Project background
The Bega War Memorial Swimming Pool was officially opened on 1 December 1962 and is an important facility for the Bega Valley Shire. The existing facility does not meet the needs or demands of the community, or Bega’s position as the regional sport, business, health and educational hub of the Bega Valley. This facility is at the end of asset life and has a number of critical assets in poor condition and in need of renewal. Due to the age and condition of the facility, failure of one or more of these assets will lead to unplanned maintenance or closure of the pool.
During the 2019 Swimming Pool Discussion Paper and Draft Swimming Pool Strategy consultation, a draft concept design of the Bega War Memorial Swimming Pool was developed and exhibited. Even though the shire wide swimming pool strategy did not proceed, the Bega War memorial Swimming Pool concept was endorsed by Council to progress grant funding applications and project development.
Project overview
This project will redevelop the facility to include a 10-lane 25m pool, warm water program pool, wading pool with water play features, accessible facilities and environmentally sustainable design.
It will deliver a modern, accessible and fit-for-purpose aquatic facility that supports sport, exercise, rehabilitation, recreation and water safety education. The upgraded pool will significantly contribute to our community’s health and social well-being. The following outcomes will be achieved once the project is completed:
- Improved facility access and engagement with all demographics within the community, irrespective of age, gender or ability.
- Compliance with current accessibility and legislative requirements.
- Improved standard, compliance and service provision.
- Increased facility visitation and membership.
- Improved capacity for multi-use and services, whilst facilitating simultaneous user types and groups.
- Increased opportunity for aquatic programs available i.e. water safety education, aqua fitness, water polo, underwater hockey.
- Increased participation in learn to swim programs, swimming training and membership for Bega Amateur Swimming Club and Sapphire Coast Adult Swimming Club.
- Increased participation in lap swimming, water-based exercise, rehabilitation and recovery activities.
- Increased opportunity for schools and community groups to develop and participate in aquatic programs.
- Improved leisure, recreation and social opportunities for Bega Valley residents and visitors, particularly youth, disability or older populations.
- Improved community health and social wellbeing.
Funding
During the 2025 federal election the Labour Government committed $16m toward the project.
Bega Valley Shire Council and the Australian Government have been working together on the fund details. Council has been invited to apply for the funds through the Australian Government ‘Major and Local Community Infrastructure Program’ (MLCIP). The application was submitted in early December 2025.
Connection to Council's Community Strategic Plan
This project aligns with Bega Valley Shire Council Community Strategic Plan through the following CSP themes:
- Our Community: We are a resilient and caring community that supports the health and wellbeing of our residents.
- Our Infrastructure: Our community has access to quality community assets that support health and wellbeing.
Focus project included in the 2025-29 delivery plan:
- Prepare ‘shovel ready’ planning documents for Bega War Memorial Pool redevelopment.
Bega War Memorial Swimming Pool – Concept Plan was endorsed by Council in 2020.
Frequently asked questions
How much will the project cost?
The federal government through the Hon. Kristy McBain has pledged $16 million towards the construction of a new 25 metre pool to replace the existing Bega War Memorial Pool. Council has completed a formal funding application to formalise the funding deed.
Why won’t it be an enclosed pool or a 50m pool?
In 2018 Council adopted a goal to retain six swimming pools in the shire. Information on the pools is available on council’s website.
This six-pool approach needs to take into consideration all facilities in the shire, overall service provision and BVSC ability to fund and manage all these sites, including the ongoing operations, supervision and asset management. In short, the shire can only afford one enclosed pool, which is the Sapphire Aquatic Centre at Pambula. Consideration is being given to how to plan for future enclosure if a future Council wishes to.
Why won’t it be a 50m pool?
There are a lot of activities and programs undertaken at Bega Pool. The best way to accommodate multiple uses at once is a wider (10 lane 25m) pool over a longer (50m) narrower pool. There are two 50-meter pools in the shire at Candelo and Eden.
Is that a water slide in the concept plan?
Yes, it is! The slide was included in the concept to reflect an option for related facilities that could draw users to see the pool well used. We will keep looking at the slide, and possibly other options, as we work through project development to see what is feasible and what will deliver good public value outcomes.
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