Petition Aquatic and recreation centre in Mernda

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council that residents of Mernda, Doreen and surrounding suburbs and townships urgently require a local aquatic and recreation centre. Mernda and Doreen are among Melbourne’s fastest-growing communities, yet they do not have access to a local public aquatic facility. Families, students, seniors, sporting groups and people with disabilities are forced to travel significant distances for swimming lessons, school carnivals, lap swimming, hydrotherapy, rehabilitation, fitness and recreation. The lack of local aquatic infrastructure places unnecessary pressure on families, increases travel demands, and limits equitable access to vital health, wellbeing and rehabilitation services. The revised proposal by the City of Whittlesea Council for the regional sports precinct in Mernda does not meet the expectations or needs of the wider community, it duplicates existing sporting facilities in the local area, while failing to provide important services for older residents, people with disabilities, young children, and those requiring aquatic exercise or therapy. During periods of hot weather, pools in nearby areas regularly restrict or deny entry due to capacity limits.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to work with the City of Whittlesea Council to prioritise, fund and deliver, without further delay, a modern aquatic and recreation centre in Mernda with accessible amenities for people of all ages and abilities, including a 50-metre indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, learn-to-swim and children’s play pools, aqua play areas, gym and group fitness facilities and wellness and rehabilitation spaces.