Council to consider adopting Recreation and Aquatics Strategies

At its April meeting, Council will consider adopting the draft Recreation Strategy and Aquatics Strategy – two key plans that will shape the future of active and healthy lifestyles in Bayside.

Recreation Strategy – planning for the next 10 years

The proposed Recreation Strategy (Active Bayside 2026–2036) sets a 10‑year direction for how Council plans, prioritises and invests in recreation opportunities across the municipality.

The strategy focuses on improving access, inclusion and participation across a wide range of activities, ensuring recreation opportunities continue to meet the needs of a growing and changing community. Key directions include a stronger focus on youth‑friendly infrastructure – such as BMX facilities and multipurpose spaces – and a shift away from a single sport/facility approach.

Instead, the strategy promotes a more flexible, equitable and participation‑driven model that prioritises adaptable infrastructure, makes better use of existing assets, and supports affordable access for all. Community feedback received during consultation played an important role in refining the strategy and shaping the recommended actions.

Aquatics Strategy – progressing a new aquatic and leisure centre

The April meeting agenda also includes consideration of the draft Aquatics Strategy. Adopting this strategy is a major milestone in planning for a future aquatic and leisure centre in Bayside, including warm water (hydrotherapy) provision.

Community feedback clearly identified strong support for a modern, accessible aquatic facility to replace ageing infrastructure and better meet current and future community needs.

Council will consider confirming the scope of services to be included in a new aquatic facility, as well as progressing two potential locations – Tulip Street, Cheltenham and Brighton Golf Course – to the next level of assessment. No decision on a final location is proposed at this stage.

If supported, the next phase will involve more detailed technical investigations and development of a business case, enabling Council to fully assess feasibility, costs, location and delivery options before any major investment decisions are made.

While detailed design work will occur at a later stage, the proposed aquatic and leisure centre concept includes a mix of facilities such as:

• Warm water pool
• 25‑metre program pool
• Health club (gym)
• Group fitness studios
• Café
• Amenities
• Wellness zone including spa, sauna and hot and cold immersion
• Indoor splash park / water play area

Together, these components are intended to support holistic health and wellbeing, encourage participation across all ages and abilities, foster social connection, and deliver a financially sustainable and highly appealing community facility.

Council meeting 6.30pm, Tuesday 21 April 2026

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