Council rejects funding for University pool
Thu 13 August 2009
Simone Hockins, Bachelor of Journalism
An Olympic pool planned for the University of the Sunshine Coast will not go ahead, despite a local council approving funding for it twice.
The former Maroochy Council approved $1.5 million for the project on two different occasions, but work was delayed.
However, earlier this year the Sunshine Coast Regional Council refused to commit the funds for the 50m, 10-lane Olympic pool at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Division 6 Councillor Christian Dickson said.
The State Government had already committed $900,000 to the project.
The pool, planned to be built next to building T at the University, was first proposed in 2003.
Cr Dickson said he had moved twice in council for the pool funding, in 2005 and 2007.
On both occasions, Maroochy Shire Council approved the funds.
“Funding was allocated; however, other levels of Government didn’t come to the table with additional funding, which caused the MSC funding to lapse,” Cr Dickson said.
The motion was moved again by Cr Dickson during a Sunshine Coast Regional Council meeting on June 4, 2009, but the funds were not approved.
Cr Dickson said the council meeting questioned the need for a pool in Sippy Downs, and also argued there was no money for the project.
Cr Dickson also said councillors felt other major projects, such as the Chancellor Park Lakes, had priority, and were concerned whether the University would allow the community use to the pool.
However, Cr Dickson said it would be more costly if the Council did not approve the pool.
“Council has the option for an affordable buy in of $1.5 million, which in turn will allow for a $5 million plus aquatic facility to be built,” Cr Dickson said.
“If the Council will not take the opportunity to assist the USC, I would expect Council to construct their own facility, which will cost substantially more than what is being asked for at present.”
Cr Dickson added Sippy Downs did need community facilities like the swimming pool.
“This will service the growing population and also offer another swimming pool venue for the 34,000-plus residents in the 4556 postcode,” Cr Dickson said.
University of the Sunshine Coast director of capital programs and operations Mark Bradley agreed the pool would be an asset to the region.
“It can be used for school carnivals,” Mr Bradley said.
The pool, which would eventually be undercover, was also to be a Sunsmart pool.
Mr Bradley said the pool would help the university.
“It will probably [help] sports research and health,” Mr Bradley said.
Mr Bradley stated the centre would teach rehabilitation and learn to swim programs.
However, because the project was a community project, Mr Bradley said it was not likely the university would fund the project.
Cr Dickson said the University would not move forward with the project without a Council contribution.
However, he could not make another budget bid for funding for another 12 months.
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