Council to develop Aquatic Facilities Strategy

Published on 14 August 2026

Mount Alexander Shire Council is preparing to develop an Aquatic Facilities Strategy to guide the future of swimming and aquatic services across the shire.

Funded through Council's 2026-27 budget, the strategy will be delivered over two years and will assess the current and future aquatic needs of residents, visitors and user groups.

The project will investigate opportunities to improve Council's seasonal pools in Castlemaine, Harcourt, Newstead and Maldon, while also considering the long-term provision of aquatic facilities across the shire.

The strategy comes at an important time following the closure of the privately owned indoor pool at the Drill Hall in Castlemaine, which has been a significant loss for many people, particularly for kids in swimming lessons and for older residents.

Mount Alexander Shire Mayor Toby Heydon said the strategy would provide a strong foundation for future planning and investment.

"Our pools are such important community assets. They support recreation, health, wellbeing and social connection, especially for youth and young families. This strategy will help us identify opportunities to meet community needs in a sustainable way," Cr Heydon said.

Council has allocated $114,000 in its 2026-27 budget to develop the strategy and is now defining the project scope, which will underpin the research, analysis and community engagement activities.

Once the project is underway, Council will engage with key stakeholders and the broader community at various stages of the strategy's development.

"We want to hear from a broad range of people across the shire. Community input will be essential in helping us understand local priorities and aspirations for aquatic facilities," Cr Heydon said.

"The strategy is not about pre-determining outcomes. It will provide the information needed to make informed decisions about the future of aquatic facilities in Mount Alexander Shire so that future investment is directed where it is needed most."

Council will provide updates at key stages of the project. Residents who would like to stay informed are encouraged to register on Council's SHAPE engagement platform to receive project updates and information about upcoming consultation opportunities.

Visit www.shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/aquatic-strategy.