THE Yawa Aquatic Centre at Rosebud will open to the public on Friday 9 July.
The later opening came about after Victoria went into its fourth lockdown earlier this month meaning the Friday 25 June opening target was not viable.
Construction continued under the restrictions, but access to the centre was limited and put a halt to essential training.
Belgravia Leisure was not able to host new staff on site to undertake swim teacher, lifeguard and emergency management training. To be able to open, all staff must be trained, qualified and, importantly, be familiar with the centre.
With restrictions easing, Belgravia Leisure is back on site with smaller staff groups completing essential training which is expected to take an extra two weeks.
Centre manager Dan Andrews said the window between the end of construction and the opening of the facility was scheduled for critical staff training and qualification activities. “As restrictions ease, we’ll endeavour to complete all test operations throughout the coming weeks.
“I can’t wait to welcome the community into the centre and thank you all for your understanding and patience.”
The free community open day event planned for Sunday 4 July is on hold until restrictions have eased further.
“It’s bitter-sweet to be in this position,” the mayor Cr Despi O’Connor said. “Coronavirus has again thrown a spanner in the works. While the building is looking fantastic and is ready for use, it’s frustrating that we have to wait another couple of weeks.
“I want to thank our community and our new members for their patience and the shire and Belgravia teams for their hard work in getting us to this point. I promise, Yawa will be worth the wait!”It is hoped COVID-19 limits of no more than 50 patrons per venue indoors increase so more people are allowed into the centre.
Details: Yawa Aquatic Centre is on Facebook and Instagram, or visit yawa.com.au
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 29 June 2021
