Thursday, 7 December 2017

The Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre (GRAC) is another step closer with the site confirmed and community consultation underway following a Latrobe City Council decision on Monday night.

Council endorsed the creation of project reference groups, including community representation, to help guide planning and design of the $46 million State Government funded project.

The GRAC will deliver a high-quality indoor swimming centre for community use, elite competition and major events at Hubert Osborne Park, Traralgon.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said it was exciting to see progress on the GRAC and the involvement of community in the planning stages.

“Along with the rest of Latrobe Valley region, I’m looking forward to seeing construction on this world-class facility — funded by the Andrews Labor Government — begin without delay,” Ms Shing said.

“This facility will provide a huge boost for our region’s swimming community and give us the ability to host major events.”

The funding for the GRAC is being made available through the Latrobe Valley Authority’s $85 million sports and community initiative.

LVA CEO Karen Cain said the Authority was working closely with council on the project.

“Latrobe Valley Authority is working closely with Latrobe City Council to advance the Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre project and deliver this much anticipated community facility as quickly as possible.

“LVA has allocated $46 million to ensure this long-awaited project is realised, and we’re confident in council’s strategy to construct a fit for purpose aquatic centre in line with community expectations.

“We look forward to working with Council to build the best possible facility for the community, creating a new world class swimming centre in Gippsland.”

Council also endorsed the establishment of a project reference group to guide the Traralgon Indoor Sports Stadium upgrade, a $17 million project also funded by the State Government.

Other facilities set to benefit from upgrades and new infrastructure through the $85 million sports and community initiative include: Morwell Recreation Reserve, Ted Summerton Reserve, Moe, Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Complex, Morwell, Sale Tennis Centre and Traralgon Tennis Centre