Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://ipweaq.intersearch.com.au/ipweaqjspui/handle/1/3231

Type: PowerPoint
Title: From Potter's Field: The Rise of the New Blackwater Aquatic Centre
Authors: Vertigan, Carol
Tags: Blackwater Aquatic Centre
Issue Date: Oct-2017
Publisher: Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland
Abstract: In mid-2013, Central Highlands Regional Council secured funding to upgrade the existing 40-year-old Blackwater pool complex. Leaking of the 50m pool was to be rectified, and the 25m pool to be heated following the construction of a new kiosk building. However, plans were derailed following ground penetrating radar surveying which identified over 270 “voids”, effectively an unregistered cemetery, and halting any further works at the existing site. In a regional area affected by the mining downturn, declining population and still recovering from severe floods, Council remained resolute in its commitment to deliver an aquatic facility for the local community, and subsequently identified a greenfield site. Located in the Blackwater sports precinct, adjacent to rugby league, rugby union, touch football, cricket, and netball club facilities, the new aquatic centre was to take centre place. Through comprehensive options analysis, Council decided upon facility components that met their long-term objectives and established budget estimates. With the engagement of an architect led design team, the detailed design evolved to create a state of the art modern aquatic facility. Parallel with design development phase, Council prepared a submission for Australian Government funding to assist with estimated expenditure. This, combined with funding from BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance, allowed them to meet the estimated $15 million project. Following success with the funding application and a two-stage procurement process for the construction contractor, the first sod was turned on site on 11 March 2016. Then, less than a year later, the new Blackwater Aquatic Centre opened with much celebration within the community. Boasting a FINA-standard 50m 10 lane pool and undercover 25m six lane pool suitable for program classes, the facility also features a zero-depth splash pad of different water play equipment for children of various ages, large water tanks to harvest rain from the roof and 30KW solar farm to heat the 25m pool. Two amenities blocks provide for dual access by other sporting clubs out of season or for large events. The entrance kiosk, managers office, first aid room, a community meeting room, club room, control and plant rooms, storage areas, carparking and landscaping reflective of the Blackdown Tablelands area fill out the facility. The new facility has the potential to hold Olympic standard events, through to club and school carnivals, learn to swim classes, family fun days and personal fitness and recovery regimes. It is a venue which is welcoming, relaxing and iconic as a drawcard for the region. Carol Vertigan was engaged by Council to project manage planning and development of the new facility. Carol will share with the audience the learnings, challenges and successes of the project, and take the audience on the project journey to achieve a world-class facility that Council and community are very proud of.
Description: PowerPoint Presentation
URI: http://ipweaq.intersearch.com.au/ipweaqjspui/handle/1/3231
Appears in Collections:2017 IPWEAQ Annual Conference Proceedings (POWERPOINT PRESENTATIONS)

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