Locals help build Torquay’s new aquatic and recreation centre

Sam, Jack and Jimmy from Kane Constructions are 3 out of more than 400 workers from the Geelong region working on the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre who can’t wait to bring their friends and families to the facility when it opens in early 2027.

Pronounced ‘word-ee by-eer' and meaning ‘big gathering place’ in Wadawurrung language, the facility is one of four brand new sporting venues as part of the Victorian Government’s Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.

The Torquay facility has made significant progress and is now 75% complete with all 3 indoor pools now fully tiled, the façade and ceilings almost complete, painting underway in the gym and program rooms and cabinetry installation and changeroom tiling underway.

More than 123,000 labour hours have gone into the project so far, with 55% of the 700-plus workers living in the Geelong and Surf Coast region. To date, almost three quarters of the total project spending has been directed to local businesses within the region.

Sam Gallagher, Project Manager

Project Manager Sam Gallagher from Wallington on the nearby Bellarine Peninsula said the project was going really well and it’s a great group of people to work with.

‘It’s a fairly challenging structure, so it’s been great to work with a good architect who’s detailed with what they want, a fantastic group of people, including Surf Coast Shire Council,’ he said.

Jack Minter, Contract Administrator

Born and raised in Torquay, Contract Administrator Jack Minter said it is rewarding seeing the centre come to life.

‘I think it’s pretty special. It’s been something that’s been spoken about for my whole life and it’s finally coming together and I’m part of it, so that’s pretty cool,’ he said.

‘We have a great group of subbies, everyone’s local and works well together.’

Jimmy Hunt, Site Manager

Site Manager Jimmy Hunt from Ocean Grove said it’s such an enjoyable experience working close to home and with a lot of the team from Torquay, Bellarine and along the Surf Coast.

‘Everyone kind of knows everyone here, we’ve worked together on different jobs before, have a good time and get along really well,’ he said.

‘There’s an extra layer of love and it makes a very collaborative team.

‘It’s going to be a great pool, great gymnasium. To be able to bring the kids down and go for a swim, can’t wait. It’s going to be awesome.’

Jointly funded by the Victorian Government, the Australian Government and Surf Coast Shire Council, the project will connect to the existing Wurdi Baierr Stadium and will feature:

• 25-metre pool
• warm water pool
• learn to swim pool
• splash park
• spa, sauna and steam room
• gym and program spaces
• allied health suites and
• café and supporting amenities.

For more information on the project visit Regional Sports Infrastructure Program - Surf Coast.