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Legislative Council - Fifty-Fifth Parliament, First Session (55-1)
2025-09-02 Daily Xml
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Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre

The Hon. R.P. WORTLEY (15:06): My question is to the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing. Will the minister inform the council on the new Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Mount Barker?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (15:06): I thank the honourable member for the question. It is with great pride that I provide an update on the official opening of the new Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre at Mount Barker, a $52 million landmark project that delivers not only a state-of-the-art facility but also a symbol of community vision, collaboration and investment in health and wellbeing.

This facility replaces the outdated and undersized Mountain Pool, which had served the community for more than six decades, and it is remarkable that this was an outdoor pool in Mount Barker that people used to use all year round.

An honourable member interjecting:

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE: Very brave. The new centre ensures that one of our most rapidly expanding regions has access to facilities that will support healthy, active and connected lifestyles. The centre offers a wide range of facilities: a 25-metre, 10-lane competition pool; a dedicated learn-to-swim pool; a shallow-entry splash area with water play; and a warm water therapy pool as well. In addition, there are modern gym and fitness rooms, a community meeting space and a creche to support families.

Accessibility has also been built into the design from the very outset, with wide walking areas, disability-friendly change rooms and a Changing Places facility, ensuring that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy what is on offer. Already, the response from the community has been overwhelming. More than 1,000 memberships have been taken up, with hundreds of enrolments in swimming lessons, underscoring the strong demand for inclusive aquatic fitness activities and services. The centre is also expected to employ up to 100 staff, boosting local jobs, supporting families and contributing to the region's economy by attracting more visitors to the Hills.

This project has only been possible through a strong partnership approach. Funding included $7.3 million from the South Australian government, $15 million from the Australian government's Community Development Grants Programme, alongside the contribution of the Mount Barker District Council. The centre is managed by Belgravia Leisure on behalf of the council, ensuring it remains responsive to local needs while drawing on professional expertise.

Importantly, this centre is not just about bricks and mortar; it is about creating a safe and welcoming place where children can learn to swim, families can spend time together, seniors can maintain active lifestyles and people with a disability can participate with dignity and confidence. It is a facility that reflects our government's broader commitment to inclusion and to promoting healthier communities.

I would also like to acknowledge the tireless advocacy of local leaders, community sporting clubs and residents who have pushed for this project for many, many years, including the local member for Kavel, Dan Cregan. Their determination has ensured that Mount Barker now has a facility that will serve generations to come. In conclusion, the Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre is more than a building; it is an investment in community wellbeing, social connection and long-term sustainability. It demonstrates what can be achieved when governments at all levels work hand-in-hand with local communities and councils. Congratulations to everyone who was involved.

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