauty Treatments • Meeting/social facilities
• Warm water program pools • Café and merchandising
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Specific Aquatic Facility Trends
Specific Aquatic Facility Trends that are impacting on people in the 21st Century include:
(a) Aquatic Facility Trends and Main User Markets
Traditionally many local authority aquatic leisure facilities were built for specialist or limited market users (i.e. competitive swimmers or high level sport participants). Detailed planning and comprehensive feasibility studies now are able to show more targeted user profiles.
Such studies usually identify the demographic profile of residents in the project area, their current aquatic and leisure participation patterns and use of surrounding aquatic facilities that provide a sound base for more user friendly facilities.
The majority of aquatic facility market research indicates future complexes must equally cater for four distinct aquatic user markets being:
Main Aquatic User Markets REC, LEISURE & ADVENTURE FITNESS & TRAINING • 60% - 70% of pool users • 20% to 25% of pool users • Families, friends, social • Competitive swimmers groups • Club/association users • Coming for fun and play
MAXIMUM AQUATIC FACILITY USER ATTRACTION SUBJECT TO DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE EDUCATION THERAPY • 10% to 15% of users • 10% to 15% of users • Learn to swim, schools etc. • Hydrotherapy • Special needs users • Exercise classes in water
•
Recreation and Leisure Market - usually made up of families, people coming with friends and groups for fun, relaxation, social activity and low level competition/participation.
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Competitive/Training/Fitness Market - usually made up of people predominantly attending facilities alone for structured fitness or competition activities.
Education Market - usually made up of children and adults wishing to increase water safety and survival skills. Includes Learn to swim classes, school and club use and individuals improving their skills and techniques. They require hot water pools and water depths with some straight edges and easy water access etc.
Health and Therapy Market - usually made up of children, adults and older adults wanting to relax or exercise in hot water. This market also includes specialist health condition groups such as arthritis, asthma suffers, etc. They require hot water pools and associated health relaxation areas, i.e. Spa/saunas, etc.
Research indicates that the recreation and leisure market will be the largest as it contains people of all ages, ability, types, interest and gender. The competitive/ training/fitness market is a more specialist market as it usually contains younger, fitter and more active people who have made time to train and compete.
Previous research conducted by SGL Leisure Planning Team indicates that in many cases 60% to 70% of facility users come from the recreation/leisure sector with 20% to 30% coming from the competitive/training/fitness markets. The health and therapy and education markets can range from 10% to 20% of the market subject to the age and health profile of the community in which the facility is located.
The most successful centres attract all user markets and should be set up to allow people to participate in a range of activities at the one site. The further addition of health and fitness facilities, spas and saunas and social areas have been very successful at many aquatic facilities, as they add to the user experience and contribute to people being attracted to attend these facilities more often.
(i) Aquatic Facilities Activity Areas
Industry trends indicate that the majority of current indoor standalone aquatic facilities revenue does not meet annual operating costs. Average losses range from $200,000 to $500,000 plus per annum. The limited numbers of Centres that are raising their operating costs show minimal return on capital investment.
A review of the successful Centres' business indicates that these Centres record:
High visits per meter High expense recovery ability including capital repayment High operating profits per visit Excellent program range returns and attendances High secondary spend returns Excellent range of attendance types (adult/child ratio) Draws users from a large catchment area High revenue returns from health and fitness
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To ensure financial viability and attract potential interest from capital investors, any future facility development must be designed with the above business aims in mind. This support usually recommends activity area components that can:
Provide a mix of shallow leisure/recreation water with programmable water areas. Provide high revenue generating complementary service areas such as spas, saunas, and food and beverage services. Are located in a high traffic/visitation area. Are located as part of other leisure facility development.
Traditionally, commercial investment in aquatic facilities has been in specialist pools such as learn-to-swim or as additions to health and fitness clubs. The high capital cost and limited financial returns have contributed to this situation. Recent projects do see an increase in the number of management groups prepared to invest capital funds in return for longer-term agreements.
(ii) Health and Fitness Activity Areas
Industry trends indicate that users of aquatic facilities are also significant users of health and fitness facilities. Location of each of these activity components at the one site improves financial viability.
Health and fitness has the capacity to record high expense recovery returns, with many centres returning 125% to 180% of expenditure. Traditionally these returns can also attract commercial investors and operators to health and fitness facilities. Locating these facilities at aquatic centres increases the potential of cross-selling and spin-off use. It also improves the membership/program user and casual user ratio.
(iii) Ancillary Services and Activity Areas
In recent years, there has been a trend to develop a range of complementary businesses in conjunction with aquatic leisure facilities. These include:
Wellness Centres/Day Spas: There is an emerging trend of adding in an area for specialist wellness activities, services and merchandising. The key services found at successful wellness centres include massage, beauty therapy treatments, gentle exercise classes and relaxation and time out activities.
Inclusion of such facilities offers a broader range of activities to a larger age profile of people. The massage and beauty therapy are high yield sales activities and also can have high linked merchandising product sales.
It is essential in developing such areas that they are located with good views, away from general public noise and viewing areas and have very good finishes and fittings. There needs to be a close by lounge for relaxation after treatment or classes.
Sports Medicine: Development of consulting rooms, with patient access to health and fitness and pools, have been excellent revenue generators.
Health and Therapeutic Services: Health consultancies, weight loss and therapeutic services linking in worker and accident rehabilitation patients to use the range of facilities with centre memberships paid by relevant authorities.
Health and Beauty Services: Leased areas to services such as beauticians, hair salons and body toning.
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Potential Future Aquatic Facility Trends
Aquatic Facility reviews completed in Australia, North America, Canada, the Middle East and China during the past two years by SGL provides a guide to likely new aquatic facility innovations and trends.
Key features that should be considered when redeveloping or retrofitting high use aquatic facilities are:
(i) Leisure Play Equipment
Changing static shallow water areas into water play and fun zones is one of the most popular renovations. This can be done by adding simple play equipment, water sprays and interactive equipment to existing pools. Added to this is the option to introduce inflatable play equipment to allow the area to be changeable.
Many such outdoor pools that have been retrofitted have been linked to high use indoor pools.
(ii) Major Attraction Leisure Features
Water slides and similar challenge and adventure type activities have remained popular as long as the venue has a range of slides/rides to keep peoples interest. Single ride facilities struggle to keep interest due to the lack of variety. Multi ride areas allow users to try different length and configuration rides.
There are also a range of new water rides that have a slide component leading to another ride experience such as dropping into a bowl and then water, or onto a ramp and then into a splash pool.
A key design trend is to link all slides to a common entry platform to ensure one staff person can supervise the area. A common splash down zone also allows one lifeguard to control a range of ride water entry points.
(iii) Special Effects
A range of North American Indoor leisure parks have added computerised light shows and sound systems to allow night time areas to be changed. The use of lights and sound provided users with new indoor facility experiences at night-time.
Some centres have gone further by adding projection walls to incorporate movies and short video clips with their new light and sound effects.
(iv) Leisure Furniture
Many centres aimed to keep parents and children at centres longer (to encourage greater secondary spending on food/beverage/merchandising) by providing quality furniture. The use of pool side lounges, tables, chairs, umbrellas, has allowed families to stay close to the water areas in relative comfort.
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(v) Food/Beverage/Merchandising
This area has seen some major changes through development of pool side and dry area multi serving zones. Linked to these are high quality wet and dry lounge zones where people are encouraged to sit down and relax.
A number of innovative centres provide extensive lounge areas as well as pool side furniture. These centres use mobile food and beverage carts to sell items directly to centre users (i.e. they take the product to the customer). A number of other centres visited have used merchandising innovations, such as all existing customers having to go through the sales area. Other innovations included:
Multi-media video screens through the centre reminding customers about programs, special promotions, and food/beverage and merchandising specials. Providing customers with discount vouchers (at entry to centre) to spend in food/ beverage and merchandising outlets or on their next visit. Offering combination sales specials to attract a higher spend per person.
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APPENDIX J – ESD INITIATIVES
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ESD Initiative Description
Energy and CO2 Emissions Active Systems Solar Pool Heating Standard poly propylene heating mats Solar Pool Heating Evacuated tube collectors or concentrating solar collectors Heat Exchanger for Pool Hall Air-Air heat exchanger reduce heating/cooing Ventilation requirements for incoming outside air (make-up air).
Pool Hall Ventilation Efficient approach to control dew, especially over controlled by Humidity night when pool not in operation' Sensors Solar Photo Voltaics Solar PV installation on roof and/or shading structure
Solar PV carpark lighting Carpark lights with solar panels. Wind Turbines Small 1kW to 3kW installation to showcase renewables
Passive Systems Pool Shell Insulation Insulation to reduce heat losses to soil Pool Blanket Reduce heat and evaporation losses over night
Water/water heat Water going to sewer/recycling exchanges heat with exchanger incoming make-up water. Natural Ventilation Building to be naturally ventilated. Daylighting Façade and roof light design for appropriate daylight design. Re-commissioning, building Re-commissioning and building tuning after 12 months tuning of operation Green Roof Provides thermal protection to building. Geothermal Air Tempering Incoming outdoor air to be pre-tempered. External Reflection Pond Reflects daylight into building. Heat Reflective External Reduces heat load on building. Might only be required Surface Finish for Roof & for part of the building. Walls Water Water Saving Initiatives - Pool Depends on pool hall ventilation strategy Blanket Pool Water Treatment Advanced treatment systems to reduce requirements for chemical treatment and energy
Backwash Water Treated and for toilet flushing Greywater Treated and stored for landscape irrigation Rainwater Capture from roof & shading structures, treated and stored for use as pool top-up Water Efficiency Water efficient showerheads and mechanical timers, efficient taps, toilets and urinals.
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ESD Initiative Description
Water Meters Separate check meters for pool, showers, toilets, cleaning, water harvest, tanks, etc. Electronic shower timers Electronic shower timers display shower time and/or water usage. Reset when cubicle door is opened or locked. Stormwater Collected from reserve. Stored in bio swale, wetlands etc. Treatment and use on demand. Leak detection Water meter monitoring through BMS to include leak detection Wetlands Wetlands in strategic locations can provide cool breezes through evaporation. Assists with natural ventilation strategy. User Health & Education Ventilation Strategy to Ensures fresh air over pool surface. remove Chlorine from air. Hydration Station Provide hydration stations (drink fountains) at strategic locations, including information about dehydration.
Learning Resources Signage, leaflets, digital displays in entry area. Informative seminars for stakeholders and pool users.
Environmental Displays Digital 'live' displays of energy and water used, air quality, ESD initiatives, comparison to standard pool installations. Bio-Filtration Wall Active filtration on indoor air through plant wall. Air is drawing through wall by fan. Display of ESD technologies ESD initiatives openly displayed (not hidden within building structure) Monitoring of existing pool Extra water and electricity meters to be installed in existing pool facilities Display of air quality CO2 / CO, VOC's, O2 sensors, displayed on environmental displays. Environmental Management Environmental Management Comprehensive EMP or is to be ISO14001 accredited Plan (EMP) Waste Management Plan Must include waste targets, roles & responsibilities, waste reporting etc. Building Users Guide (BUG) BUG helps understanding how the building works, provides do's and don'ts, describes building systems and ESD initiatives Building User Education BUG workshop to form part of staff induction process.
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ESD Initiative Description
Ongoing monitoring and Monthly analysis of water & energy. Quarterly analysis reporting of waste management, operational performance of equipment and building and reporting.
Transport Bicycles Facilities Provide secure bicycle parking facilities incl. compressed air and drink fountain. Discounts for public transport Entry ticket discounts or other incentives to promote users / bicycle users use of public transport and bicycle riding. Small car parking spaces Promote/rewards use of small cars Future proofing carpark Provide infrastructure for future installation of electric car charging stations Display of train departure Electronic display showing departure time, minutes to times departure, delay/cancellation details.
Materials Timber Construction Timber structural frame work using engineered (laminated) timber sections. Choice of Building Materials ESD review of all materials proposed. Alternative Materials Durra wall, rammed earth, mod-wood, recycled materials, etc. Environmental Pollutants Pool Chemicals Develop Environmental Management Plan for Pool Chemicals Waste Management Plan Develop Operational Waste Management Plan E-water cleaning E-water system splits water into alkaline and acidic solutions for chemical free cleaning and disinfection
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APPENDIX K – BENCHMARKING OF LEISURE AND AQAUTIC FACILITIES IN SIMILAR MUNICIPALITIES
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Council and Issues Raised Facility Colac Otway Colac Otway operates two aquatic facilities including the Blue Water Shire (population Fitness Centre and the Apollo Bay Community Pool. 22,100) - The Blue Water Fitness Centre comprises of the following components: o 6 lane 25m indoor pool Blue Water Fitness o Spa and steam room Centre o Gymnasium o 2 basketball/netball courts Apollo Bay o 2 squash courts Community Pool o Program rooms o Group fitness o Creche The Apollo Bay Community Pool comprises of the following components: o 6 lane 25m pool o Beach entry o Water play area o Single court indoor multipurpose stadium The Colac Otway Shire secured $10million to redevelop the Blue Water Fitness Centre. The redevelopment will consist of the addition of water play features to the existing 25m indoor aquatic facilities. This will include a zero depth splash pad and 4 or 5 water features. A 14m x 9m warm water pool will be developed which will be divided into two parts via an accessible ramp entry. One side of the warm water pool will be used for Learn To Swim activities with a depth between 600mm – 900mm. The other side will be used for warm water activities such as rehabilitation and warm water exercise with a depth of 1300mm – 1600mm. The project also includes the development of an additional sports court and increasing the size of the gymnasium and other dry facilities. Funding was received from a number of sources including Federal, State, Local and Community funding. $2.8m was sought through the Health and Hospitals Fund for the Warm Water Exercise Pool and funds were obtained through the CFFP – Better Pools Program for the development of the splash pad and water features. A small warm water pool serviced clients and the general community to some degree at the Colanda Disability Centre, however, this was demolished in 2012. DHS funded a feasibility study in 2005. Colac Area Health were supportive of the development of a Warm Water Pool however, were not interested in direct management or development responsibilities. Corangamite The Corangamite Shire Council operates 6 outdoor pools in the towns of: Shire Council o Camperdown (population o Cobden 17,500) - o Lismore o Skipton Rodney Grove o Terang Aquatic Centre o Timboon Council also supports the operations of the Rodney Grove Aquatic Centre 6 outdoor pools operated by the Cobden and District Health Services. The Rodney Grove Aquatic Centre was opened in March 2011 and consists of a 12m x 8m warm water exercise pool and 2 separate spa pools
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Council and Issues Raised Facility (with the ability to swim against the current). There is no ramp entry into the warm water pool or spa pools however, the warm water pool has step entry and a hoist. The facility is run by the Cobden District Health Service and managed by the YMCA on their behalf. The facility operates on a programmed hours of operation model. During school terms, the centre is open on average 45 hours per week – 26.5 hours for specific programs and 18.5 for public swimming. During school holidays the centre is open on average 22.5 hours per week mostly for public swimming and the occasional private booking. The spa pools can be booked by patrons wishing to swim against the current. The spa pools are used approximately 75% of the time for general spa use and 25% for swimming for fitness. The facility cost approximately $1million to build and was funded via a number of partners including $500,000 from Council, $500,000 from community fundraising (approximately half from deceased estates and half from fundraising), $50,000 from the Department of Health and $38,500 from BHP. Council subsidises the operations of the centre by $20,000 per year for 5 years and a local charity shop contributes funds to assist in the ongoing operating costs. Casual fees are charged for entry - $4.60 for adults, $3.50 children and $3.80 for concession. Memberships are being considered to incorporate use of the pool and other district health programs and services. Programs conducted at the facility and co-ordinated by the YMCA, Cobden Health and other providers include: o Infant Learn to Swim o Kinder Swim o Water Aerobics o Gentle Water Fitness o Aquasafe Program o Arthritis Exercise Program o Physio Programs The pool depth is 1.2m to 1.6m and platforms are used for swim lessons. The water temperature is on average 33 degrees to 34 degrees and caters for the rehabilitation, learn to swim and elderly programs market. Horsham Rural Horsham Rural Council has one aquatic facility servicing the community. City Council The Horsham Aquatic Centre comprises of the following components: (population o 25m indoor pool 20,400) o Leisure water o 50m outdoor pool Horsham Aquatic o Creche Centre o Cafe The Horsham Aquatic Centre is managed on behalf of the Council by the YMCA. The Horsham Rural City Council has no immediate plans for further aquatic facility developments. There are no warm water exercise pools located within Health Services within the municipality. Golden Plains The Golden Plains Shire does not operate any aquatic facilities due to the Shire (population fact that they are 20 minutes from Geelong and 20 minutes from Ballarat. 19,000)
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Council and Issues Raised Facility Moyne Shire Moyne Shire Council operates three outdoor pools at Mortlake, Macarthur Council and Hawkesdale. (population Council supported the development of community driven project to 16,900) develop an indoor pool in Port Fairy. In March 1991 a collection of community minded Port Fairy residents banded together to discuss the feasibility of constructing an aquatics centre in Port Fairy. After strong community consensus, discussion snowballed into a vision for the development of an indoor, four-lane, 25 metre swimming pool to be based in Port Fairy’s Southcombe Park. In July 2001, following 10 years of lobbying, Council approval for the construction of an aquatics centre. In June 2007 the community vision was ultimately realized when the community owned and operated aquatics centre, Belfast Aquatics, opened its doors to the public. With facilities and services catering for a range of ages and abilities, and an emphasis on improving the fitness and lifestyle of Port Fairy residents and visitors, Belfast Aquatics provide Learn to Swim programs, Water Aerobics, Aquafit, Deep Water Running, Spin Cycle, Body Fit, Strength training and Group Sessions. The facility consists of the following components and programs: o 25m four-lane lap pool o 30-degree heated pool o Beach entry o Toddler area 0-1.2m o Spa jets - Hydro therapy o Gym and cycle studio o Classes water and gym o Learn to swim o Memberships o Swimwear and accessories o Inflatable fun days o Birthday parties Council subsidises the operations of the facility by $150,000 per annum. The total capital cost of the construction was funded via a number of sources including State Government, Local Government, Moyne Festival, Philanthropic Trusts and community fundraising. Given that the facility was constructed 6 years ago as cost effectively as possible, the facility is now requiring additional funds for facility upgrades and maintenance. The facility is now requiring additional funding to retrofit environmentally sustainable components to the facility and undertake major maintenance. Southern Southern Grampians Shire manages the Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Grampians Shire Aquatic Centre which consists of the following components: (population o 8 lane 25m pool 17,400) o Leisure and program pool with beach entry o Gymnasium and program area Hamilton Indoor o Multipurpose room for group fitness and meetings Leisure and o 4 squash courts Aquatic Centre o 8 bay table tennis area o 4 squash courts 6 outdoor pools o 4 court stadium o Crèche.
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Council and Issues Raised Facility Outdoor pools are located in the following townships: o Hamilton (50m) o Balmoral (26m) o Coleraine (50m) o Dunkeld (26m) o Glenthompson (25m) o Penshurst (25m) Vitality Health operates the gymnasium and group fitness facilities at the Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre on a licence agreement. Vitality Health are charged a licence fee and receive a percentage of membership sales.
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