Funding for the Winchelsea pool upgrade and an Aquatic and Health Centre are part of the Surf Coast Shire’s budget for the next financial year.
Councillors this week formally adopted the financial document, which included a $36.4 million capital works program.
More than $4.5 million will be going to the Winchelsea pool, and $5.8 million for the new aquatic centre in Torquay.
The Shire is also spending $2 million for the Karaaf Wetlands improvement works.
Ratepayers will be in for a 3.5 per cent rate rise.
Mayor Liz Pattison defended the rise.
“We really want to be able to continue to deliver the services our community needs,” Cr Pattison said.
“We have implemented the full rate cap and we do have hardship programs to help those who are struggling with that.”
She said there was also funding for grants.
“There’s $141, 500 in the grants program and they’re staggered throughout the year,” Cr Pattison said.
“If there’s something you think can get up for a community organisation you’re involved with, please get in touch.”
Picture: File image [Surf Coast Shire]
