$5.4m in federal cash for proposed Noarlunga Aquatic Centre upgrade

It needs a new roof, upgraded lining and nearly $11m worth of works – now one of the city’s most popular public pools has won $5.4m in cash for urgent repairs.

A proposed multimillion-dollar upgrade to a popular aquatic centre in Adelaide’s south has received a massive boost, with a local council securing $5.4m in federal funding to help redevelop the pool’s “ageing” facilities for its 270,000 annual users.

Under the $10.8m proposal, the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre’s roof would be replaced and the lagoon pool would be separated from the main pool.

An accessible ramp would also be added “to enhance inclusivity for all users”, while a modernised filtration and disinfection plant would be constructed to keep the pools at a “more consistent temperature”.

Onkaparinga council CEO Phu Nguyen said the federal government’s investment into the refurbishment was “absolutely critical” to the pool’s long-term future, and highlighted the importance of the upgrade for the local community – who would have to endure up to 12 months of the pool being closed for the works.

Amanda Rishworth MP and Onkaparinga council CEO Phu Nguyen at the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre. Picture: Charlie Dadds

“This facility is so much-loved by the local community and it’s going to mean it’s available for future generations,” Mr Nguyen said.

“We understand the inconvenience this closure would have on the centre’s users, but this investment will lead to a more modern facility that better meets the community’s expectations.

“This facility is over 30 years old. Once reopened, the pools will have a more consistent temperature, require fewer chemicals and be more comfortable to swim in – with reduced need for costly ongoing repairs, and significant reductions in emissions and energy costs.

“I’m absolutely confident that this will be very well embraced by the local community.

“There’s 270,000 people who use this site annually, 80 learn-to-swim schools (and) 750 students who use the learn-to-swim programs – it is our most used facility.”

Council, which took over the centre’s management in 2021, has already begun upgrades, including unisex and accessible changerooms, a modernised gym with new equipment, and improved pool lane ropes and starting blocks.

Amanda Rishworth MP, Catherine King MP and Onkaparinga council CEO Phu Nguyen. Picture: Charlie Dadds

The centre would be closed for up to a year for upgrades if the proposal goes ahead.

It said the roof, which is more than 30 years old, needed replacing, while support columns need maintenance.

A 99kW solar power system would be installed, along with a new pool liner or tiles to eliminate water loss. A modern water filtration system would mean fewer chemicals and less energy used.

Mayor Moira Were said the funding would ensure the facility can continue serving the Onkaparinga community.

“The Noarlunga Aquatic Centre has been a place for the community to stay healthy, active and connected – and help people learn essential swimming and water safety skills – for more than 30 years,” Ms Were said.

“As with any facility of that age, a time comes for important renewal work.”

Council will, on December 10, vote on whether it will match the federal government’s $5.4m input.