Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour pushes back on decision to cancel swim classes

Fraser Coast’s Mayor has hit back at a council decision to cancel competitive swimming classes saying he is “not happy” and a decision will not be made without further consultation.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour has pushed back on a council administrative decision to axe competitive fitness classes for children and adults at Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre in favour of hiring out lanes.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour has pushed back on a surprise council administrative decision to axe competitive fitness classes for children and adults at Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre in favour of hiring out lanes.

The news was announced this week on the aquatic centre’s Facebook page.

It said from Monday, July 3, competitive squad, junior squad and adult fitness classes would no longer be provided.

“This change provides an opportunity for organisations to hire lanes or to deliver programs during peak periods in the mornings and afternoons,” it read.

“An expression of interest process will be launched in the coming days via council’s website and social media platforms.

But on Thursday, Mr Seymour responded to the move and said no decision would be made without further consultation.

“Thank you everyone who has contacted me about an announcement made earlier this week regarding the swim squad at Hervey Bay,” he wrote.

“I am not happy about what was announced either.

“I have spoken with our CEO and the council will now not make any decision with respect to the coaching of the swim squad until such time that further consultation is undertaken with myself and all Councillors and key stakeholders (which includes swimmers and their families).”

It is understood the announcement took the region’s councillors by surprise too as they were not informed of the outcome until they received a briefing note almost two hours after the public announcement.

The news shocked some within the swimming community with Hervey Bay Swimming Club sharing the news, adding, “council are CANCELLING squad programs”.

Earlier this week, a council spokesman said the council did not provide competitive-level coaching at any other council facilities, including the Maryborough Aquatic Centre, or for any other sports.

“This decision has been made to ensure council focuses on delivering core services and our facilities are being used to their full potential.

“It provides an opportunity for organisations interested in hiring the available lane space for community use or to deliver programs during peak morning and afternoon periods.”