Mirboo North community members are celebrating after South Gippsland shire committed $3.6 million towards redeveloping the town’s outdoor pool.
South Gippsland has listed the Mirboo North outdoor pool as a priority, making it the largest capital works project the council has ever committed funding for.
The funding will go towards revamping the full-sized pool and learners’ pool as well as creating a toddler splash area and building all-access ramps.
Friends of Mirboo North Outdoor Pool president Tonia Wright said it was a big win for the community considering the pool was under threat of closure seven years ago due to high maintenance costs.
“There was a sense of elation. When the pool was under threat the community rallied together and showed the council it was an asset we wanted to maintain,” Ms Wright said.
The 100-year-old pool is used by school groups and attracts visitors from across the region who come to relax in its idyllic bush surrounds.
“It’s more than just a sports facility – it’s about social cohesiveness. It’s in a bush setting off the main road with lots of open space to play cricket and volleyball,” Ms Wright said.
Ms Wright said the community was fundraising for another $500,000 to build a social programs room and an all-access splash park with fountains and jets.
The Mirboo North Bendigo Bank kicked-in $100,000 last year. Seven year-old pool user Riley Nyhuis has been at the forefront of raising cash for the cause.
He has collected more than $1000 by leaving donation tins around the district and also gave $50 from his own money box.
South Gippsland Shire mayor Lorraine Brunt congratulated the Mirboo North community for its involvement.
“It has been fantastic to see the Mirboo North community come together for the project and work hard to ensure the pool is redeveloped,” Cr Brunt said.
