A committee spokeswoman said Eurobodalla Shire Council community arts and recreation director, Kathy Arthur, had urged members to “stay positive and united” at the recent meeting of the Batemans Bay Indoor Aquatic Centre Committee.

Ms Arthur and planning director Lindsay Usher were invited to answer questions about the Mackay Park Precinct planning.

Committee president Carolyn Harding said, although members would ideally like a 50-metre pool, they understood why, at this stage, the concept plan included only a 25-metre x eight-lane one.

“Also included in the plan are a hydrotherapy pool, learn-to-swim pool, leisure pool and toddlers pool, water slides, and an inclusive adventure water splash pad,” the spokeswoman said.

“All these elements need to be at different temperatures and can therefore not be combined in one 50-metre pool. Together, they will cater for everybody from children to the elderly, including competitive swimmers, athletes, people with disabilities, and people doing hydrotherapy and aquarobics for rehab and fitness.

“The centre will suit both members of the community and tourists all year round.

“Mrs Harding explained the concept plan was put together when an amazing one-off opportunity arose with significant grant money becoming available from the NSW Government.

“Kathy and Lindsay emphasised expansion to a 50-metre pool, and the ongoing extra costs, are beyond council’s financial means, and may come at the expense of the other pools in the plan.

“However, the concept plan can be modified when the result of the grant application is known. Meanwhile perceived division in the community may jeopardise the grant,” the spokeswoman said.

“It was recognised closure of the pool in winter necessitated a few families travelling to Ulladulla to enable their children to continue their training … however, this winter, swimming was all done in a 25-metre pool.

Perhaps continuous flow machines could be included in the new complex for lap swimmers to use during peak times.”

It was suggested year-round opening might attract a good coach to the Eurobodalla.

“Carolyn thanked Kathy and Lindsay for coming to the meeting and clearing up a few misconceptions,” the spokeswoman said.

“Lindsay thanked the committee for the opportunity to engage with the members, and for the many long years of hard effort to get to this point.

“Unfortunately, the community may have to wait until the new year to hear the result of the grant application. If the application is successful, several processes will follow, including further consultation with the community, and tenders will be called for.

At the AGM, held after the general meeting, President Carolyn Harding listed the many activities and fundraisers held during the year and thanked the executive and members for their efforts.

Election of the new committee followed, resulting in the following: President Carolyn Harding, Vice President Rodney Weber, Secretary Pam Shields, Asst. Secretary Jacki Harding, Treasurer Barbara Gellatly, Publicity Officer Jennie Hapgood, Asst. Publicity Officer Dee Jones, and Public Officer Carolyn Harding. Committee members include Jennie Hapgood, Tanya Nugent, Corina Fembock, and John Nugent.

The committee holds regular stalls at the Village Centre, and sausage sizzles at Bunnings, where members can answer questions. If you would like to help the Committee in its efforts to finally get an Indoor Aquatic Centre for Batemans Bay, or would like further information, find us on Facebook or contact Carolyn on

0423214333.