Aquatic centre head contractor awarded
A head contractor has been awarded for the construction of the Bundaberg Aquatic Facility
Local jobs and the region’s rehabilitation and training capabilities have been given a significant boost with the head contractor for the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre announced.
TF Woollam and Son Pty Ltd was the successful tenderer for the $75.8 million (excluding GST) project set to deliver state-of-the-art and year-round training, learn to swim and remedial facilities.
The contractor was selected for its proven experience with delivering facilities of this scale and its demonstrated commitment to engaging local companies in the construction process.
Local sub-contractors and suppliers are set contribute to about 40 per cent of the overall project delivery.
Local businesses were given the opportunity to participate in the project through contractor information sessions in March and are encouraged to contact the TF Woollam and Son Pty Ltd to enquire about potential opportunities to participate in the project.
Head contractor to start work on generational project
Construction on the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre is expected to be underway within two months and when complete will boost economic, social and health outcomes for community members young and old.
The generational project will feature a FINA standard Olympic pool complete with grandstand seating and digital scoreboard and indoor 25 m lap pool specially designed for aqua aerobics, learn to swim and school-based programs.
A heated program and learn to swim pool will cater to a warm water program for activities including water-based physiotherapy.
Multipurpose rooms for hire, a central courtyard and café complete the facility’s offerings.
With the excitement of the 2032 Olympics in Queensland much of the focus of the project so far has been on its training capabilities but Mayor Jack Dempsey said its health credentials could not be ignored.
“The Bundaberg Aquatic Centre is a facility with the ability to cater to the region’s health needs now and into the future,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“We recognise the importance of learn to swim programs, we know we have skilled athletes who can excel even further with access to facilities like these and we’re excited about the economic opportunities a facility like this creates by attracting large events.
“We also understand residents need access to water for health benefits like remedial therapies and aqua aerobics.
“That’s why we’re planning for the future today to deliver this legacy project.
“It has been custom designed to meet these needs for our community.
“The benefits of this facility will be felt by community members for many, many years to come.”
Mayor Dempsey said accessibility was a key feature of the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre.
“All pools will feature a ramp entry option and the two competition pools will be fitted with lifts.
“The amenities will also incorporate an adult accessible changing table to ensure the entire facility can be enjoyed by all.”
Anzac Park redevelopment
As the head contractor prepares to turn the sod on the new Bundaberg Aquatic Centre work continues to progress on the redevelopment of Anzac Park with the awarding of a tender to Loftus Contracting for the demolition of Anzac Pool and the appointment of Niche Environment and Heritage as memorial curation consultant.
Council announced in June that work to revitalise the Bundaberg riverside would progress, in another major project set to provide long-lasting social, economic and wellbeing benefits.
The redeveloped Anzac Park precinct will protect and enhance the Anzac legacy and increase community use of the central area.
Additional facilities will cater to a wide range of community members from adventure-style playground and zero-depth water play to an outdoor event space with a stage and improved riverside access.
Read the full Bundaberg Now story here.
