Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Burdekin Aquatic Centre Open For Swimming Season

Burdekin Shire Council proudly announced the completion of a new modern kiosk and upgraded entrance at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre in Ayr.

Reopening at the start of September, the new kiosk and entry aim to provide modern amenities and enhance recreational experiences for the local community.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said construction works began in January 2023 and Council is excited to be welcoming visitors this swim season.

“Envisioned in the 2019 Anzac Park Masterplan, the kiosk serves as a central hub featuring a covered seating area and café-style service options offering clear visibility across the aquatic facility and water park,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“The adjacent Macmillan Street entrance has also been upgraded with a reconstructed two-way road, additional parking, pedestrian footpaths and a shared crossing zone.

“The final artistic screen, being manufactured locally, to the entrance will be installed in the coming months.”

The upgrades were jointly funded by Burdekin Shire Council and Australian Government funding of $1.2 million through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program.

“This is an exciting development for the community and I am sure people will be impressed with the new design and associated works that are set to significantly enhance the community's recreational experiences,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“I would like to thank the Federal Government for their contribution as the grant Council received is instrumental in enabling the vision of this development come to life.”

The upgrades come after the opening of the Burdekin Aquatic Centre’s aquatic play park at the end of 2022.

Ms McLaughlin said an official reopening will be held at the end of the year.

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP and Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Mr Willcox hopes the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program will continue to fund community infrastructure projects like the Burdekin Aquatic Centre upgrades

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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