Community makes a splash at new pool

PLEASANT sunny conditions greeted those who ventured to Mirboo North Pool for Australia Day celebrations and the official opening of the redeveloped aquatic facility on Wednesday.

While the community has used the rejuvenated pool throughout summer, it was a welcome opportunity for people to officially celebrate the success of the project, acknowledging the parties that contributed to it.

Key features of the refurbished pool are the development of a children’s splash area, new change room, dry programs room and canteen facilities and a new pool shell with accessible ramp.

While much of the project was government funded, the local community was a major contributor, with Friends of the Mirboo North Pool raising close to $1 million towards the cost of the redevelopment, and $550,000 of that came through the Mirboo North & District Community Foundation.

A total of approximately $6m was allocated to the project, with $3.6M of that funded by South Gippsland Shire Council through the Victorian Government’s Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme.

Council contributed a further amount of approximately $800,000, while the state government added another $191,000 through Pick My Project.

There was also a federal government contribution of $600,000.

Chair of Friends of the Mirboo North Pool Committee Tonya Wright addressed the large gathering during the pool’s official opening.

Attendees also heard from South Gippsland Shire Mayor Mohya Davies, member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing, and vice president of the Mirboo North Community Bank Jan Head.

The Mirboo North Pool has served the town and its surrounds since 1904, with its latest incarnation set to serve the community long into the future.

With the formalities attended to, it was time for everyone to hit the water and enjoy the new facilities and the Australia Day sounds of local musicians.

Fittingly, Mary Baker’s enormous contribution to the Mirboo North community and its pool was acknowledged when she was named Mirboo North Citizen of the Year.

That followed her nomination as South Gippsland Citizen of the Year.

One of the many things Mary is renowned for is her
contribution to Mirboo North Pool events, including Movie Night run by The Friends of the Mirboo North Swimming Pool events committee.

People will be back at the pool this Friday, February 4, to enjoy that very event, with Alec Baldwin movie The Boss Baby Family Business commencing at dusk.

Activity begins at 3pm with coffee and a selection of food available.

Bring your own picnic blankets and pillows.

Entry is by gold coin donation.

Contact Mary for enquiries on 0417 148 619.